Indulging in Greek Flavors: Mediterranean Fare at Nibelungenschänke

Greetings, food lovers! If you’ve been following along, you know that we’ve been immersing ourselves in vibrant Asian cuisines. However, as much as we adore intricate spices and bold flavors of the East, there’s always a room for a change – today we’re taking a detour to indulge in Mediterranean fare at an exquisite Greek restaurant.

In our previous post, we introduced you to the cozy and rustic Ouzeri Bistro Ellas in Vienna. Switching gears to Frankfurt, we enter the Nibelungenschänke, a restaurant with a refined ambiance and a touch of elegance. With its tastefully decorated interior, it exudes an air of sophistication, but doesn’t make you feel up-tight. Whether you’re seeking a cozy corner for an intimate meal, a formal business gathering, or a spacious setting for a larger group, the restaurant caters to different occasions with flair and finesse.

For our starter, we chose Gluten-Free Crispy Cornmeal-Fried Sardines. It features plump, succulent sardines, delicately coated in a golden-brown crust of fine gluten-free cornmeal. Each time you sink your teeth in, the satisfying crunch of the exterior gives away to tender, flavorful fish that bursts with rich, savory taste of the sea. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity and the beauty of fresh, quality ingredients, the true essence of the Mediterranean. Add a squeeze of zesty lemon juice for an extra layer of exuberant taste!

Our first main course is Lammkotelette “Paidakia” – a vibrant plate adorned with succulent lamb chops alongside fresh veggies like carrots and zucchini, accompanied by a side of French fries.

Each chop has a flawless brownish crust that coats the outside with such finesse, it’s as if every edge has been meticulously grilled with precision heat. It gives a delicious crunch without a hint of char. As your knife glides through, the tender juicy meat within gets revealed – hearty red with no hint of pink. Thanks to the careful removal of the skin, the meat is quite lean. Grilling with garlic imparts savory depth, aromatic fragrance and subtle sweetness that accentuates the inherent earthy rich flavor of the lamb.

A drizzle of herb oil and a sprinkle of green onions lend a fresh aromatic touch that complements the richness of the meat, creating exquisite flavors. And for those who crave a burst of acidity, have a squeeze of lemon to add a vibrant twist!

We continued with Calamaretti – grilled baby calamaries served with crisp salat and French fries, a must-have seafood delight that beckons from the menu of any Greek restaurant. At Nibelungenschänke, each calamari comes with a generous size and unparalleled tenderness, as if they were all handpicked.

These plump morsels, delicately seasoned with aromatic Greek herbs and spices, are grilled to a delectable char. The subtle smokiness beautifully contrasts with juicy succulence of the calamari. Especially the calamari’s tentacles offer a delightful crunch and concentrated aroma that adds an extra dimension of taste.

The mantle (or tube) of the calamari, bursting with freshness and moisture, brings vibrant flavors of the sea to every mouthful. Elevated by the blend of herbs, garlic, and lemon that are hallmark of Greek cuisine, it’s really an irresistible seafood sensation you can’t miss out.

This restaurant came highly recommended by friends, and after our visit, we wholeheartedly agree. It serves many classic Greek dishes, meticulously crafted with care. While the dishes may seem simple, the unexpected combinations indeed show the restaurant’s sophistication, spirit of refinement and ingenuity, proving that simplicity doesn’t mean blandness. The unique Mediterranean charm of Greece, coupled with the fine fresh ingredients, truly manifests itself in the culinary creations!