Spargelzeit! Where to eat asparagus in Berlin

It’s like A Handmaid’s Tale, but somehow even whiter. *Photo: IMAGO / Future Image*

Frühlings- und Spargelfest

FESTIVE Berlin’s annual Spargel festival returns on May 10 and 11, bringing all things asparagus to the table. Savour a bowl of freshly prepared asparagus soup or stock up on locally grown varieties from the market stalls. Donned in a sash and silver asparagus crown, keep an eye out for the Beelitz Spargelkönigin (asparagus queen), who had the honour of harvesting the first spears of the season.

May 10 & 11, Akazienstr, Schöneberg, details

Schust

SIDE DISH If you like asparagus but don’t need it to take centre stage, head to Schust in P’Berg. This cosy eatery specialises in hearty dishes from the Ore Mountains region along the Czech-German border. Pair a side of buttered asparagus with rich venison goulash, smoky pork roast or comforting spinach Knödeln for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Eberswalder Str. 34, Prenzlauer Berg, details

Alter Krug Dahlem

CLASSIC For a top-notch plate of white asparagus prepared the German way, head to Alter Krug. Their Spargel is as good as it gets – perfectly cooked until tender with a slight bite, then served in a homemade hollandaise. Enjoy your meal in their rustic farmhouse or al fresco in the beer garden.

Königin-Luise-Str. 52, Dahlem, details

KiezEis

UNIQUE All spargeled out? If you want to partake in the fun but are over the boiled-and-buttered combination, mix things up with a scoop of asparagus ice cream. Not for traditionalists, this shop does a great job of balancing asparagus with cream and sugar, making it a sweet spot for a warm afternoon in Spargelsaison.

Winterfeldtstr. 46, Schöneberg, details

Spargel- und Erlebnishof Klaistow

DAY TRIP Once considered a luxury during the DDR era, white asparagus fell out of favour – that is, until 1991, when the Klaistow Farm teamed up with the Beelitzer Spargelverein (Beelitz asparagus association) to revive its cultivation. Now a bustling farm, visit to browse their indoor market for jams and specialty foods, enjoy freshly prepared asparagus in the restaurant or pick up crisp stalks and seasonal produce at the outdoor market.