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Ernst is a nine-seat counter restaurant in Berlin, Germany, known for its Japanese-inspired cuisine that emphasizes seasonal and regional ingredients. The intimate setting allows guests to interact directly with the chefs, enhancing the dining experience. The restaurant has been recognized with a Michelin star and has been featured in various culinary publications.

Discovering Ernst: Berlin's Intimate Michelin-Starred Culinary Gem 

Nestled in the vibrant Mitte district of Berlin, Ernst was a remarkable nine-seat restaurant that epitomized culinary innovation through its masterful fusion of Japanese omakase traditions and the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced locally from the greater Berlin area. This exclusive dining spot offered guests an intimate and immersive experience, where each carefully crafted course invited foodies and adventurous travelers alike to explore an evolving menu bursting with creativity and flavor.

Ernst's tasting menus, often spanning 30 to 40 courses, showcased a brilliant balance between refined technique and natural flavors. Diners were treated to a journey highlighting fresh fish, vibrant vegetables, succulent lamb, and seasonal fruits, all delivered with precision and artistry. The elegant open kitchen design fostered a warm, homey atmosphere, allowing guests to engage directly with chefs Dylan Watson-Brawn and Spencer Christenson, who passionately shared insights into each dish.

While the pace of service was brisk to accommodate double seatings nightly, many visitors praised the originality and creativity of the menu, along with the staff's attentive hospitality. The wine and cocktail selections, though sometimes seen as a developing aspect, complemented the courses thoughtfully, enhancing the overall dining adventure.

Ernst earned its place as a cherished hotspot in Berlin's fine dining scene, recognized with a prestigious Michelin star in 2019. Patrons valued the rare opportunity to experience a serious, innovative restaurant that seamlessly merged Japanese culinary artistry with Berlin’s dynamic food culture. Though the restaurant closed its doors in October 2024, its legacy endures as a benchmark for creativity, skill, and intimate gastronomy.

 No, Ernst closed its doors in October 2024.

 Ernst had a nine-seat counter, offering an intimate dining experience.

 Ernst was led by chefs Dylan Watson-Brawn and Spencer Christenson.

 Yes, Ernst was awarded a Michelin star in 2019.

What was the dining experience like at Ernst?

 Guests enjoyed innovative Japanese-inspired tasting menus emphasizing seasonal and regional ingredients.

Europe

Germany

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Berlin's Mitte district, **Ernst** is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and ignite your senses. With only eight seats, this intimate dining experience offers a unique blend of Japanese omakase and seasonal ingredients sourced from the greater Berlin area. Each visit unveils a meticulously crafted tasting menu that ranges from 30 to 40 courses, ensuring that every meal is a new adventure.

At Ernst, every dish is a masterpiece, showcasing the chef's commitment to quality and creativity. One standout dish is the **seasonal fish**, delicately prepared to highlight its natural flavors, paired with a vibrant medley of local vegetables. Another must-try is the **lamb course**, which is tender and infused with aromatic herbs, leaving a lasting impression on your palate. Each bite is designed to evoke emotions, making dining here an unforgettable experience.

An open kitchen that invites diners to witness the artistry of meal preparation.

A focus on local, seasonal ingredients that change with the seasons.

A warm, welcoming atmosphere where the chefs engage with guests, sharing stories and culinary insights.

Conveniently located at **Gerichtstraße 54, 13347 Berlin**, Ernst is surrounded by the artistic and cultural vibrancy of Berlin. After your meal, take a stroll through the nearby **Volkspark Humboldthain** or explore the **Berlin Wall Memorial**, both just a short walk away.

**What is Ernst known for?** Ernst is renowned for its innovative tasting menus that blend Japanese omakase with local ingredients.

**Why should I visit?** If you seek a unique culinary experience that combines artistry and flavor, Ernst is a must-visit.

**What's nearby?** Explore the artistic scene at the **Berlin Wall Memorial** and unwind at **Volkspark Humboldthain**.

Whether you are a food enthusiast or simply looking for a unique dining experience, **Ernst** invites you to indulge in a culinary adventure like no other. Reserve your seat today and prepare for an evening filled with exquisite flavors and warm hospitality.

