Must-try Dishes
Frankfurter Rippchen - Frankfurt-style Pork Ribs - These tender pork ribs are slowly boiled and then roasted until crispy, usually served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. Locals enjoy them as a hearty dinner, often with family gatherings around the table.
Handkäse mit Musik - Hand Cheese with Music - This tangy cheese is marinated in vinegar, onions, and oil, served alongside a rye bread. It's a common snack at local pubs, where it pairs nicely with apple wine, especially during casual evenings.
Frankfurter Würstchen - Frankfurt Sausages - These lean pork sausages are steamed and served with mustard and bread, perfect for a quick meal or snack. You’ll usually find them at street food stalls, especially during lively fairs or markets.
Grüne Soße - Green Sauce - A refreshing herb sauce made predominantly with five kinds of fresh herbs, often served with hard-boiled eggs and potatoes. This dish embodies the essence of spring, typically enjoyed during Easter celebrations.
Äppelwoi mit Handkäse - Apple Wine with Hand Cheese - Don’t underestimate this pairing of local apple wine and cheese; it’s a classic combo. Locals indulge in this surprising mix during casual meet-ups, emphasizing how well they complement each other.
Pfannkuchen - German Pancakes - These large, thin pancakes can be filled with savory or sweet ingredients, often enjoyed at breakfast or as a light lunch. A popular mistake is ordering them too early when they’re not typically served until brunch.
Sauerkraut - Fermented Cabbage - Traditionally served as a side, it’s often enjoyed for lunch or dinner with sausages or meat dishes. You'll find it’s a kitchen staple during the winter months, providing warmth and depth to many meals.
Desserts & Drinks
Apfelwein - Äppelwoi (cider) - A tangy apple cider, traditionally made from fermented apples, served in a clay jug. Locals often sip it in cozy apple wine taverns, especially during the evening with friends, to unwind after work.
Frankfurter Kranz - Frankfurter Rings (buttercream cake) - This delightful cake consists of layers of buttery sponge, filled and topped with rich buttercream and decorated with crunchy caramelized nuts. A popular choice for celebrations, it’s best enjoyed with coffee during afternoon gatherings.
Handkäse mit Musik - Hand Cheese with Music (marinated cheese) - A semi-hard cheese, usually served with a zesty mix of onions, vinegar, and herbs, giving it a distinct flavor. Often enjoyed as a light snack over drinks, especially during a festive evening among friends; locals can't resist ordering it with a slice of bread.
Riesling - Rieslingwein (white wine) - A sweet or dry white wine made from Riesling grapes, it's aromatic and fruity, often enjoyed at outdoor markets or during summer festivals. It pairs beautifully with local dishes and is a staple at picnics.
Grießnockerlsuppe - Semolina dumpling soup (savoury soup) - A comforting broth with fluffy semolina dumplings, often served as a starter in family meals or during colder months. It’s traditionally enjoyed on Sundays, but you can find it all year round—just don’t forget to ask for extra dumplings!
By the way, don’t forget to try Apfelwein with a splash of mineral water; it’s a local twist that many prefer!
