I’ve been hearing about the restaurant Berlin in Itaewon for ages. A few weeks ago I finally made it over to see what all the fuss is about. I’ll start off by saying that I love the location. It’s right on a hill with a towering view of the streets below. Inside its all hardwood floors with accents of red and blue complete with a deck that has the aforementioned view.
Berlin’s not just a place to grab a bite to eat. It’s more relaxing and laid back than that. The vibe is subdued, like if you’ve just eased back inside a meditation tank. It’s no surprise that special events are often held there. Whether it’s a burlesque shows or a team of DJ’s spinning chilled out space tracks, you can find something to keep you entertained while you eat.
And speaking of eating, the menu is extensive. Appetizers include samosas, fresh oysters, tofu and avocado canapés. Main dishes on hand are green curry, stir fry with mixed vegetables, grilled salmon, mussels with lemongrass and basil as well as Kraage chicken served with tomyang. With the lunch specials you can choose between Thai spicy pasta, barbecue beef and vegetables, fish tempura and chips with wasabi and grilled salmon and potato. The specials are available between 1130am and 3pm with prices ranging from 10 to 16,000won.
I went with the samosas for a starter. I have to say I wasn’t pleased. They seemed straight from a frozen bag instead of lovingly handmade. However, the grilled salmon was perfection. I skipped dessert but if you care to indulge you can choose between crème brule, blueberry cheesecake, banana flambé or chocolate volcano cake. Those will definitely bring me back to sample.
Hours 1130 am to 2am
Kitchen till 130am
From Noksapyeong Station:
Go out exit 1. Cross the overpass. Go right. Follow the curve around and Berlin is the first business on the right.
From Itaewon Station:
Go out exit 1. Walk straight about 5 minutes. Go up the alley across the street from McDonald’s (look for the yellow Money Exchange sign). Follow the curve around and Berlin is on the left.
이태원역 exit 1 -> 버커킹 -> 노스페이스->환전소(로데오)-> 이화식품 -> 베를린
녹사평역exit 2 -> 육교 -> 이태원 초교 -> 직진 100 m -> 베를린