Central Congress

It sounds a bit USSR and is certainly more than a bit like drinking on a Cold War film set. With its sleek panelling, metallic finish, minimalist wall clock and rectangular configuration of tables and office chairs, Central Congress looks ready to welcome prominent party members, rather than hip Hamburg night owls. But since opening a couple of years back, this conference-styled locale has won a crowd of image-conscious fans. Its round-table layout makes it a neat place to start up conversation with other drinkers, but bear in mind it prides itself on being off the main tourist track. The drinks menu is as pared down yet precise as the retro design—think gin, pastis, vermouth, a select few red and white wines, local beer and coffee. (And for more vintage design, check out the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe just down the road.