Eighteen museums, 100 important art galleries, the German Opera House and a reputation as a center for German high fashion place this city of just over half a million inhabitants on plenty of travelers’ lists. We liked the genteel and efficient attitude, elegant and cosmopolitan feel, historic old town, and blending of classic and modern architecture of this daughter of the Rhine River.
On the heels of a long transatlantic flight, lunch at Menuett Restaurant was a welcome pleasure. Located in the lobby of the historic and attractive Steigenberger Park Hotel, Menuett’s classic décor was inviting. We, like almost everyone else that afternoon, chose to enjoy lunch outdoors on the terrace, which faced the Steigenberger Park Hotel entrance and a nearby park. To match the prominent setting and delicious meal, the service could have been more attentive and customer oriented. Overall, our spring meal was refined and satisfying.
We found the Steigenberger, a historic and elegant hotel dating back to the early 1900’s, a welcome respite. In the heart of Düsseldorf and across the street from the Opera, the Hotel was ideally situated for a visit to the central part of town. Owned by the Steigenberger chain, it offered a combination of charm, experienced and efficient staff, and a great location.
While Frankfurt is popular with business travelers to Europe, it is also an excellent jumping off point to some of the most beautiful tourist areas in that region of Germany. The nearby excellent network of highways (although we came across much construction on the smaller roads) places a wide variety of scenic and historic points of interest, including the famous Black Forest, within easy reach. While we only spent a short time in the city itself we thoroughly enjoyed our visit to various small towns a comfortable drive from Frankfurt and look forward to returning soon.
