We arrive late. The market is still surprisingly crowded at 4:30 pm though, 30 minutes before closing time. Rubbish testifies to a busy day at the market on this first sunny Sunday on which the street food market known as the Street Food auf Achse had its debut at the Kulturbrauerei.
Cosy fire baskets have been set up to keep the cold at bay, music is blaring and the 20 food vans and stalls that I count filling the courtyard appear friendly and orderly. The hipsters among us are able to slip into a booth to take a souvenir photo. However, today I am above all here to try some of the many unusual taste experiences on offer rather than familiar delicacies.
I take a look around and am excited to discover stalls offering raclette, surf ‘n’ turf burgers and cider steaks. A few stalls are already closing – probably sold out. I must hurry and so decide on a home-made Pan Kovalski as aperitif: a flavoured vodka shot (don’t worry – the vodka is shop bought!). The home-made blend of lime and mint tastes delightful. I decide against trying the other flavours selling at €3 a pop though.
I am rapidly moving up the queue for a surf ‘n’ turf burger. My daughter has decided to try the gnocchi, which normally come with sage butter and parmesan and smell utterly delicious. Because sage is not popular with kids (as the woman at the stall already knows), she had wisely put both this and the parmesan to one side rather than on top. “Else there’ll be a big fuss, right?!” She asks. Correct! – I just love the kid-friendly atmosphere!
It is now time for my salmon burger. It is unbelievably tasty – though, similar to the vodka, a little on the small side for €7. So here is the conclusion of my test: a very pleasant atmosphere prevails at the street food market in Prenzlauer Berg in which delectable culinary experiments are offered in snack form. The commitment of the organisers and stall operators is rewarded with slightly higher prices. The move towards creative street food offering alternatives to the Currywurst, Bratwurt and Döner culture should definitely be supported however – so be sure to bring an appetite and a little small change with you, and eat your way around the stalls full of tasty street food.
Here are more information about the street food revolution, an interview with Kavita Meelu and more tips for street food in Berlin.
