Atschel

Atschel is a small Hessian Apfelwein tavern at Wallstraße 7 in Sachsenhausen, Frankfurt am Main, in the German state of Hesse. It lies close to the Große Rittergasse, so it can be added to an evening walk through the neighbourhood's better-known tavern streets. The venue is described locally as having a loyal regular crowd, which gives it a neighbourhood feel rather than the tour-group atmosphere of some larger houses. The room is compact, and the mood is relaxed and sociable. Guests are mostly adults, from young professionals to long-time locals, and there is no dress code. No dance music or DJ programme is part of the offer; the soundtrack is conversation, and the evening is built around Apfelwein and food. The drinks list centres on the regional apple wine, typically priced at about €3-4 a glass, with the option of a Bembel jug to share. Visitors who find the plain wine too sharp can ask for it mixed with sparkling water. Beer and soft drinks are normally available. Hessian home cooking is part of the proposition, so dishes in the style of Handkäs mit Musik, sausages and schnitzel are typical of taverns of this type, though the current menu should be checked on arrival. Opening hours are typically daily from about 4PM, with closing times that depend on how busy the evening is, so the schedule should be confirmed. Weeknights are calmer and make it easier to find a seat, whereas Friday and Saturday evenings can be crowded because of the small size of the room. There is no cover charge. Reservations are worth trying by telephone for groups of four or more, and arriving early is the most dependable way to secure a table. Bottle service is not a feature of the venue. Cash is the safest means of payment in a small tavern of this kind.