The AST ART CAFÈ at Waldstraße 69 in Karlsruhe
Finest coffee specialties in the midst of
modern art
Artists Marvin Meyer and gallery owner and writer Patrick Markaj have created a special place that combines art, enjoyment and a cozy get-together with their AST ART CAFÈ in the southern Waldstraße in Karlsruhe.
French delicacies in an artistic atmosphere
in the center of Karlsruhe
Since opening on December 19, 2024, the café has been inspiring visitors with its unique flair: changing works of art, cosy and individually designed seating, a bar made from old cupboards and a small courtyard. Patrick Markaj sees the joint project as a meeting point for artists and a place for everyone who wants to enjoy life and art. "We want our guests to feel at home here. That's extremely important to us," reveals Patrick.
After a joint exhibition in the summer of 2023 in Marvin Meyer's showroom at Waldstraße 69, the two asked themselves the question: why not open an art café there? That's how the idea for the AST ART CAFÈ was born.
Homemade French dishes and antipasti at
after work in Karlsruhe
For example, the dishes and cakes are cooked and baked according to family recipes, and even the plates and crockery are family-owned. "When it comes to the dishes, we always decide together what to serve and what might taste good," says Patrick. All dishes are also freshly prepared. "We only use frozen ice cubes for the drinks," he reveals with a wink.
But one thing is certain: when choosing the dishes the team always brings a touch of France to Waldstraße in Karlsruhe:
- Tarte flambée
- Croissants
- Pain au Chocolat
- Éclairs
"When it comes to wines, we also choose open French wines in red and white. Everything is selected by me and brought directly from France," says Patrick. A special culinary highlight is the aperó at the end of the day - French antipasti made from cheese, salami and homemade bread - simply delicious!
Art and books at AST ART CAFÈ in Karlsruhe
"Everyone is welcome here," emphasizes Patrick. And you can feel this throughout the café: the comfortable seating creates a cozy living room atmosphere and the team ensures that everyone feels at home here and can enjoy a little trip to France. The two artists were also able to contribute their influences to the interior. Marvin Meyer's artwork adorns many of the café's walls, while Markaj's love of books is visible in the dining room. And a glance at the walls reveals pages from selected books.
Südlliche Waldstraße is like a little vacation from everyday life in Karlsruhe. There are so many beautiful stores here and we are delighted to be a part of this street.
Patrick Markaj had already enriched the southern Waldstrasse with the new second-hand store Kontr:AST and his gallery. The word "AST" in the name of the café and second-hand store stands for the symbiosis that he has formed with Marvin Meyer - a connection that continues to grow and become stronger. We are excited!
Further information can be found on the website and current insights on Instagram.