La Criolla: A slice of Argentina in Berlin
Gaby is an Argentinian woman who lives in Berlin and runs her restaurant La Criolla there. In an interview, she talks about her home country, her passion for food, and the differences between Argentina and Germany. She is a woman, mother, latina, restaurant owner, and doer.
“There is nothing you can’t learn” – this attitude is what drives Gaby, the owner of La Criolla, a restaurant in Berlin that specializes in Argentinian empanadas.
When she started together with her partner selling empanadas at the street food market in Markthalle 9 ten years ago, they had never made them before.
Empanadas - a treat for every taste
As soon as you enter La Criolla, you feel like you are in Argentina. The smell of fresh empanadas fills the air, and Radio Mega provides the south American flair. Typical Argentinian decorations hang on the walls, including a shrine to Diego Maradona. I’m back in Argentina, where I spent seven years of my life.
The menu offers a wide variety of empanadas, both classic variants such as Fuggazetta (onions), Jamón y queso (ham and cheese) or Carne (meat) as well as their own creations such as Roquefort and pear or vegan empanadas.
“The dough is the hardest thing,” Gaby reveals. “We worked on the ideal dough for a long time.” Now the empanadas lie golden yellow in the display case and beam at you.
A taste experience of a special kind
At the first bite into an empanada, a firework of aromas explodes in the mouth. The crispy pastry pocket encloses a juicy filling, which can be hearty, spicy or creamy depending on the variety.
“Empanadas are a popular snack in Argentina,” explains Gaby. “But they are also always welcome as a starter before a Sunday asado with family and friends.
Argentinian Culture
La Criolla is more than just a restaurant. It is a place where you can experience a piece of Argentinian joie de vivre. “We want to give our guests a piece of their homeland feeling,” says Gaby.
Community and food:
In Argentina, food plays a central role in life. “It is an important part of the community,” says Gaby. “People meet to cook, eat and celebrate together.”
In Germany, on the other hand, eating is more pragmatic. People meet, eat and then go for a walk.
“In Argentina, a meal can last all day,” says Gaby. “You start with a Picadita, then there is Asado, dessert and Mate. In between, you chat, play and laugh.”
Home and identity:
“I am 100% Argentinian,” says Gaby. “Home for me is where my loved ones are.”
Sometimes she misses the warmth and solidarity she knows from Argentina. “In Germany, it’s often everyone for themselves,” says Gaby. “It makes you feel more alone.”
Berlin and Germany
“Berlin is a safe and very pedestrian-friendly city,” says Gaby. “I love to stroll through the streets and enjoy a Späti beer.”
Language:
“The German language is very important for integration,” Gaby believes. “It allows you to be part of the community and to be heard.”
Gaby’s tips for Argentina fans in Berlin:
- Visit La Criolla! Gaby serves authentic Argentinian cuisine there.
- Learn German! This will help you to communicate better with the locals and to integrate.
- Be open to new things! Berlin is a diverse city with much to discover.
Conclusion:
La Criolla is an insider tip for all those who love Argentinian cuisine or simply want to try something new. The empanadas are a treat for every taste and the atmosphere in the restaurant is simply incomparable.
