The Bite Magazine Issue 17

Photography: Ian Gillett starters, I had Mieral Pigeon which was pan-fried breast served on a rich black cherry jus. This was accompanied by a deep fried leg with a crispy coating, garnished with purple basil and a black cherry in which the ‘stone’ had been replaced by a caramelised hazelnut – very clever! The tender breast meat was served pink and contrasted well with the crispy leg rissole. The accom- panying wine was a Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir), which complimented the dish perfectly. The other members of the party had scallops with a pecan nut crust, wild garlic and chanterelles. Hugo’s Restaurant offers private dining where guests have the choice of being seated in the East, South or West wing of the restaurant. In the east section, thanks to a nine metre long window front, you get an amazing view of the new city centre where you can see Potsdamer Platz as well as the television tower and park mentioned earlier. It has a 58 square metres floor space that is ideal for smaller banquets or business meetings. The south side provides a fascinating panoramic view over the cosmopolitan city in three directions where guests can enjoy what could be described as Berlin’s ‘sights à la carte’. With 246 square meters available, the restaurant can offer space for up to 150 guests whether it is a family party, a wedding or large business meeting. There’s nothing like the unhampered view of the Gedächtniskirche, oth- erwise known as the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, on the west side. Described as the symbolic centre of Berlin, it stands as an anti-war memorial to peace and reconciliation. Following allied bombing during World War Two, the original west tower has remained standing as a ruin and is hauntingly called the ‘hollow tooth’ as it literally looks like an empty husk. In this section of the restaurant, the 40 square metres of space is perfect for smaller parties with immediate family or friends or a high-ranking meeting with important business partners. Guests can learn how it is all done first hand with Hugo’s Restaurant cooking classes. With the expert knowledge of executive chef Eberhard Lange, you’ll witness how the restaurant’s award-winning cuisines are developed from start to finish while surrounded by breathtaking views of Berlin, followed by a Michelin-starred four course menu on the 14 th floor. The restaurant and wine bar are open Tuesday to Saturday from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Hotel InterContinental, Budapester Strasse, 10787 Berlin, Germany Tel: +49 30 2602 0 www.hugos-restaurant.de bite cuisine