You know one thing when a restaurant can hold up in the most soul-less area of Berlin, Potsdamer Platz: the food has got to be really, really good. Which is absolutely true for Layla, a place where your tongue dives into the various and amazing flavours of Israeli haute cuisine. You will literally have to force yourself to eat slowly, but don't worry, there is plenty of dishes to choose from.
Believe me, I am a heavy hitter when it comes to eating, but the home-made bagel bread, grilled octopus, chicken in thyme sauce and a dessert to die for (come and taste for yourself) had me gasping for breath. The location itself is very modern and a little posh-looking, and the heart of it is an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs work it out on a very high level. Add a glass of Israeli wine or two and feel like on a little trip to the Middle East.
If you have been to Israel before coming here, a lot of memories will hit your taste buds - if not, you might just check for flight prices on your smartphone while still waiting for the next course.
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My favorite item they offer has to be their potato gözleme: it's a generous portion that's rich, flavorful, and both crispy and soft.
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The best part? Every plant is available for purchase so you can take a bit of the café home with you! From seedlings and succulents to plants that may require a little extra help to get out of the coffee shop.
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I am a big fan of their pistachio maritozzo which is a soft Roman bun filled with cream and topped with crushed pistachios. It's absolutely amazing, and not overwhelmingly sweet.
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My favorite thing to order might just be their #17 plate which comes with stewed vegetables, fresh salad, butter-simmered chicken, chickpeas, lean beef, and collared greens.
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One word to describe Macondo? Bustling! It's not the place if you need a quiet space to work, but it's nice if you want to have it all: work, play, wine, and coffee.
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Heisser Hobel stands out through their use of quality ingredients. Their dairy ingredients are collected from an organic family-run dairy farm, and their noodles are made in their stall throughout the day.
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Baked goods are made with ingredients made in-house or purchased from local suppliers. All food waste and single-use items (ie recycled compostable napkins) are turned into soil with their Gersi composting machine.
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I suggest stopping by the Berlin Art Market by the Zeughaus to pick up a locally created art piece. Since the market is located in the center of Museum Island it's easy to reach.
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195 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 195 Insider Tips from our local Spotters