Introduction
Frankfurt, a city often associated with finance and business, holds a delightful secret: a surprisingly vibrant and diverse food scene. Forget the boardroom – step into the world of tantalizing aromas, authentic flavors, and culinary adventures. From traditional apple wine taverns buzzing with locals to innovative restaurants pushing gastronomic boundaries, Frankfurt offers a feast for every palate. This isn’t just a guide to finding food; it’s an invitation to experience the soul of the city, one delicious bite at a time. We’re about to embark on a journey to discover the best Frankfurt has to offer, considering quality ingredients, authentic experiences, great value, and delightful ambiance.
A Taste of the Region: Traditional Frankfurt Cuisine
No exploration of Frankfurt’s culinary landscape is complete without delving into the heart of its traditional fare. These dishes, passed down through generations, offer a true taste of the region’s history and culture.
Apfelwein and Handkäs mit Musik
Let’s start with Apfelwein, the city’s beloved apple wine. This tart, refreshing drink is a staple of Frankfurt’s social scene. It’s made from fermented apples, resulting in a slightly sour, yet invigorating beverage. Apfelwein is traditionally served in a “Bembel,” a distinctive gray stoneware jug, and poured into a “Geripptes” glass, its ribbed surface providing a good grip.
Pair your Apfelwein with “Handkäs mit Musik,” a local cheese delicacy. This small, sour milk cheese is typically marinated in a vinegar, oil, and onion dressing. The “music” in its name refers to the… ahem… digestive effects of the onions. Don’t be intimidated – the combination of flavors is surprisingly delightful.
For an authentic Apfelwein experience, head to these fantastic spots: Adolf Wagner in Sachsenhausen is a cornerstone in Frankfurt’s applewine culture, offering a rustic atmosphere and traditional dishes to complement their Apfelwein. Apfelweinwirtschaft Dauth-Schneider, known for its lively ambiance and extensive menu of regional specialties, is another great option. Zum Gemalten Haus, one of the oldest Apfelwein taverns in Frankfurt, boasts a charming setting and classic dishes prepared with care.
Frankfurter Würstchen
Next up: the Frankfurter Würstchen, an iconic symbol of the city. These slender, smoked pork sausages are made according to a time-honored recipe. They’re characterized by their delicate, slightly smoky flavor and fine texture. These sausages are often enjoyed with a dollop of mustard and a crusty roll.
To experience the best Frankfurter Würstchen, seek out traditional vendors and butcher shops. Gref-Völsing has been producing frankfurters for years and offers the authentic sausage. You can’t go wrong with the classic flavor profile.
Grüne Soße
No culinary journey through Frankfurt is complete without encountering Grüne Soße, a vibrant green sauce that’s a true Frankfurt specialty. This sauce is made with a blend of seven fresh herbs: parsley, chives, sorrel, borage, garden cress, chervil, and burnet. These herbs are finely chopped and combined with a base of sour cream, yogurt, or mayonnaise.
Grüne Soße is traditionally served cold with hard-boiled eggs, boiled potatoes, or as an accompaniment to boiled beef. Its fresh, herbaceous flavor is a perfect complement to these simple dishes.
To savor authentic Grüne Soße, try these restaurants: Wirtschaft im Lorsbacher Thal in Sachsenhausen is known for its traditional Frankfurt cuisine, including a delicious version of Grüne Soße. Restaurant Struwwelpeter offers a cozy atmosphere and classic dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Bethmännchen
For a sweet treat, don’t miss Bethmännchen, a traditional marzipan pastry with almonds. These small, dome-shaped cookies are typically decorated with three almond halves, representing the three sons of the Bethmann family. Bethmännchen are especially popular during the Christmas season, but they can be found in bakeries throughout the year.
Other Traditional Dishes
While Apfelwein, Handkäs, Frankfurter Würstchen, Grüne Soße, and Bethmännchen are the most well-known, don’t hesitate to explore other traditional dishes such as Frankfurter Rippchen (cured pork ribs) and Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle). These hearty, flavorful dishes offer a true taste of Frankfurt’s culinary heritage.
A Global Gastronomic Journey: International Flavors in Frankfurt
Frankfurt is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene reflects this diversity. In addition to its traditional cuisine, the city offers a wide array of international flavors.
Korean Food
Korean cuisine has exploded in popularity in Frankfurt in recent years, offering a flavorful and exciting alternative to traditional German fare. From savory barbecue to comforting stews, Korean restaurants are serving up a diverse range of dishes.
For an excellent Korean meal, try Bibim Bap, known for its authentic flavors and friendly service. The restaurant offers many classic Korean dishes, including bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi jjigae.
