
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Lao Xiang delivers the kind of authentic Chinese feast that hits different when you're craving something that feels like home. This Pankow spot isn't trying to be fancy—it's got a massive 42-page menu with everything from Shanghai classics to Sichuan specialties, and the portions are generous enough to make you want to order three dishes just to split them. The eel in claypot is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the homestyle eggplant might just convert you if you've never been a fan, though be warned: it leans slightly sweeter than traditional preparations. The atmosphere strikes a nice balance between casual and comfortable, making it equally suitable for a quick family dinner or a night out with friends. Prices are reasonable for what you get, with most dishes ranging from €4 to €30 depending on the protein. It's one of those places that reminds you why you fell in love with Chinese food in the first place.
Authentic Chinese comfort food with heart
Lao Xiang is the kind of place that makes you feel like you've stumbled onto a local secret. Located in the Wohnstadt Carl Legien neighborhood of Pankow, this Chinese restaurant doesn't mess around when it comes to authenticity. The menu is genuinely impressive—a sprawling 42 pages with beautiful photos of every dish, covering everything from dim sum to Peking duck. We tried the eel in claypot, homestyle eggplant, and double fried beef, and each dish was executed with care. The eel was tender without any fishy aftertaste, the eggplant had the perfect texture, and the beef had a satisfying crunch. The only minor quibble is that everything runs a bit sweeter than I'd expect from traditional Chinese cooking, but that's probably just the German palate adaptation.
What really sets Lao Xiang apart is the attention to detail—from the well-designed interior to the thoughtful menu layout. It's become my go-to spot when I want real Chinese food without the tourist trap vibe. The prices are fair for the portion sizes, and the staff seems genuinely proud of what they're serving. It's not trying to be the fanciest place in Berlin, and that's exactly why it works.