21 Amazingly Unique Restaurants in Zurich

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Having visited Zurich three times, I’ve come to love and appreciate the incredible food scene this city has to offer. Switzerland holds a special place in my heart, and Zurich’s unique dining spots blend traditional Swiss flavors with modern culinary creativity. From cozy fondue restaurants in the Old Town to sleek, contemporary spots along the Limmat River, Zurich is a paradise for foodies.

Whether you’re after farm-to-table Alpine dishes or craving international flavors in the trendy Zurich-West district, this city has a dining experience for everyone. These 21 unique restaurants showcase the best of Zurich’s culinary scene, offering unforgettable meals that reflect the heart and soul of Switzerland. Trust me, these are the foodie experiences you don’t want to miss!

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend doing this lake cruise and chocolate tour in Zurich. It brings you to the best spots in the city, including the Lindt Home of Chocolate. This tour is an absolute must-do on a Zurich itinerary in my opinion.

Unique Restaurants in Zurich: 21 Memorable Zurich Eateries

Ready to dive into Zurich’s coolest restaurants? Join us as we explore the best places to eat in Zurich. How about eating in an old guild house, trying food in the dark, or enjoying a meal with city views from a rooftop? Zurich has all these unique dining experiences. You can try new, exciting flavors or have a classic Swiss meal in a cozy place. Let’s start our tour of the most unique restaurants in Zurich!

1. Zeughauskeller

• 📍 Location: Old Town (Near Paradeplatz/Bahnhofstrasse)
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Traditional Swiss / German / Beer Hall Fare
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic former armory setting, huge bustling beer hall atmosphere, traditional hearty food, and long communal tables.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Experiencing Swiss tradition, hearty appetites, beer hall fans, lively group meals, and casual Züri classics.

Step into Zurich history at Zeughauskeller, a massive beer hall in a former city armory. The vibe is pure Swiss-German energy – long wooden tables, loud chatter, and clinking beer steins. It feels like Oktoberfest year-round, buzzing with locals and tourists.
Expect hearty traditional grub. Their famous meter-long sausage is a sight to behold. Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (sliced veal in cream sauce with rösti), or a schnitzel bigger than your plate, are also essential. It’s a fun, filling, iconic Zurich experience.

2. Frau Gerolds Garten

This urban oasis in the heart of Zurich West is a total breath of fresh air. Frau Gerolds Garten is partly restaurant, partly art space, partly community garden – you’ll see locals unwinding at giant communal tables surrounded by lush plants, color-popping street art, and funky recycled decor. The open-air kitchen turns out killer seasonal fare; the marinated grilled chicken with garden herbs is legendary, and their summery elderflower spritz is a must on a hot day. Don’t miss the epic rooftop terrace for a chill city view. I recommend arriving early on weekends – seats fill fast. Prime people-watching, plus shops and galleries at nearby Viadukt make for a full afternoon.

3. Zum Kropf

• 📍 Location: Old Town (Near Paradeplatz)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Traditional Swiss / Zurich Specialties
• 🔥 Standout Features: Beautiful historic guild hall interior, ornate ceilings/woodwork, traditional Zurich dishes, and classic ambiance.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Traditional Swiss dining, historic ambiance lovers, classic Zurich dishes, elegant lunches/dinners, and feeling fancy.

Want to dine like Zurich royalty? Head to Zum Kropf, in a stunningly preserved old guild hall near Paradeplatz. The inside is gorgeous – ornate painted ceilings, incredible wood carvings, and an elegant vibe that feels like stepping back centuries.
The menu focuses on classic Zurich and Swiss specialties. Trying the perfectly creamy Zürcher Geschnetzeltes is a must. A proper cordon bleu (breaded veal cutlet with ham and cheese), or seasonal game dishes like venison, are also excellent.

4. La Taqueria (Kreis 4)

You’ll smell the fresh tortillas before you even spot this buzzing spot tucked in lively Kreis 4. La Taqueria’s street food-style Mexican grub is the real deal – think crispy Baja fish tacos, spicy cochinita pibil, and someone always recommends the churros with dulce de leche. Seating is casual and vibrant, perfect for grabbing a pitcher of house margaritas with friends. I love that the decor is bold and artsy, with playful pops of color and Mexican kitsch everywhere. Great for a late-night snack after cocktails nearby, or before bar-hopping along Langstrasse.

