Chef in Zurich creating a plate with fresh fruit

Zurich food guide

A delicious breakfast meal of eggs benedict and a yoghurt bowl in Zurich

taste your way through Zurich

Zurich’s food scene is as vibrant as its postcard-worthy views. Think everything from cosy waterfront spots to historic eateries in the city centre, serving up classic Swiss flavours and global favourites. Whether you’re after a melty cheese feast, a perfectly crisp rösti, or something a bit more experimental, Zurich’s got you covered.

Ready to find the best restaurants in Zurich? Here’s your guide to iconic dining, hidden gems, and must-eat spots—plus a few places where the views are just as good as the food. Dig in!

typical swiss bites

Switzerland isn’t just about the views—it’s got some serious comfort food too. Here’s what to try in Zurich:

  • raclette: Melted cheese served over boiled potatoes, pickles, and onions. It’s the perfect cosy dish for chilly nights.
  • fondue: The classic Swiss experience—dipping chunks of bread into a pot of melted cheese. Got a sweet tooth? Go for a chocolate version for dessert.
  • rösti: Think hash browns, but Swiss-style. Crispy, golden grated potatoes, usually served as a dinner side (not a breakfast thing here!).
  • zürcher geschnetzeltes: Thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, usually paired with rösti or noodles. It’s the ultimate Swiss comfort food.
  • zopf: A rich, braided loaf made with flour, milk, eggs, butter, and yeast. Traditionally enjoyed on Sundays, but we say it’s good any day.
  • bircher muesli: A breakfast classic invented by a Swiss doc—rolled oats soaked in milk or yogurt with grated apple, nuts, and fruits. Healthy and delicious.
  • älplermagronen: Alpine mac and cheese with a twist—macaroni, cheese, potatoes, cream, and sometimes onions or bacon. Mountain food that hits the spot.

Locals eat and drink outside in Zurich with twinkly lights hanging overhead

must-eat restaurants in Zurich: foodie's favourites

Looking for the best restaurants in Zurich? Here’s a mix of must-eat spots, from fine dining to local gems that’ll make your taste buds sing. Each one has a little something special, whether it's a unique dish, seasonal menu, or cosy atmosphere that keeps the locals coming back for more.

  • Maison Manesse – Fine dining with a twist, offering creative dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
  • Lou's Comfort Food - Restaurant & Bar – Comfort food at its best—think hearty portions and classic favourites.
  • Zeughauskeller – A Zurich classic, serving up Swiss specialities in a historic setting. Come for the rösti, stay for the old-school charm.
  • Frau Gerolds Garten – Perfect for summer with its outdoor terrace, or cosy up in heated tents with live music in winter. It’s homestyle cooking with a side of good vibes.
  • EquiTable AG – Sustainable fine dining with a focus on local ingredients and innovative flavours. A must for the eco-conscious foodie.
  • Sternen Grill – Grab a sausage and a legendary mustard from this takeout spot for a quick, delicious bite by the lake.

lakefront dining: restaurants by Lake Zurich

Looking for a meal with a view? Zurich’s lakeside restaurants are here to serve. From chill cafés to fancy dinner spots, dining by Lake Zurich is all about soaking up those stunning waterfront vibes. Perfect for brunch, sunset dinners, or just a lazy afternoon with panoramic views.

Check out these top picks:

  • Rosaly's Restaurant & Bar – Classic Swiss dishes in a cosy spot.
  • L'O – Upscale vibes with gourmet plates and lake views.
  • Wöschi – Casual bites right on the water, ideal for a laid-back lunch.
  • Fischerstube Zürihorn – Fresh fish, local flavours, and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Pier 7 – Enjoy the sunset with a cocktail in hand.
  • 8008 see – Modern, stylish, and all about those lakeside vibes.

Whether you're here for a quick coffee or a full-course meal, these lakefront gems are serving up Zurich on a plate.

Luxurious ice cream dessert with a chocolate crumble

chocolate in Zurich: sweet, smooth & oh-so satisfying

Zurich’s love affair with chocolate started back in 1845 when the Sprüngli family gave us Lindt, and the world’s never been the same since. Today, this city’s a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Kick things off at the Lindt Home of Chocolate, home to the world’s biggest chocolate fountain—yes, it’s as impressive as it sounds. Then, make your way to Max Chocolatier for a small-batch of, handmade treats that make the perfect gift... or a snack for yourself.

Want to get your hands dirty? Join a workshop at Confiserie Honold and become a chocolate pro. And of course, you can’t miss Sprüngli—the place to be for Luxemburgerli macarons and melt-in-your-mouth pralines.

Dive into Zurich’s sweet side—you won’t regret it

final bites: dining tips and tricks

Ready to tackle Zurich’s dining scene? Here are some tips to keep you in the know:

  • it's pricey: Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Zurich’s got a taste for the finer things—expect most meals to be in the $$-$$$ range.
  • cash or card? No stress—cards are accepted pretty much everywhere.
  • bill splitting: Not a thing here. If you ask to split the bill, prepare for a polite but slightly awkward moment.
  • service style: Waiters here won’t hover. If you need something (like the bill), you’ll probably have to wave them down.
  • reservations are a must: Zurich’s restaurants fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book ahead, or risk missing out!

With these tips, you’ll be dining like a local in no time!

cosy and clean guest room within the citizenM Zurich hotel overlooking the city

where to stay in Zurich

After a day spent exploring Zurich’s best bites, you’ll want a place to recharge—and citizenM Zurich is just the spot. Centrally located, it’s a breeze to get from breakfast by the lake to dinner in the city centre. Plus, it’s close enough to roll back to after indulging in all that cheese, chocolate, and more.

With rooms that are as comfy as they are stylish and cosy lounges that feel like a home away from home, it’s the perfect base for your Zurich food adventure. So, kick off your shoes, relax, and get ready for another day of delicious discoveries.

stay at citizenM Zurich