A seat at the Oben table with Iñigo Urrechu
It’s written that Inigo doesn’t have restaurants rather he has houses where he welcomes friends. And true to this statement this is how he welcomed us to his newest ‘house’ Oben on 15th Floor of the Melia City Hotel Frankfurt to interview him! He greats us with a warm brilliant smile, a generous handshake and a twinkle in his eyes! With an openness that immediately puts everyone at ease, we sat down to ‘chat’!
This man has definitely done this before. And to say that he has done this before is perhaps the understatement of the year. Not only has Urrechu been in the restaurant business for almost as long as he could walk but he has 8 restaurants under his belt. 7 in Spain, and now one in Germany. As a celebrity chef and media personality he is a much loved household name in much of Spain.
Without a doubt what is clear from the moment you meet Inigo is that he is passionate about family, and his family extends to those who work and eat in his restaurants.
So, who is the man behind the Urrechu name?
Originally from Villarreal de Urrechu, Iñigo Pérez began his culinary journey at a very young age. The youngest of three boys he was often thought to be a nuisance by his older brothers when they played outside on the street with their friends. And so as a result, spent much time at home alongside his parents learning the tricks of the cooking trade. Undoubtedly he was a ‘seedling’ being showered with gastronomical passion and know how, left slowly to bloom into a entrepreneur, restauranteur and international chef!
A nickname is often synonymous with endearment, so how did Iñigo Perreira become Urrechu?
Well, at the age of 17 and with the blessing of his mother, Iñigo Perez set off to work under Martín Berasategui. And it was here one day that Berasategui passionately asked the young Iñigo where he was from. Villarreal de Urretxu came the response. Realising he had no idea where that was, Barasategui smiled, and in that moment ‘Urrechu’ was born. Years later that name hangs on the wall of 7 of his 8 restaurants. So what perhaps only began as a whim has gone on to define Iñigo Perez forever.
This is Urrechu’s first venture outside of Spain. What drew him to Germany and Frankfurt?
Curiously, Iñigo’s love of sport and running brought him to Germany and Frankfurt. First running the Berlin marathon and then secondly competing in the Frankfurt ironman. Germany he says excitedly has all the things he love’s in his life, a rich history and culture, gastronomy and of course sport!
He elaborates more and says if cities have restaurants that are rich in recipes, wines and cocktails it means the city demands it. In other words the people demand it, they welcome it. This is of course something that really appeals to him.
Urrechu is known to refer to his restaurants as ‘houses where he receives friends’. Why?
He elaborates saying that cooking for someone is one of the biggest expressions of love. It’s more than filling their belly, it’s to make them smile, to connect with them to nourish them. Moreover people head out to restaurants not only to eat but also to celebrate, to connect with friends, to laugh, to cry. In essence, people trust you with intimate moments in their lives. And for this reason it is so much more than just a meal, more than a restaurant it is a ‘home’.
Furthermore, those in the gastronomy industry have gruelling hours and so it is important to Urrechu that all those that work in his businesses feel and are treated like family.
Iñigo Urrechu
Javier Barros
Javier Barros, Urrechu’s right hand man who makes Oben tick
Urrechu and Barros are very good friends having known and worked together for many years. Undeniably important is having someone you trust to run and support you in business. And Urrechu has this in Barros. For Barros having lived and worked all over Europe this was an incredible opportunity to not only come full circle to where he lived as a child but to oversee and run an important house.
Having come to Germany at the tender age of 3 months and spending most of his childhood here, he provides the vital insider knowledge. Barros was instrumental in the development of the menu. Understanding the culture, the language, the taste, all the ingredients needed to be a successful restaurant in Frankfurt. The importance of getting the Spanish Kitchen and German Kitchen aligned was not lost on Urrechu. And Urrechu credits Barros as being ‘the heart of the project’.
The Oben family under the guidance of Barros and Urrechu
Urrechu’s eye beam with pride as he talks about the team who began this project still being the very same team today. Often, he explains, starting any new venture is difficult and there are often many casualties in the process. However, he smiles, ‘we are still the same team’ and that is amazing.
The admiration each of the men have for each other is easily seen and therefore easy to understand why Oben restaurant and skybar has been so welcomed by Frankfurters and travellers alike.
For both men family is everything, and when you spend so many hours working, those you work with become your family! Their passion is palpable and even more than this is that passion has filtered through to all aspects of the restaurant and staff.
The Inspiration behind your new house’s name, Oben?
It began as a joke or rather a play on words. A name that was almost a word in both German and English. Oben in German meaning up. And Oven (tweak the b) meaning, well, oven in English.
Are Seasonality and Local Produce key to the menu?
Yes of course! For two reasons, one, flavour and perfume. And two, price of course. However, Oben is first and foremost a Spanish restaurant and therefore require many ingredients that may not be readily available in Germany. For example octopus may not best be served from the Main. However as mentioned previously the goal is to use the best quality products, support the local economy as much as possible but remain true to Spanish flavours.
Urrechu is an avid runner and sportsman. Does this influence how and what he cooks?
In a word, YES. When he runs or exercises it’s his time to decompress to relax and to be inpired. With an incredibly sensitive sense of smell he takes in his surroundings through fragrance and perfume. Hints of blackberry, lemongrass or the smell of the spice market as he ran in Dubai are all sources of inspiration that shape the idea of a dish or inspire a new one. He continues to say that it is not blood that runs through his veins but rather rosemary, sage and thyme!
Are Michelin Stars on the Menu for the Future?
Two things that are very clear when you meet Iñigo Urrechu. One, he is incredibly passionate and loves what he does. But two, he is businessman. As he puts it ‘a man has to be able to live’ and you can’t eat the stars. Of course receiving a Michelin star (or two or three) is of the highest honour. However he goes on to say, these are often small restaurants with high price tag meals and often not as profitable as their larger cousins who are just as focused on quality and flavour but more patrons and table turnover. So, for now he loves the crowds and the laughter, the ambience they create and of course that they give him the financial means to reinvent Urrechu with new ventures.
If you were not a chef what would you be?
Ask this question and it might be one of the few ways to leave Iñigo Urrechu completely speechless. He tells the story of being asked this by a journalist a few years back and being completely stumped for at least a minute. And, after pondering for a while he decided that if he weren’t a chef it would still be something within the gastronomy world. Ultimately the rosemary, thyme and garlic run too strong within his veins!
Without a double Urrechu and Barros have their philosophy instilled in the every fibre of Oben! Because, we felt truly welcomed! And we felt we were old friends around a table. Laughter, joking and total ease was how it began and how it ended!
Meliá Frankfurt City Hotel
The Meliá Frankfurt City Hotel rises up 140 metres above the beautiful tree line Senkenbergeanlage and alongside the historic Senkenberg Museum. And it should come as no surprise that with a height like that, that this iconic glass tower offers up breathtaking views over the Frankfurt skyline. Also worth mentioning now – a meal or cocktail in the Oben Restaurant and Skybar (16th floor) is an absolute must for both Frankfurters and travellers alike! Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 380 hotels around the world. And its continued commitment to responsible tourism led it to be named the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe in 2020, according to the SAM Corporate Sustainability Assessment. A muted colour palette and monochrome furnishings are punctuated with vibrant greenery which beautifully soften the clean lines. Undoubtedly too, the lighting is very cleverly used to not only illuminate but create statement pieces within their own right throughout the hotel. As mentioned earlier, the view is absolutely phenomenal! And with the floor to ceiling glass windows you can truly immerse yourself in it! Now if you can, steal yourself away from the skyline for moment and drink in the pop art that drips from the walls! Without a doubt Nathali von Kretschtmann’s art works make for worthy opponents battling the view for your attention. Also equally important as the ambience and setting, are the staff! And throughout our stay we can honestly say we could not fault them. From check in to checkout they were incredibly efficient, friendly and attentive. What a pleasure Meliá have made working out when you are away from home! Honestly, hotel gyms often seem like a second thought hidden somewhere in the basement with a token treadmill and few dusty dumbbells if you lucky! We were delighted to find that this was not the case at Meliá!! Not only is the gym well kitted out, but, the Sauna and wellness area is calming with gorgeous views and plenty of space to relax and decompress! Without a doubt the location and incredible views over the city are two of Meliá Frankfurt City Hotel’s biggest draw cards. So it should come as no surprise that each of the hotel’s 431 rooms and suites come with floor-to-ceiling windows giving iconic views over the city skyline and mountains beyond. Many rooms also feature a private balcony. And all rooms come with stylish, minimalist design and amenities including flat-screen TVs. The Level is the perfect choice for guests wanting a more private and a exclusive experience. It includes superior rooms, bespoke service and an enhanced staff attention. Additional exclusive areas include a separate reception and lounge, this includes snacks and drinks that guests can enjoy throughout the day. Also worth noting, The Level guests can enjoy their breakfast here each morning in a more relaxed and intimate setting. Just like the rest of the hotel, the conference and business centre has been well thought out! With no less than 1,400 sq m of adaptable event space and meeting rooms there is plenty of room to manage all business affairs. The hotel’s meeting rooms have high ceilings and state-of-the-art technology making them a pleasure to work in. Furthermore, much of the space can be flexibly combined or sectioned to meet the party size and event requirements.
