Traditional Frankfurt Dishes: The Classics
Frankfurt’s skyline might be famous for its impressive skyscrapers, earning it the nickname “Mainhattan” due to its location on the Main River. However, beneath the gleaming glass and steel, a culinary landscape teeming with tradition and innovation awaits exploration. Frankfurt Germany food offers a fascinating blend of hearty, traditional German fare and international flavors, a testament to the city’s history as a crucial trading hub and its vibrant, multicultural population. This article serves as your passport to the must-try foods of Frankfurt, revealing where to find authentic flavors and uncover hidden gastronomic gems that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Prepare to embark on a delectable journey through Frankfurt Germany food!
Grüne Soße (Green Sauce)
No discussion of Frankfurt Germany food is complete without mentioning Grüne Soße, or Green Sauce. This iconic dish is more than just a sauce; it’s a cultural symbol, deeply rooted in Frankfurt’s identity. Grüne Soße is a vibrant, herbaceous concoction made from a blend of seven specific herbs: parsley, chives, chervil, sorrel, borage, garden cress, and salad burnet. These herbs are finely chopped and combined with sour cream, yogurt, or mayonnaise, creating a tangy, refreshing, and intensely flavorful sauce.
The flavor profile of Grüne Soße is unique and complex. The herbs contribute a delicate blend of fresh, grassy, and slightly peppery notes, while the sour cream or yogurt adds a creamy richness and a subtle tang. It is often said that the quality of Grüne Soße depends heavily on the freshness and balance of the herbs.
Traditionally, Grüne Soße is served cold alongside boiled eggs, potatoes, and boiled beef (Tafelspitz). It’s also a delicious accompaniment to grilled fish or asparagus, especially during the spring season when the herbs are at their peak. You can find excellent versions of Grüne Soße in traditional Frankfurt restaurants (Gasthäuser) throughout the city, especially in the Sachsenhausen district, known for its charming apple wine taverns. Look for restaurants that proudly display “Grüne Soße” on their menus – these are often the places that take the most pride in their preparation.
Frankfurter Würstchen (Frankfurter Sausage)
The Frankfurter Würstchen, or Frankfurter sausage, is another quintessential element of Frankfurt Germany food. These slender, smoked sausages are made from pure pork and are known for their delicate flavor and characteristic “snap” when you bite into them. The Frankfurter Würstchen has a long and storied history, dating back centuries, and remains a beloved snack and meal option in Frankfurt and beyond.
Unlike some other German sausages, Frankfurter Würstchen are typically boiled rather than grilled or fried. They are often served simply with mustard and a crusty roll, allowing the flavor of the sausage to shine through. You can find excellent Frankfurter Würstchen at butcher shops (Metzgereien), markets, and Imbiss stands (snack stands) throughout Frankfurt. The Kleinmarkthalle, Frankfurt’s famous indoor market, is a great place to sample different varieties and find freshly made Frankfurter Würstchen.
Handkäse mit Musik (Hand Cheese with Music)
Handkäse mit Musik, literally “hand cheese with music,” is a dish that is certainly an acquired taste, but one that offers a truly authentic Frankfurt experience. This dish consists of small, sour milk cheese that has been aged and marinated in vinegar, oil, and onions. The “Musik” refers to the onions, which are said to cause flatulence (hence the humorous name).
Handkäse has a strong, pungent flavor that can be quite intense. The sourness of the cheese is balanced by the sweetness of the onions and the richness of the oil. It is typically served with rye bread and butter, and is a popular accompaniment to Apfelwein (apple wine). While not for the faint of heart, Handkäse mit Musik is a must-try for adventurous foodies looking to experience the full spectrum of Frankfurt Germany food. You can find it in many Äppelwoi taverns, particularly in Sachsenhausen.
Rippchen mit Kraut (Pork Ribs with Sauerkraut)
Rippchen mit Kraut, or pork ribs with sauerkraut, is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold day. This traditional Frankfurt meal features tender, slow-cooked pork ribs served with a generous portion of sauerkraut. The ribs are often seasoned with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds, and are cooked until they are fall-off-the-bone tender.
The sauerkraut, made from fermented cabbage, adds a tangy and slightly sour element to the dish. It is often cooked with bacon or pork belly for added flavor. Rippchen mit Kraut is a satisfying and flavorful meal that showcases the best of German comfort food. You can find it in many traditional restaurants and taverns throughout Frankfurt, particularly during the colder months.
Beyond the Traditional: Exploring Frankfurt’s Modern Food Scene
While traditional Frankfurt Germany food offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, Frankfurt’s culinary scene is constantly evolving and embracing new influences. In addition to the classic dishes, Frankfurt boasts a vibrant and diverse range of international cuisine, modern German restaurants, and fine dining establishments.
International Cuisine
Frankfurt is a truly multicultural city, and this diversity is reflected in its food scene. You can find restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, from Turkish kebabs and Vietnamese Pho to Italian pasta and Japanese sushi. The Bahnhofsviertel (train station district) is a particularly good place to explore international flavors, with a wide variety of Turkish, Middle Eastern, and African restaurants. Frankfurt’s international restaurants offer a welcome change of pace from traditional German fare and provide a glimpse into the city’s global connections.
