Culinary Highlights: 5 Swiss specialties you absolutely must try in Zurich

Not everything is cheese! Zurich is well known for fondue and raclette, but Swiss cuisine has far more to offer than gratin and cheese-based dishes. Planning a visit to Zurich? Get ready for something delicious: from hearty classics and iconic snacks to sweet temptations, there is something for every taste. We reveal five traditional Swiss specialties you absolutely must try in Zurich.

#1 The classic: Züri Gschnätzlets

Probably the most famous specialty in Zurich – “Züri-Gschnätzlets” or Zurich-style sliced veal – is a true classic of Swiss cuisine.

The traditional dish consists of sautéed veal and veal kidneys in a creamy mushroom sauce, served with crispy rösti. Today, many restaurants also serve it without kidneys. Variations with chicken instead of veal are also common, and side dishes such as spaetzle or rice are sometimes offered alongside the classic rösti.

To prepare the original “Züri-Gschnätzlets”, whose origins likely lie with Zurich farmers, tender veal is cut into thin strips and quickly seared in butter. Cream and white wine give the sauce its rich texture, while fresh mushrooms, onions, and herbs add flavour.



Zurich-style sliced veal with rösti is a real treat for meat lovers and rightly one of the five Swiss specialties you should not miss during your visit to Zurich. A fine wine from a nearby vineyard or a cold beer from a local brewery perfectly complements the dish.

#2 The national dish: Swiss cheese fondue

A true culinary experience for all senses – cheese fondue, or as we say in Switzerland: “Chäs-Fondue”.

The Swiss national dish consists of melted cheese and originates from the French-speaking part of the country. It is traditionally prepared with one or more types of cheese, along with white wine, beer, or fruit brandy.

Depending on the canton and region, cheeses such as Gruyère and Emmental are used, resulting in various fondue styles across Switzerland.



Typical accompaniments include crispy bread and fresh seasonal vegetables. Modern variations with truffles or bacon can also be found in Zurich restaurants. A regional wine, fine fruit brandy, or even tea for digestion is often served alongside, making cheese fondue a culinary delight for cheese lovers.

Beyond high-quality regional ingredients, the shared dining experience is a key aspect of this traditional dish. Whether enjoyed with family and friends, as a romantic dinner, or even in a business setting – cheese fondue, like raclette, is both a culinary and social experience and a must on any Zurich menu.

#3 The fair-famous specialty: Olma sausage

A sausage with true cult status: the Olma sausage, one of the most popular Swiss specialties from the famous OLMA fair.

This juicy veal sausage is traditionally served in a crispy bread roll (“Bürli”). Mustard on top? Absolutely not – at least according to many Zurich locals who prefer to enjoy the natural flavour of the meat. However, you can also order it with mustard or ketchup if you prefer.

Although the Olma sausage originally comes from St. Gallen, it is just as popular in Zurich. The fresh veal sausage is not only juicy and flavourful but is also said to bring good luck when eaten for the first time.



You can find it in butcher shops, street stalls, and restaurants throughout Zurich. Crispy fries and onion sauce make the perfect accompaniment to this traditional Swiss snack.

#4 The sweet temptation: Zopf bread

A typical Sunday meal for many Swiss people: Zopf bread – or simply “Zopf” – a braided yeast bread with a golden crust.

Zopf bread is a true favourite in Switzerland among bakers, locals, and visitors alike.

The sweet bread made from eggs and milk is known for its especially soft texture and its crisp, golden crust.



Its name comes from its distinctive braided shape, which resembles a plait and symbolises togetherness and family.

This traditional bread has a long history and was once served as an offering on special occasions or holidays, often as a dessert. Today, “Zopf” is commonly served in many Swiss households on Sundays, whether for breakfast or as part of a coffee table gathering. Fresh from the oven and spread with butter, homemade jam, honey, or chocolate spread, Zopf bread is a sweet temptation that is hard to resist.



Prefer something savoury? No problem! This sweet bread is also available in various savoury versions. Combined with bacon, ham, cheese, olives, or herbs, Zopf becomes a tasty starter or a filling lunch. “Zopf” is a true Swiss specialty that you should definitely try during your next stay in the canton of Zurich..

#5 A true Zurich original: Luxemburgerli

Despite its origin, influences, and name, this is a true Zurich specialty: the Luxemburgerli – a light, airy pastry to enjoy yourself or to give as a gift.

The Luxemburgerli is a Swiss confection with a long history. It takes its name from its creator, the Luxembourg-born pastry chef Camille Studer. The pastry chef originally brought the recipe from France to Confiserie Sprüngli in Zurich, where it was refined by none other than Richard Sprüngli. This marked the birth of the Luxemburgerli, with production in Zurich dating back to the 1850s.

In appearance, the Luxemburgerli resembles the Parisian macaron, although the Zurich version is a smaller, more delicate variation of the famous pastry. Its creamy fillings range from rich chocolate and fruity raspberry to sweet caramel, nutty pistachio, and elegant champagne flavour – and these are far from the only varieties.



With its delicate flavour and light cream filling, the Luxemburgerli is not only a high-quality Swiss speciality worth trying, but also a popular gift for loved ones at home. This traditional sweet from Confiserie Sprüngli Zurich is often given for birthdays, weddings, company anniversaries, or other special occasions and holidays.

Swiss specialties in Zurich: traditional dishes for every taste

Züri-Gschnätzlets with rösti, cheese fondue, or Luxemburgerli – craving traditional delicacies? Try famous Swiss specialties in Zurich’s restaurants!

At “Zum Königstuhl” in the heart of Zurich’s old town, we treat our guests to hearty and refined Swiss cuisine. Enjoy classics such as Swiss fondue or raclette with premium cheese in our rustic fondue room, and don’t miss other dishes like Älplermagronen, Swiss beef tartare, and spaetzli pans from our menu.



We look forward to welcoming you to Zurich!