About
Yes, this is a hostel, so although you forgo added luxuries such as turndown and room service this isn’t your usual flip-flops in the shower kind of place. Its central location in the centre of Mitte (comparable to slicked up Shoreditch) makes this a viable option to rest your head.
Décor
As with Venice, Anwar Mekhayech – whose CV includes Soho House Toronto – the hostel has been given the attention to detail normally reserved for boutique boltholes. Teaming up with local designer Ester Bruzkus– the pair have doused Generator Berlin Mitte with contrasting elements akin to the city: warm wood panels vs. grey cement tiles, graffiti (thanks to artists Luke Embden and Thierry Noir) next to cosy chalet-like spaces, and simple bare bones furniture alongside neon and high-gloss features. The rooms, though no-frills have the essentials addressed: power sockets aplenty, black out blinds, lamps above each bed and power showers.
Highlights
Location, location, and location. For first-timers you are within walking distance to the must–see sites such as Museum Island, Brandenburg Gate, Unter den Linden, and the Reichstag. And for those au fait with Berlin: the area is buzzing with cool cafes, bars, and boutiques: a stones throw to the arty neighbourhood Prenzlauer Berg and shopping mecca Scheunenviertel.
Eat and Drink
Although there is a cafeteria attached to the hostel – we say give it a miss and explore the neighbourhood haunts. The location means you won’t have to stamp the pavement for long. We love Katz Orange, an experimental restaurant and bar where we feasted on smoked mackerel, short ribs, lamb and chocolate-coated crickets, yes crickets. Or, for more traditional fare, head to Schwarzwaldstuben around the corner.
Party
This is Berlin, so expect to party. The hostel has been designed with a labyrinth of underground party tunnels so keep an eye out for in-house parties, exhibitions and events. However, the bars and clubs around the area will keep you out ’till the early hours. Our tip – hit up King Size Bar a small dive around the corner filled to the brim with Mitte’s hipster gang.
Top Tip
Book a private room: affordable and spacious with en-suites.
Why Go Now
There is still a few more weeks until the big freeze hits, meaning you’ll be able to make the most of the central location and spend your days walking or biking between hoods.
