As here on Gabriel-Max-Straße, innkeepers in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg are allowed to put tables and chairs on the road Photo: Sven Meissner
By Stephen Peter
Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, of all places, is particularly business-friendly and innovative. In the green governed district, restaurateurs are allowed to put tables and chairs on the road!
The “Xhain Terraces” project is back this year: restaurants, shops and projects can (after successful application) offer more space or present their goods until the end of October.
“Our unbureaucratic range of restaurateurs and initiatives in our neighborhoods,” says District Mayor Clara Herrmann (37, Greens).
The use of public road land is free of charge, only the permit itself incurs an administration fee of 51.20 euros.
The district office issued 162 permits. Especially around Boxhagener Platz, cafés and small bars now have significantly more space to serve their guests outdoors.
Not every application was approved – 44 were rejected. The reasons for this are clear: no tables can be placed on the roadway on main roads. The BVG traffic must not be impeded or a parking space for severely disabled people blocked.
And: The area applied for must be in front of the restaurant or shop.
