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Papillon

4.3
·418 reviews·Berlin, Germany

An upscale Berlin restaurant and club known for its chic ambiance, craft cocktails, and vibrant nightlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday evenings

Dinner transforms into a club night.

CrowdHigh
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the inside

Papillon

Best Time

Friday evenings

Dinner transforms into a club night.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An upscale Berlin restaurant and club known for its chic ambiance, craft cocktails, and vibrant nightlife.

4.3
(418 reviews)

"Easily one of the best restaurants I’ve ever tried in Berlin. Amazing amazing Tuna Crudo!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book via WhatsApp

Reservations are essential, especially for Climax nights. Use WhatsApp for quick booking. :iphone:

💃 Dress to Impress

The atmosphere is chic and upscale; dress accordingly for an elegant night out. :dress:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Climax Papillon Nights

Climax Papillon Nights

Main Dining Area

Experience a unique dinner and dance night with live DJ sets and a chic atmosphere.

TikTok
Tuna Carpaccio with Truffles

Tuna Carpaccio with Truffles

Appetizers

A delicate starter praised for its exquisite flavor and presentation.

TikTok
Seafood Rigatoni

Seafood Rigatoni

Main Courses

A highly recommended pasta dish, often paired with truffle spinach for an extra indulgence.

Reddit
Craft Cocktails

Craft Cocktails

Bar Area

Don't miss their signature cocktails, expertly mixed to complement the dining experience.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Reservations are Key

Securing a table at Papillon, especially for their Climax nights or weekend dinners, is highly recommended. WhatsApp reservations are the go-to, so book ahead to avoid disappointment and ensure your spot for a chic dining and dancing experience. TikTok

Understand the Vibe Shift

Papillon transitions from an elegant restaurant to a lively club after 11 PM. If you're seeking a quiet dinner, aim for earlier hours. For a 'dinner and dance' experience, book for their special Climax nights. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Friday evenings
Why
Dinner transforms into a club night.
Crowd
High
When
Wednesday evenings
Why
Less crowded for a relaxed dinner.
Crowd
Medium
When
After 11 PM
Why
Restaurant becomes a lively club.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Papillon transforms select Fridays into Climax Papillon — an upscale dining experience turns into a club night. ✍️ Good to know: 🗓️ Next Event: Tonight (31.01.2025) 🪩A unique dinner & dance experience ✨ Chic atmosphere 🎧 Live DJ sets 🍽️ Restaurant opens at 7pm, Climax starts at 10pm 🎟️ Reservations via WhatsApp recommended: +49 30 555792829 📍Hardenbergplatz 15, 10623 Berlin With love, Berlin Glim...
@berlin.glimmers
261 likes • 33.6K views

🎯 Book via WhatsApp

Reservations are essential, especially for Climax nights. Use WhatsApp for quick booking. TikTok :iphone:

💃 Dress to Impress

The atmosphere is chic and upscale; dress accordingly for an elegant night out. TikTok :dress:

One of the best #nightlife spots in Berlin 🦋🥂🎊👯‍♀️🪩 #berlin #berlinnightlife #papillonberlin #berlinwheretogo #berlinmustvisit #berlinhiddenspot #berlinhiddengem #thatgirlaesthetic #finedining #berlincitygirl #girlsnightout
@juliastraffic
306 likes • 20.1K views
A glimpse of the press dinner at Papillon exploring their new winter menu. Highlights included a delicate tuna carpaccio with truffles, an indulgent squash parmigiana, a rich duck ragù pappardelle, and tender beef ribs. While you’re here, don’t miss their craft cocktails and Papillon’s signature desserts-chocolate and hazelnut delights adorned with delicate butterflies sculpted from fine chocola...
@berlinasianfood
1.3K likes • 68.8K views

🎶 Enjoy the DJ Sets

Live DJ sets create a vibrant ambiance, perfect for a dinner and dance experience. TikTok :musical_note:

💸 Check Your Receipt

Some diners report being overcharged, especially tourists. Review your bill carefully. Reddit :moneywithwings:

