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One of the things I like to do while traveling is check out the local restaurants of the place. It’s not only because I like good food, but it is also because I love cultures. Food is a vital part of any culture. And food is more than just the the stuff they put on your plate. Its the whole experience. Food, and the way it is experienced, tells you a lot about the culture. Take the United States for example. Eating out in America is reasonably inexpensive. Restaurants are designed to have multiple seatings in a night. Turn the tables over, is usually the driving principle. In America, you almost never have to ask for a bill. It is normally brought to you, even before you finish you meal. Always, with the words; “No rush” or “When you are ready.” But the underlying message is “Hurry up, we want your table for the next group.” In most of Europe, it is the opposite. You have to ask for your bill. I have been with many Americans in Europe who misunderstand this cultural cue. When the bill doesn’t arrive, the service is blamed. However, for most Europeans, to get a bill from the restaurant before you have asked is seen as rude. The one exception perhaps is Switzerland. I have often been presented with a bill in Switzerland without asking. Hence, culture plays a huge role in the dining experience. Both the US and Switzerland are efficiency driven cultures. For most of the rest of Europe, eating is part of socializing; being with friends and experiencing life together. There is no rush.

For the past few times I have visited Frankfurt, I have suggested to my colleague places to eat. This last time, I suggested the 12 Apostles. Located near to the Konstablerwache (see second photo below) in Frankfurt, it is housed in a fascinating old building that has been decorated in a charming, rustic style. Not only known for its food, some local but also international, it is also a brewery.  As one review put it: “Those who descend the stairs in the restaurant, finds themselves in a rustic cellar again. Wooden tables and benches sprinkle a rustic charm. Standing around the place are hay bales and wooden barrels. On the walls hang garlands, braided baskets and wooden wheels.” (http://www.fr-online.de/frankfurt/innenstadt-selbstgebrautes-in-uriger-atmosphaere,1472798,34665544.html).

If you are in Frankfurt, this is a great place to visit.

12 Apostles Restaurant, Frankfurt

 

Frankfurt, Hauptwache District

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Piers van der Merwe

Born in Zimbabwe, educated in Cape Town (UCT), now living in Knoxville, USA. I travel a lot for work, to a wide variety of venues that affords me the opportunity for taking interesting and varied photos. Hobbies, other than photography, include cycling and reading.
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