Berlin　柏林之旅 5

Crossing through the renowned restaurant Lotus&Vienna, brings us to a historic hall with a unique past.

Uniatos von Schule, who works in the restaurant, shows us around the Kaisersaal (Kaiser's Ballroom) of the former Grand Hotel Esplanade. From Kaiser Wilhelm and Marlena Dietrich to Greta Garbo and Charlie Chaplin, everyone who was anybody came to celebrate in the Kaisersaal.

This is an impressive picture. I am sure there is a story to go with it.

Yes, there is, in fact. The exciting thing about this painting is that it was hidden away for so long. At some stage, it was covered by a mirror, presumably because it wasn't felt to be suitable anymore. I don't know if you remember when the room was moved, it was really a unique operation. The entire Kaisersaal, weighing 1300 tons, was heaved onto air cushions and moved a distance of 75 meters and that's when this painting was rediscovered. Everyone was extremely pleased, because now the room really has been restored to its original state.

The Kaisersaal had to be moved because it stood in the way of a new road. Standing here, it's easy to forget that you are in the middle of Berlin's newly created center.

But a glance out the window soon brings you back to the present day.

One floor down, the restaurant Lotus&Vienna provides Franco-German cuisine with a regional touch, and at very good value for the money too. Main dishes can be had here for around 10 euros.

But all around Potsdamer Platz, connoisseurs will find numerous restaurants to suit every taste and pocket.

After dinner, it's time to head off to the Theater am Potsdamer Platz, the Blue Man Group is playing tonight. Tickets range between 40 and 80 euros, and there are performances everyday except Tuesday. The show put on by the Blue Man Group is an extraordinary mix of comedy, music, art and curiosities. Interaction with the audience is a key element of the show. So Margaet soon finds out what can happen if you disappear for a moment during the performance.

-----------------------------

presumably: adv. 推測(cè)起來(lái)，大概

heave: v. 舉起

cuisine: n. 烹飪，烹調(diào)風(fēng)格

connoisseur: n. 鑒賞家，內(nèi)行