“Eis” in Germany (Deutschland) has two meanings: ice and ice-cream. However, when you ask for an “eis” in an “eiscafe” get ready to feast your eyes on some of the most creative, colourful and scrumptious ice-cream treats of the likes you’ve never seen.
Of course, Frankfurt has their share of a multitude of eiscafes. There is not one main street or a side street where an eiscafe is non-existent. Eiscafes are like donut shops in the U.S. and Canada – they are everywhere. Funny thing too, they are always in season. No one reserves just summers to enjoy an “eis”.
Finding the best eiscafe is like choosing the most beautiful German woman. It’s impossible! Rather than picking the best venue, we decided to give tips on which locations may be ideal for enjoying these delicious concoctions.
If you like being surrounded by other cafe-like tables amongst a sea of umbrellas and “people watching” is one of your hobbies, then Paulsplatz by Paulskirche (Pauls Church) is the place for you. You can’t miss it. From the Zeil, in front of Galleria Kaufhof, just head on down towards the Burger King, keep going till you come to a street. Across from that street is Paulsplatz. You’ll know once you see a large area of cafe tables underneath sun umbrellas. Watch where you choose to sit though. Different venues each have their own section of this “cafe table courtyard”. Depending on how busy each venue is, you might need to flag down a waiter or waitress. But don’t wonder if you see someone serving other people that came after you, they probably belong to the cafe beside yours and in that case, will not take your order.
If you’re a non-smoker and really do not like the smell of smoke then try to sit at a table towards the outside or preferably away from the direction of the wind. If not, you might not fully enjoy your time. Just saying.
Would you like a more neighbourhood feel with a touch of trendy, where young couples and young people in general are often seen relaxing and enjoying getting together with their friends or dates? A stroll along Bornheim’s Berger Strasse would give you just that. This street is considered to be the longest shopping street in Frankfurt – 2.9 km. Despite the “longest shopping street” label, Berger Strasse runs down the middle of one of Frankfurt’s most popular neighbourhoods and is lined with a wide selection of cafes that serve “eis”. You may want to take a relaxing stroll up Berger Strasse just to see which eiscafe would suit your mood. It might be a little hard keeping your wallet in your pocket though, because you’l be passing so many interesting boutiques and gift shops.
If you would much rather enjoy your “eis” with a breathtaking view of the Taunus, then a few kilometers away from the city of Frankfurt is Kronberg. A charming area nestled on the Taunus mountains. Berliner Platz, runs right down the centre of the main part of Kronberg. Branching off are smaller streets where you can find eiscafes hidden between the many boutique shops and restaurants. Make sure to take the time to stroll through Kronberg’s cobbled streets. These small cobbled streets separate some of the most charming and original houses ever. You’ll need your camera as you find yourself in awe of how each house has a different facade, graced with beautiful potted gardens.
Across the Main River in Sachsenhausen:
If you head on past Paulsplatz towards the Main River, you’ll see bridges taking you to the southern side of Frankfurt – Sachsenhausen. Known for its original Apfelwein (apple wine, a popular Frankfurt beverage), Sachsenhausen offers its share of eiscafes as well. Once you get across the river you’ll land on a street called Schaumankai. This street is known for its row of museums. If you love museums and couldn’t get enough of them on the northern side of the Main River, then you’ll probably find yourself visiting one or two before enjoying your “eis”. If you happen to visit on the “every other Saturday” then you might find yourself amidst a Flohmarkt (Fleamarket). Make sure you head towards the centre of Sachsenhausen, only a few hundred meters away from the Main River. One street you would definitely need to stroll down is Schweizer Strasse. Go ahead and detour off the many streets that branch off Schweizer Strasse to see more interesting finds.
