Throughout the centuries and across the world, many cultures have taken inspiration from animals, and this practice is continued by Restaurant Tim Raue, which is represented by the hummingbird and the koi. The Berlin eatery’s guiding philosophy revolves around the cornerstones of freedom, creativity and uniqueness – qualities reminiscent of the hummingbird – and strength, perseverance and ambition inspired by the koi. These behaviours set the tone for the restaurant’s food, service and overall dining experience.

Restaurant Tim Raue is an Asian-inspired eatery in central Berlin characterised by a ‘combination of Japanese product perfection, Thai aromatics and Chinese kitchen philosophy’. It is this determined focus on authentic cuisine and traditional customs that banishes white sugar and side dishes including bread, noodles, and rice from plates. Instead, guests can enjoy dynamic and fresh meals with unique flavours not found in such offerings. Dairy products are also off the table here and the kitchen is completely lactose-free with a vegan menu also available for those seeking to ditch animal products altogether.

Tim Raue is one of Germany’s most famous chefs and has garnered international fame thanks to his imaginative and bold style in the kitchen – he has been credited by many with redefining German cuisine as we know it. Raue has established himself among the top names in the industry and has been rewarded with myriad impressive accolades. Restaurant Tim Raue has been awarded two Michelin stars since opening in 2010 and continues to charm diners and critics alike, being ranked Restaurant of the Year 2019 by Feinschmecker. Raue’s eponymous eatery has sat comfortably on ​​The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list since 2016 but the restauranteur has also found success in culinary projects in Munich, Constance, Berlin and Potsdam.

The main dining experience at Restaurant Tim Raue is split between three menus: the Kolibri (hummingbird in German), the Koi and a vegan selection. The Kolibri menu represents the freedom and creativity that has marked dishes at Restaurant Tim Raue since its opening. Guests can enjoy dynamic and exciting plates with highlights including the signature wasabi langoustine and white asparagus with elderflower. The Koi selection showcases the restaurant’s newest dishes and exhibits the ambitious quality associated with the creature. This menu is constantly adapting and reflects seasonal trends and the boundless creativity of its chefs. Fruity flavours distinguish many of the dishes: hake with miso and mandarin, Mazara prawn with strawberry and rhubarb, and pigeon Sichuan with cabbage and currant are just some of the offerings that experiment with this playful combination of elements.

Restaurant Tim Raue’s vegan menu is equally sumptuous and fresh. Hake is replaced with celeriac but is still complemented by the tangy flavours of miso and mandarin while pigeon Sichuan becomes plant-based chicken but doesn’t stray from the accompanying cabbage and currant. However, certain elements are entirely unique; Jerusalem artichokes have been expertly paired with spring onion and a full-bodied and nutty soy sauce. Dedicated lunch and vegan lunch menus are available and feature many of the same dishes and more. An extensive wine list managed by head sommelier Raphael Reichardt elevates the already delightful culinary experience at Restaurant Tim Raue.

The interior of the restaurant is just as striking and sets the bar high for comfort. Cool and calming tones of blue and white are balanced by the warmth of the sleek wood panelling that envelops the bar area and much of the dining space where beautifully crafted wooden tables are lined with plush seating for maximum comfort. Bold artwork spills across otherwise plain walls and warm light fixtures create a tranquil ambience in which to enjoy the culinary delights of the kitchen.

Restaurant Tim Raue is inspired by the values of the kingfisher and the koi. Leading the way with creativity, uniqueness, strength and ambition, it is clear why the eatery has become so widely acclaimed; the dishes here are one of a kind, playful and fresh and can be enjoyed in an equally impressive dining space. Within the modern metropolis of Berlin, Restaurant Tim Raue offers a slice of peace and tradition, improved only by a touch of modern inspiration and flavour. This is a restaurant not to miss on your next visit to Germany’s capital.