Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Frankfurt, Germany
1. Green Sauce (Grüne Soße)
A creamy sauce made from seven herbs, bacon, and sour cream, served with boiled potatoes and white asparagus. It's a traditional dish unique to Frankfurt.
- Seven Herb Blend: Uses a specific blend of seven fresh herbs not found in other German sauces.
- Bacon and Cream: Contains smoky bacon and rich cream, giving it a unique flavor profile.
- Boiled Potatoes & White Asparagus: Served traditionally with boiled potatoes and white asparagus, which complement the sauce perfectly.
2. Handkäsesuppe (Onion Soup with Melted Cheese)
A hearty soup made from onions, broth, and a slice of pungent Limburger cheese melted on top. It's a classic dish that warms you up in Frankfurt's cold winters.
- Limburger Cheese: Uses a strong, pungent Limburger cheese not commonly used in other onion soups.
- Hearty Soup: A substantial meal in itself due to its rich and filling nature.
- Melted Cheese Topping: The melted cheese on top gives the soup a unique, gooey texture and flavor.
3. Feinkost Kaufmann (Gourmet Delicatessen)
A renowned gourmet deli offering a wide selection of local and international cheeses, meats, and other specialty foods. It's the perfect place to try various regional dishes.
- Wide Selection: Offers an extensive variety of gourmet products from Frankfurt and beyond.
- Expert Advice: Knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations based on your preferences.
- Tasting Opportunities: Offers tastings of various products, allowing you to sample before purchasing.
4. Zur Gemütlichkeit (Traditional Tavern)
A cozy tavern serving hearty German meals like sausages and potatoes, as well as the famous Frankfurt green sauce. It's a traditional spot to experience local cuisine.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Preserves a classic tavern ambiance that harks back to Frankfurt's history.
- Friendly Service: Known for friendly and attentive service, making visitors feel welcome.
- Regional Specialties: Serves a variety of traditional Frankfurt dishes, including the city's famous green sauce.
5. Apfelwein (Apple Wine)
A refreshing and slightly tart alcoholic beverage made from pressed apples. It's a local favorite, often served in Frankfurt's apple wine taverns.
- Refreshing Drink: Provides a refreshing break from the city's warm summer days.
- Variety of Styles: Available in still, sparkling, and sweet versions to cater to different tastes.
- Traditional Taverns: Best enjoyed in traditional apple wine taverns, often with a side of hearty snacks.
6. Bockenheimer Wiese (Festival Grounds)
A large open space hosting various events and festivals throughout the year, including the famous Apple Wine Festival in September.
- Wide Event Selection: Offers a diverse range of events, catering to different interests.
- Food & Drink Stalls: Features numerous food and drink stalls serving local favorites like apple wine and sausages.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique insight into Frankfurt's culture and traditions during festivals.
7. Römer (Historic Town Hall)
A beautifully preserved medieval town hall dating back to the 15th century, now housing city administration and tourist information.
- Rich History: One of Frankfurt's most important historical landmarks.
- Architectural Beauty: Features stunning Gothic architecture and intricate details.
- Tourist Information: Home to the city's tourist information center, providing valuable advice for visitors.
8. Städel Museum (Art Museum)
A world-renowned art museum housing an extensive collection from the Middle Ages to the present day. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
- Extensive Collection: Boasts one of Europe's most significant collections, including works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing rare and exciting art pieces.
- Digital Guides: Offers digital guides in multiple languages, making it accessible to a wide audience.
9. Goethe House (Historic Home)
The former residence of German literary genius Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
- Literary Significance: A key site for fans of Goethe's works and German literature.
- Historical Preservation: One of the best-preserved historic homes in Germany, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours in multiple languages, providing insights into Goethe's life and times.
10. Palmengarten (Botanical Garden)
A beautiful botanical garden featuring a palm house with over 4,000 species of plants from tropical climates.
- Tropical Oasis: Provides a unique tropical oasis in the heart of Frankfurt.
- Beautiful Landscapes: Features stunning landscapes, including lush greenery, water features, and exotic plants.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.
11. Main Tower (Observation Deck)
A modern skyscraper offering panoramic views of Frankfurt from its observation deck. It's a great spot for city photography.
- Panoramic Views: Provides breathtaking, unobstructed views of Frankfurt and its surroundings.
- City Photography: Ideal for photography enthusiasts looking to capture stunning cityscapes.
- Rotating Restaurant: Features a rotating restaurant on the top floor, offering dining with a view.
12. Skyline Plaza (Shopping Center)
A modern shopping center featuring high-end stores, restaurants, and a rooftop terrace with city views.
- High-End Shopping: Houses numerous luxury brands for those seeking exclusive items.
- Rooftop Terrace: Offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Frankfurt's skyline.
- Dining Options: Features a variety of dining options, including international cuisines and casual eateries.
13. Museumsufer (Museum Embankment)
A collection of museums along the Main River, including the German Architecture Museum and the German Film Museum.
- Cultural Diversity: Offers a wide range of cultural experiences through its various museums.
- Riverfront Setting: Set along the scenic banks of the Main River, providing a picturesque backdrop for exploration.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Regularly hosts temporary exhibitions across its museums, keeping content fresh and exciting.
14. Dom (Cathedral Saint Bartholomew)
A stunning Gothic cathedral dating back to the 14th century, housing a museum and regular concerts.
- Architectural Marvel: A remarkable example of Gothic architecture with intricate details and stunning stained glass windows.
- Historical Significance: An important historical site with connections to Frankfurt's past.
- Regular Concerts: Hosts regular concerts featuring classical music, adding cultural experiences for visitors.
15. Zoo Frankfurt (City Zoo)
A large city zoo housing over 4,000 animals across various exhibits, including a tropical house and a petting zoo.
- Wide Animal Variety: Features a diverse range of animals, from big cats to reptiles and everything in between.
- Tropical House: Includes a tropical house with exotic plants and rare animals not found in other European zoos.
- Petting Zoo: Offers a petting zoo where visitors can interact with smaller, gentler animals.