Emma Mykytyn Metzer Eck Berlin Review – One of Berlin’s Oldest Traditional Pubs
If you’re searching for an authentic Berlin pub where locals still gather over beer and hearty German cooking, Metzer Eck deserves a place on your itinerary. Another place we love is Dicke Wirtin.
Located in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg, this family-run restaurant has been welcoming guests since 1913, surviving two World Wars, the division of Berlin and reunification while retaining much of its original character.
Unlike many restaurants that recreate an “old Berlin” atmosphere for tourists, Metzer Eck feels genuinely lived in. Dark wooden furniture, photographs covering the walls and a well-worn bar create the feeling of stepping into a neighbourhood pub where history is part of the décor.
Atmosphere
The first thing you’ll notice is just how authentic the restaurant feels. This isn’t a polished modern beer hall; instead it’s cosy, slightly cramped and wonderfully atmospheric.
Historic photographs, letters and memorabilia tell the story of both the restaurant and Prenzlauer Berg itself. The dining room is filled with locals alongside visitors who have discovered one of Berlin’s best traditional eateries.
Expect a lively atmosphere rather than fine dining elegance. Conversations flow over large beers, and the service is friendly and efficient without being overly formal.
Food
The menu focuses on classic Berlin and German comfort food rather than trendy interpretations.
Popular dishes include Schnitzel, Homemade Berlin-style meatballs (Bulette) and sausages with potato salad
What we ate at Metzer Eck
Strammer Max is a dish made of mixed bread, ham, and a fried egg . Originally part of Saxon and Berlin cuisine , Strammer Max is now a popular home-style dish. This was a chewy bread base topped with thjn slices of smoked ham.
Currywurst with bratkartoffeln, fried potatoes. Delicious! A plump sausage, perfect amount of sauce and crispy fried potatoes.
Schnitzel with potato salad. A large crisp schnitzel with a tangy German potato salad.
Service
Service is welcoming and efficient. Menus are available in English, Spanish, French and Russian, making ordering straightforward even if you don’t speak German.
History
Metzer Eck began life in 1913 when Clara Vahlenstein opened a beer pub after winning the lottery.
Booking Information for Metzer Eck
While walk-ins are possible early in the evening, tables fill quickly, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Metzer Eck, Metzer Straße 33,10405 Berlin
Nearest public transport: U-Bahn: Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz
Tram: Prenzlauer Allee/Metzer Straße
Check with BVG for latest information.
Around a 15-minute walk from Alexanderplatz.
Expect to pay around €10–20 per person, making it excellent value for central Berlin.
What to See Nearby
After your meal, consider visiting:
Kollwitzplatz
Alexanderplatz
Hackescher Markt
Museum Island
Looking for World War 2 sites? Click here.
FAQ
Is Metzer Eck touristy?
Not particularly. Visitors certainly dine here, but it remains popular with Berlin locals.
Do I need to book?
Yes, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Is there an English menu?
Yes.
Is it suitable for vegetarians?
There are limited vegetarian options, as the menu focuses on traditional meat dishes.
Can you pay by card?
No, it’s cash only here.
Final Verdict
Metzer Eck isn’t about modern gastronomy or Instagram-worthy presentation. Instead, it offers something increasingly rare: a genuine slice of old Berlin. With over a century of history, hearty home-style cooking, excellent beer and a welcoming neighbourhood atmosphere, it’s one of the city’s best places to experience traditional Berlin hospitality.
Perfect for: Traditional German food, history lovers, beer enthusiasts and travellers looking to experience authentic Berlin away from the more commercial restaurants.