Innovative tasting menus using local produce in an intimate 8-seat restaurant with an open kitchen.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNweE82YVB3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRZ4_4ZRqEcR9qi3nBW3vTc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNweE82YVB3EAE

My expectations were extremely high. There is a lot of noise around this restaurant across Germany,  Europe and beyond. I was a bit skeptical to be honest, but wow, did they deliver. 5 stars in every aspect. Only downside might be the wine menu but it's always difficult for younger restaurants and you can't compare them with the legacy ones. And the pairing was still very nice. The 30 (or more?) courses were fantastic and I loved every single one of them. There is a clear red line through the menu, the quality of the products is outstanding, the atmosphere is very homey and the staff including the chefs give you a feeling of being welcome in their kitchen and are happy to answer any questions. It's crazy that they do double seating and deliver on such a high level twice every night. Courses in June contained a lot of fish, fresh veritable and fruits and two courses of lamb. Great balance, great creativity, not too creative (right on the edge), very high skills from all over the world. Go there, have a blast, you won't regret it. Worth every cent. Dylan even spend 10 minutes with me at the end sharing his travel suggestions for Vancouver.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ1N0t1allREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRZ4_4ZRqEcR9qi3nBW3vTc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ1N0t1allREAE

What an amazing experience. This 8 seat restaurant takes Japanese omakase and combines it with seasonal ingredients from the greater berlin area.
This leads to an 30-40 course menu (depending on the season) you will spend multiple hours eating little bites and chatting with the chefs. We had an absolut blast here.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN1M2RHMXhRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRZ4_4ZRqEcR9qi3nBW3vTc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN1M2RHMXhRRRAB

An ok dining experience - but personally I would prefer having time to reflect on the courses being enjoyed and being able to share my experience with my wife!

We had approximately 35 dishes served in 2,5 hours - that’s one dish every 4 minutes which leaves you no time for conversation, reflection, wine tasting, digesting or other necessities.

Of the 35 courses my wife and I agreed (when we came back to the hotel) that only few stuck with us. Conclusion - to much speed, not enough “wow” and “amazing” - our assessment might seem harsh but being a Michelin starred restaurant you need to be ready for being measured on a different scale.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUREc05PS3hRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRZ4_4ZRqEcR9qi3nBW3vTc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUREc05PS3hRRRAB

I'm really sad that Ernst is closing. We visited for the 2nd time since the renovation for their beef menu in January. It was equally stunning as their other seasons. The staff were a bit more chatty as well, which I appreciated because it adds quite a lot to the experience. I dare to say that it is the only actual serious restaurant in Berlin and I'm sad to see it go. Hope to visit one last time before closing.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURPd2FDSlVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRZ4_4ZRqEcR9qi3nBW3vTc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURPd2FDSlVREAE

Based on good reviews and recommendations, I was so looking forward to Ernst but it was rather disappointing. All the staff are super passionate and pay so mich attention to every single customer. Dishes are well presented but I wouldn't remember any dish, which simply blew my mind.

It could have been such high expectations buy It wasn't the best fine dining experience I have ever had.

5-Star Ernst Restaurant in Berlin Mitte - Exclusive Omakase Dining

Ernst was a nine-seat counter restaurant in Berlin, Germany, known for its Japanese-inspired cuisine that emphasized seasonal and regional ingredients. The restaurant was led by chefs Dylan Watson-Brawn and Spencer Christenson and was awarded a Michelin star in 2019. Ernst closed its doors in October 2024.

A meticulously crafted tasting menu featuring a series of innovative dishes inspired by Japanese cuisine, highlighting seasonal and regional ingredients.

