During our adventure in Switzerland, we visited numerous restaurants and cafes, sampling a variety of dishes and local flavors. We had most of our breakfasts at the hotels where we stayed. Some of our meals were enjoyed picnic-style with food picked up in the morning from local Coop supermarkets. The rest of our meals were eating out a various restaurants around town. For the most part we had researched restaurants and had a general idea of where we wanted to eat, however, some dining choices were impromptu.
Our experiences with Swiss cuisine were somewhat mixed. Swiss food, in general, didn’t always meet our expectations, making it very difficult to recommend many of the places we dined. However, there were a few standout restaurants and eateries that we found worthy of a visit for various reasons. Below, we’ve listed all of the restaurants that we ate at, and called out the few that we can recommend. Please note that not all of the recommended reestaurants are recommended solely on their food. Some are recommended based on the atmosphere, proximity to playgrounds, great views, etc.
Things to Know about Eating Out in Switzerland
Preparing for the Cost
Switzerland is very expensive. Entrees at restaurants can be 30-60 CHF. Lunch and dinner menus are the same. There’s no difference in price or portion size between the two meals. Water, even tap water, cost money (8-9 CHF for liter of water). It was not uncommon for our group of seven (four adults and three children) to spends 250-500 CHF per meal!
There are options. Swiss vacations should be about being outdoors and a part of nature. There are parks and playgrounds everywhere, so, take advantage of this by picnicking. Most towns have either a Coop or a Migros. Every Coop we went into had a selection of pre-made sandwichs, breads and pastries, meat and cheeses, beverages, and plenty of other items to buy for a picnick that day. Bring your daybag and fill it up for lunch.
Unique Swiss Foods
Syrups
Restaurants have a secret menu item called “Syrup”. It’s a raspberry syrup mixed in with tap water and given to children. It has a mild Kool-aid-ish flavor. It was offered to us by our server at one of our dinner restaurants in Murren. The kids loved it and, to our surprise, was free of charge! In a place where tap water can cost as much as alcohol, to see them give away something like this was shocking! Once we learned about it, we were pleasently surprised to see that most restaurants offered it, but you have to know to ask for it. Just ask for “syrup”.
Ovomaltine
Ovomaltine, known as Ovaltine in some parts of the world, is a beloved Swiss brand that has been delighting taste buds since its creation in 1904. Originally developed as a nutritious drink to combat malnutrition, Ovomaltine is made from malt extract, cocoa, and a blend of vitamins and minerals, making it both delicious and wholesome. Its unique, rich flavor has made it a popular choice not only as a beverage but also as an ingredient in various Swiss treats, including chocolate bars, biscuits, and ice cream. Simply put, it’s everywhere. But the place we enjoyed it most was at breakfast.
The Ovomaltine found at breakfast is a creamy chocolaty spread with little crispy things mixed into it. It’s almost as if Nutella and Rice Krispies were mixed together… not a lot unlike a Krackle bar. Whatever it is, it’s delicious. The kids loved it and so did I.
Fondue
We all know what fondue is, it’s not that unique. The fondue we had in Switzerland was all very tasty. However, the way it’s sold did not leave me feeling great about the dish. The fondue is sold per person with a minimum of two people required to order it. It’s usually around 29-35 CHF per person. So for a group of four people, your fondue can cost 140CHF ($158USD at the time of writing this)! That’s a lot of money for an 1.5″ of melted cheese.
Thanksfully we discovered that Restaurant Weidstübli, mentioned below, allows you to order it as an appetizer and it’s a flat price, not a per person price. Highly recommend trying it this way. Eating an entree portion of warm cheese can be a workout for your bowels.
Birchermüesli
Basically yogurt, granola (nuts, oats, etc), grated apples, and maybe some raisens all mixed together. It’s a healthy and delicious breakfast item. A staple for me almost every morning.
Restaurants
Zurich
Restaurant Bauschänzli
Restaurant Bauschänzli offers a delightful dining experience with a variety of traditional Swiss dishes, set in a beautiful outdoor location on an island in the Limmat River.
Stadthausquai 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
bauschänzli.ch
Swiss Chuchi Restaurant
Swiss Chuchi Restaurant, located in the heart of Zurich, is renowned for its authentic Swiss fondue and raclette, served in a cozy, alpine-inspired setting.
