A Culinary Journey Through Frankfurt
From Traditional Tastes to Modern Flavors
Frankfurt’s culinary scene is as rich and diverse as the city itself, offering visitors a blend of time-honored traditions and modern innovations. From bustling markets to family-run eateries and Michelin-starred restaurants, the city presents a vibrant gastronomic experience for any traveler. Whether you’re a foodie or just curious about what Frankfurt has to offer, we will lead you through the must-visit spots for a true taste of the city.
The journey begins at Kleinmarkthalle, a historic indoor market that has been a staple of Frankfurt's food culture for over a century. With more than 60 stalls, Kleinmarkthalle is the ideal place to discover local produce, meats, and baked goods. Find a tour like this one from Get Your Guide where you will experience Kleinmarkthalle and many other historical sites in the 3.5 hour duration of the walking tour. Such tours often include rich history, snack breaks, and transportation 365 days a year.
Frankfurt's food history is deeply connected to its regional traditions. Frankfurter Würstchen, for example, has been part of the local cuisine since the 13th century. These slim, flavorful sausages are a must-try when visiting the city, often paired with mustard and a hearty slice of rye bread. Another key part of Frankfurt’s food culture is Apfelwein (apple wine). Apfelwein taverns are found throughout the city, with Lorsbacher Thal in Sachsenhausen offering one of the most authentic experiences. Here, you can enjoy Apfelwein in a traditional blue-and-white ceramic jug, accompanied by dishes such as schnitzel or the beloved handkäse mit musik, a dish of marinated cheese served with onions.
Visitors can also explore Apfelwein culture further by booking a Wine tasting tour that takes them through the best taverns in Sachsenhausen. This is a great way to enjoy local food and drink while learning about the history and production of this classic Frankfurt beverage.
For those who want to experience local dining without the tourist crowds, Zum Gemalten Haus is a perfect choice. This tavern, located in Sachsenhausen, is known for its traditional menu of schnitzels, sausages, and Grüne Soße. On the other hand, for those looking for something more contemporary, Seven Swans offers a Michelin-starred vegetarian experience, showcasing the freshest local ingredients in inventive dishes. The restaurant is situated along the Main River, providing stunning views to accompany your meal.
Modern chefs in Frankfurt are taking traditional recipes and elevating them with a contemporary twist. Restaurants like Lohninger and Gustav are leading the charge by using sustainable, organic ingredients and introducing new culinary techniques. At Lohninger, you might find a modern take on Frankfurter Würstchen, paired with seasonal vegetables, while Gustav offers a farm-to-table dining experience that emphasizes the city’s growing focus on sustainability.
Another unmissable aspect of Frankfurt’s food culture is its farmer’s markets, which take place across the city. These markets, such as the popular one at Konstablerwache, offer the freshest seasonal produce, as well as homemade jams, cheeses, and meats. Visiting a farmer’s market not only allows you to pick up fresh ingredients but also gives you a chance to interact with local vendors and farmers, many of whom are happy to share cooking tips or explain how certain products are made.
Image Source: Germany Insider Facts
If you’re inspired to take a piece of Frankfurt home, try your hand at making Grüne Soße yourself. This simple yet flavorful dish, which uses a mix of seven fresh herbs, is easy to recreate in your own kitchen. To bring an authentic taste of Frankfurt into your home, visit one of the city’s many markets, like Kleinmarkthalle or the farmer’s market at Konstablerwache, to purchase a traditional herb bundle made specifically for Grüne Soße. Alternatively, consider joining a market-to-table cooking tour that includes a visit to the markets followed by a cooking session.
The city's culinary journey wouldn't be complete without hearing from the people shaping it today. Chef Peter Löffler of Restaurant Francais at the Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof, one of the city’s premier fine dining spots, explains that Frankfurt’s food scene is about more than just its historical roots. “While we’re proud of our culinary traditions, there’s a new wave of innovation sweeping through the city, particularly with sustainable and plant-based cuisine. It’s an exciting time to be part of the food scene here,” he says.
By blending tradition with modern innovation, Frankfurt’s culinary landscape offers something for everyone, from the dedicated foodie to the casual traveler. Whether you’re strolling through Kleinmarkthalle, sipping Apfelwein in Sachsenhausen, or enjoying a modern twist on a traditional dish, each bite tells a story of the city’s vibrant and evolving food culture. And with numerous tours and experiences available through Get Your Guide (see below), visitors can fully immerse themselves in Frankfurt’s gastronomic delights while learning more about the history and traditions that make this city a culinary gem.