Italian Food
Italian cuisine is a perennial favorite in Frankfurt, thanks to the city’s large Italian population and the enduring appeal of pasta, pizza, and other Italian classics. From casual trattorias to elegant ristorantes, Frankfurt offers a wide range of Italian dining experiences.
For a taste of Italy, visit these restaurants: Ristorante Carmelo Greiner, known for its authentic Sicilian cuisine and fresh seafood. Trattoria i Siciliani offers a cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes prepared with family recipes.
Other International Cuisines
Beyond Korean and Italian, Frankfurt offers a wide range of other international cuisines, including Vietnamese, Middle Eastern (Lebanese, Turkish), and Japanese. These restaurants reflect Frankfurt’s multicultural makeup.
For Vietnamese cuisine, try Coa Wok & Bowls or Bep-Viet. For Middle Eastern food, try Aroma or Chez Sofiane. For Japanese cuisine, check out Muku or Iimori.
Must-Visit Food Markets and Unique Food Experiences
Beyond restaurants, Frankfurt’s food markets offer a vibrant and engaging way to experience the city’s culinary scene.
Kleinmarkthalle
Kleinmarkthalle is a must-visit for any food lover. This bustling indoor market is home to over vendors selling a wide variety of fresh produce, cheeses, meats, seafood, and international foods.
Wander through the aisles, sample local specialties, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Kleinmarkthalle is a feast for the senses.
Tips for visiting: The market is open Monday through Saturday. The best times to visit are in the morning or early afternoon. Look for local specialties such as Green Sauce and Frankfurter sausage.
Farmers Markets
Throughout the city, weekly farmers markets offer a chance to sample local and seasonal products. These markets provide a vibrant atmosphere and an opportunity to meet local farmers and producers. Check local listings for schedules and locations.
Consider Culinary Classes
For a unique experience, consider taking a cooking class focusing on Frankfurt cuisine. You’ll learn how to prepare traditional dishes like Grüne Soße and Frankfurter Rippchen.
Fine Dining and Modern Cuisine
Frankfurt also has a thriving fine dining scene, with several restaurants earning Michelin stars and other accolades. These restaurants showcase innovative cuisine, impeccable service, and elegant atmospheres.
Restaurant Lafleur, Restaurant Gustav, and Weinsinn are considered some of the best fine dining restaurants in Frankfurt. These places offer tasting menus featuring creative and refined dishes. They provide upscale service and elegant dining rooms.
Modern interpretations of traditional cuisine: Several restaurants in Frankfurt are putting a contemporary twist on classic dishes. These restaurants offer innovative presentations and creative flavor combinations.
Budget-Friendly Eats: Delicious Food Without Breaking the Bank
Frankfurt doesn’t have to be expensive. Plenty of delicious and affordable options are available.
Street Food Options
Grab a Döner Kebab, Currywurst, or falafel. You can find these affordable and tasty options at street food stalls throughout the city.
Student-Friendly Restaurants
Near universities, you’ll find several restaurants and cafes offering good food at reasonable prices. Look for lunch specials and student discounts.
Lunch Specials
Many restaurants offer affordable lunch menus with daily specials. These are a great way to enjoy a delicious meal without spending too much.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
No culinary journey is complete without sampling the local sweet treats. Frankfurt offers a variety of cafes, bakeries, and ice cream parlors.
Café Mozart is famous for its cakes, pastries, and coffee. Eis Christina and Fontanella are two well-known ice cream spots in Frankfurt.
Tips for Foodies Visiting Frankfurt
- Learn a few basic German phrases: “Guten Tag” (Good day), “Bitte” (Please), “Danke” (Thank you), “Ein Bier, bitte” (A beer, please).
- Check restaurant hours: Restaurants often have specific opening times.
- Make reservations: Especially for fine dining or popular spots.
- Consider dietary restrictions: Contact restaurants in advance.
- Try the local beverages: Sample Apfelwein, local beers, and German wines.
Conclusion
Frankfurt’s food scene is a delightful surprise, offering a delicious blend of traditional and international flavors. From the cozy Apfelwein taverns to the innovative fine dining restaurants, there’s something for every palate. So, ditch the stereotypes and embark on a culinary adventure. Discover the best of Frankfurt, one delicious bite at a time. Now is the time to explore the diverse culinary offerings of this gem of a city!
Frankfurt’s food scene is a reflection of its spirit: a vibrant, dynamic city that honors its traditions while embracing the future. Come hungry, come curious, and prepare to be amazed.
