Written by RuinMyTrip Editorial from published research and official sources, not from a personal trip. It is not a traveler review and is never counted in the community rating. How we research.
What it is
A large traditional restaurant in an arsenal building from 1487 off Paradeplatz in central Zurich, serving Swiss and German food at long shared tables.
Why travelers eat here
For a substantial Swiss meal at almost any hour, in a genuinely old hall, without a reservation. In central Zurich that combination is close to unique.
What is genuinely good
Daily opening with hot food from 11.30 to 22.00, an arsenal hall complete with armour and a cannon, big portions, and walk-in seating.
Downsides
Noisy and heavily touristed. Swiss prices. Shared tables. The cooking is reliable rather than refined.
Best for
First-time visitors, groups, and anyone stuck in Zurich on a Sunday when much of the city is closed.
Consider eating elsewhere if
You want a quiet dinner or modern Swiss cooking. Neither is on offer here.
Practical advice
Walk in rather than book, and go slightly off peak if you want a table to yourself. The mid-afternoon is the best time to see the hall properly. Order the Kalbsgeschnetzeltes with rosti.
Prices and reservations
A la carte, no set menu. Reservations possible but not necessary outside peak evenings.
Getting there
Tram to Paradeplatz, then two minutes on foot down Bahnhofstrasse and left into In Gassen.
Where it sits
In Gassen, just off Paradeplatz in the banking district, a couple of minutes from Bahnhofstrasse and ten from the Grossmunster.
How long to allow
An hour and a half.
The RuinMyTrip verdict
The most useful restaurant in Zurich: open every day, all afternoon, no booking, in an arsenal built in 1487. Go mid-afternoon and order the veal.
Sources
- It is open daily from 11.30 am to 11.00 pm, including Sundays. source
- Hot meals are served all day from 11.30 to 22.00. source