Manouche Bar / Café

Kreuzberg / Neukölln, Berlin –

Asking Parisian owner Emmanuel Girondin why he opened Manouche back in 2008 elicits a simple answer: “Berlin needed a crêperie.”

Apparently he was right, because since then French expats, budget-conscious families, and hip young Berliners have all been crowding in to enjoy one of his large variety of original crêpes.

The spare outdoor patio is full most days with area professionals lunching on savory galettes or kicking their diet in the pants with a Bella Ciao lathered in chocolate – or whatever other delectable creation Girondin has come up with – while on rainy afternoons the three small rooms inside provide a cozy environment to listen to soft jazz and sip coffee.

The décor has a distinct French flea market feel, replete with old leather sofas, antique brass candelabras, chipped wooden furniture, and small tables that just might still smell of the ever-popular Pomme D’Adam, a decadent crêpe smothered in caramelized apple, cinnamon, ice cream, and mangos.

In the evenings the venue takes on more of a bar vibe as families clear out, the electronic music goes on, and a youthful alternative crowd gathers to enjoy a few long drinks, a meal, and some French liqueurs.

The revelry continues into Sunday, too, when musicians gather for occasional jazz sessions.

Whether young or old, hungry or thirsty, the satisfied customers in Kreuzberg all seem to agree: while one can take the man out of Paris, they hope no one will take the man’s Manouche out of Berlin.