Where locals actually eat — by neighborhood, budget, and what to order.
Flavia Voican · Updated April 14, 2026 · Frankfurt, GermanySome links are affiliate links. Learn more.
Frankfurt may not be the first German city that comes to mind when thinking about food, but its cuisine is a compelling mix of hearty regional specialties and global influences. You must try the Frankfurter Würstchen (the city’s original bratwurst), Nudelmosch (noodle stew), and Grünkohl (sauerkraut with pork), often served with dark rye and a shot of Korn. Prices are honest — a main dish at a local Imbiss costs €10-12, and a full three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant rarely exceeds €30.
Sachsenhausen is the city’s most historic and tourist-friendly district, but it also has some of the best Imbisse (fast food counters) and cozy wine bars. Look for the Frankfurter Würstchen at the famous Imbiß Kitzinger Hof (not invented), or enjoy a glass of Riesling at a wine bar with a view of the Main River. Budget €10-15 for a satisfying meal.
Bockenheim is a laid-back, student-heavy neighborhood with a strong Turkish influence. It’s a great place to grab a fresh döner kebab or lazanya from one of the family-run eateries. The area thrives at night, with many spots opening after 8 PM. Expect to pay €8-12 for a kebab and €15-20 for a full Turkish meal.
Bornheim is Frankfurt’s version of a village within the city — quieter, greener, and with a strong regional German food scene. You’ll find traditional Kneipen (pubs) serving Grünkohl, Sauerbraten, and Leberkäse. It’s best to visit on a Saturday afternoon when the locals are out. Prices are reasonable, with mains around €12-16.
Nordend is the heart of Frankfurt’s dining scene — upscale, diverse, and full of hidden gems. Here, you’ll find everything from fine dining to casual bistros. The best time to visit is Thursday or Friday, when many locals come out to enjoy the quieter, more personal atmosphere. Mains in nicer restaurants range from €20-35.
This is the city’s original bratwurst — grilled, smoky, and served with mustard and rye bread. You’ll find the best versions in Sachsenhausen and at the Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt (if you’re visiting in December). A street-level serving costs €5-7.
A traditional noodle stew made with smoked pork, onions, and a rich broth. It’s a local favorite, especially in Bornheim and Bockenheim. Look for it on lunch menus — it’s hearty and filling for €10-14.
A green cabbage dish, often served with pork belly and a shot of Korn to help digestion. It’s a seasonal dish, best had in winter. You’ll find it in many traditional Kneipen, especially in Bornheim and around the Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt.
A spiced meatloaf, usually grilled and served with mustard and rye. It’s a staple in the region and often mistaken for a type of cheese. Look for it in Kneipen in the Nordend area, and expect to pay €8-12 for a plate.
A larger, softer bratwurst with a high cheese content, often served with sauerkraut. It’s popular at markets and Imbisse in Sachsenhausen. A street-level serving is around €6-8.
A sweet apple wine, typically served in a tall glass and paired with grilled sausages. It’s a local specialty and best had in the summer. You’ll find it in many bars in Sachsenhausen and Nordend. A glass costs €5-8.
Pork ribs with potatoes, a simple but delicious dish. It’s often found in family-run restaurants in Bockenheim and Bornheim. A plate with sides costs around €14-18.
A rich, layered pasta dish with meat and béchamel. It’s a Turkish-German hybrid and a staple in Bockenheim. Expect to pay €10-14 for a portion in a casual restaurant.
| Meal type | Est. cost | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Street food / market | €5-10 | *Würstchen*, *Käsekrainer*, *döner*, *Nudelmosch* |
| Casual sit-down | €10-18 | *Leberkäse*, *Rippchen*, *Lazanya*, simple mains |
| Mid-range restaurant | €15-30 | Regional dishes, pasta, seafood in Nord |