5. Didi’s Frieden

• 📍 Location: Kreis 5 (Near Hardbrücke/Langstrasse)
• 💲 Price range: $70 – $140+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern European / Creative Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Chef Didi Bruna, creative seasonal menus, focus on quality ingredients, relaxed fine dining vibe.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Foodies seeking creativity, special occasion dinners, refined neighborhood dining, seasonal food fans, and relaxed elegance.

Discover sophisticated dining at Didi’s Frieden in the hip Kreis 5 district. Chef Didi Bruna serves creative Modern European food, all about top-notch seasonal ingredients and inventive flavor combos. The vibe nails that sweet spot between upscale and comfortably relaxed.

Expect beautifully presented dishes. The menu changes often, but you might find exquisite seafood preparations like pan-seared scallops with cauliflower puree. Tender veal cheeks with truffle polenta, or artful vegetarian creations, showcase real skill.

6. Miss Miu

If you’re craving serious K-pop energy with your Korean comfort food, Miss Miu is the spot. The whole place is decked out in neon, retro diner seating, and hints of a wild, Alice-in-Wonderland tea party. The Korean BBQ platters are interactive and perfect for sharing – definitely order the signature Bulgogi beef and spicy fried chicken. Cocktail-wise, the Soju infusions are fun and way too drinkable. I absolutely loved their pink velvet booths and whimsical murals. Bonus: It’s right on Europaallee, so perfect after shopping or catching a film at the cinema nearby.

7. Haus Hiltl

• 📍 Location: City Center (Near Bahnhofstrasse)
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person (Buffet pricing varies)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vegetarian / Vegan / Global Buffet
• 🔥 Standout Features: World’s oldest vegetarian restaurant (since 1898!), massive gourmet vegetarian buffet, global flavors, pay-by-weight system.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Vegetarians/vegans, healthy eaters, trying diverse flavors, buffet fans, and experiencing history.

Eat your way through vegetarian history at Haus Hiltl, the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant! The main event is the massive, gourmet vegetarian and vegan buffet. We’re talking dozens of incredible hot and cold dishes from all over the world.

You pay by weight, so load up! The Indian curries, like a creamy palak paneer or chana masala, are fantastic. Their fresh salad bar with countless toppings, or Thai-inspired noodle dishes, are also must-tries. Haus Hiltl proves plant-based food rocks.

8. Dar Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

Walking into Dar Restaurant, you’re instantly transported to Marrakech. This spot oozes exotic vibes with its intricately tiled walls, hanging lanterns, and intoxicating spice scents. Their lamb shank tagine just melts off the bone, and the vegetarian couscous is piled high with colorful veggies. Try the mint tea poured tableside – it’s a whole ritual. The ambiance is relaxed and cozy, with live music on weekends that somehow always gets diners clapping along. I thought this place was perfect for a romantic date or a long group dinner, followed by a stroll through the historic Niederdorf district just steps away.

9. Raclette Factory

• 📍 Location: Old Town (Niederdorf Area)
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Swiss Raclette & Fondue
• 🔥 Standout Features: Focus on raclette (multiple cheese types), modern alpine decor, interactive cheese melting, fondue options.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Cheese lovers, raclette/fondue fans, fun interactive meals, casual Swiss experience, and warming up cold nights.

Get ready for ultimate cheesy goodness at the Raclette Factory in Zurich’s Old Town. This spot is all about raclette, where they melt big wheels of cheese until bubbly and scrape it onto your plate over potatoes, pickles, and onions.

Trying their classic raclette with different cheese varieties (like paprika or truffle) is a must. They also offer traditional cheese fondue with bread for dipping. For a fun, interactive, and deeply satisfying dose of Swiss comfort food, this is perfect.

10. The Artisan Craft Kitchen

This casual but stylish eatery in Wipkingen takes “farm-to-table” to the next level with a menu packed with homegrown veggies and locally sourced meats. The Artisan truly shines with its brunches (that avocado toast is Instagram-famous), but their homemade burgers and creative daily bowls are perfect for lunch or dinner too. The vibe is chill, with forest-green walls, rustic wood tables, and an open kitchen. On sunny days, their leafy terrace is a local favorite. I loved wandering through the tree-lined streets nearby after my meal; it’s a neighborhood gem and feels like a true discovery.

11. Blinde Kuh

• 📍 Location: Seefeld (8th District)
• 💲 Price range: $80 – $130+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Mystery Multi-Course / Sensory Dining (Dining in the Dark)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Dining in complete darkness, service by visually impaired staff, sensory focus, unique concept.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous eaters, unique dates, sensory explorers, icebreakers, and memorable dining adventures.