So whilst it may not bare the famous Urrechu in the name, there is no doubt that it is an Iñigo Urrechu venture. And with Eddy O’Brien managing it, the bar and restaurant is in very safe hands. Also the wine list and cocktail menu was developed as rigorously as the food menu! So whether you are after a perfectly paired 3 course meal or cocktails overlooking the beautiful skyline Oben definitely delivers! Good to know
Meliá Frankfurt City Senckenberganlage 13, 60325 Frankfurt am MainAbout the Meliá Brand
The Vibe
Gym and Wellness Area
The Rooms
The Level
State of the Art Conference and Business Centre
The Restaurant, Bar and Mixology
Address:
Oben, Restaurant and Skybar
Oben Restaurant and Skybar gives you a perfect view of Frankfurt’s unique and beautiful skyline as it sits perfectly nestled high up amongst the soaring rooftops. With undeniably breathtaking views over the city and the vibrant Mediterranean colours and flavour, it makes for a visual feast both on and off the plate. So, whilst Oben may not feature the famous Urrechu calling card, Iñigo Urrechu’s philosophy and style are unmistakably stamped all over Oben Restaurant and Skybar! Drawn to the German culture and cuisine, this marks Urrechu’s first venture outside of Spain! Iñigo Urrechu is famously quoted as saying, ‘I don’t have restaurants, I have houses where I welcome friends’. And having met Urrechu, his right-hand man Javier Barros, and the staff, this very much rings true! As they all not only seem to embrace this philosophy but embody it. So, forget pretentious posturing and overpriced food; instead, find food that’s designed to be shared and created to connect! Equally important as the staff are the ambience and setting! As mentioned above, the view is absolutely phenomenal! And with the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, you can truly immerse yourself in it! Now, steal yourself away from the skyline and drink in the pop art that drips from the walls! Without a doubt, Nathali von Kretschtmann’s artworks make for a worthy opponent battling for your attention. Of course, as you would expect, the menu features Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. But let’s not forget we are in Frankfurt; the chefs have added definite German ‘touches’ to many of the dishes to remind us! For instance, they add a dash of Grüne Soße here and a splash of Reisling there; however, this never comes at the expense of balance! Some dishes exhibit a wonderful playfulness, while others possess a depth that one expects from a restaurant of this calibre. Some of our favourite dishes were the Beetroot tartare as an appetiser. Oh my goodness, this elevated beetroot to a level I never thought possible, balancing the bitterness perfectly with the richness of the avocado! For the main course, the chefs top the beef fillet with grilled avo and vine tomatoes! Admittedly, I hold my hands up here because if beef fillet is on the menu, I rarely choose anything else! Having said that, the chefs cooked it to perfection, with the vine cherry tomatoes serving as the perfect pop of deliciousness to cut through the richness of the avocado! Finally, for dessert, the Mango Cake! Now, I am not a dessert person! But this was quite literally a mouthful of sunshine with a twist of sour that left me considering another!
With Eddy O’Brien at the helm, the bar and restaurant are in very safe hands. And the wine list and cocktail menu was developed as rigorously as the food menu! So whether you are after a perfectly paired 3-course meal or cocktails overlooking the beautiful skyline, Oben definitely delivers! Located in Meliá Frankfurt City Tuesday – Saturday: 6pm – 12amThe Story behind Oben Restaurant and Skybar
The Vibe
The Menu
The Bar and Mixology
Address:
Senckenberganlage 13,
60325 Frankfurt am MainHours:
Sunday & Monday: Closed
What’s for Dinner FFM
What’s for Dinner?? How many times a week do we ask this question?? And how many times do we wish there was someone else to answer it for us? Well, now there is!! What’s for Dinner is a personal chef service that is not only full of flavour but full of personality too! And let me tell you once you meet Alessandra and Cristina and taste their food you’ll find yourself wishing they popped round and answered this question for you every single night and then prepared it! Alessandra D’Orsi and Cristina Sommella are the power house duo behind this amazing service! Essentially they bring you restaurant style service and food directly in your home and kitchen. And like so many others, the pandemic served as the catalyst to combine their passion and skills and create a business that literally leaves your mouth watering. Initially they were only sharing recipes and meal inspiration on their social media accounts. However, they soon realised as a result of the seemly never ending lockdown restrictions, people were desperately missing restaurants and moreover the restaurant experience. In short, ’Leave it all to Alessendra and Cristina’ would best describe the essence of the What’s for Dinner service. Of course however, the initial menu decision is a collaborative process between you and the WFD team! Also, they will organise a walk through of your kitchen to familiarise and ensure they have all the essentials for creating your menu of choice. Worth noting, Italian and Mediterranean food and flavours are what truly inspire Cristina’s cooking and the WFD service. Moreover fresh ingredients, subtle but beautiful flavours and vibrant colours are the foundation of the simple and utterly delicious dishes that Cristina creates! So, while Christina is whipping up a flavour storm in your kitchen Alessandra is taking care of every other detail! Namely everything from laying the table to chilling the wine and ensuring the dish arrives perfectly before you to savour and enjoy! Want to take your home cooking to the next level? Well, perhaps a cooking class with Cristina will be just what your culinary skills need! For Italians food is more than just cooking, it’s sharing, it’s the opportunity to connect and it’s love! So, let Christina not only ‘infuse’ you with new cooking techniques but also with the passion she has for the food the she prepares!The Story behind What’s for Dinner
The Personal Chef Concept and Menu
Cooking Classes
Dalgona Cafe
Just off the Oberursel main drag you’ll find Dalgona Cafe. A cafe that took me on an unexpected trip back to my childhood with it’s signature drink! Namely, the Dalgona latte, a latte topped with shards of deliriously sweet Dalgona sponge candy. And just to clarify, it was the shards of Dalgona sponge candy that sent me back not the latte. Of course, growing up in South Africa I knew nothing of Dalgona per say, for me I knew only the sweetness of honeycomb sweets and the inside of a Cadbury crunchie chocolate bar. A leap of faith. Well, let’s just say Dalgona Cafe has this running through every aspect of it’s existence, spirit and story! And, I am absolutely taken by the story Jeong ho and Eunae Kim tell. In 2019 they packed their bags and left Korea behind. Despite never having visited and knowing very little about the country they headed for Germany. Driven only by a deep love and a wish for their children to experience an education and life different than their own. So, armed with 10 years of experience working in Starbucks and a dream the Dalgona Cafe was born! Admittedly it wasn’t always smooth sailing it took 6 months before they found the right space and they opened right before the pandemic struck. But, two years down the line the Dalgona Lattes are coming out hot and fast and their popularity is growing! Finally, a note on the name, Dalgona is a word that is easily pronounced in German and English and we love that 🙂 Relaxed and easy going with a modern interior. Honey coloured wood tables are perfectly contrasted with black feature walls and gorgeous floral wall paper. To offset the black, plants and greenery feature heavily throughout the space. As previously mentioned their signature drink is the Dalgona Latte which is served both hot or cold, perfect for both winter and summer. Along with a fairly extensive selection of other sweet treats you will find a small selection of savoury dishes made to order. And rest assured you will not be disappointed with the portion side! Finally, much of the inspiration for the menu comes from Eunae’s children, favouring the dishes that they most love to eat!. Good to know
Camp-King-Allee 6, 61440 Oberursel (Taunus) Tuesday – Friday: 9am – 6pm Additional Info: instagramThe Story behind Dalgona Cafe
The Vibe
The Menu
Address:
Hours:
Saturday: 10am – 6pm
Learn to ski in Germany
The valleys and hills are covered in a thick blanket of snow, and the tree branches long since barren, reach up to the sky. Wooden-clad houses pepper the hillsides and the village church steeples contrast against the sky. Moreover, the sheer absence of colour creates an almost black-and-white image in my mind’s eye! Puffs of white steam escape from everyone’s lips as they brave the cold to hit the slopes! Finally, I look and -11 registers on the dashboard, leaving me to wonder, why on earth I ever decided to learn to ski in Germany?
