Apfelwein Wagner

In Frankfurt, apfelwein is as popular as kölsch is in Cologne, and you shouldn't be surprised to see numerous pubs where this apple based wine is the favoured drink. Adolf Wagner is one of the city's oldest apfelwein houses, a family run business that has been around from 1931, although their reputation is based primarily on the creation of a fabulous, contemporary restaurant with good food and drink, and not just on past laurels.

Long wooden benches line the walls, while murals lend a rustic feel, perhaps a look that is carelessly contrived as a concession to the numerous tourists that throng here. Seating options include a warmed winter garden where you can relax with friends over a delicious meal and a bembel of apple wine. The bembel, a traditional off-white and blue pitcher, is used to serve apfelwein and is never far from  the hands of the friendly waiters who are ever ready to replenish your glass.

Wagner is renowned for their reasonably priced food and popular dishes there include bratwurst with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes and the wiener schnitzel, breaded veal slice with fried potatoes and salad. The menu lets you choose from beef, pork, veal and sausages and the dishes in each section are well thought out, providing a mix of traditional favourites and some innovations that reflect the local tastes, as well.

Frankfurt specialities on the menu are bound to induce hunger pangs, particularly if you are fond of grilled spare ribs or pork shoulder, while cold dishes such as handkäse mit musik, regional cheese with oil, vinegar and chopped onions along with bread and butter hold their own appeal. If you are visiting in summer, then do try the sausage salad or the sülze, diced meat in aspic, with marinated onions for a refreshingly different take on German specialities

There is good news for any vegetarians who may be accompanying you, or possibly even yourself; just try the fried feta cheese with olives, pepperonis, onions and bread or  the vegetable patties with herbed sour cream and salad.

If you are not too keen on sipping apfelwein throughout your meal, you could choose from a number of German and French wines, while spirits and non alcoholic drinks are also there for your pleasure. What you won't find is beer, but the huge number of alternatives makes up admirably for any disappointment you might feel.

Desserts include the famed apple strudel or the homemade red fruit pudding, both with ice cream and you will be hard pressed to find another more fitting way to end such a hearty meal!