Berlin’s gritty Kreuzberg district has long been a place for students, artists, and freethinkers to gather. The Oranienpalast Cabaret Cafe, which opened in 1913, used to host concerts by local musicians. Today, the revived Cremer & Wolffenstein-designed Art Nouveau building is home to Orania.Berlin. Ringed by bars, galleries, and diverse eateries, this swish contemporary boutique hotel stands as an eclectic and easy-going refuge amidst the pulsating energy of the surrounding art-covered streets. It’s cool and cosmopolitan without losing sight of its Oranienplatz address.
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The creative spirit of Kreizberg is apparent throughout the property. It’s especially palpable in the open-concept lounge area that doubles as a concert venue. Berliners and out-of-towners sip artisan cocktails on sofas near roaring fireplaces or high-backed stools around the curved wood bar. An impressive roster of classical, jazz, and soul musicians, from Agita Rando Quartett to Cosmo Klein and Till Sahm, have taken the corner stage and tickled the ivories of the Steinway piano. You can also catch live performances in the atmospheric upper-level salon, which features floor-to-ceiling windows and striking views of the Berlin skyline.
Not in the mood to partake in the on-site revelry or the neighborhood nightlife? Rest easy knowing all 41 rooms and suites are equipped with soundproof doors and windows, plus Schramm mattresses that guarantee a good night’s sleep. Besides being spacious and extremely comfortable, accommodations display the same rich woods, globally-inspired textiles with whimsical elephant motifs, handmade Luribaff carpets, and shapely lamps that creates such an inviting vibe in the public spaces. Marble bathrooms flaunt rainfall showers, heated towel racks, and natural bath products from Berlin-based brand i+m. Some even have tubs. Other modern conveniences include high-speed internet and Apple TV+.
Need a little push to get out of bed in the morning? Just follow the sweet and savory aromas downstairs. Orania.Restaurant satiates hungry (and, based on the abundance of nearby nightlife, occasionally hungover) patrons with açaí cheesecake and Japanese pancakes with bacon and bonito flakes. To wash it down, there’s coconut milk-spiked red tea and even breakfast sangria.
Dinner takes a similarly imaginative form. The brainchild of executive chef Philipp Vogel, who trained for years in China, the Xberg Duck tasting menu is a four-course duck degustation that’s won acclaim from diners and critics. It’s unexpected and utterly delectable and makes yet another compelling case as to why Orania.Berlin continues to be the best upscale spot to eat, stay, and play in Kreuzberg.
Top Takeaways
Location: Berlin, Germany
Rating: Four-Star
The Vibe: A respite of contemporary refinement with a rich musical legacy in edgy east Kreuzberg.
Food + Drink: Whether it’s brunch or dinner, a delicious courant of surprise and delight runs through the innovative dishes at Orania.Restaurant. Famous for reasons that become obvious from the first bite, the four-course Xberg Duck menu is a must-try. The adjacent Orania.Bar mixes up inventive cocktails alongside the musical stylings of local talent.
Amenities: Restaurant; bar/lounge; salon/event space; live concerts; gym; free WiFi
5 Nearby Attractions: Oranienplatz, Prinzessinnengarten, Berlinische Galerie, Jewish Museum Berlin, König Galerie
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? There are almost too many hip haunts for cocktails within a few blocks of Orania.Berlin. Our top picks? Feger, Dresden in Kreuzberg, and Die Apotheken Bar. If you prefer beer, head to Biererei Bar & Vintage Cellar. Kreuzberg also has a large Turkish population. Fes is a favorite for grilled meat and mezze.
Rooms: 41 rooms and spacious suites that embrace a warm, inviting Kreuzberg-meets-international aesthetic.
Pricing: Rooms start at $150/night (that includes entrance to all in-house concerts)
Closest Airport: Berlin Brandenburg Airport
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