Savoring Innovation

A spotlight on KINK Bar & Restaurant, Berlin’s flavour laboratory.

In the vibrant heart of Berlin, KINK Bar & Restaurant stands as a modern oasis where culinary artistry intertwines with creative exploration. Founded by childhood friends Oliver Mansaray and Daniel Scheppan, this venue encourages patrons to unwind and reconnect with their senses, fostering inspiration amid its eclectic ambiance. With the innovative touch of chef Ivano Pirolo, KINK redefines gastronomy through bold flavors and cutting-edge techniques, all set within a meticulously designed space that celebrates both contemporary art and timeless friendships.

KINK Bar & Restaurant emerges from the historic Pfefferberg complex—a former brewery transformed into a dynamic hub for gastronomic and artistic innovation, a sociocultural center that celebrates a legacy of creativity, where art and culinary delights intertwine seamlessly. Due to its vicinity to Prenzlauer Berg, an area of the city long divided by the Berlin Wall, the centre was born as a space for healing – “We don’t build walls. We tear them down. Just after the wall came down, this place went nuts. We’d like to continue that tradition.” KINK was conceived as an urban haven for guests to escape life’s turmoil, reconnecting with themselves and igniting inspiration. Founders Oliver Mansaray and Daniel Scheppan bring an experimental and synergetic approach to modern gastronomy, crafting a space where culinary mastery meets cocktail artistry. At the helm is Italian head chef Ivano Pirolo and the award-winning bar team, celebrated as the best by Mixology in 2023. Together, they curate a bold selection of innovative dishes and beverages, employing techniques such as fermentation, sous-vide, and cryo-concentration combine with sustainably and ethically sourced ingredients, leading to inventive creations like crispy grilled Beelitz asparagus with velvety miso, and smoked regional aal sandwich paired with lacto-fermented plums. The cocktail menu dazzles with offerings like a champagne cocktail refined with lacto-fermented Rubinette apple, juniper, and mint Eau de Vie, crafted to elevate the dining experience.

“It began with a vision to create an urban haven where guests could let go of the turmoil of life and reconnect with themselves to allow space for inspiration and new encounters.”

“From day one, art has had a special standing at KINK. The most prominent piece is suspended from the high ceiling of the bar: the large-scale site-specific work Spaceknot by contemporary artist Kerim Seiler.”

KINK’s expansive 600-square-meter space is an architectural marvel, separated into three distinct areas: an open kitchen restaurant, a first-floor gallery, and a private dining room overlooking a vast bar. Recently, a fourth intimate event space was added, providing access to Berlin’s second oldest beer garden, where guests can enjoy the shade of centuries-old trees. The design fuses post-industrial aesthetics with contemporary elegance, featuring upcycled wood paneling and vibrant Roche Bobois Mah Jong sofas that invite guests to linger. Art plays an integral role at KINK, with a stunning site-specific installation, Spaceknot by contemporary artist Kerim Seiler, illuminating the bar with red neon loops. The venue also showcases a growing collection of artworks, carefully curated by Studio Tadan, ensuring that each visit offers new visual experiences. Notably, KINK features a unique portfolio of works from renowned artists, making it a cultural touchstone in Berlin.

“The post-industrial atemporal setting continues to feature vintage elements in conversation with contemporary design features and objects in the bar. Berberlin handcrafted rugs, inspired by North African Berber cultures, and Roche Bobois’ iconic modular Mah Jong sofa form a soft colorful contrast to modern designer lamps and the streamlined bar design by Berlin studio Hidden Fortress.”

KINK’s cultural program is as diverse as its menu, hosting an array of performances—from electronic DJs to classical music—underlining its commitment to fostering creative exchanges. The KINK x Invites series invites international guest chefs and local artisans to share their culinary philosophies and techniques, while the bar welcomes renowned mixologists from around the globe. At its core, KINK is a celebration of community and collaboration. The founders’ dedication to building professional relationships with artists, chefs, and local connoisseurs fosters a welcoming environment where guests leave as friends. With its innovative cuisine, captivating atmosphere, and commitment to artistic expression, KINK Bar & Restaurant is not just a dining destination; it’s a sanctuary for inspiration and connection in the heart of Berlin.

Savoring Innovation / KINK Bar & Restaurant Berlin

Credits:

Location: KINK Bar & Restaurant / @kink.space.berlin @kink.bar.restaurant
Words: Camila Correa / @cami.correahg
Editor: Anca Macavei / @ancamacavei

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