At reception for our World Chaîne Day celebration at the Aigner Restaurant at Berlin’s most beautiful square, the Gendarmenmarkt, 80 members and their guests loved the finger food. Champagne Vranken from magnums added to the feeling that it was a special event.

The Aigner offers a blend of classicism and modernity from its interior design down to its dishes. The cuisine combines the best of both Vienna and Berlin. The interior takes one back to Vienna during the Imperial and Royal period. Not surprising when one learns that the Austrian capital’s famous Café Aigner was dismantled in 1998 and rebuilt in Berlin!

Since 1999, owner Herbert Beltle (Grand Officier Maître Restaurateur) and Head Chef Andreas Klitsch (Chef Rôtisseur) have focused on classic Viennese fare. High-quality products are sourced primarily from the local area. As Herbert says to his customers, “We want to indulge you with a dignified cuisine featuring hand-picked ingredients.” The Bailliage of Berlin-Brandenburg and its guests certainly love delicious wines and dishes so it was a heavenly marriage!

Highlights of the menu were a terrine of Viennese beef tafelspitz with foie gras, apple salad and cream, and a duo of rabbit main course (braised leg and breaded loin) with sugar peas, radishes and celery.

At the end of the evening, Bailli Franz Hauk praised our host Herbert Beltle as well as the team from the kitchen and the efficient service brigade. In turn, Bailli Honoraire Prof. Dr. Dieter Großklaus added his sincere thanks. In response to the thanks and to receiving a commemorative silver plate, our host emphasised the excellent atmosphere of the evening.

Coffee and espresso ended the Berlin-Viennese menu, one which was truly worthy of World Chaîne Day in that it symbolised the friendship between the two capital cities.

Joachim Kretschmar
Vice-Chargé de Presse