Modern German Cuisine
In recent years, a number of restaurants in Frankfurt have begun to reinterpret traditional German dishes with a modern twist. These restaurants often use locally sourced ingredients and innovative cooking techniques to create dishes that are both familiar and exciting. Examples of modern German dishes might include deconstructed Grüne Soße, refined versions of Rippchen mit Kraut, or creative takes on traditional German desserts. Exploring Frankfurt’s modern German restaurants is a great way to experience the evolution of Frankfurt Germany food and discover new flavors and culinary perspectives.
Fine Dining
For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Frankfurt offers a selection of Michelin-starred restaurants and other fine dining establishments. These restaurants offer sophisticated menus, impeccable service, and a focus on high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re looking for classic French cuisine, innovative fusion dishes, or refined interpretations of German classics, Frankfurt’s fine dining scene has something to offer every discerning palate.
Frankfurt Food Experiences
Beyond specific dishes, Frankfurt offers a variety of unique food experiences that are worth exploring.
Äppelwoi Taverns (Apple Wine Taverns)
A visit to an Äppelwoi tavern is an essential part of any culinary exploration of Frankfurt Germany food. These traditional taverns, particularly concentrated in the Sachsenhausen district, offer a cozy and convivial atmosphere where you can sample Apfelwein (apple wine), the city’s signature beverage. Apfelwein is a tart, slightly sour apple cider that is typically served in a traditional glass called a “Geripptes.”
The atmosphere in an Äppelwoi tavern is lively and informal. You’ll often find locals and tourists alike gathered around wooden tables, enjoying Apfelwein, traditional Frankfurt dishes, and good conversation. Popular Äppelwoi taverns include Apfelwein Wagner, Adolf Wagner, and Zum Gemalten Haus.
Markets (e.g., Kleinmarkthalle)
Exploring Frankfurt’s markets is a great way to experience the city’s vibrant food culture and discover local produce and specialties. The Kleinmarkthalle, Frankfurt’s famous indoor market, is a must-visit for food lovers. This bustling market features over sixty vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to cheeses, meats, seafood, and international specialties. The Kleinmarkthalle is a great place to sample local delicacies, buy souvenirs, and soak up the atmosphere of a traditional German market.
Food Tours
For those who want to delve deeper into Frankfurt’s food scene, taking a food tour is an excellent option. A food tour will take you to a variety of restaurants, markets, and other food-related establishments, allowing you to sample a wide range of dishes and learn about the history and culture of Frankfurt Germany food. Food tours are a great way to discover hidden gems and get insider tips from local experts.
Regional Specialties & Drinks
Beyond the main dishes, Frankfurt has other regional treats and drinks that are worth mentioning.
Bethmännchen
Bethmännchen are small, marzipan-based almond cookies that are a traditional Frankfurt specialty, particularly popular during the Christmas season. These delicate cookies are decorated with three almonds, representing the three sons of the Bethmann family. They’re available at most bakeries around the city.
Frankfurter Kranz
Frankfurter Kranz is a ring-shaped cake decorated to resemble a crown, featuring layers of sponge cake, buttercream frosting, and cherry jam, topped with brittle nuts. This cake symbolizes Frankfurt’s history as a coronation city in the Holy Roman Empire and can be found at bakeries.
Other Regional Treats
Many other regional treats like “Quetschekuche” (plum cake) are often available.
Apfelwein/Ebbelwoi (Apple Wine)
The most famous regional drink is “Apfelwein” or “Ebbelwoi”, a tart, slightly sour apple cider. Usually served in a glass called a “Geripptes,” it is a must-try for anyone visiting Frankfurt.
Tips for Foodies Visiting Frankfurt
To make the most of your culinary adventure in Frankfurt, here are a few helpful tips:
Learn Basic German Phrases
Knowing a few basic German phrases, such as “Guten Tag” (hello), “Bitte” (please), “Danke” (thank you), and “Die Rechnung, bitte” (the bill, please), will enhance your experience and make it easier to order food and ask for recommendations.
Explore Different Neighborhoods
Different neighborhoods in Frankfurt have their own unique food scenes. Sachsenhausen is known for its Äppelwoi taverns, while the Bahnhofsviertel is home to a diverse range of international restaurants. Exploring different neighborhoods will allow you to discover a wider variety of culinary experiences.
Be Open to Trying New Things
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try local specialties that you may not have encountered before. Frankfurt Germany food offers a wealth of unique and flavorful dishes that are worth exploring.
Check Opening Hours
Be sure to check the opening hours of restaurants and markets before you go, as many are closed on Sundays.
Reservations
Making reservations, especially for popular restaurants, is highly recommended, particularly during peak season.
Conclusion
Frankfurt offers a captivating blend of traditional German fare and international flavors, creating a culinary landscape that is both rich in history and constantly evolving. From the iconic Grüne Soße and hearty Rippchen mit Kraut to the diverse international cuisine and innovative modern German restaurants, Frankfurt Germany food has something to offer every palate. By exploring the city’s traditional taverns, bustling markets, and innovative restaurants, you can embark on a truly unforgettable culinary adventure. So, pack your appetite and prepare to discover the delicious secrets of Frankfurt! Your culinary journey awaits!