Rosengasse 10, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
hotel-adler.ch
Lucerne
Wirtshaus Taube
Wirtshaus Taube, situated in Lucerne, is a historic restaurant offering traditional Swiss cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, all served in a charming, rustic atmosphere.
Burgerstrasse 3, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland
taube-luzern.ch
Why did we love this? Great food, great service, authentic feeling atmosphere.
Stadtkeller
Stadtkeller is famous for its Swiss folklore shows and traditional Swiss meals, making it a must-visit for an authentic cultural dining experience in Lucerne.
Sternenpl. 3, 6004 Luzern, Switzerland
swissfolkloreshow.com
Why did we love this? A fun, albiet, cheesy Swiss dinner show. It kept the kids entertained. The food was perfectly fine.
Ristorante Da Ernesto
Ristorante Da Ernesto offers a genuine Italian dining experience in Lucerne, featuring a menu full of classic Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Zähringerstrasse 45, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland
da-ernesto.ch
Sopranos Café
Sopranos Café is a popular spot in Lucerne for casual dining, offering a range of delicious snacks, coffee, and drinks in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Pilatusstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland
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Berner Oberland Region
Strandbad Brienz
Strandbad Brienz is a delightful lakeside spot offering beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal or a snack after enjoying a swim in Lake Brienz.
Strandbadweg, 3855 Brienz, Switzerland
strandbadbrienz.ch
Why did we love this? A beach “resort” on lake Brienz. The food was surprisingly delicious and the service was excellent.
Restaurant Stägerstübli
Restaurant Stägerstübli in Mürren offers a cozy and authentic Swiss dining experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Renowned for its traditional Swiss cuisine, this restaurant features local favorites such as fondue and raclette, all served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Auf den Platten 1039C, 3825 Mürren, Switzerland
staegerstuebli.ch
Why did we love this? Excellent swiss food. This is where we learned about “Syrups”.
Restaurant Allmendhubel
Restaurant Allmendhubel, located above Mürren, is known for its panoramic views and traditional Swiss cuisine. The restaurant is a great stop for hikers and skiers, offering hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere.
Allmendhubel, 3825 Mürren, Switzerland
schilthorn.ch
Why did we love this? Mid-way through our trip we had a down day to do laundry. In the afternoon we headed up to Murren to Allmendhubel. The kids played for hours while we just relaxed and took in the good beer, cocktails, and ice cream for the kids.
Restaurant Weidstübli
Restaurant Weidstübli offers a charming and rustic dining experience with a menu featuring traditional Swiss dishes. Located in a beautiful setting, it’s an excellent spot to enjoy local cuisine and hospitality.
Matten, 3822 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
weidstuebli.swiss
Why did we love this? Great atmosphere, service was just meh, food was excellent. The only place we visited that had a appetizer sized portion of cheese fondue.
Berghaus Männlichen
Berghaus Männlichen provides a memorable dining experience with panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. The restaurant offers a variety of Swiss and international dishes, making it a perfect spot for a meal after a day of hiking or skiing.
Männlichen, 3818 Grindelwald, Switzerland
berghaus-maennlichen.ch
Hotel Alpina
Hotel Alpina in Mürren is celebrated for its spectacular views and friendly service. Guests enjoy a comfortable stay with access to a delicious on-site restaurant that serves a variety of European dishes, perfect for enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery.
Hauptstrasse, 3825 Mürren, Switzerland
alpinamuerren.ch
The Bell Restaurant
The Bell Restaurant in Lauterbrunnen is a popular spot known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse menu. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with views of the stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Fuhren, 3822 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
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Food Point Kebap
Food Point Kebap in Lauterbrunnen is a casual eatery offering delicious kebabs and fast food options. It’s a perfect spot for a quick and tasty meal while exploring the area.
Bahnhofplatz 477b, 3822 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
foodpoint-lauterbrunnen.ch
Restaurant Schützen
Restaurant Schützen in Lauterbrunnen is known for its traditional Swiss dishes and cozy ambiance. Guests appreciate the hearty meals and the scenic views of the surrounding valley, making it a favored dining spot.
Fuhren, 3822 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
restaurantschuetzen.com
Zermatt
Lusi Brasserie & Lounge
Lusi Brasserie & Lounge provides an elegant dining atmosphere in Zermatt, featuring a menu of refined dishes and a beautiful terrace with stunning mountain views.
