Interview: Tim Raue on Cooking Above the City

Sphere Tim Raue brings together East and West Berlin on one plate — how did you approach this culinary fusion without leaning too far in either direction?

It doesn’t actually merge the two – instead, it presents them separately, as distinct culinary memories that connect people with their individual backgrounds and origins

How did the location – 207 meters above Berlin – influence the development of your concept and the menu?

The logistics and fire safety regulations are the biggest challenge. We are not allowed to cook, fry, or deep-fry in the upper kitchen. This limits the cooking process enormously, which is why all dishes are prepared in the kitchen at the base of the tower and then reheated and served upstairs. Since I love challenges, this motivated me rather than giving me something to complain about.

Did the view shape your creative decisions in any way?

No! The view stands on its own – and I must admit, it's breathtaking!

The redesign of the Sphere carefully integrates original elements of the TV Tower – how important was it for you that the design reflects Berlin’s history, and how do you think it enhances the dining experience?

What was crucial for me was to preserve the charm while making everything much lighter — and that was wonderfully achieved. The room now feels twice as tall and airy. The tables and chairs are protected as historical monuments and are tied to memories for many guests who have been coming here for decades – and I consider that to be essential.

You speak of "a heartfelt mission" – what was the most emotional or personal moment during the development of Sphere?

This project is truly very emotional. Having the opportunity to bring culinary life to the city's top tourist attraction – in my hometown – and to revive the food memories of both East and West, that's something you only get to do once in a lifetime.

What role does sustainability play in your vision for Sphere, especially considering the restaurant’s visibility as a cultural symbol?

We exclusively offer wines and beverages from Berlin, Brandenburg, and Germany. We try to source as many ingredients as possible locally, so that we can serve our guests what they can also see from the TV Tower. Most of them are tourists from around the world, and we have the chance to give them a contemporary culinary portrait of our homeland.

Which dish on the menu feels most personal to you – and why?

I can't narrow that down to just one dish. The entire menu brings together memories of our childhood and youth – the dishes that mom, dad, grandma, and grandpa cooked for us. These are flavors you never forget, the ones that shaped us.

You’ve cooked for world leaders and shaped Berlin’s culinary scene – how does Sphere fit into your broader legacy as a chef?

I live each day, each moment. I’m aware of the past, but I focus on serving the very best here and now – and that becomes the foundation for doing the very best for our guests again tomorrow.