In brief
| Situation | Choice | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Client dinner | Restaurant in Mitte, Gendarmenmarkt | Book by phone or on the site, say "Geschäftsessen" |
| Business lunch | Restaurant near the hotel or meeting place | Lunch service is quicker |
| Informal meeting | Café with Wi-Fi | See cafés and pastry shops |
| Dinner during a fair | Restaurant near Messe Berlin or in Charlottenburg | Tables fill up during the trade fairs |
Choosing the restaurant
Borchardt, a classic restaurant on Französische Straße, and Lutter & Wegner, a historic address at Gendarmenmarkt, are two well-known reference points in Mitte, to check on their official sites. A directory estimates Borchardt's budget at 40 to 90 € per person (October 2026); read the menu the restaurant publishes. For more ideas by theme, see what to eat in Berlin and starred restaurants.
Cafés with Wi-Fi
For a short meeting, a café offers a relaxed setting. The Wi-Fi is often protected by a code given at the counter, and sockets are rare. For a real workstation, see coworking and remote work in Berlin.
Booking and paying
Book at least a few days ahead, especially for the evening. The usual tip is to round up or about 5 to 10%: see paying in Berlin. Some tables do not accept every card: ask when booking.
Spending the evening differently
If you host a visiting client, a food tour of Mitte can replace the sit-down dinner: see the food tour in Berlin. To sleep near the centre, see hotels in Mitte.
FAQ
Where can I have a business dinner in Berlin?
In a restaurant in Mitte, around Gendarmenmarkt, after booking.
Do I need to book?
Yes, several days ahead for dinner, especially during a trade fair.
Where can I meet a client for coffee?
In a café with Wi-Fi in Mitte, keeping in mind that sockets are rare.
La rédaction Berlin Authority, October 2026.
