The new Berlin location of Acid Cafe, designed by Madrid’s Plantea Estudio, introduces a stylish blend of Mediterranean warmth and Berlin's urban edge.
The venue, a modern patisserie-meets-café, occupies the entire ground floor of a discreet residential building with a façade that offers a stage-like view into its bustling interior—a fitting reflection of the area’s vibrant mix of young professionals, galleries, and boutiques.
Inside, the layout flows in an L-shape, with a workshop on the Auguststrasse side featuring kneading tables positioned to face the street, inviting passersby to watch the spectacle of fresh bread and pastries coming to life. The shorter Rosenthaler Strasse side is home to a 6-meter-long stainless steel counter, anchoring the café’s public area with its industrial-chic character. This striking counter, reminiscent of precision machinery, holds the pastry display case and a suite of top-tier coffee equipment.
The materials throughout reflect a careful balance of functionality and warmth, fitting for the refined minimalism typical of Berlin’s architecture. Soft grey tones across the ceiling and walls pair with vibrant red Ferrés tiles, while chestnut wood accents add depth and character. The workspace is brightened by an orange-red resin floor that subtly reflects off the stainless steel equipment, creating a warm, metallic glow. Fabric sconces by Santa & Cole cast a gentle, ambient light near the windows, blending seamlessly with the understated aesthetic.
Originally founded in Madrid’s Barrio de Las Letras by photographer-turned-entrepreneur Fede Graciano, Acid Cafe has become a beloved staple of Madrid’s specialty coffee scene. Known for its artisan breads, pastries, and curated coffee menu, the brand reflects Graciano’s passion for elevating coffee culture with unique flavors and carefully sourced ingredients.
Plantea Estudio, a Madrid-based architectural firm founded in 2008 by brothers Luis and Lorenzo Gil, is known for its minimalist and thoughtful approach, particularly in urban settings. The studio's work integrates simplicity with strong material contrasts, blending natural and industrial textures to create spaces that feel both warm and modern.
