The Coven

What makes The Coven a top recommendation?

The Coven is located at Kleine Präsidentenstraße 3 and functions as one of the few queer bars in the trendy Mitte district. The place has a remarkable history: it utilizes the area of the former Sharon Stonewall Bar, consciously marking a shift in Berlin’s LGBTIQ* scene. While traditional gay bars long concentrated in Schöneberg, The Coven sets a different course. The room was designed by Thilo Reich and completely foregoes kitschy elements. Instead, a reduced, elegant design dominates with dark, masculine hues, industrial lamps, cages on the walls, and occult accessories like lifelike owls and an antelope head. This aesthetic approach creates an atmosphere reminiscent of Berghain, equally attracting LGBTIQ* people and all open-minded visitors.

What highlights can guests particularly look forward to?

The Coven’s drink menu features classic cocktails with an individual touch. The bartenders, especially founder Armand Manukyan, who is behind the bar almost every night, create personally crafted drinks. Popular choices include the Mezcal Sour, Bourbon Sour, and Lychee Martini. Additionally, the menu features signature drinks such as the Coven Garden and Coven Julep. Cocktails cost between 9 and 11 Euros. In addition to the high-quality drinks, the bar impresses with its well-thought-out concept: the entrance is hidden by an arch of ivy, the lighting is deliberately dimmed, and the music significantly contributes to the experience. This creates an atmosphere where visitors feel part of a special community without seeming intrusive or touristy.

What should you consider before visiting The Coven?

The Coven opens from 19:00 or 20:00 and stays open until 03:00. On Fridays and Saturdays, the bar is particularly well-visited. Its central location between Monbijou Park and Hackescher Markt allows for excellent accessibility by public transport, for example, via Hackescher Markt U-Bahn station. During the week, guests gather there especially for after-work drinks, which makes this time particularly lively. The bar stands out with its regular visitors who return to enjoy the great cocktail culture and the music curated by the team. Armand and his team ensure that every guest feels warmly welcomed, which gives this scene bar its special quality.

Editorial Conclusion

The Coven stands out as a modern scene bar for LGBTIQ* with a well-conceived overall concept that combines design, drink quality, and genuine hospitality. We particularly appreciate that the bar does not fall into entrenched clichés but rather pursues a confident, elegant approach that attracts people from diverse backgrounds. The deliberate change of location from Schöneberg to Mitte signals an important shift in the Berlin scene. Through the personal commitment of founder Armand Manukyan and his team, The Coven feels authentic and reliable. Those seeking an upscale bar experience with a queer welcoming culture will find a place here that embodies quality and inclusivity equally.