MITTE. In the south of Germany, west of Bavaria, lies the Schwäbische Alb (or Swabian Alb), a high plateau known for its harsh living conditions over the centuries. Alpenstueck offers a contemporary take on the cooking traditions of this region, with a little "Austrian kitchen" thrown in. While the menu is surprisingly small, what's on offer is fine fare, and the tender Wiener schnitzel is a definite hit. The interior palette is a stunning mix of soft greys and pale woods. S-BAHN: Nordbahnhof

CHARLOTTENBURG ­ WILMERSDORF. Intimate. Elegant. Historic. This Charlottenburger is located in a renovated customs house. Attractive décor, antique furnishings, an attentive waitstaff, and a skilled kitchen work together to create a most pleasant dining experience. Menu selections feature traditional German cuisine tempered by a dash of Eastern spice, including honey-glazed duck breast and Brandenburg duck with pineapple chutney. Guests may choose from three-, four-, or five-course prix fixe menus. Reservations required. U-BAHN: Sophie-Charlotte-Platz

KREUZBERG. Housed in a timber customs house that overlooks the Landwehrkanal, Altes Zollhaus specializes in organic nouvelle fare. Indeed, the restaurant, adorned with rustic furniture and set amid tall trees, recollects the charm and elegance of a bygone era. Menu highlights include seasonal dishes like Brandenburg duck with cream potatoes and roasted steinbutt with lobster sauce, spinach, and cauliflower purée. A wonderful wine list complements these choices, and during warm weather, you can choose a charming garden as your dining backdrop. Three-, four- and five-course prix fixe dinners are available. Reservations are a must. U-BAHN: Prinzenstrasse

CHARLOTTENBURG ­ WILMERSDORF. The dishes lean toward the adventurous rather than the traditional. Veal, shrimp and pasta are perfectly matched with a great wine list. Reservations recommended.

Named after a poem by German artist Kurt Schwitters, Anna Blume is notable for its large range of homemade cakes, tasty crepes, and its big breakfasts. Order the filling "Früstücksetagere" ­ breakfast for two served on a 3-tiered platter layered with fruit, cold meats and delicious cheeses. The interior will also help transport you back to the time of Schwitters - it's nicely styled after Art Nouveau. U-BAHN: Eberswalderstrasse