Berlin tongue (icon image) Photo: Florian Metzner (Unsplash)/Graphic: BZ
By Stephen Peter
In Berlin there is a lot of talk about new construction, but not enough about sophisticated architecture. The result is desolate neighborhoods like those around the Mercedes-Benz Arena.
The new buildings there cannot be surpassed in terms of unimaginativeness and can only be found in industrial areas on the outskirts of other metropolises. However, the new city district is not extinct – thousands regularly flock to events in the arena and the cinemas also find their audience.
And with it the gastronomy. Although concerts and cinemas often start at the same time, there is no chaos at Shibuya. At the Asian restaurant (named after one of Tokyo’s 23 districts), you know exactly when the rush will be high and plan accordingly.
I’m downright surprised at how quickly it goes from arriving to taking the order to being served. As a starter I take the Yaki Sake Bowl (17 euros) with salmon and edamame. The main course has to be sushi again. The Shibuya menu with maki, nigiri and aiko rolls is available for 18 euros.
The waiters are not only incredibly fast, but also very friendly. However: As soon as the visitors are in the cinema or in the arena, the restaurant closes – then the neighborhood becomes as lifeless as its architecture.
Mildred-Harnack-Str. 15, Friedrichshain, daily 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., ☎ 275 998 88