Getting to know Frankfurt’s foodie side
*Originally published on WertheimVillage.com
It’s not the most obvious choice for those seeking melt-in-your-mouth meals and innovative cocktails, but Germany’s capital has long been underestimated on Europe’s foodie scene. Here are the city’s best-kept secrets…
To eat
Listed as one of the best 500 restaurants in the world, Lafleur boasts two Michelin stars and can be found in the stunning Bauhaus-style glass annexe of the Gesellschaftshaus Palmengarten events venue. Chef Andreas Krolik is renowned for his contemporary classic fare, so you can expect a delectable five-, six- or seven-course feast that’s perfectly paired with a wine menu prepped by head sommelière Alexandra Himmel.
INSIDER SECRET: Andreas Krolik is a master at seafood dishes – opt for the hand-dived stained scallop and Ossietra caviar from the Rhön.
To sightsee
You won’t want to miss the views of the stunning skyline from Main Tower Restaurant & Lounge, so book a table by the window to truly appreciate the panorama over the rooftops of ‘Mainhatten’. The cuisine is equally impressive, and the four- and seven-course tasting menus take Asian fusion to another level.
DON’T MISS: Sip an aperitif – from a whisky sour or gin fizz to a glass of Bollinger special cuvée – in the lounge’s low-slung, leather chairs before dinner.
To drink
Behind a discreet black door to the right of Hotel Elbe is one of Frankfurt’s most creative cocktail bars, Kinly Bar. It might not be on the most salubrious street, but don’t let that put you off sampling some of Germany’s finest mixologists who create masterpieces with hand-cut ice. With atmospheric lighting and a low ceiling, this speakeasy should not be missed.
STYLE TIP: You’ll find little online about this under-the-radar bar, so match the mystery with your wardrobe.
To stay
You’re within walking distance of the action at the five-star Sofitel Frankfurt Opera, which sits on the Opernplatz with views of the newly rebuilt Alte Oper (Old Opera). Fusing Parisian chic with Art Deco touches, the hotel is a polished affair that’s filled with luxury comforts (Diptyque products and a BOSE sound system come as standard). Book the Presidential Suite for unrivalled views of the city’s skyline and don’t forget a date with its stunning spa.
DON’T MISS: This year, take a seat in the hotel’s Summer Garden, serving its signature homemade Schönemann lemonade as well as cocktails, aperitifs and delicious French-inspired dishes.
To relax
It’s worth making a detour to Frankfurt’s financial district to visit the Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof. Offering the ultimate in luxury, the hotel’s spa combines the best European spa traditions with Turkish bath rituals and oriental-inspired Rassoul clay treatments. There’s even a Gentlemen’s Barber from Tuesdays to Sundays.
INSIDER SECRET: For sheer indulgence, book the Day Spa Suite for you and a friend. For three hours, you can enjoy massages in a personal lounge and unwind in the private sauna and bathing area.
To visit
Famous for its world-class wines, Wurzburg, the heart of Germany’s ‘Romantic Road’, is a spot you won’t want to miss. Often overlooked for beer-drinking Bavaria, the region’s cluster of vineyards, in the lush Tauber Valley, are worth a visit – especially for the Riesling wines on offer.
DON’T MISS: Come evening, book a room at Schloss Steinburg, a castle hotel that sits high above the city in the peaceful Steinburg vineyard, birthplace of the delicious ‘Würzburger Stein’ grape.
To shop
Nothing says summer quite like a festival, and Wertheim Village’s Summer Festival promises to be filled with fun, fashion, food and music. With pop-ups from the likes of Armani and Michael Kors on new-in summer styles, DJ sets and invitation-only events, you can expect a glorious day out. There’ll even be a host of food trucks arriving at the Village throughout summer.
INSIDER SECRET: End your evening in the Village with a glass of fizz from the newly opened Bollicine Champagne Bar. Serving Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Pol Roger and cocktails – as well as a selection of meats, cheese, seafood, precious caviar and truffle – it’s a delicious affair.