Leave Frankfurt and in under 2 hours, you can reach the outskirts of the forest that once ignited the imaginations of the Brothers Grimm! Although in fairness, during the winter months, it has more of a CS Lewis feel than the Brothers Grimm. Venture yet further inwards and you’ll find yourself at the foot of the Feldberg where you are free to carve up the slopes and ski to your heart’s content.
So whilst we have also skied in the Winterberg I will focus here on the more popular and larger Feldberg in Black Forest.
Our Family Formula for Learning to Ski in Germany
Simply put, our family ski formula is as follows
Happiness = SKI in the morning + ADVENTURE in the afternoon
Particularly in the beginning of my kids learning to ski (they are 9 and 8) I felt a morning of ski lessons followed by something fun in the afternoon (invariably meant snowball fights) was the way to go! And in our case, this worked perfectly! By the second morning of ski lessons they were on the ‘green slope’ and by the fourth, they were on the blue! Now, I must point out, that this was my kid’s learning curve and not mine! My learning trajectory is far more flat and A LOT slower! Oh, how I wish I could have learned as a child!
SKI in the morning, so, which SKI school?
Well, there is no shortage of SKI schools to choose from, but, we have been to the Black Forest three times and each time we have chosen Thoma. Why? Perhaps it’s because we are creatures of habit or perhaps it’s because each time they have provided an easy and great service! And let’s just say for an ‘old dog’ trying to learn ‘new tricks’ those things are vital!
As I mentioned we’ve just been back for our third visit and I finally feel like skiing without fear and terror is actually on the cards! And the idea of heading head first down a hill isn’t completely against every fibre in my being anymore. The instructors are incredibly varied in their teaching approaches, which I find incredibly helpful because I learned something new with each one. Meaning that sometimes I needed more instruction and other times I just needed to be taken further up the hill and told to just give it a go! However, having said all that, one thing that never wavered was how kind and patient they all were!
Furthermore, the facilities and teaching style for the kids was great! And truth be told, I was a little jealous of the tiny escalator the kids had to take them back up the slope each time (the side stepping up the hill each time is a killer!). Step-by-step progression before they are finally taken up onto the slopes. Lines of little ninja warrior skiers snaking their way through the slopes led by their competent instructors are quite something to watch! And this left me more determined than ever to battle and master my plough, make it out of the nursery slope and finally learn to ski 😂
ADVENTURE in the afternoons
There is an absolute plethora of things to do in and around Feldberg in the Black Forest. And thank goodness for that because I was nowhere near ready to ski all day and on our first two visits neither were my boys! So, I decided to find other activities for the afternoons and get us home early in the evening ready to collapse straight into bed for a good night’s sleep!
The Lakes – Titisee and Schlusee
Perfect for a walk after a morning of skiing and a hearty lunch! Depending on your energy levels Lake Schlusee has a 19km loop that you can do, obviously, with two young boys we chose to only walk a small section stopping intermittently for snowball fights!
Todtnau Tobbogan
For a slightly different take on seeing the mountain, try this rail-guided toboggan ride down! Perfect for speed junkies and thrill seekers!
Treetop Walk, Bad Wildbad
A treetop walk with a slide!! Forget boring observation decks with nothing but glorious views 😜. In the summer months, you can walk up and slide all the way down for an extra €2. However, it’s worth mentioning the observation deck is 40m up so the slide is not for the faint-hearted. On clear days, you can see as far as the Kraichgau, the Stuttgart TV Tower and the Swabian Alb.
Good to know:
- Find the current snow reports for Feldberg in Black Forest
- Webcams for Feldberg in Black Forest
So, on that note, I wish you many hours of successful skiing but a stone’s throw from our Frankfurt doorstep!!! Also, for more on what to do in winter in and around Frankfurt check out our list of things here
Sofia’s Cafe Hofheim
This gloriously quaint cafe is tucked away on one of the cobbled streets of Hofheim. Sofia’s cafe is an absolute delight for the imagination! Sofia’s Cafe is not just a clever name; it is, in fact, the owner’s namesake. And as the story goes, Sofia’s began as a passion and love for cooking and baking and transformed into two very successful cafes! One in Königstein is currently seeing a revamp and menu overhaul and will be fresh and new in April. And another in Hofheim resulted from a serendipitous coming together of like-hearted people. You see, Sofia is a collector, a collector of items from a bygone era! And, it was finally in Hofheim that she could fully realise her vision to bring together her passion for baking and cooking and her love for antiques! Chandeliers descend from the ceilings, tapestries hang from the walls, and the bell tinkles each time a new customer opens the door. Finely painted tea cup towers greet you from the far wall as you enter, and rest assured, so will Sofia if she isn’t predisposed. Once inside, feel free to tuck yourself away either upstairs or downstairs or otherwise settle in on the main landing and soak in the hustle and bustle as people come and go. Also, large exposed wooden beams and brick walls add to the feel. Finally, an emerald green alcove adorned with gilded gold frame mirrors and a basin with copper faucet serves as the powder room, making your ‘visit’ all the more enjoyable. There is plenty of deliciousness on the menu, ranging from sublimely sweet to stupendously savoury. The teacup towers that stack along the wall are not just for show but the vessels that you sip the fairly extensive tea list. Also, the Korean influence shines through in many of the dishes, for example, the bulgogi panini and salad. However, we cannot talk about Sofia’s without talking about the cakes and, in particular, the carrot cake, perfectly moist, nicely balanced and with the perfect amount of creamy icing! Burgstraße 7 65719 Hofheim am Taunus Wednesday – Saturday: 10am – 5:30pmThe Story of Sofia’s Cafe
The Vibe
The Menu
Address:
Hours:
Sunday: 11:30am – 17:30pm
IIMORI Patisserie
From the streets of the old Aldstadt take a step inside a world of perfect French Japanese fusion and be delighted by what you find in this unique French patisserie. Chandeliers hang from the ceiling, enormous mirrors hang from the walls and antique tables and chairs invite you to sit. Opulence and grandeur ooze from the walls and pastries and cakes descend from the bakery! Named after their founder Azko IImori, it’s a story of vision, courage and belief. Azko Iimori is quite unlike anyone we’ve ever met. A calm, regal and incredibly self assured woman who with one warm embrace puts you at such ease you might believe you’ve been friends for years. Also, her energy is infectious and makes you think that you too could create and bring to life your hearts desire at the simple drop of a hat. Unfortunately we weren’t wearing a hat, and thus, had nothing to drop. Nonetheless, and hats aside Azko is an industrious woman with restaurants and ventures not only in Frankfurt but also in her muse like city, Paris. In Frankfurt she boasts a French Restaurant with plenty of Japanese influence and flair. With two phenomenal chefs Björn Andreas and Takeshi Suzuki and an impressive 10 course menu, no bread basket (she doesn’t want the appetite dampened exuberant bread eating) the perfect matrimony of french and Japanese comes to life! Furthermore, the latest addition to the Frankfurt vision is the IIMORI Ichiba a Japanese supermarket and sushi bar. France never seems to be far from her thoughts and permeates much of what she does. IIMORI Pâtisserie is no different. And somehow she gets the balance just right! Decadent pastries, luxurious interiors meet zen energy and old school theatrical brilliance (a self playing piano can on occasion be heard tinkering its keys.)
