Shiso Burger Auguststraße

A Leaf Sets the Direction

The name comes from a leaf. Shiso grows in Japan and Korea, tastes like mint, basil, and anise, and sets the direction for this establishment on Auguststraße. Since 2013, the restaurant has brought together two cuisines that usually remain separate: the American burger and Asian cuisine. This is already evident in the bun, which is baked according to a homemade recipe with black sesame, giving the burger a dark, slightly nutty casing. For the meat, the kitchen relies on Angus, and for the Asia Burger, Wagyu can even be ordered upon request. In addition to the classic cheeseburger, the menu features a Bulgogi burger with Korean marinade, a Chili-Lemon burger, and several variations with fish and seafood, from salmon to shrimp to tuna. Cooking takes place in an open kitchen, so guests watch their food being prepared and can discuss the spiciness. The menu rarely changes, but every step is perfectly executed. Those ordering for the first time should try the Bulgogi burger to get a good idea of the restaurant’s direction.

Tofu, Kimchi, and an International Network

Vegetarian options include the Veggie Burger, whose patty consists of marinated tofu and grilled eggplant, and the Toad Burger, which places a large Portobello mushroom between the bun halves. For sides, edamame, kimchi, and sweet potato fries are better suited to this cuisine than ordinary coleslaw, and all sauces are made in-house. A burger costs about ten to thirteen euros, with a side dish proportionally more. What started as one restaurant in 2013 has now grown into a small international network, with around fifteen locations from Hamburg to Paris to Riyadh, yet Auguststraße remains one of the original Berlin addresses and is located amidst the galleries and fashion boutiques of Spandauer Vorstadt. Those looking for something substantial after strolling through Mitte will find a cuisine here that never had to choose. Everything can also be taken to go, and for larger groups, burgers are available as a menu with a side dish. Reservations are made by phone directly at the restaurant. In the heart of Mitte, this is one of the few kitchens that doesn’t let itself be tied down to a single culinary direction.