📍Papillon Berlin 🦋👻 #berlin #berlinthingstodo #berlinparty #halloweenparty #berlinplaces #berlinfinedining #placestovisitinberlin
@juliastraffic
722 likes • 26.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book via WhatsApp

Reservations are essential, especially for Climax nights. Use WhatsApp for quick booking. TikTok :iphone:

💃 Dress to Impress

The atmosphere is chic and upscale; dress accordingly for an elegant night out. TikTok :dress:

🎶 Enjoy the DJ Sets

Live DJ sets create a vibrant ambiance, perfect for a dinner and dance experience. TikTok :musical_note:

💸 Check Your Receipt

Some diners report being overcharged, especially tourists. Review your bill carefully. Reddit :moneywithwings:

🍽️ Explore the Menu

From delicate starters to rich mains and signature desserts, the menu offers diverse flavors. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.3
(418 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Papillon offers a chic dining experience with a lively club atmosphere, praised for its elegant ambiance and popular dishes like Tuna Crudo and Seafood Rigatoni. However, some visitors find the prices high for the quality and have noted service inconsistencies, particularly for tourists. The venue's transformation into a club after dark is a major draw for those seeking nightlife.

"Easily one of the best restaurants i’ve ever tried in Berlin. Amazing amazing Tuna Crudo!! and the Seafood Rigatoni is a must try!!!! don’t forget to add the Truffle Spinach too❤️❤️

Vibe is awesome and plus a totally cool DJ playing house music during dinner time. The place itself is pretty big with plenty of seats, they have an indoor and outdoor bars as well."

Nicole Aprilia

"As a tourist visiting Berlin, I went to have dinner on Wednesday night and I had a disappointing experience here. I ordered fries with the lime & Tajín mayo listed on the menu. The waiter suggested truffle mayo, which I declined. Despite this, he brought the truffle mayo anyway. I reminded him of my original order, and he took it away and said he would bring the correct one.

The food also took a long time to arrive even though there were barely any people there!

To be fair, the burrata was unique and enjoyable, but the rest was very basic and the cauliflower popcorn was too salty. I was shocked to later find out I was charged €10 just for the truffle mayo – which I never had and was a mistake on the waiter’s end. In total, I paid €16 for fries which is crazy!

Unfortunately, I only realised this the next day while checking the receipt, as it was late and I was tired after dinner.

This felt like I was taken advantage of for being a tourist. I’ve attached a photo of the receipt and the food so others can judge for themselves. Overall, very overpriced for the quality and not worth it."

Yasmin Malhis

"Conclusion

While the interior design and location are appealing, the overall experience does not match the elevated image the restaurant or location aims to project. The food lacks depth, the drinks are not well-executed, and the pricing is disproportionate. These aspects, combined with a selective entry policy that feels unnecessarily exclusive and a nightlife-oriented atmosphere which foster old business men and wannabe Kim Kardashians, significantly diminish the value of a visit. Overall, I would not recommend this place, as there are both markedly better restaurants and far better clubs in the city.

Comparisons: Grace, the pearl without food

In depth

I visited this restaurant together with a couple of friends for dinner. The venue is located underneath the railway tracks near Zoo Station. The interior is visually appealing—well-designed lighting, mirrors, and long communal tables create a stylish setting. The presence of bouncers at the entrance makes sense but seems a bit to much, as the location transitions into a small club after 11 p.m. However, the entry policy was somewhat puzzling: even with a confirmed dinner reservation, the staff at the door seemed to apply selective criteria for who was allowed in. This is unusual, given that anyone who reserves a table is clearly there to dine and is well aware of the pricing and concept.

Food

The food was rather underwhelming. Although the menu features a mix of classics such as short ribs, pasta, chicken with broccoli and mashed potatoes, as well as sushi and truffle pizza, none of the dishes truly stood out in terms of flavor or quality. Everything tasted fairly ordinary, and several items felt like something I could cook better at home.

