A confectioner’s dream transformed into a Berlin legend. Today, we explore the story of Alfred Kranzler through the renowned Café Kranzler. Johann Georg Kranzler, Alfred’s father, established a small pastry shop in 1825. It was located on Unter den Linden.
In 1833, Johann Georg Kranzler bought a building. It stood at the corner of Friedrichstrasse. He moved his Konditorei there. The building had been rebuilt by Friedrich August Stüler. The Café Kranzler quickly became famous. Officers and nobles gathered there. It was the first in Berlin with a smoking room. The café also had a street terrace. This was new for Berlin.
After Johann Georg Kranzler died in 1866, his sons took over. Martin Kranzler and Alfred Kranzler jointly managed the business. In 1911, the Kranzler grandsons sold the building. The buyer was Berliner Hotelbetrieb AG. This company is now Kempinski AG.
Around 1915, Carl Stahl-Urach renovated the Café Kranzler. He used a modern style. A second Café Kranzler opened in 1932. It was on Kurfürstendamm. Both locations were destroyed in World War II.
In 1958, the Kurfürstendamm location reopened. The Unter den Linden location was torn down in 1951. The Westin Grand Berlin stands there today.
The Café Kranzler on Kurfürstendamm became an icon. This was especially true for West Berlin after the war. It was a symbol of the Wirtschaftswunder.
After the Berlin Wall fell, things changed. The Café Kranzler closed in 2000. A new building was constructed. It was called Neues Kranzler Eck. The café reopened as a small bar in the rotunda.
Today, the rotunda is occupied by The Barn. This is a coffee-roasting house. The landmark red and white awning remains. It is a reminder of the Café Kranzler’s rich history. Though the original café is gone, its legacy endures. It continues in the memories of Berliners and visitors alike. The story of Alfred Kranzler and his family is intertwined. It represents Berlin’s changing times. It also represents its enduring spirit.
Alfred Kranzler himself passed away in 1911. Though his physical presence is gone, his name lives on. It lives on through the history of this famous café. So, as you explore Berlin, remember Alfred Kranzler. Remember his family’s contribution. Remember their lasting impact on the city’s culture.