I always find myself delving into a city’s food scene to understand its history and uniqueness. Frankfurt, being one of Germany’s most significant financial and cultural hubs, offers a culinary experience that blends both tradition and modernity. From traditional German comfort foods to innovative modern dishes, every bite unveils a new facet of the city’s culture. Today, join me on a gastronomic journey through Frankfurt, where you can taste the city’s flavors—both old and new.
1. Classic Frankfurt Dishes: Savor the Taste of Tradition
Every city has its signature dishes, and Frankfurt is no exception. The city’s culinary traditions date back centuries, with its local foods forming an integral part of Germany’s gastronomy. One of the most iconic dishes is the Frankfurter Wurstchen (Frankfurt Sausage).
Frankfurter Wurstchen: A Taste of Germany
Frankfurter Wurstchen, or Frankfurt sausages, are a beloved street food that has become synonymous with the city’s culinary identity. These sausages are typically made from high-quality pork, seasoned with a simple yet effective blend of salt, pepper, and other spices, and then smoked to perfection. The result is a sausage that is thin-skinned, yet tender and juicy on the inside, bursting with savory flavors with each bite.
What makes Frankfurter Wurstchen special is its simplicity. Unlike many other sausages that are packed with complex flavors, Frankfurt’s sausage sticks to the basics, allowing the natural taste of the pork to shine. The sausages are usually served with sauerkraut, a staple in German cuisine. Sauerkraut is finely shredded cabbage that’s been fermented, giving it a tangy, slightly sour flavor that complements the savory richness of the sausage perfectly. When combined, the sausages and sauerkraut provide a perfect balance of smoky, salty, and tangy flavors—a true representation of traditional German comfort food.
On my visit, I had the pleasure of trying Frankfurter Wurstchen in one of Frankfurt’s traditional beer gardens. The beer garden was lively, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the vibrant atmosphere while sipping on apple wine and cold beer. As the sausages arrived at my table, still sizzling and golden brown, the smoky aroma filled the air, adding to the excitement of the moment. The tender sausage was perfectly complemented by the tangy crunch of the sauerkraut, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It was an authentic German dining experience, made even more memorable by the beautiful setting and the cheerful vibe of the beer garden.
To elevate the experience, I paired the meal with a cold glass of apple wine, also known as Apfelwein in Frankfurt, which brought out even more depth in the flavors. The slight acidity of the apple wine acted as a refreshing counterbalance to the rich and savory taste of the sausage, making each bite and sip a delightful experience. For me, the combination of Frankfurter Wurstchen and apple wine was an unforgettable culinary moment. If you’re ever in Frankfurt, this pairing is an absolute must-try. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you straight into the heart of the city’s food culture.
Apple Wine: The Drink of Frankfurt
Apple wine, or Apfelwein, is the soul of Frankfurt’s drinking culture, and a true local specialty. It’s a drink that sets Frankfurt apart from other cities in Germany, and one that every traveler should try when they visit. Unlike typical ciders that are sweet and fruity, Apfelwein has a unique balance of tartness and subtle sweetness, giving it a refreshing yet sophisticated flavor.
What makes apple wine particularly special is the local production and the traditional way it is served. In many places in Frankfurt, the drink is served in charming rustic glass mugs or ceramic mugs, known as a Bembel, adding to its nostalgic and traditional appeal. These mugs are often decorated with blue and white designs, making them an iconic symbol of Frankfurt’s drinking culture. As I sat in one of the cozy, dimly-lit pubs, surrounded by locals, I couldn’t help but appreciate the drink’s unpretentious nature. It wasn’t about the fanciness or the craftiness of the drink; it was all about enjoying the authentic, simple flavors of Apfelwein, just like the locals do.
I remember visiting a cozy pub near the Old Town, where I ordered my first glass of apple wine. The drink was served in a Bembel, its cloudy appearance giving me a glimpse of its rustic, homemade nature. The slightly acidic, crisp taste of the apple wine was a welcome relief from the rich, hearty German dishes I had been devouring—like Schweinshaxe (roasted pork knuckle) and Frankfurter Wurstchen. The balance between the tart apple wine and the savory meats was perfect, and it seemed like every sip complemented the flavors of the food.
As I sat back and savored my apple wine, I noticed the locals seemed to have a special attachment to the drink. It wasn’t just about the taste—it was about community, tradition, and a shared love for this beverage that has been part of Frankfurt’s culture for centuries. The more I learned about Apfelwein, the more I appreciated it as a symbol of the city’s identity. In Frankfurt, you’ll find apple wine served everywhere, from traditional taverns to modern restaurants, and it’s always accompanied by friendly banter and local camaraderie.
