Many Rhine River cruises include a stop in Cologne, Germany, and one of the delicacies for which the city is famous is Kolsch beer.
Kolsch is an unusual style of beer because it combines techniques used to produce lagers and ales to create a hybrid product that has the best features of both. The beer is light and clear, and served cold — making it especially delicious on a warm summer day. This uniqueness and drinkability have helped make it beloved in Germany and around the world.
Often cruise passengers will have to choose between a sightseeing tour of the city or a beer-tasting experience. But there’s a way to do both. Gaffel am Dom is a local beer hall that specializes in Kolsch, and it’s located in the heart of the city center practically next door to the main cathedral. So, clients can visit the cathedral and easily follow it up with a beer tasting.
The restaurant itself is large, clean and comfortable, with a historic feel. It’s also fine for kids — on a recent visit, there were several families enjoying the ambiance.
In Cologne, Kolsch is traditionally served in tall, thin glasses. The server brings up to 12 glasses at once in a special tray, and, instead of waiting for the drinker to order a refill, the server immediately replaces an empty glass with a full one. (If you don’t want a glass refilled, you’re supposed to cover it with a beer coaster.)
Food is also available at Gaffel am Dom, and I suggest trying a plate of reibekuchen (fried potato pancakes served with applesauce and dense black bread). The dish is delicious, and the hearty food goes perfectly with the light, crisp Kolsch.
The Details
Gaffel am Dom
www.gaffelamdom.de
