Top 10 culinary specialities in Zurich

Switzerland attracts many tourists for its sublime landscapes, idyllic surroundings and activities. But very few are aware of Swiss gastronomy, which is well worth the diversions. Specialities vary depending on the region you visit. Switzerland is a multicultural country, as evidenced by the number of languages spoken within the country itself. These include German, Italian, French and Romansh, the traditional language used mainly in the Grisons region in the east of the country. Swiss gastronomy is therefore very varied. There’s sure to be something for everyone.

1- Urban honey

Zurich is a city full of colour and flowers. And the production of this honey is truly astonishing. The beehives are located on the rooftop of the luxurious Mariott Hotel and the Globus department store shopping centre. As for the bees, they will be foraging just about anywhere in the city. Whether it’s on a balcony or in one of the city’s parks, they always have enough to produce this exceptional local honey. You can buy this honey at the two locations mentioned above, or at Jelmoli, another well-known shopping centre.

2- Chocolate

Naturally, Swiss chocolate is included in this ranking. Especially since Zurich is home to one of the chocolate manufacturers that most chocolate lovers know: Lindt. Swiss chocolate is renowned the world over. So it goes without saying that you should savour and enjoy this sweet treat in all its forms when you visit Zurich.

3- Sliced veal à la zurichoise

Sliced veal à la zurichoise is one of Canton Zurich’s flagship dishes. This dish is traditionally served in winter, but especially during Zurich’s “Sechseläuten” festival, which takes place on the third Monday in April. The dish consists of thin strips of veal plunged into a pan with white wine and button mushrooms. Most of the time, this hearty dish is accompanied by another Swiss speciality, röstis.

4- Röstis

Röstis are very popular with the locals. They are thinly sliced potatoes that are formed into a patty before being cooked in a frying pan. There are many varieties of rösti. Some add cheese, others onions or even bacon. When it comes to serving with Zürcher veal, röstis is generally served plain.

5- Bratwurst

The Bratwurst sausage is part of German gastronomy and is very popular in Bavaria, particularly in Munich. But Switzerland, a border country, has succumbed to the flavours of this sausage and made it a speciality. This sausage is made from veal and pork, spiced with parsley and lemon. In Switzerland, it’s traditional to eat this sausage on a sandwich with onion, accompanied by a beer, rather like the Germans.

6- Turcium gin

When Switzerland showcases its local produce, the result is top-quality food and drink, as demonstrated by this local gin made exclusively with Zurich produce. This gin is made from 12 botanicals, giving it a smoothness and an explosion of flavours when tasted. It includes lime blossom, juniper berries, coriander seeds, pepper, fir tips, liquorice root, lemon and orange peel, orange blossom, angelica seeds, rosehips and a foodstuff that is kept secret by the producers.

7- Vermicelli

Contrary to what you might think, vermicelli is not a dish, but a dessert. Vermicelli are made from chestnut purée to which sugar syrup and kirsch, a German brandy, are added. Vermicelli come in a variety of forms. When served as a tartlet, meringue and chantilly cream accompany the dessert. Several restaurants offer this dessert, so you’ll have no trouble trying this delicious dish.

8- Luxemburgerli

Let’s continue our journey on the sweet side with luxemburgerlis. Despite its name, which might lead you to believe that this dessert comes from Luxembourg, this delicacy is actually Swiss. However, it was a Luxembourg chef with a base in Switzerland who made it. These are delicious Zurich macaroons filled with cream. There’s something for everyone. Whether it’s vanilla, chocolate, fruit or even champagne, you’ll be surprised by its lightness.

9- Zurich honey triggel

The Zurich honey triggel is a fine little biscuit that graces the tables of the festive season and the traditional Sechseläuten festival. The biscuit is made with honey, aniseed, ginger, coriander and rosewater. Moulds depicting the former city of Zurich are moulded onto these sweets. You can buy them in Zurich’s bakeries to enjoy at any time of day.

10- Zurich wine

With more than 600 hectares of vineyards, Zurich is the canton with the highest wine production in Switzerland. Zurich’s favourite grape variety is Pinot Noir. Wine-growing in Switzerland is booming. A number of wine bars have opened recently, reflecting the popularity of Swiss wine.