The sheer variety of deliciousness is nothing short of a miracle! And whether you have somewhat of a sweet tooth or a sushi fiend you will not be left disappointed! As many Macarons flavours as there are colours of the rainbow, petit fours, Tarte Tatin, Tarte au citron, Creme Brûlée, cinnamon rolls and brioche are but a few of the pastries on display. Add to that Matcha dustings and green tea infused cakes and Melon Pan. Finally for the mochi fans out there you’ll find what you looking for here. Now, what would life be with out fresh bread! Nothing quite beats the smell of freshly baking bread or the warm, soft taste of fresh baguette. Bento boxes, sushi platters and gyoza. Undoubtedly an extensive list that is far to long to replicate here so stop by or check out the website for their menu! Served daily from 12pm Braubachstraße 24 Monday – Sunday: 10am – 9pm (Japanese food from 12pm)The Story of the IIMORI brand
The Vibe
The Menu: IIMORI Patisserie
French Patisserie
Bakery
Sushi and Gyoza
Address:
60311 Frankfurt am MainHours:
IIMORI Ichiba, Japanese supermarket and sushi bar
Hidden in a small corner in the centre of the city lies a little oasis for Asian supermarket goers. IIMORI Ichiba is the latest addition to what is already a very successful and innovative brand. One thing about IIMORI they never stand still, and they are never shy to reinvent themselves or try something new! The latest addition to the IIMORI brand is a grocery store, stocking plenty of Japanese favourites. As with all the endeavours that IIMORI takes on you can be assured that quality is always high on the priority list. As with everything Azko Iimori does, this latest project comes in response to a need and a feeling. Undoubtedly the pandemic hit and affected business owners and customers alike. And undeniably both had new challenges. People craved home comforts when their families are far away on distant shores, Azko realised this as her businesses too wrestled with the pandemic. Grocery stores are in essence immune to 2G plus and people need to eat, the rest as they say is history. Without a doubt this is unlike any other asian supermarket we have set foot in in Frankfurt. The space is wonderfully open, allowing you to be able breathe whilst browsing the shelves. An impressive array of Sake, miso and teas are but a few of the items that sit on perfectly stacked shelves. Also, feel free to bring your kids as there is specifically a ‘kids corner’ for the kids to do a little browsing of their own. Rows of pin ball machines line a small wall, spitting out little balls of joy to all who feed them a euro or two. So provided you happy to indulge your kids a little sugar rush they’ll have just as much fun shopping as you! There is no question that all of us could use more time in our lives, but, without a time capsule we have to figure out ways to be more effective with the time we have! Iimori offers the opportunity to stop for a coffee or a quick bite to eat. Honestly, the idea that we can stop for a coffee and catch up with a friend whilst also getting our grocery cupboard stocked is a stroke of pure genius in our books!
An Der Staufenmauer 11 Monday – Saturday: 11am – 7pm As of March 1st: Monday – Sunday: 10am – 7pm Additional Info: instagramIIMORI Japanese Supermarket/Grocery Store
IIMORI Kids Corner
Stop for a coffee
Good to know
Address:
60311 Frankfurt am MainHours:
Sunday: Closed
Korean Street Food, Momo Roll
For decades the west has had an ongoing love affair with a particular bite size asian cuisine, Sushi! However, step aside because there’s a new roll in town, and it’s making waves, Kimbap! In recent years Korean cuisine has seen a huge surge in popularity and it’s vying for a place on everyone’s “take out” menu! Momo Roll is a new restaurant on the Frankfurt scene who’s focus and speciality is in serving Premium Kimbap. The term kimbap directly translates as “seaweed and rice”, and as a result it’s often referred to as Korean Sushi. However, there are some very distinct differences between Japanese sushi and Korean Kimbap. For one thing, vegetables are a fundamental ingredient in many if not all of the traditional versions served up with your side of chopsticks! Two friends, a love for Korean Kimbap and a vision! Owned and run by Hanna Hong and Eunchoung Kim, Momo Roll is their vision to serve premium kimbap on the streets of Frankfurt. No shortage of research went into making this vision come to life including multiple trips back to Korea to ensure they serve up the best kimbap this side of Seoul! Their concept is simple! Quality and authenticity! However, please don’t confuse authenticity with being stuck in the dark ages or lacking imagination! Their menu is full of modern takes and insightful tweaks that keep up with the times and consumer tastes…hello Keto options! Essentially it’s modern, simple and fuss free in the best way! Pops of neon yellow give the space an element of fun while the black pulls it back and gives the space a feel of sophistication! More importantly it’s designed for a quick bite to eat or grab and go. Of course this is an all important element for local businesses who may choose to eat at their desk – time is money after all 😉 So, the name says it all! And yes, it’s all about ‘the roll’!! Quality premium kimbap with some of your usual suspects like bulgogi roll. Well, who knew that the rice and the kimbap could go their separate ways and the kimbap still taste absolutely delicious! So, for all of you looking for low carb keto option they have it! And let me tell you it’s delicious! The care and attention to detail in their flavours really shines through, from the precision they cut the vegetable to the depth of their marinades and length of the marinading process! Finally, I highly recommend the Yubu keto roll! Oh and definitely have their miso soup, SO GOOD!! Deliciousness in every bite! Frankfurter Str. 60-68 Monday – Friday 11:30am – 4pm Additional Info: instagramWhat is Kimbap?
The Story of Momo Roll
The Vibe
The Menu
What Makes their Kimbap stand out from the Crowd??
Address:
65760 EschbornHours:
5 Inspiring books to kickstart your 2022 New Year
5 Inspiring books to kickstart your 2022 with a bang!! Truth be told I’m not really a New Years resolution kinda girl. However, books, inspiration and small daily changes, well now that’s totally something I’m into!
A little backstory to my inspiring books selection
I’ve been an avid reader since I was young, devouring books wherever I could. However, life seem to get in the way, and somehow instead of a continuous practice I got into a kinda weird ‘all or nothing’ habit. Meaning I’d either be reading 5 books in 5 days or nothing for 5 months. Thankfully that changed this past year, with a little help from my friends, that is! Together with a small group of close friends I met in India (none of us live in the same country any longer) we started a small virtual book club! And it was as a result of this book club, that my passion for reading was reignited and once again became a daily practice. Remember, practice makes perfect!
The beauty of a book club?
Well, you are ‘forced’ to read books that may not usually be your ‘cup of tea’. However, after reading you suddenly find you have a new favourite brand of tea! As they say, variety is the fruit of life, but still so many stick to only apples! So as I mentioned, with a little help from my friends, I managed to read a total of 32 books last year. Some I loved, some not so much and others I found utterly life changing.
So this got me thinking, why not share the ones I loved and the ones I found utterly life changing? Who knows, at best, you too find them utterly life changing and at worst you’ve read a book!
Kickstart your 2022 with these 5 books
1. The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
For a long time I’ve believed I’m neither a morning person nor a burn the midnight oil person. I believed I was a nine to five with an after lunch slump and collapse on the couch after the kids were in bed person. Hal Elrod changed all of that! I’m now a MIRACLE MORNING person and my day begins at 5am everyday (weekends included).
There’s no preaching or I know it all in the book, rather it’s a simple routine and structure that sets you up to literally suck the marrow out life! The Miracle Morning has literally been nothing short of a miracle for me!
2. Think Again by Adam Grant
Hmmm preconditioned beliefs and ideas, ideology that we live by but never question, values that do not necessarily serve us. Rather, we spend so much of lives seeking to validate our beliefs, prove that we are right and have conversations without ever actually listening. And ultimately this means we are trying to validate things that we may have ‘inherited’ or had instilled in us as children without any critical analysis ourselves. This is not to say that everything we believe is wrong! However, if scientists believed that every discovery had already been made or that every hypothesis was true. Well the earth would still be the centre of the solar system, it would still be flat and there would be no such thing as antibiotics!
Ultimately this book asks us to listen more and talk less. Because it is only when we truly listen, that we have the opportunity to really learn. Furthermore it is only then that we evolve and grow as individuals.
3. The Book of Joy by The Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
Ah what a sadness to read of the passing of the great and inspiring Desmond Tutu recently! A man with the cheekiest and most infectious chuckle who inspired and sought joy always.
What I loved most about this book is distinguishing between happiness and joy. As humans I think we spend so much time depressed and miserable because our goal is to avoid suffering and challenges and trying live in a state of eternal happiness. Lets look at the definitions for a moment
Happiness:
the state of being happy.
Joy:
a feeling of great pleasure and happiness
a source or cause of great happiness : something or someone that gives joy to someone
If we take the definitions at face value, we would already realise how futile our pursuit of happiness is. In contrast, joy is quoted as a source. Meaning it could be a hug, a message from a friend, music or the smell of your coffee in the morning. And that if we pursue ‘the little things in life’ we may find the some of the ‘happiness’ that so many of the human population so mindlessly pursue.
Anyway I digress and would encourage you to read this book as it takes two vastly differing cultures and religions and two men who have experienced more than their fair share of adversity. And they have not only come through it, but, they have come through it without bitterness and always in service to others!
