Chay Village Schöneberg — Restaurant in Berlin

Chay Village in Schöneberg is a hidden gem that effortlessly blends the authenticity of Vietnamese cuisine with a contemporary, health-conscious twist. Tucked away on Eisenacher Str., this cozy spot feels like an escape from the bustle of Berlin, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for a vibrant, plant-based dining experience.

Upon entering, you’re greeted by the warm glow of lanterns, soft music, and a vibe that feels both tranquil and welcoming. The staff here is attentive and passionate, happy to guide you through the menu and make recommendations based on your preferences. They truly go the extra mile to ensure you feel at home, which is a rare touch in a busy city.

The menu is entirely plant-based, but even carnivores will be amazed at the depth of flavors and textures here. I highly recommend starting with the crispy bánh xèo (Vietnamese rice pancakes) – they’re perfectly golden with just the right crunch, and the filling of mushrooms and herbs is savory and satisfying. For the main, I went with the classic pho, and it was absolutely phenomenal. The broth is rich and aromatic, loaded with fresh veggies, herbs, and a generous portion of noodles. Each sip feels like comfort in a bowl, especially on a chilly Berlin day.

One of the standout elements at Chay Village is their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Every dish tastes like it was crafted with love, free from any additives or MSG. It’s refreshing to enjoy such vibrant flavors without that overly salty aftertaste often found in restaurant dishes.

The seating arrangement is cozy yet private, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The outside area is great if you’re lucky with the weather – it almost feels like dining in a peaceful garden. And if you're into healthy drinks, don’t miss out on their freshly pressed juices or herbal teas, which are thoughtfully prepared and pair perfectly...

Oh my Lordy, Lord. I cannot express how loud the kitchen staff is. I think if you're sitting outside then everything is okay, but if you're inside, you will be expected to shout across the table to communicate. One guy was polishing the cutlery at the front of the restaurant, throwing the finished pieces in a tray. It was VERY loud. And then they have the blender right at the front too. And the staff themselves will happily talk with raised voices to each other. You really feel like you are seated directly in the kitchen. Not a pleasant dining experience at all. As for the food, good selection of vegan and vegetarian food. For me, it matched the level of fast-food restaurants you get at train stations. Berlin has a lot more to offer...

We loved our first visit so much (day if arrival in Berlin) that we returned for our last meal before departure. Very efficient and friendly service, beautifully seasoned meals, good portion size. The place is always humming so it is necessary to book a table (inside) to secure a spot. No reservations possible for outside (?). My 87 year old aunt - interested in trying everything! - enjoyed her meals thoroughly, too. You might just need to be aware, that outside are long beer tables with benches only and inside can be a bit loud due to the kitchen and bar noise, but we did not mind to put our heads together inside and just added a coat when sitting outside. Will be back for sure on our next...