# Small talk in Frankfurt

**Language:** German  
**CEFR Level:** B2  

> Join Tobias and Clara to practice casual small talk with locals on a trip to Frankfurt, one short conversation at a time. Each lesson trains your ear until you can follow every word and answer back.

**Setting:** Tobias and Clara meet by chance at a traditional Apfelwein tavern in Frankfurt-Sachsenhausen and decide to explore the city together. Over the course of a weekend, they wander from the sunny Mainufer to the bustling Römerberg, chatting with local Frankfurt residents and trying regional specialties.

## Lessons

### 1. Expressing skepticism about a tradition

Tobias and Clara discuss the traditional ribbed glass used for serving German apple wine and debate whether it actually affects the flavor.

### 2. Asking for local recommendations

Clara reveals her background in craft brewing, and Tobias decides to ask a local sitting nearby for advice on where to find the best apple wine.

### 3. Asking someone to repeat themselves

Tobias struggles to understand a local's dialect when asking for recommendations, prompting Clara to advise him to ask the man to speak more slowly.

### 4. Relaying a recommendation to others

Tobias explains the local's recommendation to Clara, who then shares her perspective as a brewer on how glassware might affect the aroma of a drink.

### 5. Comparing weather in different cities

Tobias and Clara discuss the unpredictable Frankfurt weather and decide to head out toward the Main riverbank now that the rain has stopped.

### 6. Discussing local culinary specialties

Clara and Tobias talk about local Frankfurt dishes they want to try, including Grüne Soße and the curiously named Handkäs mit Musik.

### 7. Explaining the origin of a term

Clara explains the funny origin behind a local food expression to Tobias, and they wonder how long it takes to walk along the crowded Mainufer.

### 8. Asking about walking times

Clara asks a passerby how long it takes to walk to the Alte Brücke, and Tobias jokes about how their sightseeing will slow them down.

### 9. Deciding on a tourist activity

Clara and Tobias admire the city skyline and debate whether visiting a popular but expensive viewing tower is worth the cost.

### 10. Planning a sightseeing route

Clara and Tobias plan their next steps, deciding to visit the historic Römerberg area first despite rumors of endless construction.

### 11. Speculating about local history

Clara and Tobias discuss the city's Roman past, wondering if archaeological discoveries are the reason behind the constant roadworks.

### 12. Inquiring about construction duration

Clara asks a local worker when the construction will finally end, only to discover that the timeline is a running joke even among locals.

### 13. Offering to demonstrate a local custom

Tobias suggests finally getting some Green Sauce, and Clara offers to teach him the proper technique for pouring local apple wine.

### 14. Expressing anticipation for upcoming plans

Tobias and Clara set off for their meal, sharing their excitement and anticipation for what the rest of the afternoon might bring.