Frankfurt Traditional Food and Apple Wine Guide: 10 Things to Know

The History and Culture of Apple Wine in Sachsenhausen

The district of Sachsenhausen serves as the spiritual home for Frankfurt's famous apple wine culture. Local producers began making this tart beverage centuries ago when grape harvests failed due to climate shifts. Walking through the narrow cobblestone streets reveals dozens of historic taverns serving this regional staple.

You can learn more about the area in our Frankfurt neighborhoods guide to plan your visit. Apple wine, known locally as Ebbelwoi, became the primary drink for the working class in the 16th century. The beverage remains a symbol of Hessian identity and social cohesion today.

Most traditional taverns still press their own apples using varieties specifically chosen for their acidity. The production process remains relatively simple and avoids many of the additives found in modern ciders. This commitment to tradition ensures a consistent flavor profile that locals have loved for generations.

Essential Frankfurt Specialities to Try

Beyond the drinks, the city offers unique dishes that reflect its hardworking Hessian roots. Start your culinary journey with authentic Frankfurt specialities like smoked pork or local sausages. These hearty meals provide the perfect base for an evening spent in a lively tavern.

Frankfurter Würstchen are thin, smoked sausages made purely from pork and traditionally served in pairs. They are distinct from the thicker beef-based franks found in other parts of the world. Locals usually enjoy them with a side of mustard and a thick slice of sourdough bread.

Rippchen mit Kraut is another staple featuring a cured pork cutlet served with warm sauerkraut. The meat is tender and savory, offering a perfect contrast to the acidic cabbage. Portions are typically generous and designed to keep you full during long sightseeing days.

How to Drink Apple Wine: The Geripptes and the Bembel

Drinking apple wine involves specific customs that every visitor should understand. The wine always arrives in a Geripptes, which is a glass with a diamond pattern that aids grip. This textured design was originally meant to help diners hold their drinks with greasy hands.

Large groups should order a Bembel, a traditional grey and blue stoneware jug that keeps the wine cool. Ordering by the jug is often more economical and encourages a communal dining experience. You will see these beautiful pitchers on almost every table in a traditional establishment.

Beginners might prefer a Sauer-Gespritzter, which mixes the tart wine with sparkling mineral water. Avoid asking for a Süß-Gespritzter, which uses lemonade, as it is often frowned upon by purists. The tartness is an acquired taste that many travelers grow to love after a few glasses.

• The Traditional Bembel Jug
  • Type: Stoneware pitcher
  • Color: Grey and blue
  • Purpose: Serving apple wine
  • Size: Multiple glass portions
• The Geripptes Glass
  • Pattern: Diamond cut
  • Function: Improved grip
  • Standard: 0.25 or 0.3 liters
  • Tradition: Historic tavern staple

Savoring Grüne Soße: Frankfurt’s Iconic Seven-Herb Sauce

Green Sauce is a cold condiment made from exactly seven specific herbs grown in the city. Locals typically serve it over boiled eggs and potatoes for a refreshing lunch. The sauce is so popular that it even has its own dedicated festival every spring.

You can find this dish at many best restaurants in Frankfurt during the warmer months. The recipe is strictly protected, and the herbs must be grown within the city limits. It is a light and healthy alternative to the heavier meat dishes found on most menus.

The herbs include borage, chervil, cress, parsley, burnet, sorrel, and chives. Each herb contributes a specific flavor note ranging from peppery to citrusy. The sauce is usually bound together with sour cream, oil, and hard-boiled egg yolks.

Handkäse mit Musik: Navigating the Musical Cheese

This small, translucent sour milk cheese is a staple of any traditional tavern menu. The music refers to the marinade of onions, vinegar, and oil served on top. It is a high-protein, low-fat snack that locals have enjoyed for centuries.

Tradition dictates that you eat the cheese with bread and butter using only a knife. Using a fork to mash the cheese is considered a major breach of local etiquette. The flavor is pungent and sharp, pairing perfectly with a glass of apple wine.

Expect the onions to be raw and plentiful, adding a significant crunch to every bite. The cheese softens as it marinates, so older batches tend to be more flavorful. It remains one of the most polarizing yet authentic dishes in the entire region.

Where to Eat: From Historic Taverns to Modern Food Halls

Choosing between a traditional tavern and a modern eatery depends on the atmosphere you desire. Historic spots in Sachsenhausen offer long communal tables and a boisterous, social environment. These venues are perfect for meeting locals and experiencing the city's authentic hospitality.

For a more varied experience, consider following a one day in Frankfurt itinerary that includes multiple food stops. You can find more modern takes on Hessian food in the city center and the Westend district. Many newer chefs are experimenting with vegan versions of classic dishes like Green Sauce.

Authentic dining experiences can also be found in the Frankfurt Old Town area. Look for the green wreaths hanging outside tavern doors, which traditionally signal that new wine is available. Prices in these establishments remain quite reasonable compared to high-end international restaurants.

Frankfurt’s Vibrant Market Scene and Culinary Experiences

The Kleinmarkthalle is a legendary indoor market where locals shop for fresh regional produce. You must visit the famous sausage stalls for a quick and affordable snack. It is a sensory experience filled with the aromas of fresh herbs and smoked meats.

The market also features wine bars where you can sample local vintages in a casual setting. This is the best place to buy the official herb packets for making your own Green Sauce. Most vendors are happy to offer small samples of their cheeses or meats to curious visitors.

Outdoor weekly markets also pop up in various neighborhoods throughout the week. These markets offer a slower pace and a chance to see how residents shop for their daily meals. They are excellent spots for finding seasonal fruits like the specific apples used for wine.

Seasonal Immersion: Apple Wine Festivals and Local Events

Visiting during a festival offers a deeper look into the city's love for its traditional drink. The Apple Wine Festival in August transforms the city center into a massive outdoor celebration. You can sample dozens of different varieties from small producers across the Hessian countryside.

Winter travelers should look for hot apple wine at the Frankfurt Christmas market to stay warm. The heated wine is often spiced with cinnamon and cloves, similar to traditional mulled wine. It provides a cozy way to enjoy the festive atmosphere during the colder months.

Spring brings the Green Sauce Festival, where local chefs compete for the best recipe. This event highlights the importance of the seven herbs to the city's culinary identity. Attending these festivals allows you to see the social side of dining that defines life here.

Dining Etiquette and Practical Tips for Travelers

Table sharing is standard practice in busy taverns, so do not be afraid to sit with strangers. Always ask if a seat is free before joining a table that is already partially occupied. This custom often leads to friendly conversations with locals who can offer further tips.

Many traditional establishments only accept cash, so keep some euros ready for your bill. Tipping around ten percent is customary if the service was friendly and efficient. Waiters in traditional taverns are known for their direct and sometimes gruff efficiency.

For more advice on navigating the city, check our getting around Frankfurt guide for transit tips. Most taverns are easily reachable via the city's extensive tram and subway network. Planning your route ahead of time ensures a smooth evening of dining and drinking.