About us

Did you know?

The name “Naranj” has its origin far away from Berlin – it derives from the rich history of the Middle East. Originally coming from India, where Naranj denoted the god of defence, the name found its way to Iran via China. There it was used to describe the characteristic bitter orange trees, whose scent and fruit spread across Iraq, Iran and Syria. In Syria, especially in Damascus, the Naranj tree is a symbol of traditional hospitality, often found at the heart of the planted courtyards of traditional houses.

The story of Naranj Café and Bar in Berlin is closely interwoven with the personal journey of our founder, Alaa, a passionate archaeologist from Syria. After arriving in Germany in 2015 and working at the Pergamon Museum, where he looked after Syrian cultural artefacts, Alaa recognised Berliners’ growing interest in Syrian heritage. Inspired by the opportunity to bring a piece of this rich culture to life in Berlin, he came up with the idea of opening Naranj – a place that brings not only the culinary diversity of Syria, but also a piece of its soul to the heart of Berlin.