Em Krützche

Em Krützche is a nostalgic Rhenish restaurant at Am Frankenturm 1-3 in Cologne's Altstadt-Nord, in North Rhine-Westphalia, set in a historic old-town corner not far from the Rhine and the cathedral. It sits at the more formal end of Cologne's traditional dining, priced above the typical brewhouse ($$$), and combines regional dishes with a decorated, old-fashioned interior and a beer garden. The cuisine is Rhenish and German. Rheinischer Sauerbraten, a marinated pot roast traditionally served with sweet-sour sauce, red cabbage and dumplings, is the regional centrepiece, and Himmel un Ääd, black pudding with apple and mashed potato, represents the folk cooking of the Rhineland. Schnitzel and seasonal German dishes round out the menu for diners who want a familiar option. The dining rooms are intimate and traditional, with a character closer to a cosy inn than to a beer hall, so the noise level is lower than in the large Kölsch halls and conversation is easy. Dress is smart casual. In warm weather the beer garden is the main attraction, and it is popular with both locals and visitors. Prices are in the upper mid-range, with mains typically a little above brewhouse levels, though current prices should be confirmed. Sources differ on opening hours, with koeln.de listing Wednesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 23:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 22:00, so visitors should confirm before going; the phone number listed is +49 221 2580839. Reservations are recommended for dinner and especially during the beer garden season, when tables are in demand. The location makes the restaurant a good option for a sit-down meal after exploring the old town, the Rhine bank or the Great St. Martin church area.