Service

The service during dinner was generally attentive and polite. However, two issues stood out. First, already opened water bottles were placed on the table upon our arrival and later added to the bill without prior consultation. Second, the service dynamics at the bar were noticeably unbalanced. On several occasions, male guests were left waiting for extended periods—sometimes up to twenty minutes—without being acknowledged, while the bartenders appeared to prioritize serving guests who aligned more with the venue’s nightlife-oriented image (wannabe Kardashians). This created an impression of selective and inconsistent service that does not align with the establishment’s upscale ambitions.

Prices

The pricing is significantly higher than what the quality of food and drinks would justify.

Atmosphere

The primary draw of this venue is neither the culinary offering nor the quality of the party itself. After 11 p.m., the establishment transforms noticeably, emphasizing a “see-and-be-seen” environment. Champagne bottle service begins at €500 and above, with each bottle presented with considerable showmanship. This creates an atmosphere centered around display and social visibility rather than hospitality or gastronomy. The clientele at this hour often consists of older or mid-forty men and younger women, with interactions focused more on social positioning and attention than on any substantive dining or nightlife experience."

Milchbroetchen “Milchbroetchen”

What People Like

Elegant atmosphere
Chic decor
Lively club scene

What People Dislike

High prices
Inconsistent service
Food quality concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Papillon is located near Hardenbergstraße, close to Zoo Station. It's accessible by public transport, with U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in the area. TikTokReddit

Street parking can be challenging in this central Berlin location. It's advisable to use public transport or a taxi to reach Papillon to avoid parking hassles. TikTok

For a night out, especially if you plan to enjoy drinks, using public transport or a taxi is recommended. This allows you to fully enjoy the experience without worrying about driving. TikTok+1

Yes, Papillon is in a well-connected part of Berlin, making it accessible for tourists. However, be mindful of potential service inconsistencies mentioned by some visitors. Reddit

The closest public transport hubs are typically U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations around Zoo Station, offering convenient access from various parts of the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and their special Climax nights. You can book via WhatsApp. TikTok

The restaurant typically opens around 7 PM, with the 'Climax' club experience starting around 10 PM. It's best to check their specific hours for the day you plan to visit. TikTok

Papillon is known for its chic and elegant atmosphere. While not strictly enforced, dressing stylishly is recommended to fit in with the upscale vibe. TikTok

For dinner reservations, there isn't typically an entry fee. However, the venue transforms into a club after 11 PM, and entry policies might vary, with some reviews mentioning selective entry. Reddit

Yes, Papillon has a spacious interior with communal tables, suggesting it can accommodate larger groups. Booking in advance via WhatsApp is advised. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Papillon offers a fine dining experience with a menu that blends traditional and modern cuisines, including dishes like tuna carpaccio, seafood rigatoni, and beef ribs. TikTokReddit+1

The menu often includes dishes like squash parmigiana, indicating vegetarian options are available, though it's always best to confirm with the restaurant. TikTok

Diners frequently rave about the Tuna Crudo, Seafood Rigatoni, and truffle-infused sides like truffle spinach or cauliflower popcorn. TikTokReddit

Prices at Papillon are considered high, with some reviewers noting they are disproportionate to the food quality. Be prepared for an upscale dining bill. Reddit

Yes, Papillon is known for its craft cocktails, which are often highlighted as a great addition to the dining experience. TikTok+1

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

Papillon offers a chic and elegant atmosphere during dinner, with stylish decor and lighting. It transforms into a lively club with DJ sets later in the evening. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, Papillon features live DJ sets, especially during their Climax nights and after dinner, creating a vibrant party atmosphere. TikTok+1

Climax Papillon is a special event where the restaurant transitions into a club night, combining upscale dining with DJ-led entertainment. TikTok

With its elegant ambiance and sophisticated cocktails, Papillon can be a great choice for a date night, especially if you enjoy a lively atmosphere. TikTok+1

After 11 PM, Papillon becomes a club with a 'see-and-be-seen' environment, often featuring bottle service and a younger crowd mixed with older patrons. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The stylish interior, elegant decor, and vibrant atmosphere make Papillon a visually appealing spot for photos, especially during the evening. TikTok+1

