Heno Heno — Restaurant in Berlin

I happened upon Heno Heno by chance, I was in the area visiting a friend and decided to get dinner before heading home. Heno Heno was close enough by foot so I just went for it, wanting to try some other Japanese food than sushi or ramen for once.

Service was nice and uncomplicated. I asked the waitress what she recommended and she took the time to talk me through vegan, vegetarian and meat options. I ordered the gyudon with meat and, per recommendation, also had the soft poached egg with it. I usually do not like egg, especially not soft, but I wanted to try something new. The food was served before I was back from the toilet, so super fast.

Another reviewer said that their gyudon had been on the drier side, but with the egg dropped on top and mixed (the egg was basically a sauce), it was neither too dry nor too juicy for me (also added a creaminess to the dish). Put a little soy sauce on top for saltiness and it was totally to my taste. I had the medium and for me it was the perfect amount of food.

Deciding to spoil myself I also got the dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice with ginger-mousse and cinnamon. It was absolutely delicious, I loved the combination of the not too sharp ginger-mousse and the sweet vanilla. It will be a difficult decision whether to try one of the sides/starters next time or just get dessert again :)

I will...

This was, let me count, my sixth visit to Heno Heno — and definitely not my last. What I love about this place is that it’s not your typical ramen shop, but something more unique: they serve among others Japanese soba and udon noodle soups, which you don’t often find in Berlin.

My go-to is the soba noodle soup, which I had again last night. I always ask for a little extra: double meat and a poached egg — and they make it just the way I like it. I’m not a Japanese food expert, but it’s clear that everything here is made with great care and high-quality ingredients. That’s why I keep coming back, especially when I want a cozy little treat.

The place itself is rustic and down-to-earth — no frills, just seriously good food. There’s no loud music, the dim lighting makes it feel warm and welcoming, and the food is served in beautiful Japanese ceramics. It’s especially magical in winter: when it’s freezing outside, nothing beats walking in for a hot soup.

Don’t come here expecting white tablecloths — but if you appreciate authentic flavors and quiet charm, you’ll love it. Already looking forward to my...

FOOD & DRINKS Gyudon is a very typical meal in Japan. I saw it on the menu and had to try it out.The beef was kinda dry because it was mostly if not entirely lean. Perfect if you already count your calories but because of that reason you lose on flavor. I highly recommend to get the onsen egg with the bowl of beef over rice. Mix everything nicely together and the egg yolk will provide the necessary fat content to counter the dryness. Other than that the taste was good. Not mind blowingly good but a decent home cooked meal which in all fairness is what they are trying to do.

SERVICE Staff was nice and friendly. Standard Japanese service which is a good thing.

ATMOSPHERE Nice restaurant. Simple, a bit dark yet warm.

RATING Four stars because even though they do Japanese home cook meals I think even in that specific area the flavors can...