Zum Gemalten Haus

Zum Gemalten Haus is a traditional Apfelwein tavern at Schweizer Straße 67 in Sachsenhausen, the south-bank district of Frankfurt am Main in the German state of Hesse. Its painted walls and shared wooden tables make it one of the most recognisable stops on the classic Apfelwein circuit, and it is often the first tavern visitors choose when starting a tavern crawl along the Schweizer Straße. The atmosphere is convivial and unpretentious. Tables are communal, so guests often sit beside locals, students and groups of travellers, and conversation across the table is part of the tradition. The crowd is mixed in age, from young adults to retirees, and there is no dress code; ordinary casual clothing is the norm. There is no club-style music. The soundtrack is the chatter of the room, and in warm weather the garden adds an outdoor option. The drinks programme centres on Apfelwein, the tart, still Hessian apple wine served from a grey-blue stoneware jug called a Bembel and poured into ribbed glasses called Gerippte. A glass costs roughly €3-4, so a jug for the table is an inexpensive way to share. Variations include Apfelwein mixed with sparkling water as a Sauergespritzter or with sweet cider as a Süßgespritzter. Beer and soft drinks are usually available, and simple Hessian dishes such as Handkäs mit Musik, sausages and schnitzel traditionally accompany the drinks, although the menu should be confirmed on site. Opening hours typically run Wednesday to Sunday from about 5PM until midnight, but these should be confirmed, since taverns in the area sometimes close on set weekdays or for seasonal breaks. Weekends are the busiest, with tables filling from early evening, while weeknights are calmer. There is no cover charge. Reservations are not normally needed for small groups on weeknights, but larger parties may want to ask by telephone in advance, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings and in summer when the garden fills quickly. The tavern sits a short walk from the Main river and the Südbahnhof area, and the neighbouring Apfelwein house Apfelweinwirtschaft Wagner is next door, making it easy to compare two taverns in one evening. Prices are modest by German city standards, and payment by cash is advisable in case card facilities are limited.