When you think hot dog (also spelled hotdog) you probably think of America, specifically New York City or Chicago where it’s a popular street food and easily available at convenience stores, highway stops and baseball parks. But actually, this type of sausage, also known as a frankfurter, dog or wiener, was imported from Germany. Traditionally grilled or steamed and served in a partially sliced bun, it’s the international equivalent of a sausage sandwich. Typical garnishes include sauerkraut, onions, coleslaw, cheese and a host of relishes and sauces. Frankfurt is the home of the original hotdog – it’s where frankfurters got their name. The Frankfurter Würstchen is made from 100% pork and the Frankfurter Rindswurst is made from 100% beef. Frankfurt is also the fifth largest of Germany’s cities and although it’s a financial hub, there’s more to this beautiful city than wealth and wieners.
Stay: Roomers describes itself as the “epiphany of burlesque elegance”. Its 116 rooms and suites are categorised as Superior, Select Deluxe, Prestige or Suite and all are designed with comfort and quality in mind. Natural stone, steel and ambient light abound in this stunning boutique hotel. Its exclusive spa is a one-stop sanctuary for body, soul and mind and is equally contemporary in its design. Try the innovative glass bead-filed relaxation tubs with mood lighting for the ultimate tension release, or the organically-designed dry sauna. Alternatively, enjoy breathtaking views of Frankfurt’s skyline from the Sky Lounge.
Shop: make your way to The Zeil, Frankfurt’s premier pedestrian promenade, for well-known stores and retail chains. For designer brands and luxury labels, go to Goethestraße. For all the regional specialities the region has to offer in one spot, head to the largest farmer’s market, Erzeugermarkt Konstablerwache, which features organic artisanal goods and foods made using traditional methods. Große Bockenheimer Straße and Kalbächer Gaße, connecting Opera Square with Rathenau Square, are commonly referred to as the Freßgass, Frankfurt’s culinary mile. It is now home to countless cafes, bars, bistros and delis offering breakfast, lunch, snacks and happy-hour beverages.
Sample: you can’t visit the home of the frankfurter without trying one. And there are plenty of places to try the famous delicacy. Ebbelwoi-unser is frequented by locals, proof that a good meal and a great atmosphere is to be had here. The speisekarte (menu) is available in English, but take cash, as this moderately-priced restaurant doesn’t take cards. For a posh-dog, try Restaurant Druckwasserwerk. This converted waterworks also serves regional delicacies including schnitzel and braten (roast meat). Don’t forget to sample the state drink, Apfelwein, which closely resembles apple cider. The Sachsenhausen area of is probably the best and most famous area for consuming Apfelwein. It’s known as the Apfelweinviertel or “Apple Wine Quarter” because of the number of Apfelweinlokale (apple wine pubs)! Go traditionalist and drink it straight.
Prost!
