Blink and you’ll miss this tiny Indian-run eatery serving eclectic international fare between Mitte and Prenzlauer Allee along the trendy Kastanienallee. Notable for its upside-down McDonald’s sign (hence the “W” in the name; Der Imbiss means “The Snack”), the restaurant consists of a service window and a few brightly colored tables, and has quirky Hawaiian and African decor. The food is not only cheap and tasty but also healthy and diverse, pulling off an ambitious mix of Mexican, Californian, Indian, and Italian influences. It’s most famous for naan pizzas—Indian naan breads baked in the venue’s tandoor, with pizza-esque toppings from olives and cheese to artichokes and salmon. The menu also includes filling Indian thali platters, soups and salads, and Mexican-style wraps.
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It's Not McDonalds
W Der Imbiss (W snackbar) has turned McDonald’s on its head—literally. In Prenzlauerberg, just look for the upside-down “M,” a line of happy people, fresh ingredients, and the faint smell of Indian curry—and you’ll find W Der Imbiss. Good things come in small packages—and the snackbar/cafe is definitely small—but people pack inside and spill out onto the small outdoor patio to enjoy the signature Naan Pizza. As you order, watch the cooks put twists on the classic naan bread—the only thing that separates you from the chefs is a glass window—and enjoy the little cafe’s open, fun feeling. The naan pizza (approx. 6 euros) is made with fresh ingredients topped with avocado, rocket, artichokes, sprouts, and an array of homemade sauces. In addition to the popular naan items, you can get quesadillas, wraps, and my personal favorite, Indian thali. This is a gem for those who are into fresh, healthy food and who want a break from doner kebab. More info: Der W Imbiss Kastanienallee 49 10119 Berlin (+49)(0)30-44352206 Open daily from 12.30
Curry to a Berlin Soundtrack
W-Der Imbiss may be cooking up fancy fast food now, but Canadian chef and owner Gordon W, who pops up in the open kitchen from time to time, hasn’t forgotten that he’s catering to Western Europe’s most wallet-friendly capital: the most expensive rice bowl on his menu costs 8.50 Euros. The place is still cheap enough for a cab driver, and its Indian subji curry (6.50 Euros) makes a great lunch. Broccoli, cauliflower, eggplant, red and green peppers are crisp-tender, even as they absorb the spices from their light yellow curry sauce. Made to order, topped with a handful of fresh cilantro, and served with basmati rice and yogurt, the only thing missing in this curry is a little chili pepper heat.