Ready to challenge your senses? Blinde Kuh (“Blind Cow”) is Zurich’s original dining-in-the-dark restaurant. You’ll eat a multi-course surprise meal in absolute, total darkness, guided and served by visually impaired or blind staff. No phones, no cheating!

The surprise menu might feature a creamy Jerusalem artichoke soup. For mains, perhaps tender braised beef with polenta, or delicate pan-seared fish with roasted vegetables. A chocolate mousse with berries could be dessert. It’s a wild ride!

12. Neni

Neni at 25hours Hotel Langstrasse is a Middle Eastern powerhouse for flavor and fun. You’ll feast on mezze platters loaded with hummus, za’atar bread, and their killer sabich (eggplant sandwich). The eclectic, global-inspired decor rocks mismatched chairs and quirky light fixtures, giving the place a funky, lived-in energy. It’s great for groups – order lots of small plates to share. Pro tip: Come for the lively weekend brunch; the shakshuka flies out of the kitchen. Afterward, check out the hotel’s cool bar or wander Langstrasse’s nightlife. I’m still craving their homemade lemonade with rose water.

13. Viadukt / Markthalle im Viadukt

• 📍 Location: Kreis 5 (Under railway viaduct arches)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $40+ per person (Varies by vendor)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Diverse / Market Hall Food Stalls / Deli
• 🔥 Standout Features: Food market/stalls under historic viaduct arches, diverse vendors, local products, restaurant/bar options.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Foodie exploration, sampling local goods, casual lunch/bites, unique architecture fans, and market vibes.

Explore a cool blend of food and history at Markthalle im Viadukt. Tucked beneath old railway viaduct arches in trendy Kreis 5, this lively market hall is packed with independent food stalls and gourmet shops. Graze on fresh bread, local cheese, or international street food.

Grab some artisanal Swiss cheese from one stall. Freshly baked sourdough bread from another, or delicious sausages and cured meats from a local butcher, are also excellent. There’s also a proper restaurant inside for a sit-down meal.

14. Rechberg

This charming, unfussy restaurant in Old Town does classic Swiss cuisine with a modern, seasonal twist and absolutely zero pretension. Rechberg’s whole ethos is about local ingredients and tradition – the menu changes monthly but you’ll always find a dreamy Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (veal in creamy mushroom sauce) and locally-caught fish. The candlelit, wood-paneled interior oozes Old Zurich vibes without feeling stuffy. Pro tip: Book ahead; this place is tiny and beloved by foodies in the know. I loved cozying up by the window to people-watch after walking through the storybook alleyways nearby.

15. Le Dézaley

• 📍 Location: Old Town (Grossmünster Area)
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $80 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Swiss Fondue / Vaudois Specialties
• 🔥 Standout Features: Focus on authentic cheese fondue, traditional Swiss ambiance, Vaud region wines, cozy setting.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Fondue fanatics, traditional Swiss seekers, cozy winter meals, cheese lovers, and Old Town dining.

When only a bubbling pot of authentic Swiss cheese fondue will do, Le Dézaley in the Old Town is your go-to. This charming, traditional restaurant specializes in the ultimate comfort food, offering delicious cheese blends perfect for endlessly dipping crusty bread.

Their classic cheese fondue, a blend of Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois, is essential. The fondue moitié-moitié (half-half) is also a popular choice. They highlight specialties and wines from Switzerland’s Vaud region. It’s cheesy perfection.

16. Gaijin Izakaya

Gaijin Izakaya brings loud, energetic Tokyo tavern life to Zurich. The izakaya concept means sharing a bunch of small, creative Japanese plates – try the smoky grilled yakitori skewers and the uni-topped tamago. The drinks menu is packed with sake and fun cocktails (the yuzu gin fizz gets two thumbs up from me). With its open kitchen, moody lighting, and manga-inspired murals, the whole place feels edgy and cool. Great for pre-party snacks or a late-night feast with friends. If you catch a concert at nearby Dynamo, it’s a quick walk afterward for midnight ramen.

17. Wurst & Moritz

• 📍 Location: Multiple Casual Spots (e.g., near Bahnhofstrasse, Niederdorf)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Gourmet Sausages / Currywurst / Street Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Elevated sausage stand concept, high-quality sausages, creative toppings/sauces, focus on Currywurst.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Sausage lovers, quick tasty bites, gourmet street food fans, trying Currywurst, and budget eats.

Think street food sausages can’t be gourmet? Wurst & Moritz is here to prove you wrong. This popular spot elevates the humble sausage, serving top-quality Swiss Bratwurst or Cervelat with creative toppings and tasty house-made sauces.

