The term “gastropub” was coined in the early 1990s in London by David Eyre and Michael Belbon, owners of The Eagle. They sought to redefine pub culture by introducing high-quality, chef-driven cuisine to the casual and communal setting of a pub. The idea was revolutionary at the time, blending hearty pub fare with culinary artistry to create a space where good food and good beer could coexist harmoniously.

Gastropubs have since evolved into a global phenomenon, thriving in cities with diverse populations, a strong culinary culture, and a demand for experiences that combine atmosphere with high-quality food and drink. Berlin, with its international audience and penchant for innovation, has embraced this trend wholeheartedly.

Berlin’s food and drink scene has always been dynamic, offering something for everyone, from traditional currywurst to experimental fine dining. Gastropubs fit perfectly into this mosaic for several reasons:

A City of Foodies: Berlin’s younger population and growing expat community have cultivated a culture of dining out. According to Statista, Berlin’s food service revenue in 2023 exceeded €1.7 billion, highlighting the city’s robust hospitality sectoremand for Authenticity:** People in Berlin crave authentic, unique experiences. Gastropubs, with their fusion of tradition and modernity, align perfectly with this demand.

Focus on Local Sourcing: Berliners value sustainability and farm-to-table dining, two elements that gastropubs often incorporate into their menus. This not only appeals to local customers but also supports the regional economy.

Post-Pandemic Preferences: The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped how people dine. Casual but high-quality establishments, like gastropubs, became more appealing as diners sought comfortable yet elevated experiences.

The Success of Gastropubs in the Hospitality Industry

Gastropubs are not just trendy—they’re also a smart investment. Data from IBISWorld indicates that gastropubs and similar concepts are among the fastest-growing segments in the hospitality industry, with a steady annual growth rate of 3.4% globally over the past five years.

Gastropubs can thrive by combining the appeal of traditional beer culture with a contemporary food offering. A study by Euromonitor found that Germany’s restaurant industry saw a 4.2% growth in 2022, with increased consumer spending on dining experiences【3†source】.

For Business owners, gastropubs offer a unique proposition: they cater to both locals seeking comfort and tourists looking for an authentic yet modern German experience.

Gastropubs in Berlin often stand out because they are deeply rooted in history while pushing creative boundaries. Many take inspiration from Berlin’s historical beer halls, repurposing old industrial buildings or charming neighbourhood venues into stylish, welcoming spaces.

What makes a gastropub truly special, however, is the thoughtfulness behind its design, menu, and atmosphere. Successful gastropubs in Berlin embody the following:

• Atmospheric Design: Rustic interiors, exposed brick walls, and soft lighting create a warm and inviting space for diners.

Thoughtful Menus: A balance of traditional favourites (like schnitzel or bratwurst) with elevated dishes like slow-cooked lamb shank or craft cocktails.

Community Focus: Gastropubs often serve as a hub for socialising, attracting regular patrons with trivia nights, live music, or seasonal beer pairings.

At the Irish Pub Company, we know that a great gastropub isn’t just about food or drink—it’s about creating a cohesive experience. With over 30 years of experience in building authentic hospitality spaces, we bring a unique perspective to gastropub design.

Take, for example, our work on projects like Sunny James Irish Pub in Dornbirn, Austria. By combining handcrafted interiors, innovative lighting, and locally inspired themes, we created a space that felt modern yet familiar, embodying the core values of a gastropub.

When designing gastropubs, we focus on:

Customised Layouts: Every square metre is optimised for efficiency and ambiance, from communal seating to intimate corners.
Attention to Detail: Handcrafted wood finishes, bespoke joinery, and curated décor give each space a unique personality.

Blending Old and New: We merge traditional elements, like vintage bar fronts, with contemporary touches such as open kitchens or craft beer tap walls.

Berlin’s hospitality market is ripe for new gastropubs. If you’re an aspiring business owner, now is the time to bring your vision to life. From sourcing authentic materials to designing an unforgettable atmosphere, the Irish Pub Company is ready to guide you through the journey.

So why wait? Let’s make your gastropub the next must-visit destination in Berlin.

 1. Statista. (2023). Revenue of the food service industry in Berlin. Statista Report.
2. IBISWorld. (2023). Gastropub Industry Statistics. IBISWorld.
3. Euromonitor. (2022). Germany’s Restaurant Industry Report. Euromonitor.