Bahnhofstrasse 55, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland
zermatterhof.ch
Why did we love this? Probably the single best restaurant of our entire trip. Food was excellent and service was very attentive and professional.
Restaurant Grampis
Restaurant Grampis offers a lively dining experience in Zermatt, known for its delicious pizzas and Italian cuisine served in a friendly, vibrant setting.
Bahnhofstrasse 70, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland
grampis.ch
Hexenbar
Hexenbar in Zermatt is a cozy and unique spot known for its wide selection of drinks and lively ambiance, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Bahnhofstrasse 70, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland
hexenbarzermatt.ch
Restaurant Schäferstube
Restaurant Schäferstube offers an authentic Swiss dining experience in Zermatt, specializing in lamb dishes and traditional Swiss cuisine in a rustic, charming setting.
Hotel Julen, Riedstrasse 2, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland
julen.ch
Montreux
Molino
Molino in Montreux offers a classic Italian dining experience with a menu full of traditional pizzas, pastas, and Italian specialties, all served in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Grand Rue 63, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland
molino.ch
Why did we love this? Right on the Montreaux promenade. Great views of Lake Geneva. Excellent pizza and salads. The server was very attentive and was very good with the kids who were sitting at their own table.
Movenpick
Movenpick in Montreux is renowned for its premium ice cream and delightful desserts, providing a perfect spot to enjoy a sweet treat while strolling along the lakeside.
Grand Rue 52, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland
moevenpick-icecream.com
Coco Mama
Coco Mama is a trendy restaurant in Montreux known for its fresh and healthy dishes, combining local ingredients with international flavors in a stylish setting. Expensive and small portions. The wait staff was extremely rude. The restaurant was brutally hot and there were no windows to open.
Rue du Marché 1, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland
cocomama.ch
Le Palais Oriental
Le Palais Oriental provides an exotic dining experience in Montreux, featuring a menu of Middle Eastern and Moroccan cuisine in an opulent and beautifully decorated setting. The food was pretty decent but it was miserably hot inside. It’s never fun eating a warm meal while drenched in sweat. Service was fairly slow and they barely spoke English; not even enough to really explain dishes on the menu. They could only really point at pictures.
Quai Edouard-Jaccoud 1, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland
palaisoriental.ch
Confiserie Zurcher Montreux
Confiserie Zurcher Montreux is a beloved spot for sweet treats, offering a wide range of exquisite pastries, chocolates, and desserts, perfect for indulging in Swiss confectionery.
Grand Rue 20, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland
confiserie-zurcher.ch
Gruyeres
Le Saint Georges
Le Saint Georges in Gruyeres offers a traditional Swiss dining experience with a focus on local specialties such as fondue and raclette, all served in a historic and charming setting.
Rue du Bourg 22, 1663 Gruyères, Switzerland
lesaintgeorges.ch
Why did we love this? Delicious pizza. Reasonable prices. Great views at the rear of the restaurant if you can get a table there.
Bern
Restaurant Rosengarten
Restaurant Rosengarten in Bern provides a stunning dining experience with panoramic views of the city, offering a menu of refined dishes and a beautiful terrace.
Alter Aargauerstalden 31, 3006 Bern, Switzerland
rosengarten.be
Why did we love this? A perfect playground/restaurant combination to let the kids play, while the adults drink and snack.
Altes Tramdepot Brauerei Restaurant
Altes Tramdepot Brauerei Restaurant combines delicious Swiss cuisine with craft beers brewed on-site, all served in a historic and vibrant setting overlooking Bern.
Grosser Muristalden 6, 3006 Bern, Switzerland
altestramdepot.ch
Why did we love this? Great beer. Great food. Good service.
Restaurant Gurtners
Restaurant Gurtners, located on the Gurten mountain in Bern, offers a gourmet dining experience with a menu of creative and seasonal dishes, complemented by stunning views of the city. It was adjacent to Gurten Park but not close enough that we could leave the kids to play while we ate in the restaurant. The food was absolutely delicious and the service was just as good.
Gurtenbahn-Talstation, 3084 Köniz, Switzerland
gurtenpark.ch
Why did we love this? Excellent food. One of the best restaurants we ate at in all of Switzerland.
Arlequin
Not recommended. Arlequin in Bern featured standard Swiss/German food. It was fairly bland and the service was not very welcoming. The Wifi didn’t work outside.
Kornhauspl. 10, 3011 Bern, Switzerland
arlequinrestaurant.ch