Before the influx of galleries and hip cafes on Auguststrasse, there was Hackbarth’s. Soon after the fall of the Wall, Hackbarth’s moved into a former bakery in the heart of Mitte. Perhaps watching the gentrification of the area explode is what makes the bartenders and waitresses a bit crabby at times. If you can get beyond the attitude, this cafe/bar serves up a awakeningly-strong cup of coffee and perfect fodder for people watching.

Barflies, bookworms and artists congregate for late night drinks, where almost everyone seems to be a regular. The attitude: get cozy or get out.