German Reunification

During German reunification, the government had to address the significant architectural and infrastructure decay of East Berlin.  The funding of the reunification effort was massive, assets had to be selectively deployed, and not all buildings could be saved.  Buildings that were beyond rescue were demolished and abandon lots were left in their wake.  As artists flooded into East Berlin and communities developed, these randomly spaced vacant lots became communal gardens, parks, and restaurants.  The outdoor seating area of Clarchens Ballhaus is a great example of the beauty created from the economic challenges of reunification.  Amidst the trees, you can see the ghost of a demolished building left behind.  The foundation, which is still in place, provides a natural break between the seating areas and the walkway.

Loved this place - disco ball hanging outside, tulips in the garden in front, European men everywhere

Here is what we ordered - dinner of champions!!

And inside - a dance hall from the 70's era - how fun is that.

Outside, some kids behaved like drunks - the little guy had his zipper undone, kept throwing rocks and lifting his shirt, while his sister lay on the ground - Daisy and I soon followed suit