Creative vegan Vietnamese with fast service and queues; delicious small plates, lively vibe, some reports of sweetness, noise, and inconsistent service.
1990 Vegan Living delivers solid neighborhood dining through fast, friendly service and flavorful vegan Vietnamese small plates that justify its Berlin reputation as a must-try vegan destination. However, quality variation across visits and occasional hygiene concerns prevent a higher grade, while tight seating and no-reservation queues limit the overall experience despite strong kitchen pacing and crowd appeal.
The room feels warm and bustling with a playful 90s Vietnamese theme, order slips on the table, and plates arriving in a flash. Lines form outside, but inside the tone is upbeat and efficient. A diner summed it up: "Food landed minutes after ordering and the vibe was lively." Overall energy is high; expect quick, friendly service more than pampered formality. In the kitchen, the approach is contemporary Vietnamese vegan—tapas-style bowls, bao, and curries with creative, crowd-pleasing flavors like mango, tamarind, and panko crunch. Many rave about dumplings and eggplant dishes, though a subset finds sauces too sweet or certain bowls a touch oily. Best for those who enjoy variety and sharing rather than a single centerpiece main. Families will find options kids actually eat—bao, dumplings, noodles, sweet potato sides, and mild curries—though the space is lively, not hushed. There is no kids’ menu, but plenty of accessible small plates; adventurous eaters will thrive, while very picky eaters may prefer simpler bowls and sides.
Area vibe: Trendy Friedrichshain side street near Boxhagener Platz; youthful crowds, casual bars, and cafes.
Safety: Generally safe, busy foot traffic especially evenings; typical urban crowds.
What's nearby: Near Boxhagener Platz market, bar clusters, and casual eateries; heavy weekend demand.