In fact, apple wine has become so ingrained in the city’s culture that it’s often paired with Frankfurter Wurstchen or Handkäse mit Musik (a traditional cheese dish) in many taverns. The tartness of the wine perfectly cuts through the richness of these hearty dishes, and together they form an authentic, fulfilling experience.
Whether you’re enjoying Apfelwein in a lively beer garden, or quietly sipping it in a cozy corner of a local pub, one thing is certain: drinking apple wine in Frankfurt is an experience not to be missed. It encapsulates the essence of the city—traditional, unpretentious, and full of character.
If you’re planning a trip to Frankfurt, make sure to try both the Frankfurter Wurstchen and Apfelwein. These two staples are more than just food and drink—they are windows into the heart and soul of the city, offering a true taste of what makes Frankfurt such a unique and wonderful destination.
2. Modern Frankfurt Cuisine: Fusing Global Flavors with Local Ingredients
While Frankfurt is rich in tradition, the city also embraces innovation and the global food movement. Over the years, many restaurants have started blending local ingredients with international flavors, creating unique fusion dishes that offer a fresh take on German cuisine.
Modern German Cuisine: Combining Traditional Sausages with Thai Flavors
One of the most interesting dishes I tried during my stay in Frankfurt was a modern twist on the traditional Frankfurter Wurstchen. The dish combined German sausages with a Thai-style spicy and sour sauce, creating a fusion of two vastly different cuisines. The result was an explosion of flavors—smoky, spicy, tangy, and savory all at once. This fusion dish is a perfect representation of how Frankfurt embraces both its culinary roots and the diverse influences of global flavors.
Fusion Dishes: Local Ingredients with Global Influences
Frankfurt’s food scene isn’t just about tradition; it also invites a playful experimentation with flavors. One of my favorites was a dish I had at a trendy restaurant: German braised beef with Italian tomato sauce. This innovative dish merged tender German beef with a tangy, robust Italian tomato sauce. The combination of these two distinct culinary traditions resulted in a flavor profile that was both comforting and exciting, perfectly embodying Frankfurt’s love for blending old and new in the kitchen.
3. Desserts and Snacks: Sweet Delights of Frankfurt
When it comes to desserts, Frankfurt also excels in offering a range of traditional and innovative options. Two classic sweets that I highly recommend trying are the Frankfurt apple pie and German cheesecake.
Apple Pie: A Perfect Fall Dessert
Apple pie (Apfelkuchen) is a quintessential dessert in Frankfurt, especially popular during the fall and winter months. Made with apples, cinnamon, and butter, the crust is beautifully crisp, and the filling is sweet and warm, with the comforting flavors of baked apples and cinnamon. Enjoying a slice of freshly baked apple pie with a hot cup of coffee, while sitting by the window of a charming café, is a memory that encapsulates the essence of Frankfurt’s cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
German Cheesecake: A Heavenly Slice of Softness
Another dessert that cannot be overlooked is the German cheesecake (Käsekuchen). Unlike the traditional New York-style cheesecake, this version uses a soft, creamy German cheese, giving the dessert a lighter, fluffier texture. Each bite melts in your mouth, and the subtle sweetness combined with the tanginess of the cheese makes it a delightful treat. I enjoyed this cake several times during my stay, often paired with an espresso for a perfect afternoon snack.
4. Street Food: Local Bites from the Heart of Frankfurt
In addition to dining in traditional and modern restaurants, Frankfurt’s street food scene is also full of character and charm. Walking through the Old Town (Altstadt), I came across numerous street vendors selling hot dogs, fried potatoes, and roast chicken—simple, satisfying, and delicious. These quick bites capture the essence of the city’s casual food culture. Especially during market days or festive events, you can expect to see plenty of food stalls offering a wide array of snacks.
5. Recommended Frankfurt Food Tour: My Travel Menu
If you’re planning a trip to Frankfurt, I’ve curated a food tour that will let you experience the best of what the city has to offer. Here’s my travel food menu for you:
- Frankfurter Wurstchen with Sauerkraut – A must-try for anyone wanting to taste authentic Frankfurt flavors.
- Apple Wine – Sip this local beverage at a traditional pub or restaurant and experience Frankfurt’s drinking culture.
- German Cheesecake – Perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert after a hearty meal.
- Modern German Cuisine – Explore the city’s modern restaurants and enjoy a fusion of traditional German ingredients with international influences.
Frankfurt’s Flavorful Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Whether it’s the hearty flavors of traditional German dishes or the innovative twists on classic meals, Frankfurt’s culinary scene offers something for every palate. Each dish tells a story of the city’s rich history and modern influences, making it an exciting destination for any food lover. From the first bite of a Frankfurter Wurstchen to the last forkful of a German cheesecake, Frankfurt’s food tour is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t forget to make food an essential part of your trip to Frankfurt—this city’s cuisine is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself.
