Berliners love meat, with specialities like the Bratwurst sausage, Boulette (fried meatballs) and Eisbein mit Sauerkraut (pickled pork knuckles with sauerkraut). Vegetarians might prefer Kartoffeln (potatoes, chipped, baked, boiled or fried).

Hearty German Fare: Gugelhof
Since Bill Clinton dropped in, Gugelhof (Kollwitzplatz/Ecke Knaackstrasse 37) has shot to fame. Expect hearty German, Swiss and Austrian dishes, plus incredible breakfasts until 4pm. Large tables make it a good place for groups.

Cosy Café:Café Adler
Right next to Checkpoint Charlie, Café Adler (Friedrichstrasse 206) has an old-world atmosphere and a vivid history. It serves tasty grub and the soups are particularly good.

Creative Cuisine: Abendmahl
Smart Abendmahl (Muskauer Strasse 9) in Northern Kreuzberg scores points for its swish interior and imaginative menu, with specials like sesame-tofu balls and Thai fish curry.