I wish I could quote the whole book but that would be plagiarism 😜. So instead I leave you with these two quotes.
“The Dalai Lama and the Archbishop are two of the great spiritual masters of our time, but they are also moral leaders who transcend their own traditions and speak always from a concern for humanity as a whole”
“The Dalai Lama and the Archbishop remind us that joy is in fact our birthright and even more fundamental than happiness”
4. The Obstacle is the way by Ryan Holiday
I think this book is the perfect follow on from the one I’ve just discussed. Because this book discusses how obstacles are in fact the very reason that we become better, become stronger and ultimately succeed. How the goal to avoiding suffering and challenges is the very reason that so many of our ‘New Years resolutions’ fail. The very existence of adversity separates the ‘girls’ from the ‘women’ and the ‘boys’ from the ‘men’.
For want of a simple and material example, if there were absolutely no challenges in life there would be no entrepreneurs, without entrepreneurs there would be little of modern civilisation as we know it today. And with that, no coffee you drink each morning, no bananas every parent shovels into their toddlers mouth or red soled shoes so many covet.
5. Make your Bed by William H. McRaven
Ahhhhh a beautifully succinct and ‘simple’ book. You can literally read it in a morning, and, one you should reread each year! Written by ex Navy Seal and Navy Seal commander William H. McRaven.
It is simple life lessons! Lessons about discipline, perseverance, honour and courage! In short, it begins with the simple act of making your bed each morning and making it well. A simple task, but an important one! A task that sets the tone and intention for day. And if you feel you have achieved nothing else, it serves to remind you that in fact you did achieve something that day! Meaning even if we achieve only something ‘small’ each day, it’s still something and it’s that something small that we build on. Importantly too, it’s about doing it consistently, it is then something to replicate and transmute into everything else in our lives.
Admittedly, we are all unique glorious humans with vastly different experiences, circumstances and things that inspire us! However, this is my list of 5 inspiring books and my take away from last year. Also, it features (I feel) uniquely different voices that I hope inspire and touch you as they did me.
HAPPY READING!! AND HERE’S TO STARTING THE FRANKFURT EDIT BOOK CLUB THIS YEAR!
**Final note: please be aware that I am in no way affiliated and earn no commission from these links and books. I include the links only for convenience.
The reason I’m choosing to vaccinate my kids
As it was announced that Germany approved vaccinations for kids ages 5 to 12 this past week, the ‘us’ vs ‘them’ divide widens! Stories of children being shamed in the classroom as a result of their vaccination status and coffee shops vandalised on account of the same thing? Is this really what we have become? Are we really resorting to this? One thing I know for sure, is that judgement never serves! However, we do have the opportunity to learn with real listening and conversation! And so it is for these reasons I write this article on why I choose to vaccinate my kids and these reasons alone.
Another thing I don’t believe anyone can deny, is that the pandemic has been traumatic on so many levels and it has wounded on so many more! Do we really need to add another level to this already gaping wound? With all the hatred we have in the world already, do we really need to add any more?
The vaccinated vs the unvaccinated
As a result of stepping off my soapbox and actually having a conversation I’ve also learnt this. ‘Unvaccinated’ does not always mean ‘antivax’. And if you take a moment to listen before you judge, you may find a soul who takes longer to process a decision as a result of circumstances you have no idea about. Or logistics or religion or a host of other reasons. Just like I now realise, that MY decision to be the first in line to vaccinate my kids is as a result of circumstances that happened many years earlier, long before COVID-19!
My Story and why I choose to vaccinate my kids
In terms of the vaccine and what lies ahead, yes, I’m fully aware of the fact that there are many unknowns. However, my mind to vaccinate my kids happened many many years ago long before corona was ever cooked up (in nature or otherwise)!! I am mum to two boys and almost 8 years ago to the day my youngest (I’ll call him Little H) became incredibly unwell! He was only four weeks old when my precious little human spent 11 days in hospital fighting for his life! Back then it was the RSV virus today it’s corona virus. And, like corona, the RSV virus is very mild for many young children. But for others, like my little human, it can cause severe disease!
Monday the 2nd of December 2013. I noticed early in the morning that little H seemed unwell, very sniffly and his breathing seemed slightly off. So, I booked an appointment with the doctor and went in. She said he had a small upper tract infection but assured me that everything was fine and that I should go home. Later that night, his skin looked mottled and his breathing considerably more laboured. And I was beginning to feel very very uneasy and concerned! However, I thought of what the doctor had said and remember thinking I know he’s not old enough to have Nurofen but perhaps I should give him some and see if it helps him sleep! Honestly I replay it over in mind so often ‘what if I had and he’d slept’ he probably wouldn’t have woken up. And that, still haunts me today! However, thank god in that moment my mummy instincts went into overdrive! And everything screamed at me to go to the emergency room, and fast!!
Within minutes we were rushed in and the wheels were put in motion to save my precious tiny human! Staff couldn’t believe that I had been sent home and not straight to the emergency room.
I remember not long after we were admitted that the nurse suggested that I leave the room as they needed to insert a tube through his nose and down his throat. Of course my initial instinct was I’m his mother he needs me I can’t possibly do that! But in that moment she said something to me that I will never forget “he will never remember that you left the room for a few minutes, you however will remember this forever and it will be traumatic”. As I left the room I heard him screaming and honestly to this day I am so grateful to her, as there were plenty of other traumatic things that would unfold over the next few days as his little body battled the virus!
He was given a drip as well as oxygen and I pumped milk every 2.5 hours so he could be fed through the tube in his nose. He was nebuliser every 4 hours and hooked up to a oxygen saturation monitor to ensure his oxygen levels remained within a safe range. And over the next few days that beep was not only his safety line but mine!
The sheer terror the alarm brought each time it went off when his levels dropped was like being stabbed in the heart and the panic it induced horrendous! The incredible paediatric nurses would adjust his oxygen and the steady beep would return and I’d settle back but never relax! I’d watch him as his stomach would cave in and his ribs become so profoundly visible as he struggled to breath and wish that there was a way to trade places so he didn’t have to go through it!
The absolute desperation and sheer helplessness that I felt left me in tears on more occasions than I can count.
The walk to and from the fridge to store the milk I pumped a constant reminder of how every ounce of him was needed to fight and feeding took too much. Watching as my milk supplies began to dwindle because pumping just didn’t have the same effect as my littlest human drinking. And one thing I never had a shortage of was Milk!
The days ticked over and Little H continued to fight and things got worse before they got better. On and around the 7th or 8th day there was a discussion of him potentially needing to put on a ventilator. Another heal prick would be the determining factor. As all these discussions and events continued my mind turned how I would do anything and everything in my power to prevent him ever being in a position like this again!! And it was on that day that I knew, I would ALWAYS choose to vaccinate my kids.
Also, I want to point out I had vaccinated my oldest and hadn’t ever considered not doing it. But, it was from that very moment that I knew why we do it and why we have vaccinations. Moreover, I realised if I had these potentially life saving things right at my fingertips and I could prevent my child ever from suffering like that again I would!
Conclusion
So in conclusion, I choose to vaccinate my kids because one my choice means that they have the chance to not need to fight for their lives. And two, because hopefully at some point they can have a childhood where they don’t ask ‘when will corona be over’ because they desperate to visit their grandparents or have birthday party again.
COVID-19 Restrictions SIMPLIFIED
COVID-19 restrictions SIMPLIFIED! Restrictions have been going on for so long and there have been so many amendments that it’s hard to keep up! Also, finding the information in English can be difficult and time consuming. With this in mind, we want to simplify the latest restrictions as much as possible and give you a birds eye view. For a more detailed article of all the restrictions we recommend reading our in depth version.
So finally, restrictions seem to be moving towards far less stringent measures and we may finally be able to see one another’s faces again!
Also, the vaccination strategy continues to forge ahead and continues to give us all hope! And for a list of Frankfurt Covid-19 test centres
The latest guidance from the government (as far as we can determine as of March 7th) is as follows:
COVID-19 Restrictions SIMPLIFIED, a birds eye view
Latest Quarantine and Isolation Rules
COVID-19 Restrictions 2G Plus Status?
As the government in Germany and Hessen try to navigate their way through the Omnicron wave, COVID-19 Restrictions continue to change! As of the 17th of January the 2G Plus rule has come into effect. But what does this actually mean? To find out what equates to fulfilling the requirements see the infographic below.
