Living in Pankow has its upsides and its downsides. On the one hand, the neighbourhood is peaceful; on the other, it often feels far-removed from “the rest of Berlin”. Personally, I firmly believe in the untapped energy of the M1 line: Along the tram tracks are some real gems, one could even say jewels, that are often ignored in favor of venues elsewhere in the city that require long, complicated transport routes. In this piece, I’d like to introduce you to some such M1 Jewels, a few of which I have personally visited for you. Starting in the north end of this great transit line, here are some recommendations for eats, sights and delights that are close to an M1 stop, simple to reach, and worth your time.
In today’s installment, we roam Prenzlauer Berg for creative pseudo-communist capitalist hotspots between Schönhauser Allee/Bornholmer Straße and the Weinmeisterstraße/Gipsstraße stations.
Schönhauser Allee/Bornholmer Straße – Paint your style
You may have already spotted this one out of the M1 windows. At Paint your Style you can design and paint pre-made pottery, which is a blessing to those of us who are 2D-professionals but 3D-challenged. From € 7,90 and up you can pick a piece, paint it, and then let the staff fire it in their kiln.
Schönhauser Allee and Milastraße – Zuckerfee, Zuckerberg
Sugar rush! Zuckerfee is a Café and Confiserie, meaning that they produce their sweets, breads and spreads themselves. Come here for a delicious breakfast or simply a sweet treat.
If your glucose is more of an on-the-go type, stop by the Zuckerberg candy store, which is a little closer to the Milastraße station and boasts licorice as well as a plethora of hard and soft candies from various European countries.
Eberswalder Straße – Gemüsekebap, Dr. Pong
Cry as much as you like, this author consider Gemüsekebap on Kastanienallee the best Döner in town on the M1 line. With the sorta kinda healthy name and concept, you’ll also feel a little less guilty consuming your fourth this week. If you do need solace, why not go to the table tennis bar Dr. Pong for some ping-pong to let off some steam.
Zionskirchplatz – NBI Kiez Karaoke
You can dance,
You can shine,
Having the time of your life…
This is a classic karaoke bar, open from 8pm onwards on most days. Check their website for more on opening times, and make sure to call ahead if you go in a big group!
Rosenthaler Platz – Museum der Stille
Ever find yourself in need of “some god-damn peace and quiet”? Well, have I found the place for you: visit the free Museum der Stille. It’s a small exhibition of art that’s meant to stimulate your mind. But, like, in a quiet way, ya know?
Weinmeisterstraße/Gipsstraße – Dolores
The area around this stop is perfect for shopping, but it would be futile to try to list all the shops here. Rather, when you’re done consuming and want a bite to eat, head to Dolores for a delicious and customizable burrito or quesadilla — personally I recommend you try the smoky soy meat for a special touch. Do beware of the long line at around 5pm here, though.
Hope you enjoyed the ride for this installment of the M1 Jewels. Join me in the next and last installment, when we commiserate book burnings, eat Japanese tex-mex brunch and do some magic tricks.