For drinking in Berlin this Mitte institution, the Pony Bar, is low key and relaxed; a slightly run-down spot perfect for either a quick drink or a long evening. Before the smoking ban, this was a hazy island of twenty-something indie cool; now the smokers gather on benches outside, diluting the atmosphere onto the street. The uber-relaxed atmosphere, best enjoyed with an ice-cold draft beer, is punctuated occasionally on the warm-weather karaoke nights, which tends to get a little messy. If all the terrace’s orange plastic tables and chairs are full you might have to opt for a spot on the bleachers outside. Soups and such provide sustenance for hungry Hackescher Markt shoppers in the daylight hours and in the evening the Pony is only a short stroll away from fast food favourite, the incredibly popular Vietnamese Monsieur Vuong.”