Arminius Markthalle

The Arminius Markthalle in Moabit is the perfect place to experience authentic Berlin. Not nearly as chic and pretentious as its counterpart 'Halle 9' across town in Kreuzberg, at Arminius you still get a sense of its past, whilst at the same time a glimpse into its future.

At first glance Arminius is a bit like a family reunion: weird uncle Albert sitting off to the side, the ladies inside preparing the potato salad, the men outside talking about football while the kids sit around playing monopoly. On paper, the concept seems a bit all over the place, BUT, I think it is precisely because of this diversity that it is such a fabulous place.

Since 2010 this beautiful historic building has been bursting at the seams with all manner of gastronomic delights.  If you are into food, wine, beer or coffee, then this place should be on your list of things to do in Berlin.  The Markthalle isn't really on the tourist radar and as a result it is one of the rare places where you can experience the real Berlin.  In the past few years it has become a cherished local spot and although it sometimes seems like it is impossible to meet an actual Berliner in Berlin, at the Arminius Markthalle it is pretty difficult not to!  Local characters sit at tables eating traditional Berlin fare, next to local mums sipping their coffees while their kids play in the play area.  It is truly a great melting pot of cultures and generations.

Some of the culinary highlights at the Arminius Markthalle are:

Pignut BBQ:  Authentic Alabama smoked BBQ.  Succulant ribs, pulled pork and chicken sandwiches along with a heap of great sides and some craft beer to wash it all down - What more could you want!

Klinger Hallenimbiss:  Head here for some authentic, no-fuss Berlin cuisine.  Very popular with the locals, many of whom have been regulars since the 1980s.

The Fischladen: A fish shop serving some of the best fish and chips in Berlin.

Thussi und Armin: A lovely little café and wine bar that has live music every Saturday. They even have a wine store where you can pick up some great German and international wines.

Anemone: A great little restaurant specialising in Greek cuisine.

Brewbaker:  Craft beer brewer - try their Bellevue Pils, or one of their seasonal beers.

Alimentari e Vini: A lovely Italian restaurant and delicatessen that makes heavenly pizzas along with other Italian specialities.

Saftladen: Specialising in fresh juices, ice-cream, roasted nuts and dried fruits.

Hofladen:  Serving Austrian specialties and a great buffet brunch every Saturday.  Check out their enormous table named 'the Mother of all tables'.

Bauern Ewert:  Jams, marmalades, conserves and spreads direct from the farm.  For a real treat try their raspberry, strawberry and lemon balm jam... it is divine!

There are also stands selling cheeses, bread, smallgoods, meat and poultry, and fresh fruit and vegetables.

In addition to the permanent stalls, on Saturdays a craft market and a gourmet food market take turns at presenting their offerings.