Mecato Berlin — Restaurant in Berlin

When I was a college student I had the good fortune of having a Colombian dorm mate. She was lovely, and she taught me many things: how delicious Colombian food is, and how charming the way they pronounce ‘ll’.

Growing up in Singapore, I was grateful for the her. I learned that Latin America is so beautifully diverse.

Mecato is a representation of that beautiful diversity. The lady who took my order smiled at my sincere but rusty attempt to speak Spanish. She then produced from the kitchen a delicious arepa: the exterior crisp, the interior fluffy, the sweetness of the masa set off against the richness of the fat.

It was so good I ordered another arepa as well as an empanada to take with me. I thought I might eat them after I went out to the bars, but I devoured them as soon as I got back to my hotel room and then...

Cozy place with good service, but unfortunately I have to give it 2/5 stars anyway. Tried a mix of all their empanadas and honestly considered giving them away after my first bite. But alas, it is my obligation as a Local Guide to thoroughly examine the food I try.

Maybe I don't like empanadas (first time I try them), but what I got was meaningless bland filling wrapped in yellow cardboard. A sad waste of calories.

Maybe their drinks are good? I felt like a Club Mate and hence can't review their homemade beverages. After giving the place such a bad review I don't dare to go back though, so I'll leave that for someone else...

Lovely family-run café with freshly cooked arepas and empanadas. Suitable for gluten-free and vegan diets alike with many options being vegetable-based.

Lots of interesting drink options from tropical fruit juices, Agua de Pamela tea, Colombian Hot Chocolate etc.

I had the cañela arepa (aubergine, courgette, paprika, rocket) and it was gorgeous. Also washed it down with a coconut lemonade which was tangy and creamy.

The owners were very friendly and chatty and provided us with a cheeky extra dip for our empanadas. There was even a little bit of dancing done!

A great find, would definitely recommend to anyone with a diet...