Moving Forward with Moabit's Common Table - Aheads for Regina and Klaus
Taking a Peek at "Zum Stammtisch"
Welcome to our essay on "Zum Stammtisch," a local favorite hidden gem on Bredowstraße, Moabit. This pub is where the community gathers, reminiscing around Regina and Klaus', the pub's beloved proprietors.
A bustling Friday evening in Moabit sees the illuminated sign of "Zum Stammtisch," packed with patrons. An exuberant English stag group is celebrating outside with glasses raised high. At the heart of it all, there's Regina (81) and Klaus Friedrich (84) - the duo running the joint since 1969. They could've retired long ago, but, as Regina puts it, "People need us, and we need them a bit too."
Before "Zum Stammtisch" ever served beer, it was a grocery store. "Engelhardt Brewery" transformed the space into a pub, and Regina and Klaus took over the reins.
Clink your glass of Engelhardt Pilsener, available in small (0.3 liters) for 2.40 euros, or large (0.4 liters) for 2.60 euros. Much of the pub remains authentic from the '60s – wooden chairs, long tables, lace curtains at the windows, all lending an old-world charm to the place.
Sadly, rising rents and the pub decline have claimed some neighboring establishments, but Regina's grateful for her understanding landlord. "Otherwise, we wouldn't be here anymore," she says.
Why does "Zum Stammtisch" stand out? "Initially, it was mostly regulars, mostly our age," recalls Regina. Today, all ages visit. "When the tables are full, we simply tell people to join in. Strangers begin chatting, forging new friendships," she shares. The vibe is authentically Berlin – honest, direct, yet welcoming to all.
For Angelika Berndt (72), who resides nearby, "Zum Stammtisch" serves as a cherished gathering spot for her and her friends. "It's like coming home. Klaus embraces everyone warmly, remembering each face," she explains.
On their 55th anniversary, Regina and Klaus dusted off the guestbook. "It's filled with heartwarming messages. Guests have invested time and effort. Reading it all has been an emotional journey. So much love – it's touching," shares Regina.
She concludes, "We've become a pub of generations. Some say they miss us when we're closed on vacation. But when we reopen – everyone's back."
So, raise your glass as we toast to the timeless spirit of "Zum Stammtisch" – a cherished piece of Moabit's history, loved by generations. Cheers!
Fun Facts
- "Zum Stammtisch" is a classic neighborhood pub, one of the featured establishments in "Berlin, Deine Kneipen," a series showcasing local pubs across Berlin.
- The pub reflects the vibrant Berlin culture, offering traditional German cuisine and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that helps foster a sense of community.
- Despite facing challenges such as rising rents and noise complaints, "Zum Stammtisch" perseveres, remaining a beloved spot for both locals and tourists alike.
At "Zum Stammtisch," the timeless local gem, you can savor traditional German food-and-drink while basking in the warm embrace of the home-and-garden styled ambiance. Whether gathered around a table with friends old and new or browsing through heartwarming messages in the guestbook, it's clear that this pub's lifestyle fosters lifelong connections.
