Friedrichshain was one of the bordering neighbourhoods between the east and the west side of the city. Nowadays you can still breathe a GDR-era atmosphere, as if the clock stopped at some point in time. It’s the cobblestone streets, the old never-refurbished buildings, the disheveled parks and the punky, alternative underground vibe.

Nil is a good casual eatery, that has two bars near the leafy and lively Boxhagener Platz, one of the vital organs of the neighbourhood that hosts an important part of its underground scene. The first in Grünberger Str. 52 with their classic menu, and the other one in Boxagener Str. 27, where they have their experimental kitchen trying out the latest creations. Don’t be afraid to be a guinea pig. They are all tasty, easily digestible, predominantly vegetarian and with fresh ingredients that follow the Sudanese culinary traditions.

I personally like the Tamiya, a typical Sudanese falafel that comes with a peanut sauce instead of hummus.  To drink they have a daily-changing offer of traditional, homemade Sudanese shakes and fresh juices like tamarind, lemon ginger, mango, baobab and watermelon mint.