“L’Appetito Vien Mangiando!” As this popular Italian food saying goes, “The appetite comes while you are eating.” And let us tell you, it certainly did. From the antipasto right to the dolce, our appetite made room for more as we tore, twirled and licked our lips through the courses.
What is more, this fine dining Italian food experience comes with a view. A gorgeous and unique view over the Frankfurt skyline! Overlooking the Eschenheimer Tor gives one the opportunity to not only admire the historic landmark far above the hustle and bustle but also sip a cocktail while doing it. Having recently seen a complete makeover the results are impressive!
The Concept, Italian food and Italian mid-century flare
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and it took an army! Similarly, the newly renovated Occhio d’oro was a collaboration of many!
The overall concept took inspiration for the space from the “Italian Mid-century Design” of the 1960s. Next, those ideas were brought to life by the Berlin architect Friedrich Killinger. And finally, Martin Lohr was responsible for the overall implementation of the concept and design at Occhio d’Oro.
The Vibe
Relaxed fine dining, if there is, in fact, such a thing!
A short elevator ride up to the 8th floor in Fleming’s City Hotel sees you to the OCCHIO D’ORO front door. Inside, the Italian mid-century nuances are apparent, from the sleek lines and geometric shapes on the Travertine wall to the chosen colour palette of the cathedral glass tiles. The turquoise and green are gentle reminders of the Italian coast, and the gold and yellow are a nod to the Italian countryside.
Book ended by a gorgeous 360° bar and open kitchen is a plush gold velvet bench with a series of square tables standing perfectly to attention alongside it. Across the way, alongside a glass wall, are a number of cosy booths that overlook the balcony and city view.
The mood? Well, that is entirely up to you. An adjustable lamp sits on each table, allowing you to dim or brighten the lighting according to the occasion. Namely, business or pleasure?
The Menu, Tuscan-Florentine Italian food
Andreas Hoffmann is head chef, and the man responsible for the dishes that make it over the pass and out of the kitchen. His remit? Italian food with an emphasis on Tuscan-Florentine dishes.
Of course, an Italian food restaurant of Occhio d’oro’s calibre does not rest on its laurels and has reinterpreted the original recipes with a modern twist. Undoubtedly, the beauty of the menu lies in its simplicity! A variety of authentic Italian dishes in an uncomplicated atmosphere. Between the seafood, meat and vegetarian options, patrons have plenty to choose from.
So, which Italian food/dishes do we recommend?
Well, firstly we must mention the restaurant manager Ivan Buljan. Without his insight and help we not only had a wonderful evening but in our opinion tried a good variety of dishes. Also, our waiter, Damian, helped pair the perfect wine with each course. So whilst there were a number of dishes we absolutely loved, if we were forced to choose only one option from each course, these are our picks.
ANTIPASTO – Fennel Salad
A signature dish, and for good reason! Even if you are not a fan of fennel, we would recommend trying this! As a result of the fennel being vacuum packed and marinaded in a selection of herbs for at least 12 hours, it has a beautiful subtlety to it. Additionally, the freshness of the granny smith apple and the saltiness of the pecorino cheese balance out the dish.
SECONDI – Tiger Prawns
Oh my god, not only were the prawns sublime, but the soupy broth had a depth of flavour that we literally could not get enough of!!
CONTORNI – Pointed Cabbage
With one of us having been to boarding school we never would have dreamed that we’d be recommending cabbage! However, it was chargrilled to perfection and absolutely delicious!
DOLCE – Torta Caprese
It was a gorgeous and light end of the meal. Also, we loved that the mascarpone was not overly sweetened.
The Bar
Patrons come not only for the Italian food but also for the impressive bar antics! As previously mentioned, Occhio d’oro is home to an impressive 360° bar. A deep mahogany bar top is crowned with brass finishes and stocked with all the delights that cocktail lovers come to find. Riff Khan is the man at the helm who quenches thirsty visitors and eases the parched lips along with the help of his team.
Good to know
- They are unfortunately only open for dinner, with doors opening at 5:30 pm. However, the bar remains open until 1 am. (Kitchen until 10:30)
- In terms of pricing, starters start from around €9, main courses around €26 and finally desserts around €11
- If you are looking for Pizza, this is not the Italian restaurant for you. Check out Papanova’s or Super Bros
Address:
Flemings Selection Hotel Frankfurt-City,
Eschenheimer Tor 2 c/o,
60318 Frankfurt
Hours:
Tuesday – Saturday: 5pm – 1am
Sunday,Monday: closed