Finally, you may also find the following helpful:
- Robert Koch Institute Incidence Rate by region
- Robert Koch institute COVID-19 risk areas (a PDF of the latest information can be found there)
- For General information call the Corona hotline of the Ministry of Social Affairs: 0800/5554666
To conclude Frankfurt COVID-19 restrictions are open to change at any time. So please continue to stay informed and always double check details!
COVID-19 Vaccinations in Hessen
After what can only be described as a sluggish start to the COVID-19 vaccination program in Germany, the country has now stood up to the challenge and made huge amounts of progress. Chancellor Scholz recently expressed that, the goal of 30 million vaccinations by Christmas has been achieved. And that they now want to work “ambitiously” towards the goal of organising a further 30 million COVID-19 vaccinations by the end of January. With the ever increasing threat of the Omnicron variant these ambitious goals become evermore important.
So with pressure mounting on the health care system the mandates are moving more towards restricting access to public life for those who choose to remain unvaccinated. Needless to say restrictions continue to tighten with more 2G+ being adopted and the push for boosters highlighted. To clarify, those who received the COVID-19 vaccination six months ago can now have their booster jab.
COVID-19 Booster Vaccinations in Hessen
Stiko now recommends the COVID-19 booster vaccination for all people aged 18 and over who received their vaccination six months ago. However, they also ask all citizens to please give priority to booster vaccinations to those who are more at risk. For instance those whose vaccination protection is reduced relatively quickly, people over 70, previously ill and immunosuppressed or those vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson and exclusively with Astrazeneca.
Where can I register for a booster vaccination?
Well, as well as revisiting the centre or doctor that issued your first two vaccinations. If you do not have a general practitioner see doctors in Hessen offering COVID-19 boosters and vaccinations.
COVID-19 Vaccinations for kids ages 5-12 in Hessen
The vaccination program for children ages 5-12 began in December 13th last year. And, in large part appear to have been positively received!
Where can I register for my child’s vaccination?
Speak to your Paediatrician or you can register your child for a vaccination though the City of Frankfurt here.
Where to get your COVID-19 Vaccinations and Boosters
Register or walk-in service:
Phone:
With your local General Practitioner (GP):
- if you do not have a GP, you can find your nearest GP
Local Vaccination Centre
- find information and opening times for your local vaccination centre
** Hesse follows the Corona Vaccination Ordinance of the Federal Ministry of Health.
Make your life easier with a digital COVID-19 certificate
If you have a smart phone, one of the easiest and most effective ways of ensuring that you always have your vaccination status available is with the EU Digital COVID certificate.
As of 7th June 2021, the prioritisation for vaccinations has been lifted. Meaning that anyone is now able to register for a vaccination!
Previous Vaccination Update in Hessen (06 June 2021)
All prioritisation has been lifted. Meaning that anyone is now free to register for a vaccination. Also the lifting of prioritisation extends to Hausartz, specialist doctors and company doctors.
Also, as prioritisation has been lifted schoolchildren (12 years and older) are now allowed to register to be vaccinated at their Hausartz or paediatrician. However, STIKO approval is still pending and thus only schoolchildren aged 16 and older are able to register for vaccinations at designated vaccination centres.
The Federal Government has now notified the federal states that a separate school children campaign will not be possible. As a result, the previously mentioned school campaign suggested by Hessen Government will no longer be possible
Also, Biontech is currently the only vaccination approved for use for people aged 16 and above. However, the company has applied for approval for ages 12 and above, this is expected shortly
ASTRAZENECA VACCINATIONS Additional Information
Prime Minister Volker Bouffier announced on Tuesday 27th of April that everyone in Hessen may now register for a vaccination with the AstraZeneca vaccine. The guidance offered on the official Hessen website is that anyone under 60 can register for AstraZeneca, however, they will need to have to have a corresponding consultation with the vaccinating doctor. In other words, you should check with your Hausartz.
AstraZeneca vaccines have been suspended for those under the age of 60, although as stated above you can opt in to receive the vaccination on consultation with a doctor and at your own risk. Hessen follows the guidance and recommendations from Germany’s permanent vaccine commission, known by the short name STIKO. This latest decision comes on the basis “of currently available data on the occurrence of rare, but very serious thrombosis-related side-effects.” Also, of the few reported cases, young women appear to have been the ones primarily affected.
The Hessen Prime Minister Volker Bouffier, encourages all those over 60 to continue to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine, stating that the benefits far outweigh the risks. He continued, that when his turn to receive the vaccine arrives, should he be offered AstraZeneca he will accept it.
What happens now?
The approximately 12,500 citizens with appointments scheduled currently will now receive the BioNtech or Moderna vaccine which have no age restrictions. Of the 208,000 citizens who have to date received the AstraZeneca vaccine over half are under 60 years of age. The second vaccination appointments will be postponed until May. Furthermore, at the end of April STIKO should be a position to determine whether in principle the second AstraZeneca vaccination can go ahead.
Previous Advice from the Hessen Ministry
The Hessen Ministry of the Interior has instructed that all vaccination centres will resume administering the AstraZeneca vaccine as of Saturday 20th March. Thus, vaccination appointments scheduled for the week end have not been cancelled. However, it is always prudent to double check.
The Paul Ehrlich Institute offered the following:
“After intensive consultations on the serious thrombotic events that have occurred in Germany and Europe, the Paul Ehrlich Institute recommends the temporary suspension of vaccinations with the COVID-19 vaccine AstraZeneca.”
”The Paul Ehrlich Institute would like to point out that people who have received the COVID-19 vaccine AstraZeneca and feel increasingly unwell more than four days after the vaccination – e.g. with severe and persistent headaches or punctiform skin bleeding – seek medical attention immediately Should seek treatment.”
Since this initial statement, the EMA (European Medicines Agency)has determined that there is no increased risk of thromboembolic events (blood clots) as result of the AstraZeneca vaccine.
Germany to approve Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine for adults of all ages
The German health minister, Jens Spahn, announced on Monday 10th May that anyone who wished to receive the one-shot J&J vaccine would be able to do so..
As with AstraZeneca, Germany’s vaccine regulator has only recommended the use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for people aged 60 and over. However, the same process being implemented with AstraZeneca would apply to the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Patients will need a consultation with a vaccinating doctor and be assessed. Also, they will be made aware of the extremely low risk of a rare blood-clotting condition.
Finally, the 10m doses of the US vaccine are only scheduled to arrive in the Germany in June.
The COVID-19 Priority Groups Additional Information
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- Those aged 80 and over
- Those who are treated or cared for in inpatient nursing homes, and people who work in these settings
- Nursing staff in outpatient care services
- Healthcare workers with a high risk of exposure to COVID-19, especially those working in intensive care, emergency rooms, palliative care and coronavirus vaccination centres
- Healthcare workers who treat high-risk patients
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- Those aged 70 and over
- Those at high risk of a severe/fatal disease after infection as a result of underlying health conditions i.e.
- trisonomy 21
- dementia or a similar condition,
- those recovering from a transplant,
- and those with Down Syndrome
- Close contacts of people aged over 80 or residents of nursing / care homes
- Close contacts of pregnant women
- Doctors and other healthcare workers who have a high or increased risk of exposure to coronavirus
- Police and law enforcement officers who are exposed to a high risk of infection while on duty
- Key workers in the public health service
- People who live or work in refugee or homeless facilities
** Please be aware that if you have a pre-existing condition it is for your doctor (GP/Hausartz) to determine whether you fall into group 2 or group 3. By emailing your doctor they should be able to tell you and provide a note to proceed.
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- Those aged 60 and over
- Those at high risk of a severe/fatal disease after infection as a result of underlying health conditions i.e.:
- diabetes,
- cancer,
- chronic kidney or liver conditions,
- HIV or other immune-deficiency conditions,
- heart conditions,
- asthma and clinical obesity
- Employees in medical facilities with a low risk of exposure (e.g. laboratories)
- Key workers in government, administration, constitutional bodies, the armed forces, the police, fire brigade and justice system
- Key workers in critical infrastructure companies, pharmacies and the pharmaceutical industry, power supply, water and waste disposal, the food industry, transport, information technology and telecommunications
- Teachers and other educators
- People with precarious working or living conditions
** ** Please be aware that if you have a pre-existing condition it is for your doctor (GP/Hausartz) to determine whether you fall into group 2 or group 3. By emailing your doctor they should be able to guide you and provide a note to proceed.
