Hackbarth has dusky gold walls set off by marine blue tiles, and the rounded bar is trimmed in bright brass. Perhaps this is why the patrons all seem so lovely, the mood so warm and relaxed? If you squint you could swear you were in an Edward Hopper painting. Affordable wine and whiskey, good beer, relaxed breakfasts and hearty quiches make this former East Berlin bakery a good location any time of the day, although I love it best on a rainy evening. It's cozy to watch the rain through the plate glass windows (perfect for people watching on Auguststrasse) as the friendly bartender hands you another brimming half liter of wine.

Hackbarth's
Auguststraße 49, Mitte
open daily, from 9:00