Mr. Susan

"First impression? After heading down a short and steep flight of stairs, you'll enter a softly lit, peacock-blue drinking den made welcoming with wood floors and a star-patterned ceiling. Choose between booths, high tops, or velvet sofas—there's an option for everyone, whether you're on an intimate date or getting together with friends. Despite being stylish, it remains cozy and low-key: It ticks the boxes between friendly service, great cocktails, and a setting that's just steps away from Museuminsel, the Jewish Quarter, boutique shopping, and other Mitte district tourist must-dos. How’s the crowd? Everyone is here: colleagues meeting up after work, dates, groups of friends catching up. You'll get a few neighborhood regulars as well as those who just work in Mitte and are meeting up with friends or work buddies. Given its location close to main sights and attractions, you'll also get a handful of tourists. The main attraction here is the cocktails, and the menu is as vibrant as the clientele—so people come here for a reason. How are the drinks? Part of the joy of visiting Mr. Susan is the joy that comes from just reading the menu, whether you choose from the signature selection of around six drinks, a seasonal option, or head into the equally-weighted zero-proof section. Cocktails are punchy and vibrant, with the signature drinks often incorporating nods to the owner's Korean heritage through the use of ingredients like gochujang syrup, soju, and kimchi juice. While you can definitely get a standard old fashioned here—and it will be a delicious one—Mr. Susan rewards those who want to explore playful taste profiles that go beyond the usual. If there’s food, is it worth ordering something to eat? Snacks are limited but comforting and geared to complement the drink selection. Choose from "fancy crisps" (think truffle- or Iberian ham-flavored), olives, or Shin Ramen Cup (kimchi optional). Did the staff do you right? These might be some of the friendliest bartenders in Berlin—they're happy to explain anything you could need explained, profile your preferences for the perfect custom drink, and make attentive hosts to boisterous gatherings. Wrap it up: what are we coming here for? Given the cozy subterranean location and imaginative menu, it's the perfect spot for an impressive first date or gathering with friends—while it's always buzzing, it's a rare spot where you can also hear the people you're speaking with too." - Krystin Arneson