Rooftop Oosten in Frankfurt

Oosten: a roof on the River Main, facing the skyline

A former industrial quay

The Oosten stretches along the former harbour of the Ostend, a stone's throw from the European Central Bank tower. Steel, glass, concrete and massive beams: the three-level building has grafted itself around an old unloading crane, which still stands above the quay. On the ground floor and first floor, the restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine; below, a summer garden sets up on the water's edge.

The rooftop bar occupies the second floor, partly covered and extended by an open-air terrace. The view takes in the River Main and its boats, the ECB tower on one side and, on the other, the skyscrapers of the centre. At sunset, the skyline stands out against the light above the river.

Spritzes, cocktails and wines

A relaxed atmosphere, wooden sofas and cushions: the menu focuses on spritzes, from €11.50 for the Aperol to €14 for the house gin, lavender and cranberry spritz, and on a series of cocktails at €15, from the negroni to the espresso martini. Wines by the glass from €7.50, champagnes, beers and longdrinks complete the offer, with roasted almonds to nibble on. For dinner, you head down to the restaurant.

Practical information

The rooftop bar opens only in good weather, mainly in the good season, and does not take reservations: just turn up, preferably before sunset. The restaurant is open all year round, Monday to Friday from 5pm to 11pm, Saturday from noon to 11pm and Sunday from 10am to 10pm; booking is required. Access by S-Bahn (Ostendstraße), U-Bahn or tram (Ostbahnhof); car parks nearby.