I have a new favorite food. Move over pizza..... Hello Flammkuchen! This fabulous food is pizza's…read morelovelier and thinner cousin who lives on the Rhine. She's glamorous and crisp and flavorful and just a little bit exotic (in a way that's friendly and approachable). I had one with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and rocket (European arugula) and my boyfriend's had smoked salmon, spinach, and garlic. The crusts were cracker thin and crisp.... but not too crisp. They had an inner tenderness that was heavenly. Baked in a brick oven, they had a slight char that added an amazing flavor. They were both drizzled with amazingly flavorful olive oil. Each Flammkuchen was probably large enough to share, but I was so happy that we each got our own.... and just as thankful that my boyfriend never asked for a taste of mine.... which I never offered.... because I wanted every last bit to be all mine.

2 Rude waiters. Didnt wait to try the food. Bathrooms unclean. Charged us 8 Euros for water.read more

Tuscan Treat in northern Germany Mr. and I went to celebrate…read morehis birthday. The gracious staff greeted us warmly and had even decorated our table with birthday cheer. Our meal started with tender and tasty baby calamari on field salad. For our pasta course Mr. chose gnocchi with sage and pepper sauce, I chose risotto with spinach and shrimp. The 2 dishes sound so plain and average when I write it that way; they were any but! The gnocchi was tender and had a creamy cheese filling with a smooth, balanced sauce that was just right. My risotto was fresh and bright, seasoned just right, with plenty of perfectly done shrimp. The correct mouth feel of the risotto was expertly achieved. These were "simple" Tuscan dishes at their finest. For the main course we had the filet with green asparagus and a roasted potato. Again, simple but expertly prepared. Finally, the pie'ce de résistance was the tiramisu and espresso. The traditional Italian dessert was fresh, creamy and light in spite of the rich ingredients. The espresso unusually rich and delicious. The dinner was pricey but not over the top. Our wine choice put us into the "very expensive dinner" category but there were many excellent choices on the list that were in the 30-50 euro range. The restaurant is small, seats maybe 40, but weather permitting they have a large delightful sun porch which I would guess is quite busy. The other guests the Monday night we went in January were a decidedly older crowd and dressed nicer than any place we have been in Cologne. Men wore jackets and often ties, ladies dressed up accordingly. Many guests seemed to be acquainted beyond their own party so we think this is a popular neighborhood haunt. Even though we are not their neighbors, we will be back! My birthday is coming up too.