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- Once all the above priority groups have been vaccinated all remaining citizens will be vaccinated
Vaccination Calculator
To ascertain when you might be in line to get your vaccination, check out the OMNI Calculator
Hessenpark, open air museum and family activity
Well hallelujah Hessenpark!! In our opinion, Hessenpark is an excellent example of how to create enjoyable family activities and successfully blend children and museums. Often, the thought of mixing these two things is enough to make me break out in hives. Travelling and living in different places with my kids has taught me the importance of exposing them to different cultures and identities. During our time in India, we not only explored the country itself but also learnt about the various religions and festivals celebrated there. It is through such experiences that children learn. However, let’s get to the point at hand, leaving aside the tangent I went on. Well, in the most simplistic of terms, it breaks down the history of the entire Hessen region. Now, before you stop reading and glance towards the wine rack, it is wonderfully done! They have recreated the individual areas within Hessen on an expansive piece of land (65 hectares) in true-to-life size. There are no mini-town versions or pictures on the walls that kids can neither relate to nor care less about, but they are fully recreated with brick and mortar! Meaning that they can run around like lunatics (if yours is anything like mine) and explore to their heart’s content. Also, it is worth noting that even if they come away having learnt nothing, at least they had a good runaround. They are a little more tired than when they arrived!
Hessenpark is a place that showcases the traditional lifestyle and work culture of people in Hesse. The houses in the park are designed to reflect the historical accuracy of the region, which means many of them are small, with cramped spaces, steep staircases, low ceilings, and poor lighting. Additionally, the roads in the park are either unpaved or paved with cobbles. While Hessenpark is committed to improving accessibility for all visitors, it may not be the best place for those with limited mobility or special needs. However, there are plenty of things to see and enjoy without entering every building. Moreover, there is a large playground for kids to play and traditional games, such as hopscotch, that feature along the route.
Address: Hours: 1 November to 28 February: 1 March to 31 October:About Hessenpark?
What to Expect
Good to know
Laubweg 5
61267, Neu-Anspach
Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 10 am to 5 pm | Last entry at 4 pm
daily from 9 am to 6 pm | Last entry at 5 pm
Christin Fabian, beautiful Cashmere
There is just something about wearing a beautiful piece of cashmere! Something comforting and perhaps some might think a little indulgent. Well, I was late coming to the party but it’s worth every penny! Now, CHRISTIN FABIAN brings you exquisite Italian spun cashmere products that not only make you feel good but also save you time because they are machine washable!!!! This story begins long before CHRISTIN FABIAN was founded and perhaps some might say “it was written in the stars”. Christin Steinacker the founder and designer of CHRISTIN FABIAN comes from a family of artisans, beginning with her grandmother, a master tailor. Not only did her grandmother teach her the art of tailoring but she instilled in her a love and enthusiasm for the craft and for fashion! From there she took it upon herself to learn everything from scratch and from the best! And so she began her journey as a tailor at Toni Schiesser in Frankfurt am Main – the grande dame of German haute couture! “This time shaped me and strengthened my passion for fashion, valuable materials, fabrics and yarns as well as high-quality workmanship.” She then completed her training in Hamburg receiving a degree in fashion design. From there she was able to apply her skills and creativity at renowned fashion companies across Germany and Italy. Cashmere is the finest hair to be found in the animal kingdom. The longer, finer and lighter the cashmere hair, the more luxurious the quality and feel. Undoubtedly cashmeres ace cards lies in the fact that when it’s cold, it warms. And, when it’s warm, it cools. And finally, cashmere products are breathable. It should be noted that these advantages of cashmere only arise under the extreme climatic conditions of the Himalayan plateaus. Under the unforgiving conditions of this barren landscape, the cashmere goats develop the uniquely soft undercoat that protects them from the icy winter. Once a year, during the spring, when the climate becomes milder, the shepherds gather the flocks and collect the wool by carefully combing the goat’s hair. Furthermore, traditional family-run Italian companies spin these fibres into the highest quality yarns. It is then these yarns that CHRISTIN FABIAN uses. Importantly CHRISTIN FABIAN only uses yarn spun from the fibres of the “Hircus Laniger” species of goat. These goats roam with sufficient space in their natural environment and are fed with high-quality, species-appropriate feed. Moreover, none of these animals are subjected to an often excruciating shearing process in which the fibres are extracted at high speed for greater yield but inferior cashmere products.The Back Story
About CHRISTIN FABIAN
The Cashmere
Quintessential Christmas Guide for 2021
And here we are it’s almost Christmas…again!!! Honestly, it’s hard to believe another year has flown by?!!! I was supposed to be heading home for a Christmas filled with sunshine, however, I will need to settle for a white Christmas instead. So instead of filling my suitcase I’m now constantly filling my online shopping cart with potentially more than I need!!
As always, the goal of the TFE Christmas Gift Guide is to showcase as many local Frankfurt brands and stores as possible! So, without further a do….let’s get inspired and shopping!
Enjoy!
Where to get a cooked or ready prepared turkey?
So, whilst many may love to eat a roast turkey on Christmas, many may not have the time, inclination or large enough oven to cook one! With this in mind here are a couple of places that do all (or almost all) the work for you.
- Goose to go at Flemings Hotels – Do you want to organise a delicious goose dinner, without having to stand in the kitchen? Let us prepare one fresh for you! A crispy fried goose with red cabbage, potato dumplings, baked apples, goose gravy and two bottles of the perfect red wine to complement it. No time to pick it up yourself? Delivery can, on request, be arranged with a local taxi company. You settle up for the journey directly with the taxi driver. We cook – you enjoy!
- Order online: www.flemings-hotels.de/ganstogo Price for 4 people: €159
So we understand that some may still want a little credit in the kitchen, Golden Gans is the perfect compromise. Aureus do all the insane prep worked needed to put on a traditional Christmas menu and all that is left for you is the cooking.
Also, we guessing the title caught your attention right? So whilst this goose doesn’t actually lay golden eggs it will ‘lay’ perfectly on your Christmas table.
The Details
- The Goldene Gans can be ordered now!
- The box is available from November 11th up to and including December 23rd
- The golden aureus goose includes: 2 1/2 geese, grandma’s red cabbage, original Thühringer dumplings, goose jus, freshly baked Baumkuchen, a bottle of red wine and of course the sure-fire cooking instructions for home!
- This bulging basket comes to you for 169 euros
- And finally the designed basket is reusable!
How to Order
- Tel: 069 795 33 979
- email: [email protected].
- Pick up: Restaurant Tagesbar, Tuesday – Saturday from 17:00-18:00
For a fuss free Christmas Lunch/Dinner out
So it’s safe to say that many of us have spent countless more hours at home than we might normally! And of course, through no choice of our own! Now perhaps that sways you more towards putting on your Sunday or Christmas best and heading out! Moreover, having someone else do not only the cooking but the serving and cleaning too is win in our books. Leaving you with nothing other than to pick up your perfectly crisp white napkin and dab the corners of your mouth! Oh and the bill, pick up the bill!
To best honest we couldn’t think of a more perfect setting to have your Christmas meal then at Gerbermühle. Almost gives that sense of your grandparents home where the decorations are traditionally on point and the food comforting and plentiful! Also, in our books there is always a mandatory post Christmas lunch walk! And here you can either wonder in the garden beneath the trees or take yourself along the Main and watch the passing ships!
Great Independent Stores for Christmas Gifts
Nothing like giving or receiving a gift that everyone and their dog have given or received too! Of course, some people are born with the knack for buying imaginative and exciting presents for the rest of us mere mortals we may need a little guidance!
One thing that is for sure, here in Frankfurt there are more than a handful of wonderful independent stores with beautifully curated items ignite your Christmas fire and shopping!
Have your pick of anything from interiors to clothing to jewellery and fragrance. Meike does an absolutely wonderful job of curating and finding things you didn’t even realise you needed, although let’s stay focused we shopping for others right!? Find 2nd Home tucked away in the streets of Nordend…
When shopping at NOORD expect plenty ummming and aahhhing, tooooing and frooooing deciding which gift to go with! Also, a plethora of stocking stuffers await to satisfy even the pickiest of gift candidates!
Let’s face it (ha see what I did there?) we all love a little something in our stockings to ‘fine tune’ our fine features!! Lilith Beauty has products that literally make my hands twitch as I feel the urge to drop them all in my basket and rush home to slather them from head to toe! Also, all the products are natural and organic!
