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Papaleo
“Matches your preference for quiet, immersive environments. This venue's atmosphere aligns with your saved favorites.”
L'ambiance
Papaleo is the kind of neighborhood pizzeria that locals have been protecting like treasure for over a decade. Long before Friedrichshain became a pizza battlefield, this spot on Bänsschstraße was already serving the best Neapolitan-style pies in the area. The walls are decorated with old racing bikes and signed Giro d'Italia jerseys, and the pizzas carry names of cycling legends like Pantani and Colnago. It's small, it's always buzzing, and it's genuinely Italian in spirit. The pizza dough is pillowy and flavorful, loaded with quality toppings that actually taste like something. If you're here for pasta, don't even think about leaving without trying the carbonara—it's creamy, properly seasoned, and comes in generous portions. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, perfect for a relaxed dinner with friends or a quick bite after exploring the Samariterkiez.
Known For
- •Neapolitan pizza with cycling-themed names
- •Generous portions of carbonara
- •Racing memorabilia decor
- •Consistent quality since 2013
Best For
Location & Hours
Tu-Sa 16:00-23:00; Su 16:00-22:30
Avis (1)
The neighborhood pizzeria that still does it right
Papaleo has been my go-to for Italian food in Friedrichshain since long before the neighborhood got flooded with pizza places. What sets it apart is the consistency—every time I walk in, the pizza is just as good as the last visit. The dough has that perfect char and chew, and the toppings are fresh without being overwhelming. I'm a regular for the Pantani pizza with prosciutto and stracchino, though the carbonara is also a must-try if you're in the mood for pasta.
The space itself is small and intimate, with walls covered in cycling jerseys and old bikes that give it real character. It's not fancy, but that's exactly what makes it special. You'll find locals here most nights, and the vibe is warm and welcoming. Service is friendly and efficient. It's the kind of place you want to keep to yourself, but I'm glad it's here for all of us to enjoy.
Lire en français
Papaleo est ma référence pour la cuisine italienne à Friedrichshain depuis bien avant que le quartier ne soit inondé de pizzerias. Ce qui le distingue, c'est la régularité : à chaque visite, la pizza est aussi bonne que la dernière fois. La pâte a ce point de cuisson parfait et cette texture élastique, et les garnitures sont fraîches sans être excessives. Je commande régulièrement la pizza Pantani avec prosciutto et stracchino, mais la carbonara est aussi un incontournable si vous avez envie de pâtes.
L'espace est petit et intime, avec des murs couverts de maillots de cyclisme et de vieux vélos qui lui donnent un vrai caractère. Ce n'est pas raffiné, et c'est exactement ce qui le rend spécial. Vous y trouverez des locaux la plupart des soirs, et l'ambiance est chaleureuse et accueillante. Le service est amical et efficace. C'est le genre d'endroit qu'on aimerait garder pour soi, mais je suis ravi qu'il soit là pour nous tous.