Café im Literaturhaus - Wintergarten — Restaurant in Berlin

We visited the place for breakfast. The mansion is astonishing, during both day and night. Unfortunately, breakfast experience was way below our expectations (we did have some expectations, the place is rated high on Google Maps). We waited long to have our table cleaned and receive a menu. It was extremely hot, I believe tap water should be served without asking for it. Plates were landing on our table as if they were thrown neglectfully. Quality of breakfast was not too high: juice was not squeezed, coffee (from breakfast menu) was not tasty. The rest - OK, but nothing special. When it came to paying, I was almost forced to give a tip, which, of course, worked the other way round - I didn’t give it, because I felt really bad in this situation. I have NEVER met a waitress pushing me to pay a tip - what kind of behaviour is it? For the record, I am not a person who needs to be forced to tip staff for their efforts and attitude. Do I recommend this place for breakfast?...

My sister and I came for the apple strudel and ambience. We were very disappointed it took over 10 mins. and was cold 🥶. We were warned it would take a while but it didn’t seem freshly made to take so long. The vanilla ice cream was very good 👍 The waitress were super nice. However, manager was rude. We sat outside and after eating that dry and cold apple strudel, I was thirsty and grabbed my water out my bag. I took a quick sip and placed it back in my bag. The manager came and yelled at me and stated to not drink my water and I should have bought water from them because that’s how they make money. I had no idea, I could not drink my own bottle water at an outside cafe. I apologized and he rolled his eyes and waved his hand like (whatever). I honestly don’t understand why he was so upset, it’s not like we didn’t order anything and sat on the property and drank outside water.

Honestly, this place was overpriced we paid over 30 euros on dry and cold apple...

The place looks nice and the vibe is cozy-chic. However, the prices are not reflected in the food or service. I cannot recommend to go there if you like to be treated like a guest. The waiter was rushing and did not make sure, all orders are taken and delivered at the same time for the table. With these elevated prices, I would expect bigger portions and waaaay better service.

In addition, there are no vegan options on the menu. Upon request, the waiter was just telling me: It's not possible. (It's 2024 in Berlin... There are vegan options everywhere.) Well, so I kindly ask if one of the two vegetarian dishes is possible to be adapted. He denied. I asked if a salad is available, so I was offered a 'bigger kind' side salad. The taste was fresh, but there was nothing in it to make it count as a full meal.

I am not sure if I will go again. Maybe try again in summer, hoping the staff will be...