When visiting Frankfurt, be sure to try the city's renowned Sausages, Sauerkraut, and Apple Wine, as well as its unique fusion of traditional German and international cuisines.
Quick Facts
Food Culture Overview
Frankfurt's cuisine is defined by its location in the heart of Germany, with a unique blend of traditional German dishes and international influences. The city's culinary scene is shaped by its history as a major trade hub, with flavors and ingredients from around the world. Apfelwein, a type of apple wine, is a staple in Frankfurt, and is often served in traditional Apfelwein Taverns. The city is also famous for its Grüne Soße, a green herb sauce served with meat, fish, and vegetables.
Frankfurt's cuisine has been influenced by its neighboring regions, including Hesse and the Rhineland. The city's dishes often feature Sausages, such as Currywurst and Weißwurst, which are typically served with a side of Sauerkraut or Brot. The city's Christmas Market is also famous for its traditional holiday treats, including Gluhwein and Lebkuchen.
Frankfurt's food culture is also characterized by its modern and innovative approach to traditional cuisine. The city is home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, which offer a unique and creative take on classic German dishes. From traditional Biergärten to modern Food Courts, Frankfurt's culinary scene has something to offer for every taste and budget.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Type | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sauerbraten | Main Course | Marinated beef dish | Traditional German restaurants |
| Grüne Soße | Sauce | Green herb sauce served with meat, fish, or vegetables | Local eateries and markets |
| Apfelwein | Drink | Traditional apple wine | Apfelwein Taverns |
| Currywurst | Street Food | Grilled sausage sliced and topped with spicy ketchup and curry powder | Street food stalls and markets |
| Weißwurst | Breakfast | Traditional white sausage served with sweet mustard and a soft pretzel | Traditional Bavarian restaurants |
| Handkäse | Appetizer | Strong-smelling cheese served with onions and bread | Local pubs and restaurants |
| Rippchen | Main Course | Grilled pork chops served with sauerkraut and potatoes | Traditional German restaurants |
| Bethmännchen | Dessert | Traditional Frankfurt marzipan cookies | Bakeries and cafes |
| Frankfurter Kranz | Dessert | Layered cake filled with buttercream and topped with caramelized hazelnuts | Local bakeries and cafes |
| Leberkäse | Main Course | Meatloaf made from ground beef and pork | Traditional German restaurants |
Street Food & Snacks
- Currywurst: a grilled sausage sliced and topped with spicy ketchup and curry powder, typically costing $5-$7 USD
- Bratwurst: a traditional German sausage served with a side of sauerkraut or potatoes, typically costing $6-$8 USD
- Pretzels: soft or hard pretzels often topped with salt or sesame seeds, typically costing $2-$3 USD
- Apfelstrudel: a traditional German pastry filled with apples, sugar, and cinnamon, typically costing $5-$7 USD
- Fischbrötchen: a fish sandwich made with pickled herring or salmon, typically costing $8-$10 USD
- Käsebrötchen: a cheese sandwich made with a variety of German cheeses, typically costing $6-$8 USD
- Schneeballen: a deep-fried dough ball coated in powdered sugar, typically costing $4-$6 USD
- Glühwein: a warm, spiced wine typically served during the winter months, typically costing $5-$7 USD
Drinks
- Apfelwein: a traditional apple wine often served in Apfelwein Taverns
- Weissbier: a light, refreshing wheat beer
- Pilsner: a crisp, golden lager
- Kaffee: strong, traditional German coffee often served with a side of cake or pastry
- Schorle: a sparkling drink made with juice and water
- Erbacher: a traditional German soda made with natural ingredients
Dining Customs
- Table manners: keep your hands visible on the table, with your wrists resting on the edge
- Tipping: 5-10% of the total bill is customary
- Reservations: recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak hours
- Dress code: casual to formal, depending on the restaurant
- Meal times: breakfast is typically served from 7-10 am, lunch from 12-2 pm, and dinner from 6-9 pm
- Food ordering: it's common to order a variety of small dishes to share with your table
Where to Eat
- Traditional German restaurants: serving classic dishes like Sauerbraten and Schnitzel
- Apfelwein Taverns: offering a variety of Apfelwein and traditional German cuisine
- Food Courts: modern food courts featuring a range of international cuisines
- Markets: outdoor markets offering fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods
- Biergärten: outdoor beer gardens serving traditional German beer and cuisine
Food Markets & Food Experiences
- Frankfurt Christmas Market: a traditional holiday market offering festive foods and drinks
- Kleinmarkthalle: a bustling market hall featuring fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods
- MyZeil: a modern shopping center with a variety of international restaurants and cafes
- Fressgass: a popular street food destination offering a range of traditional German cuisine
- Alt-Sachsenhausen: a historic neighborhood featuring traditional Apfelwein Taverns and restaurants