Where to Eat in Zurich: Restaurants and Typical Food

Where to Eat in Zurich

Zurich's dining scene ranges from traditional Swiss cuisine to international options. Eating out in Zurich can be expensive, but there are ways to enjoy great food without breaking the bank.

Typical dishes to try

• Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: Zurich's signature dish — sliced veal in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, usually served with rösti.
• Fondue: Melted cheese served in a communal pot with bread cubes — a must-try Swiss experience.
• Raclette: Melted cheese scraped onto potatoes, pickles and onions.
• Rösti: Crispy pan-fried grated potatoes, often served as a side dish.

Recommended restaurants

• Zeughauskeller — A historic beer hall near Paradeplatz, serving traditional Swiss and German dishes since 1487. Famous for its massive sausage platter. Mid-range and great atmosphere.
• Kronenhalle — An iconic Zurich restaurant with original artworks by Chagall, Miró and Picasso on the walls. Classic Swiss-French cuisine. High-end but a unique cultural experience.
• Café Sprüngli — The most famous confectionery in Zurich, on Bahnhofstrasse. Known for its Luxemburgerli (delicate macarons) and hot chocolate. Perfect for a sweet treat.
• Hiltl — The world's oldest vegetarian restaurant (since 1898). A huge buffet with global flavors — even meat lovers enjoy it. Mid-range.
• Raclette Factory — A casual spot in the old town dedicated to raclette. Choose your cheese and toppings. Fun, affordable and very Swiss.
• Coop and Migros restaurants: For budget meals, these supermarket restaurants serve hot meals, salads and sandwiches for CHF 10-15 — a local trick for eating well on a budget.

Tips

1. Lunch menus (Tagesmenu) at restaurants are significantly cheaper than dinner — often CHF 18-25 for a full meal.

2. Water in Swiss restaurants is usually not free — ask for Hahnenwasser (tap water) if you want to avoid paying CHF 5-8 for a bottle.