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Small camel – Recently, I spontaneously went to the "Kleines Kameel" café with my companion one evening – yes, with two e's. We were wandering somewhat aimlessly through Munich's city center, looking for a quieter spot where we could relax and chat away from the hustle and bustle. We walked into Hofgraben, not far from Munich's Maximilianstrasse, and stumbled upon the small and rather unassuming "Kleines Kameel" café-bar. For anyone looking for a place with a large menu and classically set tables, this is probably not the place for you. The "Kleines Kameel" only has a very small menu – projected onto the wall – and offers delicious snacks or a lovingly prepared daily lunch special. The friendly waiter, who turned out to be the owner, came to our table and presented us with two additional dishes (at the time, for example, penne with tomato sauce) that weren't on the menu. For those who prefer a smaller selection, the quiet café "Kleines Kameel" is the perfect place. It's worth noting that the café places great emphasis on the regionality and origin of its products, ensuring freshness and quality are always top priorities.
You're welcome here whether you just want a drink or are looking for snacks, antipasti, and light meals. The display cases on the facade even only show the drinks menu, not the food menu, further emphasizing the bar-like atmosphere. After climbing the steps to the entrance and entering, we were greeted by a friendly and attentive gentleman who immediately offered us a table, allowing us to choose our preferred spot. The café has approximately 13-15 small tables for two, made of light wood with intricately patterned glass tops. The tables are all slightly higher and equipped with bar stools, or, along the window front, with a comfortable leather bench. This seating area appealed to us, and we decided to take a seat there.
Overall, the bar, for its relatively small size, is incredibly elaborate, meticulously detailed, and yet comfortably furnished. The most striking feature is undoubtedly the impressive ceiling, which immediately catches the eye with its countless silver spheres suspended from short cords and variously placed, gleaming mirrored boxes. We discovered that these boxes were cleverly concealed and decorated projectors, which either display the small menu or the dessert menu (featuring, for example, warm chocolate cake (€3.90), tiramisu (€4.20), or panna cotta (€3.90)) on the walls – or present a slideshow for the guests. All in all, it's very cohesive, harmonious, and beautifully done. The longer I sat, the more comfortable I felt in the "Little Camel" café-bar.
We were presented with the rather extensive drinks menu and opted for wine and a chai tea. The waitress – the staff that evening consisted solely of her and the aforementioned gentleman – came to my table immediately after we ordered and informed me that they had unfortunately run out of chai tea. I can be a bit more sensitive than average about these things, but I always find this kind of thing, especially in smaller restaurants, rather poorly thought out. I then ordered just a small bottle of still water, as I wasn't in the mood for coffee, wine, or anything like that. My companion, to combat her rumbling stomach, also ordered a panini with ham, tomato, and mozzarella. Beforehand, the friendly waiter had explained in detail, pointing to the small snacks in his glass display case at the bar, what was available to order. Everything looked freshly prepared and appetizing. I was also very pleased with the exceptionally friendly service.
The bar itself is quite small, in keeping with the bar's size, and offers seating for about four more guests to enjoy a glass of wine. A glass dome filled with fresh croissants and pastries was also available. The panini we ordered arrived quickly and tasted exactly as bread with warm filling and melted cheese should – fresh, crispy, and delicious. So, if you're in the mood for one of these (large €2.40/small €1.20 – although "large" was more like a regular sandwich), a glass of wine, or a relaxing lunch break in a cozy atmosphere, you should definitely pay "Kleines Kameel" a visit. If you'd prefer something warm, there's also a daily soup (€4.90), the aforementioned lunch menu with a variety of dishes (€8.50), or options like vitello tonnato, prosciutto with Parmesan, canapés, an antipasto platter, a mixed cheese platter, and other lighter fare. Other guests ordered different dishes during our stay, and they all looked really delicious – for example, a plate of paper-thin sliced Parma ham from a lady at the bar – delicious.
I can't tell you much about the lunch specials yet, as I've only been there in the evening so far. We paid €14 including tip for a water, a 0.2l glass of wine, and a panini. For Munich standards and this central location, the price is perfectly reasonable and normal. As the evening progressed, a small bowl of peanuts was placed on each table, and the staff consistently ensured that guests had everything they needed to feel comfortable. Later in the evening, the lights were dimmed, creating an increasingly cozy bar atmosphere. With its various decorative touches, such as fresh flowers, small tealight holders on each table, light beige seating, and the staff's genuine friendliness, "Kleines Kameel" is definitely a hidden gem for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Last but not least… The bar's restrooms, while tiny, are clean and quite stylish with a unique design. Pictures on the inside door and clever mirrored surfaces on the walls and fixtures create an extraordinary experience. Overall, "Kleines Kameel" is definitely a very nice café/bar with friendly staff, located right in the city center yet somewhat hidden away. A little haven of peace for a pleasant few hours, so to speak.
The café, located in the Palais an der Oper, is open Monday to Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Thursday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Card payments are accepted. Parking might be a little difficult, so the parking garage at the opera house is a good option. Definitely worth a visit. The unique and enormous walls above the bar, adorned with different pictures and motifs depending on the theme, motto, or season, make it worthwhile.
Place visited: Small camel
Address: Hofgraben 3, 80539 Munich
Website
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