Perhaps I can weigh in here, with an interesting cocktail bar in Berlin: the Green Door Bar. Last time I went it was about a year ago. This place is right by Nollendorf Platz, a very nice neighborhood that used to be the place for hip, young homosexuals to hang out but has now become a place for older, hipster homosexuals. Depending on how desperate they are for customers, you may have to dress up a little for them to let you in. Women, of course, are always welcome, but men may have to rock a suite and/or tie. Once you're inside, you wont mind the effort. The atmosphere is that of a classic American cocktail lounge, and their specialty cocktail menu is topnotch (although admittedly overpriced). There's also some very unusual (and engaging) nightlife. When I was there last, a magician named Jethro, dressed to the nines, strolled over to our table and proceeded to perform the most astounding close-up magic show I'd ever witnessed. He made each of us (there were four at the table) part of the show, and we all marveled at how he was able to perform these baffling tricks with our own hands. A great experience. I should also mention that the Green Door Bar allows smoking inside, which from my perspective is fantastic, but which some of you might find unpleasant. It's a small space, so there really isn't a non-smoking option inside. Wonderful place in a wonderful city. Stop by the Green Door Bar if you're ever in Berlin.
