Exploring Berlin: The Best Dog-Friendly Cafés in Kreuzkölln

Since Vilda came into my life, my café visits have transformed into a search for the best dog-friendly spots. Living in Kreuzberg, I prioritize places that are within walking distance and near green spaces so I can combine it with my dog walk.

If you check my Instagram you can see many drawings made on the following cafés.

Here are my criteria:

1. Dog-Friendly Atmosphere: The café should genuinely welcome dogs.

2. Staff Friendliness: Rude interactions are a deal-breaker; I want a pleasant experience.

3. Affordability: While price matters, it’s not the sole consideration.

4. Comfortable Seating: A cozy environment is essential.

1. Café Engels

Address: Herrfurthstraße 21, 12049 Berlin

This charming spot perfectly captures the Kreuzkölln vibe. They serve excellent coffee and bagels, with a menu that’s still on my list to explore. The music adds a nice ambiance without being overwhelming, and the staff is incredibly friendly (special shoutout to the waiter who occasionally sings Shakira!).

Dogs are not only welcomed but adored here. Vilda often takes it upon herself to guard the entrance by barking at newcomers —a behavior that has caused issues elsewhere—the relaxed atmosphere means no one seems to mind. Though the staff tries to pet her occasionally, it can get awkward because Vilda isn’t one for cuddles.

The cozy, vintage furniture, including worn-in sofas and an old carpet, offers the perfect spot for Vilda to nap. The clientele is diverse, from creatives, laptop owls to young families and tech people, adding to the vibrant energy. Plus, it’s just a short walk from my favorite spot in Berlin, Tempelhofer Feld.

2. Café Strauss

Address: Bergmannstraße 42, 10961 Berlin

The location of Café Strauss, next to a large cemetery, makes it unique. The outdoor seating area, surrounded by greenery and a tall hedge, is tranquil and serene. The building itself, made of old red bricks, has a slightly austere feel— like a church coffee gathering, which I find oddly comforting.

They roast their own coffee and serve delightful pumpernickel sandwiches topped with salmon, beetroot, and cream cheese at very affordable prices. The staff is always welcoming, and Vilda is greeted with a bowl of water on each visit, ensuring she feels as comfortable as I do. This place is a hidden gem!

3. Zazza Kaffehaus

Address: Schönleinstraße 7B, 10967 Berlin

I absolutely love Zazza, especially in the warmer months when the outdoor seating shines. The street-facing outdoor area, complete with cozy vintage furniture and armchairs, overlooks Zickenplatz, a small square where locals host flea markets, food stalls, and community activities. It’s a lively spot, perfect for people-watching or drawing.

The staff is very friendly—they’re so kind they’ll even let you pay next time if you’re short on cash (since they don’t accept card payments under €10).

They roast their own beans and offer delicious cakes and breakfasts. It's not suited for laptop users, as they promote live conversations and don’t provide wifi. Dogs are welcomed here, too, with the owner often bringing out water for Vilda without us even asking.

Vilda, Lori and me at Tempelgarten!

4. Tempelgarten

Address: Tempelhofer Feld, Columbiadamm, Gebäude 462, 12049 Berlin

This outdoor café/restaurant/biergarten on Tempelhofer Feld is ideal for dogs, with its spacious area offering plenty of room for both sun and shade. I love spending time here, especially since Tempelhofer Feld is my favorite spot in the city.

Everything here is organic, from the coffee to the milk. Though I usually stick to cappuccino, they also serve ice cream, pretzels, sausages, fries, pasta and of course, large jugs of beer. The vibe is perfect for sunny days, with good music playing and plenty of space for people with laptops. Be prepared for long lines on weekends!

5. Pomeranze

Address: Leinestraße 48, 12049 Berlin

Pomeranze is a small, charming vegan café who love dogs. They even offer homemade dog biscuits. The coffee is organic and the food adapted after the season, with fresh salads, grilled sandwiches and delicious cakes etc. I usually get the homemade scones with cream cheese plus my cappuccino.

Although it’s a bit too tight for Vilda given her size, we still enjoy coming here every now and then. The café also doubles as a garden shop, selling tools, seeds, and other gardening-related items, along with candles, cards, and local art. It’s a unique little gem in the neighborhood.