Mai Beck restaurant, Cologne, Germany

Sometimes it's half and half to rely on the forums for food/travel critics.  This time I'd bet on tripadvisor  for naming this restaurant as the no. 1 German restaurant in Cologne.  Another major factor made me a decision is the convenience of this restaurant, just only door steps from the hotel I stay and it's very near the cathedral.  Tried a German cola - not bad.  The bread was served in a very cozy presentation.  It's not just a look but it tasted so good that I asked for another one.  Ordered their house specialities - glazed five belly pork and a stewed filet.  Both were impressive, and the mashed potato was a plus.

fruh Gastronomie, Cologne, Germany

Noticed there were quite several tour groups stopping by this restaurant.  Out of curiosity, I came in for a try.  This place seemed to be quite historical with many old photos and antiques.  Seldom do I order a beer but this time I felt like getting one to go with the pig's knuckle.  Frankly I prefer Tsing Tao beer, probably because of my fond memory of my father.  

When I was almost done with the meal or I should say I didn't feel like finishing the meal, there went a chill-out rat strolling under the table next to mine.  Though I'm not that afraid of rats, there wasn't a reason for me to stay any longer.  What a gastronomie!

Cologne cathedral and Rhein river, Germany

Cologne at night, Germany

The below photos were taken on iPhone 6 plus (3 older generation).  The key is to avoid holding your camera too straight of your both hands.  Instead, hold your phone with your elbows against your 2 sides.

Cologne Cathedral, Germany

Cafe Reichard, Cologne, Germany

This look of this cafe is so nostalgic and classy that I was much interested in checking it out, though I'm not that keen to try their cakes.  Anyway, got a black forest cake and it's a bit different from what we have.  The choco. flakes on top with a foamy custard cream layer and a bed of cherries. 

Haxenhaus, Cologne, Germany

Ordered a half meter long sausage and a salad.  The sausage was nicely grilled and it's not that heavy.  With the pickled cabbage and the green salad, it's something quite refreshing.  Noticed on the bar table, there were a few photos (photo 2) showing PM Merkel has been here.  This place looks quite historical with many past news on the walls.

Flooding in Cologne years ago, Germany

There was a time (around late 90's) the famous Reine river got flooding.  The below photo of this Cologne restaurant by the river showed the serious flooding.  I guess it was about 20-30 feet high.

ICE (Inter-City Express), 1st class and private compartment, Frankfurt to Cologne, Germany

If you have a fixed travel schedule for your flight and hotel, it's advisable to book the train ticket online in advance, and also pay a few more (about 10-20%), you can get some premium seats like the below photo 3.  The train ticket for single journey from Frankfurt to Cologne is about EUR25-50 per person.  Journey time takes about an hour by a high speed ICE train (250-300km@hour).  As I boarded on the train, I found out there are some private compartments (photo 4-6).  Good for those who don't wanna sit with the others.