Try multiple types of chocolate in Frankfurt. ( LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS-Adobe Stock )
This ultra-modern city boasting one of Europe’s most skyscraper-dotted skylines recently transformed its lackluster inner core into a stunning Old Town, giving those who haven’t been there in a while good reason to schedule a return visit.
Forays into any new town are often at their best when they center around a landmark, event or quest for a certain item. My most recent visit took me on a search for the city’s best chocolate, and I’m happy to report on my discovery of these three gems:
Bitter & Zart: This independent chocolate shop in the newly renovated Altstadt opened in 2003. In its cute and cozy interior, patrons will find shelves stacked high with a mouth-watering assortment of bars, candies and pralines. The wares are a mix of in-house production and goodies imported from all over Europe. Here, the service was friendly and competent, although no samples were offered. The pralines I took homemade for a gorgeous, gooey treat. Next door, the plush, 1920s-inspired vintage salon of the same name serves coffee, tea and delicious patisserie. While it’s so popular it can be hard to get a seat, it’s worth the wait. Their thick, rich hot chocolate is a rare and decadent treat.
Läderach: This Swiss chain is conveniently located on Zeil, Frankfurt’s famous shopping street. Upon entry into its sleek and spacious premises, one of its friendly staffers approached me with a tray upon which some eight various truffles rested, and I happily plucked out one of these cocoa-y, buttery, treats. My take-home selection of caramel and pistachio pralines didn’t disappoint either. The complimentary chocolate heart tucked aside my luxuriously boxed and bagged order was one of those extra touches that set a visit to this shop apart. Another trip to Frankfurt just for a second round of those wonderful truffles is definitely in order.
Konditorei Chocolaterie Opitz: This independent chocolatier has been making Frankfurt’s city life sweeter since 1878 when previous generations set up shop. Centrally located but tucked away on a not-so-heavily foot trafficked side street, the compact shop offers artfully arranged walls of chocolatey indulgence and an eye-catching selection of creamy gateaux. The complimentary praline I was offered had a subtle hint of cinnamon and a liqueur whose taste I recognized but couldn’t quite identify? The proprietress smiled encouragingly but gave nothing away. Again, my take-away pralines went down a treat – and all too quickly. This shop also runs a café right around the corner, which I look forward to visiting on my next chocolate-fueled exploration of Frankfurt.