Kombu Dashi & Lemon Medicine

Daikon & Citrus

Sliced Radish & Cherry Blossom Petals

Pear & Venus Clam & Gelatin

Rice & Cuttlefish & Dashi & Horseradish

Cuttlefish on Charcoal & Ponzu-Limequat Sauce

Lemon Medicine & Milk Film & Milk Sauce

Pink Sea Bream Sashimi & Three Citrus Fruits

Brazilian Yacón & White Miso from Kyoto & Yuzu Peel

L’Étoile Oyster & Dashi & Wasabi Oil

Kys Oyster & Sauce & Citrus

Golden Pomelo & Sansho Oil & Mirin

Pink Sea Bream Sashimi & Kombu Tsukudani & Three-Seaweed Sauce

Kohlrabi & Ume & Plum Sauce

Abalone & Bone Marrow

Abalone Skirt & Pistachios & Liver Sauce

Artichokes & Radicchio & Oyster

Radicchio & Oat Bran & Sunflower Seed Sauce

Chawanmushi & Niboshi Dashi

Mackerel & Spinach & Dashi

Jerusalem Artichoke Tempura

Grilled Kale & Wakame & Gawa

Langoustine & Head Sauce and Black Citrus

Blood Orange & Schrenckii Caviar

Morel & Mangalitsa Pork Bacon

Fried and Grilled Mangalitsa Pork Bacon

Mangalitsa Pork Loin & Fat & Salt & Sansho

Steamed Cake

Custard & Pomelo & Sake

Ice Cream & Zabaione & Figwood Oil

Kumquat Brûlée & Bancha Tea

Tasting Menu

Nestled in the heart of Berlin's Mitte district, Ernst presents an extraordinary tasting menu that artfully blends the refined traditions of Japanese omakase with the freshest seasonal ingredients from the greater Berlin area. This intimate 8-seat restaurant invites you to embark on a multi-course adventure showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and innovative flavor combinations. Each dish is a delicate work of art, designed to excite your palate over several hours of dining.

The menu begins with a selection of vibrant starters that highlight local and seasonal produce through subtle Japanese techniques. Imagine the umami depth of Kombu Dashi paired with bright lemon notes in the Lemon Medicine; the crisp freshness of Daikon combined with citrus accents; or the delicate Cherry Blossom Petals enhancing thinly sliced radish. Seafood lovers will relish the Pear with Venus Clam and gelatin or the Pink Sea Bream Sashimi adorned by honey lemon, blood mandarin, and Persian lime. Other highlights include Brazilian Yacón with Kyoto white miso and yuzu peel and oysters served with dashi and wasabi oil or citrus sauces.

The main courses showcase an exquisite harmony of textures and flavors, pairing premium seafood and seasonal vegetables with inventive sauces. Standout dishes feature tender Abalone paired with rich bone marrow or pistachios and a luxurious liver sauce. Artichokes and radicchio mingle with oyster, while radicchio also appears alongside oat bran and a sunflower seed sauce. Unique offerings such as Jerusalem artichoke tempura, grilled kale with wakame and gawa, and the exquisite langoustine served with head sauce and black citrus elevate the tasting experience to new heights.

Desserts at Ernst delight with intriguing flavors that blend sweet, savory, and aromatic elements. Try the Blood Orange paired with luxurious Schrenckii caviar for an unforgettable contrast, or the rich Morel mushroom combined with Mangalitsa pork bacon. The menu also features variations of Mangalitsa pork bacon prepared fried and grilled, as well as a steamed cake that soothes the palate. Other sweet finishes include custard with pomelo and sake, ice cream complemented by zabaione and figwood oil, or a bright kumquat brûlée served with bancha tea.

Ernst offers a curated selection of wines and cocktails thoughtfully chosen to complement the evolving flavors of the tasting menu. While the wine list is focused on supporting the dishes rather than extensive breadth, the pairing enhances the journey through each course. The staff's passion and knowledge shine as they happily guide guests through the beverage options, ensuring a harmonious dining experience.

 - Only 8 seats surrounding an open kitchen, offering a personal connection with the chefs.

 - Menus regularly updated to showcase fresh, local ingredients and global techniques.

 - A 30 to 40-course journey blending Japanese omakase with Berlin’s vibrant seasonal produce.

Savor authentic German cuisine at Ernst in Berlin's Mitte. Discover delectable dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Join us for a taste of Berlin!

Dining at Ernst: Authentic German Cuisine in Berlin

Berlin Municipality

ernst

ernst berlin restaurant experience overview 

Nestled in the heart of Berlin's vibrant Mitte district at Gerichtstraße 54, 

 offers an exceptional dining journey that pushes the boundaries of contemporary gastronomy with a unique fusion of Japanese omakase style and fresh, local Berlin produce.

innovative tasting menu with local flavors

 priced at 250 EUR. This multi-course experience, ranging between 30 to 40 small dishes depending on the season, delivers an exquisite symphony of tastes blending Japanese culinary techniques with seasonal ingredients sourced from the greater Berlin area. Expect a parade of fresh fish, vibrant vegetables, delicate fruits, and tender lamb courses, all presented with artistic flair and balanced creativity.

