From Booths to Bites: The Best Places to Eat Near Messe Frankfurt
Quick Food Without Leaving the Messe
First up - don’t forget that Messe Frankfurt itself has plenty of places to eat so you can stay close to the action between meetings or show halls. There are cafés, bistros, snack stands and self-service restaurants throughout most halls, offering everything from sandwiches and salads to hot meals, handy if you only have a short lunch break.
Great Restaurants a Short Distance from Messe
Here are a few excellent options within easy reach (short tram ride or 10-15 min walk):
Block House - Good Steak, Casual & Reliable
A classic choice if you want a hearty meal near the fairgrounds. Block House is a well-liked steakhouse with generous portions of grilled meat, burgers and classic sides - ideal for groups or business meals without fuss. The vibe is casual, and it’s easy to come straight from the Messe for lunch or dinner.
Great if: You want a filling, unfussy meal with colleagues or clients.
NICO’S KITCHEN - Local Favourite Near Europa-Allee
Just a short walk from Messe Frankfurt, NICO’S KITCHEN is known for quality lunch and early dinner options, good service and a modern, relaxed atmosphere. It’s a nice step up from basic canteen food if you want something slightly more refined without going all the way into the city centre.
Great if: You want a friendly, balanced menu close by.
Via Monte Napoleone Restaurant - Italian Fine Dining Touch
If you’re after something a bit special after a long trade-fair day, this Italian restaurant on Bockenheimer Landstraße has highly rated pastas, seafood and wine - perfect for a business dinner or a memorable meal with guests. Italian cuisine is always a good bet after a day of European business travel.
Great if: You want a more refined dinner with excellent Italian classics.
Ong Tao - Vietnamesisches Restaurant & Bar - Vibrant Asian Flavours
For something different from typical Western menus, Ong Tao offers high-quality Vietnamese dishes - fresh, flavourful and popular with locals. It’s slightly further into the city but still easy to reach from the Messe and great for lunch or dinner.
Great if: You’re craving fresh Asian food and a lively setting.
If You Head Into the City Centre
Once you’re downtown (about a 10-15 min tram ride from the fairgrounds), you’ll find even more variety, traditional German cuisine, international options and great atmospheres for groups or relaxed dinners. A classic example is:
Klosterhof - Traditional German gastropub with hearty dishes and a great beer list - ideal for a local experience in a central neighbourhood.
Frankfurt’s centre also has streets like the Freßgass (great for quick bites and cafés) and places where you can explore regional specialties like Grüne Soße and Handkäse mit Musik, or try local apple wine (Apfelwein), if you’re staying after the exhibition.
Tips for Eating During an Exhibition
Reserve ahead: Exhibition periods fill nearby restaurants fast - bookings are wise, especially for dinner.
Casual options close by: If time is tight, stick near Europa-Allee / Skyline Plaza - it’s closest to the Messe and has cafés and lunch spots.
Public transport is easy: If you want a wider choice, trams and the U-Bahn get you into Frankfurt’s culinary heart quickly.