They’re especially known for nailing Currywurst, that addictive German street food classic (a pork sausage sliced and doused in curry ketchup). Their spicy “Inferno” sausage or a classic St. Galler Bratwurst are also great. It’s simple but delicious.

18. Gül Restoran

If you want proper Turkish food in a hip, industrial setting, head to Gül in Kreis 4. It’s all exposed brick, leafy plants, and long tables – buzzing with energy but still cozy. Go for the mezze platter loaded with smoky baba ganoush and whipped feta, then order their famous grilled lamb kofte. Cocktails skew Mediterranean (grapefruit raki, anyone?), and Turkish tea is always on hand. The atmosphere feels festive but never overwhelming. I found it perfect for lingering with a crew before heading to bars on Helvetiaplatz just around the corner.

19. Josef

• 📍 Location: Kreis 5 (Near Langstrasse)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern European / Small Plates / Sharing Focus
• 🔥 Standout Features: Focus on creative shareable small plates, lively/trendy atmosphere, popular bar scene, seasonal ingredients.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Sharing plates lovers, trendy dinners, group outings, date nights, and exploring Kreis 5 vibes.

Located in Zurich’s buzzing Kreis 5 district, Josef is a happening spot known for its delicious modern European food served mostly as creative small plates meant for sharing. The fun here is getting a bunch of different seasonal dishes to try with friends.

Expect inventive flavor combinations. Their beef tartare with a twist is popular. Seasonal vegetable dishes, like roasted asparagus with hollandaise, or small portions of fresh pasta like truffle ravioli, are also fantastic. The vibe is lively and trendy.

20. Neue Taverne

• 📍 Location: Old Town (Near Rennweg)
• 💲 Price range: $70 – $140+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vegetarian Fine Dining / Creative Plant-Based
• 🔥 Standout Features: Michelin-starred vegetarian, innovative plant-based dishes, focus on vegetables, elegant/minimalist decor.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Vegetarians/vegans seeking fine dining, adventurous foodies, special occasions, elegant plant-based meals, and Michelin star hunters.

Get ready to see vegetables in a new light at Neue Taverne. This Michelin-starred restaurant is dedicated to innovative, high-end vegetarian cuisine. They showcase the amazing potential of plants through creative techniques, complex flavors, and stunningly artistic plating.

The setting is elegant and minimalist. Expect dishes like celeriac shawarma or smoked potato foam. Their inventive desserts featuring vegetables, like a parsnip and white chocolate creation, are also unique. It’s a sophisticated culinary experience.

21. Gertrudhof

• 📍 Location: Kreis 3 (Near Idaplatz)
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $80 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern European / Neighborhood Gem
• 🔥 Standout Features: Stylish neighborhood spot, seasonal menu, quality ingredients, often praised cocktails/wine, relaxed yet chic vibe.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Neighborhood dining lovers, casual dates, quality seasonal food, relaxed drinks/dinner, and exploring Kreis 3.

Discover that perfect mix of cool neighborhood hangout and seriously good food at Gertrudhof in Kreis 3. This stylish yet relaxed restaurant focuses on delicious Modern European dishes driven by what’s fresh and seasonal, using high-quality ingredients.

Expect a menu that changes frequently. Flavorful, satisfying plates like pan-seared fish with seasonal vegetables are a highlight. Their handmade pasta dishes or a perfectly cooked veal Zurich style (Zürcher Geschnetzeltes) also get nods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Unique Restaurants in Zurich

Searching for more information to help you decide where to eat in Zurich? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Zurich’s coolest restaurants.

What is the must-have food in Zurich?

When visiting Zurich, there are several must-try foods. Here are some of the top choices that I recommend:

• Fondue: This classic Swiss dish is a must-try in Zurich. It’s made with melted cheese (typically Gruyère and Emmental) and served in a communal pot (caquelon) over a small burner. Diners use long forks to dip pieces of bread into the cheese.
• Raclette: Another cheese-based dish, raclette involves melting the surface of a wheel of semi-hard cheese and scraping off the melted part. It’s typically served with small potatoes, gherkins, and pickled onions.
• Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: This is a traditional Zurich dish. It consists of thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, often served with Rösti (Swiss-style grated and fried potatoes).
• Rösti: Originally a breakfast dish, Rösti is now enjoyed as a side dish with various meals. It’s made from grated potatoes that are pan-fried until crisp and golden.
• Swiss Chocolates: Switzerland is famous for its chocolate, and Zurich is no exception. Indulge in some of the finest Swiss chocolates from local chocolatiers.
• Birchermüesli: Invented by a Swiss physician, this is a healthy breakfast dish made from rolled oats, lemon juice, condensed milk, grated apples, and nuts.
• Swiss Pastries: Try some local pastries like Luxemburgerli (small, airy macarons) or Züpfe (a plaited, brioche-like bread), especially popular on Sundays.
• Sausages: Don’t miss out on trying some Swiss sausages like Bratwurst or Cervelat, often served with bread and mustard.
• Swiss Wines: While not a food, Swiss wines, particularly those from the regions around Zurich, are worth sampling. The local white wines, made from the Chasselas grape, are especially noteworthy.