With seating for only eight guests, ernst creates an intimate, homey atmosphere where diners can engage directly with the passionate chefs in an open kitchen setting. This close interaction allows for personalized dining experiences and insights into the creative process behind each innovative dish. The staff exudes genuine warmth and enthusiasm, enhancing the welcoming vibe of this hidden gem.

 An 8-seat restaurant blending Japanese omakase with Berlin's seasonal produce for an unforgettable meal.

 A 30-40 course tasting menu showcasing outstanding quality and creative balance of fish, vegetables, fruits, and lamb.

 Cozy and intimate with open kitchen design, offering a personal connection between chefs and diners.

 Attentive and passionate staff who welcome questions and create a relaxed, engaging dining experience.

Guests should prepare for a multi-hour dining event, ideal for food lovers who appreciate intricate flavors and storytelling through food. While the wine selection is limited compared to long-established fine dining venues, thoughtful pairings complement the tasting menu beautifully. Reservations are essential due to the small seating capacity, and payment is card-friendly though cash is not accepted. The restaurant is designed for adults, making it less suitable for children.

In summary, ernst Berlin is a must-visit for those seeking an extraordinary blend of Japanese culinary craftsmanship and local German ingredients, served in a cozy, exclusive setting that leaves a lasting impression.

Experience Ernst: A Unique Michelin-Starred Dining Journey in Berlin's Mitte District.

Nestled in the vibrant Mitte neighborhood of Berlin at Gerichtstraße 54, Ernst was a Michelin-starred restaurant celebrated for its innovative Japanese-inspired tasting menus that masterfully incorporated seasonal and regional ingredients from the greater Berlin area. Its intimate nine-seat counter setting offered a rare opportunity for diners to engage directly with the chefs, creating a personalized and immersive culinary experience that went beyond just a meal.

Ernst delighted guests with an extensive tasting menu featuring 30 to 40 meticulously crafted courses, blending creativity with a clear narrative throughout the meal. The emphasis on high-quality, fresh ingredients resulted in dishes that showcased a refined balance of flavors—ranging from fish and fresh vegetables to lamb—reflecting both culinary skill and a deep respect for local produce. The atmosphere was described as warm and homey, with attentive and passionate staff who made guests feel welcome in the kitchen, further enhancing the unique dining atmosphere.

 that captivates food enthusiasts with authentic and creative dishes.

 enabling direct interaction with chefs for a personalized experience.

Emphasis on seasonal and regional ingredients

 ensuring freshness and supporting local producers.

 recognized for exceptional quality and creativity.

 with a coherent flow and impressive global culinary influences.

Despite its many strengths, Ernst presented some challenges for potential guests. The restaurant's very limited seating capacity of only nine seats made securing a reservation difficult, often requiring bookings well in advance. Additionally, the fixed tasting menu format meant there were no à la carte options, which might not appeal to all diners. The pricing reflected the high-end nature of the experience, positioning it at a higher price point compared to more casual dining options. Lastly, it is important to note that Ernst has ceased operations, so while it remains a highly celebrated chapter in Berlin's culinary scene, it is no longer available for dining.

 making reservations competitive and essential.

 due to high demand and exclusive seating.

Fixed tasting menu with no à la carte options

 that may not suit all dining preferences.

 reflective of a premium culinary experience.

 so prospective diners must look elsewhere for similar experiences.

In summary, Ernst stood out as a truly unique gem in Berlin's culinary landscape, offering an exclusive and memorable tasting menu experience backed by Michelin recognition and a passionate team. While its intimate scale and fixed menu format may not suit every diner, those fortunate enough to visit would have been treated to an exceptional journey through inventive flavors and local ingredients.

Discover Ernst in Berlin Mitte, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative Japanese-inspired cuisine in an exclusive 9-seat setting. Book now!

Ernst Restaurant Berlin - Intimate Japanese Dining Experience

Experience Ernst's creatively crafted tasting menus featuring seasonal and regional ingredients in Berlin Mitte, with chef interaction and an exclusive atmosphere.

Explore Ernst in Berlin - Unique Tasting Menus & Regional Ingredients

Learn about Ernst, Berlin’s acclaimed 9-seat restaurant known for its innovative Japanese-inspired cuisine, awarded a Michelin star in 2019, now closed as of 2024.

5-Star Ernst Restaurant in Berlin Mitte - Exclusive Omakase Dining

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