Falafel Salam

Since 1979, the same family has been running the small Syrian snack bar on Rankestraße, a side street behind Ku'damm. Every dish is available in pita bread or as a plate. Falafel in bread costs 6.50 Euros, and you can choose between sesame yogurt and peanut sauce. The kitchen operates halal. Among Berlin's falafel shops, Falafel Salam is the oldest.

Falafel Salam on Rankestraße: Syrian snack bar behind Ku’damm

Rankestraße 3 is located on a side street between Kurfürstendamm and Tauentzienstraße, just a few steps from the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Passersby might easily overlook the narrow shop, as it doesn’t draw much attention from the outside. However, behind it lies one of the city’s longest falafel stories: Since 1979, the family has been running their Arabian snack bar at this address, with the owner presenting himself as Abu Ibrahim, and the establishment proudly calls itself Berlin’s oldest falafel shop. Inside, there are bar tables, and outside, seating is available on the sidewalk, from which one can observe the hustle and bustle around Ku’damm. The kitchen operates halal and does not serve alcohol. The location is an advantage: the lively activity of Tauentzien is just around the corner, while Rankestraße itself is significantly quieter. In addition to daily business, the team provides catering for corporate events and family celebrations.

Falafel in Bread, Vegan Plate, and Peanut Sauce

The cuisine at Falafel Salam is Syrian, and the principle is remarkably simple: every dish is available either in pita bread or as a plate. Falafel in bread costs 6.50 Euros, and the falafel plate is 11.00 Euros. Watching the shaping and frying process is explicitly allowed. In addition to falafel, other vegetarian classics are on the menu: Makali made from fried vegetables, Edje as a fried herb omelet, Halloumi, Mutabbal, Fuul made from fava beans, and Tabule. Two sauces are available: sesame yogurt or peanut sauce, with the peanut variant being the newer addition. A special option is available for an extra charge: falafel with hemp seed topping. If you can’t decide, order a duo or trio combination, or simply the vegan plate with falafel, Makali, Tabule, and Hommus. The homemade Ayran and freshly squeezed juices, including pomegranate juice in autumn, pair well. If you’re hungry for two, take the Arabian plate, which also includes Shawarma, Edje, vine leaf, and Halloumi. The team provides allergen information upon request. The nearest stations are Kurfürstendamm with the U1 and U3 lines, and Zoologischer Garten train station.