As we know, Berlin is anything but mainstream. The city thrives on its diversity – on being different, to be precise. And that’s exactly why there are countless places here where you can drink your coffee, have brunch, lunch or dinner without being surrounded by four white walls. For example , on an Italian-inspired private farm with a hidden 1,000 m² permaculture garden. Or in an American-Californian-inspired greenhouse restaurant where it feels like summer all year round. And what if you want to read a good book in peace? Then Café Tasso is just the place – “the other antique bookshop” in Berlin-Friedrichshain, not far from Frankfurter Tor.
Photo: @cafetasso (Instagram)
Café Tasso – Das andere Antiquariat is a certified organic café and restaurant with an integrated bookstore. Here you can browse through thousands of used books from a wide variety of genres – from novels to travel guides and non-fiction to children’s books. All books are offered at very reasonable prices, usually around €2.50 per copy, so even bags bulging with literature are absolutely affordable. In addition, there are special offers, such as three Reclam booklets for only €1. You can read the books right there in a cozy atmosphere – accompanied by a coffee or a delicious organic brunch. Prices start at just €6.50. The menu includes homemade muesli, a vegan breakfast with hummus and tofu caprese, bacon and eggs, and many other delicacies. It should also be noted that all food and drinks are 100% organic.
Photo: Ed Robertson / Unsplash
It is not only a bookstore and café, but also a lively cultural venue. Readings, concerts, theater performances, discussions, and exhibitions take place here regularly— often without any admission fee, but donations are welcome.
Café Tasso is usually open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (mostly closed on Sundays). The antique bookshop is also open on these days, but according to Berlin’s shop opening law, there is often a ban on selling books on Sundays.