The well-designed lighting, mirrors, and communal tables create a stylish backdrop. The bar area and the main dining space offer great photo opportunities. Reddit

Absolutely! The dishes are often presented beautifully, making them perfect subjects for food photography. TikTok+1

Generally, casual photography for personal use is accepted. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography. TikTok

Photography at Papillon tends to capture a 'that girl aesthetic,' upscale dining, and vibrant nightlife, reflecting its chic and energetic vibe. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Papillon is primarily geared towards adults seeking an upscale dining and nightlife experience. While children might be accommodated during early dinner hours, the later transition to a club atmosphere with loud music and a 'see-and-be-seen' crowd makes it less suitable for families with young children. If you're looking for a family-friendly meal, consider visiting earlier in the evening, but be aware that the venue's primary focus shifts significantly after dark. TikTokReddit

💸 Budget Travelers

Papillon is positioned as a high-end establishment, and the pricing reflects this. Reviews consistently mention that the prices are on the higher side, and some feel they are disproportionate to the quality of food and drinks. Reddit If you're on a tight budget, Papillon might not be the most economical choice. However, if you're looking for a splurge for a special occasion and appreciate the chic ambiance and nightlife, it could be worth considering, but be prepared for the cost. TikTokReddit

🥂 Couples & Date Nights

Papillon offers a sophisticated and elegant setting that can be ideal for a date night. The chic ambiance, stylish decor, and the option for craft cocktails create a romantic atmosphere. TikTok+1 You can enjoy a fine dining experience followed by a lively club atmosphere with DJ sets, offering a complete evening out. TikTok+1 Consider booking an earlier dinner reservation for a more intimate experience, or opt for a Climax night if you both enjoy dancing and a vibrant social scene. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Papillon Dining Experience

Papillon offers a fine dining experience that aims for elegance and culinary excellence. The menu features a blend of classic and modern dishes, with highlights like the Tuna Carpaccio and Seafood Rigatoni frequently praised by diners. TikTokReddit The presentation of the food is often described as artistic, making each dish a visual as well as a gastronomic delight. TikTok However, some reviews suggest that while the ingredients are good, the execution and depth of flavor don't always match the upscale pricing. Reddit

Beyond the food, the restaurant is known for its craft cocktails, which are a popular choice for complementing the meal. TikTok+1 The service during dinner is generally described as attentive and polite, though some guests have reported issues with order accuracy and billing, particularly if they are tourists. Reddit The overall dining atmosphere is chic and stylish, with well-designed lighting and communal tables creating a sophisticated setting. Reddit

Key Takeaways for Dining:
* Must-Try Dishes: Tuna Crudo, Seafood Rigatoni, truffle-infused sides. TikTokReddit
* Beverages: Excellent craft cocktails. TikTok+1
* Service: Generally good, but be mindful of billing accuracy. Reddit
* Ambiance: Elegant and chic, perfect for a sophisticated meal. TikTokReddit

From Restaurant to Club: The Papillon Transformation

Papillon is renowned for its dual personality, seamlessly transitioning from an elegant restaurant to a vibrant club after 11 PM. This transformation is a key part of its appeal, offering a complete evening's entertainment without needing to change venues. TikTok+1 The 'Climax Papillon' events are particularly popular, combining a dinner experience with live DJ sets that turn the space into a lively dance floor. TikTok

The club atmosphere is characterized by a 'see-and-be-seen' vibe, with a focus on bottle service and a lively crowd. Reddit While the music is often house and electronic, creating an energetic party scene, some reviews note that the clientele can be a mix of older businessmen and younger individuals, contributing to a specific social dynamic. Reddit The transition is marked by a shift in energy, with the restaurant's sophisticated ambiance giving way to a more energetic and social club environment. TikTok

Understanding the Nightlife:
* Transition Time: The club scene typically kicks off around 10 PM or 11 PM. TikTokReddit
* Atmosphere: Energetic, social, and a 'see-and-be-seen' environment. Reddit
* Music: Live DJ sets featuring house and electronic music. TikTok
* Bottle Service: Available for those looking for a premium club experience. Reddit