How expensive are restaurants in Zurich?

In Zurich, you’ll find a mix of dining options to suit various budgets. While some of the best restaurants in Zurich offer high-end, fine dining experiences, there are also plenty of unique places in Zurich to eat that are more wallet-friendly. For a casual meal, you might spend around CHF 20-40 per person. If you’re exploring fine dining in Zurich, expect higher prices, but remember, these spots often provide a one-of-a-kind culinary experience amidst the diverse landscape of exploring Zurich.

What is a typical breakfast in Zurich?

A classic Zurich breakfast usually includes fresh bread, local jams, Swiss cheeses, and cold cuts. Bircher muesli, a mix of oats, fruits, nuts, and yogurt, is a popular choice. For a unique twist on breakfast, many of Zurich’s best restaurants serve up these traditional items with modern, creative touches, often using fresh, local ingredients.

What time do the Swiss eat dinner?

Dinner in Switzerland is typically around 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. However, in Zurich, dining times can be more flexible, especially in the city center or during weekends. Many restaurants in Zurich cater to late diners, offering a vibrant evening atmosphere and extended service hours.

Do you tip for meals in Switzerland?

Tipping isn’t a must in Switzerland as service is included in your bill. But, it’s common to round up the total for good service. In Zurich’s best restaurants, a small tip (5-10%) is a nice gesture for exceptional service, but it’s always at your discretion. Remember, tipping here is more about showing appreciation than an obligation.

How can I save money on food in Zurich?

Saving money on food in Zurich, a city known for its high cost of living, can be challenging. However, it’s definitely possible with some smart strategies. Here are some tips to help you save money on food while still enjoying the local cuisine:

1. Supermarket Meals: Swiss supermarkets like Coop, Migros, and Denner offer a variety of ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, salads, and snacks at reasonable prices. They also have a selection of fresh produce and ingredients if you prefer to cook your own meals.
2. Street Food and Food Trucks: Zurich has a growing street food scene. Look for food trucks and street vendors selling affordable and delicious options like sausages, kebabs, and international cuisines.
3. University Canteens and Cafeterias: These are open to the public and offer meals at lower prices than typical restaurants. ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich have several canteens with a variety of food options.
4. Daily Specials and Lunch Menus: Many restaurants offer a daily special (Tagesmenü) or a set lunch menu at a reduced price compared to their regular menu. These are usually available on weekdays.
5. Picnics: Zurich has beautiful parks and lakeside areas perfect for picnics. You can buy affordable food from a supermarket or bakery and enjoy a meal outdoors.
6. Avoid Tourist Hotspots: Restaurants in tourist areas tend to be more expensive. Explore the neighborhoods a bit off the beaten path for more affordable dining options.
7. Refill Water Bottles: Tap water in Zurich is drinkable and of excellent quality. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout the day to save on buying bottled water.
8. Hostel/Hotel Kitchen: If your accommodation has a kitchen, take advantage of it to prepare some of your meals.
9. Farmer’s Markets: Visit local farmer’s markets for fresh and often more affordable produce compared to supermarkets.

Recap: Unique Restaurants in Zurich

Zurich’s dining scene is full of surprises. Each restaurant we’ve talked about offers more than just good food. They give you unique experiences. From the special atmosphere of Blindekuh to the creative dishes at Josef, these places make eating out in Zurich exciting.

If I had to recommend just one, it would be Josef. It stands out with its fun menu and lively vibe. It’s a place where food is not just tasty but also interesting and different.

For a beautiful view and great food, Gertrudhof is perfect. It combines lovely scenery with delicious meals. And for those looking for good food that’s also easy on the wallet, Wurst & Moritz is a great choice.

In Zurich, eating out is about trying new things and having fun. These restaurants are not just places to eat; they are part of what makes Zurich special and contributes to the beauty of places in Switzerland. So, when you’re in Zurich, be sure to check out these amazing spots. You’ll have a great time and enjoy some fantastic food!