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Guide to International Cuisine in Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt, a cosmopolitan hub in the heart of Europe, is not only a financial center but also a melting pot of cultures. This diversity is reflected in its vibrant food scene, which offers a wide range of international cuisines. Whether you're craving authentic Italian pizza, spicy Indian curries, or exotic Japanese sushi, Frankfurt has something for everyone. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the city's international dining scene.

1. Popular Types of International Cuisine in Frankfurt

Frankfurt's international food scene is vast, but some cuisines stand out due to their popularity and availability:

Italian Cuisine: Pizza, pasta, and gelato are staples in Frankfurt, with many authentic Italian trattorias and pizzerias.
Asian Cuisine: Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Korean, and Vietnamese restaurants are abundant, offering everything from sushi to pho.
Middle Eastern Cuisine: Lebanese, Turkish, and Persian restaurants are popular, serving dishes like kebabs, falafel, and hummus.
Indian Cuisine: A variety of Indian restaurants cater to both North and South Indian tastes, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
American Cuisine: Burgers, BBQ, and Tex-Mex are widely available, often with a German twist.
African Cuisine: Ethiopian and Moroccan restaurants are gaining popularity, offering unique flavors and communal dining experiences.
Latin American Cuisine: Mexican, Peruvian, and Brazilian restaurants bring vibrant flavors to the city.

2. Recommended Restaurants

Here are some top-rated international restaurants in Frankfurt, categorized by cuisine:

Italian

Pizzeria Montana: Known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas with fresh ingredients.
Price Range: €10–€15 per pizza.
Location: Oeder Weg 30, 60318 Frankfurt.
Tip: Arrive early as it’s a small, popular spot.
Ristorante A Casa di Tomilaia: Offers upscale Italian dining with a focus on Tuscan cuisine.
Price Range: €20–€40 per main course.
Location: Oeder Weg 92, 60318 Frankfurt.

Japanese

Moriki: A trendy spot for sushi and modern Japanese fusion dishes.
Price Range: €20–€50 per person.
Location: Taunusanlage 12, 60325 Frankfurt.
Tip: Perfect for a stylish night out; reservations recommended.
Iroha: A more traditional Japanese restaurant offering sushi, ramen, and bento boxes.
Price Range: €15–€30 per person.
Location: Vilbeler Str. 27, 60313 Frankfurt.

Middle Eastern

Aroma: A casual Lebanese eatery famous for its falafel and shawarma.
Price Range: €5–€15 per meal.
Location: Münchener Str. 52, 60329 Frankfurt.
Tip: Great for a quick, affordable meal near the main train station.
Zarges: A Persian restaurant offering flavorful stews and kebabs.
Price Range: €15–€30 per person.
Location: Kaiserhofstr. 12, 60313 Frankfurt.

Indian

EatDOORI: A modern Indian street food concept with vibrant decor.
Price Range: €10–€20 per person.
Location: Kaiserstraße 55, 60329 Frankfurt.
Tip: Try their butter chicken or mango lassi.
Namaste India: A more traditional Indian restaurant with a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
Price Range: €15–€25 per person.
Location: Mainzer Landstraße 193, 60326 Frankfurt.

Mexican

La Mex Lounge: A lively spot for tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas.
Price Range: €10–€20 per person.
Location: Hanauer Landstraße 192, 60314 Frankfurt.
Chipotle Mexican Grill: A fast-casual option for burritos and bowls.
Price Range: €8–€15 per meal.
Location: Zeil 106, 60313 Frankfurt.

African

Im Herzen Afrikas: A unique Ethiopian restaurant with floor seating and communal platters.
Price Range: €15–€25 per person.
Location: Gutleutstraße 13, 60329 Frankfurt.
Tip: Try the injera (sourdough flatbread) with a variety of stews.
Restaurant Maroc: Specializes in Moroccan tagines and couscous dishes.
Price Range: €15–€30 per person.
Location: Berger Str. 238, 60385 Frankfurt.

3. Average Costs

Casual Dining: €10–€20 per person (e.g., falafel, pizza, or ramen).
Mid-Range Restaurants: €20–€40 per person (e.g., sushi, Indian curries, or Italian pasta).
Fine Dining: €50+ per person (e.g., upscale Japanese or Italian).

4. Dining Customs in Frankfurt

Reservations: For popular restaurants, especially fine dining or trendy spots, reservations are highly recommended.
Tipping: It is customary to tip around 5–10% of the bill. You can round up the total or hand the tip directly to the server.
Payment: Many restaurants accept credit cards, but smaller establishments may prefer cash. Always check beforehand.
Dining Hours: Lunch is typically served from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM, and dinner starts around 6:00 PM. Some restaurants close between lunch and dinner.
Sharing: Sharing dishes is common in Middle Eastern, Indian, and African restaurants, where meals are often served family-style.

5. Local Tips and Considerations

Multilingual Menus: Most international restaurants in Frankfurt offer menus in both German and English, but it’s helpful to know basic German food terms.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Many international restaurants cater to vegetarians and vegans. Look for dishes labeled "vegetarisch" or "vegan."
Street Food: For a quick and affordable taste of international cuisine, visit the Kleinmarkthalle (small market hall) or food trucks around the city.
Cultural Festivals: Frankfurt hosts various food festivals throughout the year, such as the Rheingau Wine Festival and the Frankfurt Multicultural Festival, where you can sample international dishes.

6. Conclusion

Frankfurt’s international dining scene is as diverse as its population, offering a culinary journey around the world without leaving the city. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or an upscale dining experience, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your taste and budget. By following local customs and exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, you can enjoy a memorable dining experience in Frankfurt. Bon appétit—or as the locals say, Guten Appetit!