Enjoying a beer in an atmospheric bar in Berlin isn’t much of a challenge . There are great bars all over the city that are worth a visit. But where can you find a truly extraordinary setting? There are actually quite a few of those in Berlin—and of course, we’ve got the perfect hidden gems for you. One of them is the KLO, which is arguably one of Berlin’s craziest bars. You’ll find it at Leibnizstraße 57 in Charlottenburg, just a few minutes from Kurfürstendamm.
The KLO in Berlin-Charlottenburg isn’t your typical bar—it’s a mix of a cult-favorite pub, an immersive dining experience, a cabinet of curiosities, and a haunted house. Its history dates back to 1971. According to the operator, the KLO opened on December 24, 1971, and has thus been in existence for more than 50 years. Originally, there were even several KLO pubs in Berlin. The location that still exists today opened as “Klo III.” Other locations were on Hauptstraße and Nestorstraße, among other places, but they disappeared over time. The KLO on Leibnizstraße is the only one remaining. The owner calls it Europe’s first “toilet pub” and sees the concept as a pioneer of experiential dining.
The extraordinary atmosphere starts right with the decor. Instead of ordinary bar stools, some guests can take a seat on toilet seats, while coffins, among other things, serve as tables. The toilet theme runs throughout the entire venue and is combined with dark humor, spooky elements, and whimsical details. As a result, the bar feels more like an old haunted house than a classic Berlin pub in some places.
And the furnishings aren’t just for decoration. Some of the furniture is pneumatic and can suddenly move. Tables can rise unexpectedly, seats can shift or tip over, and something might even happen right above guests’ heads. Add to that light, sound, and scare effects, as well as various figures and mechanical elements. This is all designed to keep each visit deliberately unpredictable, since guests never know which effect will be triggered next.
Even the walk to the bar is part of the experience. Right at the entrance, visitors may be greeted by surprising effects like bursts of water or air. Inside, this theatrical presentation continues. The bar deliberately combines silliness, a touch of the eerie, and the sometimes crude humor for which the concept has been known for decades. Even the way drinks are served picks up on this theme. Some drinks are served in unusual containers with a toilet theme , and an elevator is even used for transport. In addition to various drinks, light meals are also available. Among other things, the classic Berlin currywurst is part of the menu. However, the focus is less on an elaborate culinary concept and more on the overall experience surrounding the bar.
Visually, too, the KLO is a little slice of history. According to the owner, the decor has changed relatively little since the 1970s. That’s precisely what makes up part of its charm. Instead of a modern, stylishly designed themed bar, guests can expect a deliberately old-fashioned and chaotic world of experiences that makes no secret of its roots in 1970s Berlin pub culture.
