Home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, Zurich's culinary landscape is full of surprises.
When you think of dining in Zurich, you might picture the classics — fondue, raclette and world-class chocolate. But those familiar with the city’s evolving culinary landscape know there’s far more to discover.
Zurich’s fine dining scene is thriving, with Michelin-starred restaurants showcasing avant-garde techniques, sustainability-driven concepts and global influences. Seasonality is a key focus, with chefs elevating locally sourced Alpine ingredients in inventive ways. The city’s cosmopolitan nature is reflected in its diverse offerings, from contemporary tasting menus to bold reinterpretations of international cuisine, all executed with Swiss precision.
Here at Elite Traveler, we’ve selected the top restaurants that have helped establish Zurich as one of Europe’s leading culinary destinations.
IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada
- Zurich, Switzerland
IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, nestled in the Marktgasse Hotel in the heart of Zürich's historic district, offers a unique "Fine Dining Sharing Experience." Host Ines Triebenbacher and chef Daniel Zeindlhofer create flavorful cuisine served in small bowls and plates, encouraging guests to share and savor each dish. The restaurant's design, envisioned by Patricia Urquiola, evokes the glamour of Hollywood's Golden Age with petrol-colored velvet curtains and inviting peach-toned sofas. IGNIV, meaning "nest," extends this cozy concept, inviting diners to relax and connect over exceptional food. The restaurant has been awarded two Michelin stars, a testament to its excellent cooking and innovative approach to fine dining. A superb selection of wines complements the tasting menu, enhancing the overall experience.
Widder Restaurant
- Zurich, Switzerland
Located within the historic Widder Hotel, the Widder Restaurant offers a refined dining experience that seamlessly blends Zurich's rich history with modern culinary artistry. The restaurant extends across two of the hotel's nine houses, showcasing medieval architectural elements. Here, head chef Stefan Heilemann crafts innovative dishes rooted in classic techniques, incorporating global influences and a signature touch of acidity. The Widder Restaurant has earned two Michelin stars and eighteen GaultMillau points. Guests can anticipate a gastronomic journey with a tasting menu, or opt for chef's classics. For an immersive experience, the Chef's Table offers a front-row view of the open kitchen.
The Counter
- Zurich, Switzerland
Located discreetly within Zurich's main train station, The Counter offers a unique fine-dining experience. Chef Mitja Birlo, formerly of the two-Michelin-starred Silver, helms this intimate restaurant, where up to 23 guests can observe his team's meticulous preparation of each course. Diners are seated at the counter surrounding the open kitchen or at the chef's table, accommodating up to six. The warm, modern space provides a front-row seat to Birlo's culinary artistry. The Counter has earned a Michelin star for its cosmopolitan cuisine, featuring a tasting menu of exciting delicacies. Florentina Birlo leads the accomplished service team, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
EquiTable
- Zurich, Switzerland
EquiTable, discreetly located on Stauffacherstrasse, presents a modern dining experience rooted in sustainability. Chef Julian Marti helms the kitchen, crafting inventive tasting menus from regional, organic, and fair-trade ingredients. EquiTable has one Michelin star, awarded in 2024, a testament to its high-quality cooking and dedication to ethical practices. The restaurant's commitment extends beyond the plate, embodying a lifestyle of environmental consciousness. The atmosphere is urban and international, with an attentive front-of-house team that balances attentiveness with discretion. EquiTable exemplifies how fine dining can harmonize with uncompromising ethics, offering a culinary journey that celebrates the terroir of Zurich and its surrounding landscapes.
