Hostaria del Monte Croce — Restaurant in Berlin

In October, shortly after my partner and I got married, we came for dinner with 5 of our friends who surprised us with the reservation as a wedding gift. While I want to stress that the evening turned out nice overall due to our company, the first 1.5 hours were very uncomfortable and awkward. Upon arriving, the hostess quite rudely told us that we had cancelled the reservation. The person who made the reservation was standing there with us, and assured the hostess that they definitely had not cancelled the reservation. She disappeared for a few minutes to come back and tell us that someone from our party of 7 absolutely cancelled the reservation because the name is crossed through in their books. We knew this wasn’t possible, but the staff insisted it was our doing. Very awkward. They eventually told us (seeming unbelievably annoyed) that they’d try to seat us anyway, and that if the food was smaller than usual, that’s just how it was going to be, since the kitchen prepares for a specific number of people each night — (totally understandable if we were a random group that walked in looking for dinner, but this was a surprise gift planned by our friends months in advance!) We were made to feel so awkward and like we needed to apologize for being there and inconveniencing the restaurant. They eventually sat us at a table upstairs. We didn’t get the first course for about 40 minutes, and the waiter was giving us very rude side eye and a pissed-off attitude, so we just waited patiently until they brought food saying they thought we already had some (our table had been empty besides wine). Eventually, after about 1.5 hours/ 3 courses, the staff realized it was not our party who cancelled, but another party of 7. Instead of apologizing to the table for making us all feel so unwelcome, one of the staff pulled my husband aside on his way to the bathroom to offhand mention that it was actually a different party who cancelled (you’d think someone would cross-check, or realize that another party of 7 didn’t show from the beginning, but ok!). After that, the demeanor of the waiter changed drastically, and he became warm and nice to us. Fortunately the wine was flowing, the food was tasty, and we ended up having a lovely night gifted by our friends. But the service in the first nearly 2 hours left a really, really sour taste! As someone who works in gastronomy, I can sympathize with the stress, but it shouldn’t reach your paying customers like that. Nearly ruined a gift for some newlyweds and...

I don't know where all the people got the guts to even talk bad about this GREAT restaurant, with wonderful and authentic people. 9 courses of superior quality, a wonderful service for such a price gives a priceless evening, which it did for the 3 of us.

We went there somewhere in the afternoon; by change we met one of the waiters and asked him whether or not it was possible to order a table (a place on one of the group tables) There where some seats available. Then we addressed that we were with 2 vegetarians, knowing that the entire mis-en-place was already in session (imagine, there is this one wonderful modest but grand lady who cooks ALL the food for tonight) She came out of the kitchen to "inspect" the people in question: us, so to say - and responded with a mild smile that is is going to be okay.

Well okay it was . . . I personally got myself ready to let her surprise me, and she did, fabulously! This women can COOK some awesome spiced vegetarian food, for real!

After 5 dishes however I felt: whoops, I don't know if my stomach can hold more of this delicious food, for it was plentiful . . . but I managed to keep up ;-)

There was live music, a man with a guitar - looking a bit like Santos Bonacci, one of my heroes btw. It was a great addition to the total atmosphere and he was great for some of the kids up there too, really into his game.

The came the "last dish": 58 euro per person, which we happily paid with a tip - for this evening was wonderful, thanks to the people who served us with great care.

I was so stuffed however, that it took me a little longer than normal to get home, and THAT was definitely NOT because of the great glass of wine and the similar pousse-café which I really enjoyed.

One little advice though for the mis-en-place peope, rinse the salad one more time the next time, I chewed on some grains of sand, which is not a good sign advocating the quality of rest of the food. But - all in all - that really did not turn me off.

It was a wonderful evening, full of surprises, an authentic Italian atmosphere (in Berlin . . . ) with 2 witty and humoristic waiters, a wonderful cook, a great staff and a fine audience of happy customers. Thankfulness, won't be the last words on this...

Go there people, it is worth every second...

" Un'esperienza culinaria ricca di gusti e sapori autentici. "

If you're looking for a true taste of Italy, Hostaria del Monte Croce is the place to be.

The ambiance at Hostaria del Monte Croce is equally captivating. The rustic decor and traditional Italian artwork, creates an inviting and cozy atmosphere. Soft lighting and the gentle hum of Italian melodies in the background further enhance the dining experience, making it the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a gathering with friends and family.

The service here is impeccable, with staff who are not only attentive but also genuinely passionate about ensuring you have an unforgettable meal. They guide you through the menu with expert knowledge, making recommendations that cater to your tastes and preferences. Their hospitality is second to none, making you feel like a cherished guest in their home.

The menu at Hostaria del Monte Croce for July 2024 is a delightful journey through authentic Italian and Mediterranean flavors. Each dish, from the antipasti misti di verdure to the risotto al limone e zucchini, is crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. The combination of classic Italian dishes with innovative touches, such as the Scampo lardellato with grilled radicchio Treviso and yogurt sauce, ensures a memorable dining experience.

I can't wait to return next month to discover what new culinary...