Marzahn? Has it come to this? As Berlin’s supply of spaces rife with cultural potential shrinks, the socialist satellite city is looking more and more appealing. And yes, you’ll find the first signs of new cultural life at the Alte Börse Marzahn.
Spread out over numerous quaint brick buildings and a spacious 30,000sqm of land, the 1900s cattle exchange-turned-GDR military compound-turned ruin was snapped up in 2013 by former publisher Peter Kenzelmann. As he and his team put the finishing touches on their renovations, the space is slowly becoming a hub for art, seminars, welding workshops, music and food.
Not to mention beer – try a delicious house-brewed “Marzahner” (€2/0.3L-€10/2L) in their comfy Braustube or learn to make it yourself (€18-68 for brewing courses); those with craftier tastes can also quaff a Wedding Pale Ale at the nearby HQ of Bierfabrik.
Alte Börse’s kitchen serves up a variety of rustic fare, from sweet or savoury “Braufladen” pancakes (€1.80) to stew (€3.80) and a full buffet brunch (€9.50 for adults, €4.50 for kids). The complex is open only on weekends until March 16, when they’re planning longer hours and outdoor events. Keep this spot in mind for warm-weather hangouts – especially once neighbouring club Czar Hagestolz, Marzahn’s answer to Bar25, reopens.
In the meantime, the Alte Börse manages to look welcoming even on a rainy late-winter night: the echoing music and colourful lanterns guide you inside. Stay cosy on Saturdays here with free concerts beginning at 7pm. Tip back a pint in an unpretentious atmosphere while you still can – it’s only a matter of time before the Kreuzköllners start pouring in.
Mon-Wed, Sun 9-22, Thu-Sat 9-24 (Mar 16-Oct 24)
Originally published in issue #136, March 2015
