Hosteria Blumenladen: an Italian Pearl

I must admit, when friends invited me along to this little Italian place next to S-bahn station Friedenau, I was slightly skeptic. A restaurant in an old florist on a train line in the gentrified West? My concerns were unfounded however, for this is truly a hidden pearl.

They offer a daily changing menu so as much as I would like to encourage you to the octopus entree I had -perfectly tender meat served with fresh fruit and risotto- it probably won’t be there tomorrow. My wild duck main, with the most delicious mashedpotatoes I think I’ve ever experienced, and then the dessert! Honey-nougat parfait! Need I say more?

It’s a busy restaurant, popular with the locals. Seating can be a little tight, with numerous tables in the small shop front, but it’s with an air of charm and cosiness. During the summer they have an outdoor terrace open, although I imagine you’ll be hearing a bit of the train next door every ten minutes if you do sit outside.

The menu has a selection of three to four dishes for each course: entree, pasta, main and dessert, as well as a cheese platter. Prices are around 13€ for entrees and pasta, 18€-24€ for mains, 6€ for dessert. The wine list is decent and starts at around 30€ a bottle. To get there take the S1 toFriedenau and when exiting the station go UP the steps. The restaurant is on your left as you reach street level, a cute little sixties glass-front shop in white with blue trim.

More information on PlanetEye: Hosteria Blumenladen