Berlin- love it or hate it, it has a distinct vibe that flows throughout the entirety of the city. But sometimes, you need a break from the Berliner lifestyle. Here are my favorite places for pretending you’re somewhere else.

Anima: Decorated in soft pastels, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Spree, Anima is the perfect place to chill, work, or enjoy vibey records in the evenings. Outside lies the Berlin Wall, yet in here, the brightness of the space makes you forget all the harshness of the city.

November Brasserie: Tucked away in the beloved area of Prenzlauer Berg, The Catch Group has created a restaurant with such high quality fish, you would never believe you’re so far from the sea. Refined, elegant, and effortlessly chic, it’s an ideal date night spot- with an air of romance more fitting to a different city.

Fotografiska: Though covered in Berliner-esque graffiti, Fotografiska has created a space in Mitte that is a perfect hideaway for artists and creatives alike. Feeling more like London than Berlin, its vibe brings a more refined nature to the city’s art scene- plus an excellent space to co-work, have cocktails at their gorgeous rooftop bar, or an over-the-top dinner at their restaurant Veronika.

Sofi: In a quiet courtyard in Mitte lies Sofi, one of the city’s coziest little bakeries. The calm you find here is uncommon in Berlin, making it ideal for relaxing with a coffee, a good book, and lots of delicious baked goods.

Material: I lived around the corner from this pastry shop and wine bar, often seeking solace from the wildness of “Berlinsummer.” With some of the finest wines in the area, a record player, and ambient melty candlesticks, there is a vibe here more I haven’t seen anywhere else in the city.