For all those precious little humans in your life!! It’s these precious little humans that create the magic around Christmas, the excitement, the joy, the Christmas lists that go on for days. Truly, the potentially only draw back is the ungodly hour they wake you on Christmas morning and perhaps the dent in your wallet!
Sonny Lemon sparks joy in me just saying the name so you can imagine what happens inside their store. Sonja leaves no stone unturned and will literally bend over backwards to ensure that you find whatever totally ‘rational’ gift request has found its way onto the Santa wish list!
Well the name says it all really, it’s for the men in your life! MEN Limited is specifically curated for men by a man which makes shopping for your significant other who has everything a little easier! Perhaps this year you may not have to resort to socks 😉
If you have an affinity for Scandinavian brands, then MARIA’s is definitely the store for you! Always artistic in her approach to the floor layout of the store, it’s almost and immersive gallery experience as you wander and shop! Miriam has a love for Scandinavian designers and so this theme is definitely apparent as you browse. However, even if this isn’t your cup of tea the store is still worth a visit with plenty else to choose from!
SPAZIO is filled with beautiful womenswear, knitwear, accessories and unusual gifts. Always on point with the brands they stock it’s a must if not a high street shopper! Also, a potential gift idea is wardrobe styling session with Inge Winterberg available at home or via Zoom.
At Style Definery, they strongly believe that unique, high quality fashion pieces deserve more than just one owner. We live in a time in which it is more important than ever to think about the issues of the environment and sustainability – and what could be more sustainable than buying something that already exists?
Style Definery was founded in 2019 by Anja Murjahn, a journalist and blogger whose love of fashion has accompanied her through all phases of her life. She firmly believes that fashion and luxury can be both fun and “politically correct”.
SinnGut offers design objects, home accessories, lights, art and more that have one thing in common: high standards of design and the quality of the products. They are always looking for new, charming and innovative products. At SinnGut you will find high quality items with a traceable manufacturing process and sustainability at the heart of each product. Many of their products are handcrafted or manufactured in small batches.
Support LOCAL brands
We can all get by with a little help from our friends! And nothing could be more true for local entrepreneurs and businesses owners. So, before you clink on your habit induced clicks for brands on far off shores perhaps check out some of these great brands that are literally on your doorstep! As they say, charity begins at home…
Capitana transforms the wonderful flair of Italy into a luxurious accessory collection. The Frankfurt designer and founder, Nathali Mack, creates her exclusive shawls for people who love individuality and style.
VON KRONBERG stands for sustainable, high-quality jewelry and continues the centuries-old tradition of the Moosbrugger family. Our values are based on timeless design, the promotion of local and sustainable resources and the highest quality standards.
AMAROO mats is a yoga brand dedicated to eco mats. Each mat is based on real paintings created by self-taught artist Solveig, the founder of English Yoga Meetup. “AMAROO” is an Aboriginal term that means “beautiful place”. It was in Australia that the artist’s love for outdoor yoga began.
The AMAROO concept was inspired by the movements of yoga flows as well as beautiful places from all around the world. And, by using the fluid pouring technique, the artist creates this sense of fluidity and beauty as the acrylic colours flow onto and across the canvas.
Handmade in Königstein im Taunus! Expect to find bright colourful accessories and pieces. All’s designs, patterns and cuts are created in the studio of designer Juliane Kowalt in Königstein im Taunus. Every single piece of the collection is personally check by her before making it’s way on to you the customer. Also good to know, Albert’s Bird set themselves the goal of promoting local production facilities! And it is for this reason that they only use manufacturers based in Germany.
For all our eco warriors out there, Wildwax is a phenomenal, inventive and sustainable product for storing and saving food. The organic handmade beeswax towels allow your food to stay fresh longer and it’s free from any plastics!
Every woman and/or man needs a fabulous leather bag to not only make a statement, but to keep all your essentials in! Early represents the love for beautifully designed and handcrafted leather accessories that embrace ecological and ethical awareness.
Cashmere, tell me who doesn’t love cashmere!! And even more to the point who doesn’t love cashmere that can be put in the washing machine!!?? Enter Christin Fabian where all your cashmere dreams come true!!
The all important Christmas Cocktail
So, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a good old Christmas cocktail. If you anything like me I’m no mixologist but that doesn’t stop me trying! Here are a few great spirit brands that care of that all important festive drink. Also, we thought you may need a little inspiration so we we added a few recipes for you below.
Quarantini how good is this name??
Quarantini/Social Dry Gin was initially created in April 2020 to support the struggling gastronomy and retail sector in Frankfurt. Within a year and a half they raised over € 175,000 and successfully fulfilled what they set out to achieve. As things slowly recovered in the retail and gastronomy sector Quarantini set their sights on a new project and purpose. And, they now with every bottle sold provide one person in a developing country with drinking water for a year.
Plenty of Gins to choose from definitely check out their black gin , our feeling is that it gives a distinct edge to your gift! We love it!
I mean it’s the perfect party trick! The gin changes colour as you pour the tonic and depending on how much you add will determine the colour you land up with…MAGIC!
Tinte Gin is a classically dry gin with aromatics spanning from across the globe. Tinte Gin is a product of Edelranz from Mainz, Germany. They believe in creating great spirits!
Need an Elixir for every occasion?? Dr. Jaglas have you covered. Whether you golfing, feeling festive or just need an Apéro\Digestif they have what you need. One might even consider them a ‘Tonic’ and who in present circumstances doesn’t need a tonic!
The Christmas Tree and where to buy one?
Oh Christmas tree oh Christmas tree how festive you make our lives! But dear oh dear how taxing you are on the perfectionists in this world who nearly have an aneurism decorating you! We’ve put together a list of a few places in and around Frankfurt where you can buy, rent or cut your tree! Also, what we simply love is the courtesy Glüwein that you sip while making that all import decision!!
Christmas Markets / Weihnachtsmarkt
Well the build to Christmas just isn’t complete unless you made your way to a Weihnachtsmarkt!! Undoubtedly a wonderfully festive experience with plenty to eat, drink and be merry about! Of course last year was a complete shutdown and so support all those that brave the cold to bring you so much of what makes up our traditions! Here a Christmas market list to start you off if you not sure where to begin!
Gerbermühle restaurant and wintergarten
Sitting proud alongside the river Main is Gerbermühle restaurant and wintergarten! And without a doubt, it’s a beautiful oasis which not only allows you leave the hustle and bustle behind you but it gives you the most magnificent view of it’s skyline if you choose to look back! Also worth mentioning is that it easily made its way into our best restaurants in Frankfurt feature. Originally built as a flour mill in the 1520s, the Gerbermühle later became better known as the summer residence of Goethe. History and stories of Goethe and his entourage still fill it’s walls and small reminders of this bygone era still remain! In the early 1900’s Gerbermühle became a popular tavern and slowly transformed into what you find today! In essence, the concept serves to marry traditional values with the ever evolving tastes of today. Moreover, purist design together with authentic materials exude an atmosphere of comfort and warmth. For example the deep mahogany tables are neatly dressed with crisply folded white linen napkins and finished with simple fresh flower centre pieces. Whilst Louis XVI chairs upholstered with mahogany leather and adorned with a bronze nail-head trim complete the dining set up. Finally, Victorianesq portraits and gilded frames along with chandeliers suspended from the ceilings are a dominant feature throughout the ground floor! Gerbermühle truly celebrates German cuisine! Jörg Ludwig and his team delight customers with not only sophisticated menus but also with popular German and Frankfurt specialities. For example schnitzel and Grünesoße are just some of the local dishes you can expect to find. The Wintergarten, or as some might describe it, the Conservatory, is suffused with light and it affords a panoramic view of the garden outside. In the summer months meals can be enjoyed on the adjacent terraces against the backdrop of the Frankfurt skyline. Also worthy noting is the the private dining option that is available. Perfect for special celebrations and/or a more intimate setting. Last but certainly not least is the Gerbermühle bar! With its old school charm and it’s small glass floor section where you can catch a glimpse deep below the foundation, it’s perfect for pre-drinks or a nightcap! Furthermore, the high ceilings and and exposed stone walls add to the dramatic flare and feel! Address:The Story
The Vibe
The Gerbermühle Restaurant and Wintergarten
The Gerbermühle Bar
Gerbermühlstraße 105
60594 Frankfurt am Main
