Winter in Zurich: 7 cozy places for fondue, mulled wine & warmth

When it gets cold outside, the first snowflakes fall, and the tops of the fir trees and mountain peaks are covered in white splendour, for many people the most beautiful time of the year begins. But winter in Zurich has much more to offer: the scent of cinnamon, hot chestnuts, spicy mulled wine, and cheese fondue from restaurants and fondue chalets as well as from Christmas markets in the city warms the heart and creates a desire for more. Winter in Zurich: in the Niederdorf, in Winterthur, on Bahnhofstrasse, on Uetliberg, and by Lake Zurich you will find 7 cozy places for fondue, mulled wine, and warmth for every occasion. Perfect also for a warming break during winter in Zurich and the surrounding area.

Delicacies for cold days: fondue and raclette enjoyment

The Christmas season in Zurich is a real insider tip for food lovers. Although Swiss cuisine, with its regional German, French, and Northern Italian influences, offers tasty traditional dishes and fine meals all year round, during the winter months Zurich’s restaurants feature two popular classics: raclette and fondue.

Dishes made from melted cheese are not only a tradition among Swiss people – in countries such as Germany and Austria, fondue and raclette are also considered by many to be an essential part of Christmas or a pleasant New Year’s Eve. Sitting together and dipping into hot cheese is affectionately called “fondue and raclette enjoyment” in Switzerland.

Shared enjoyment: winter gardens, fondue chalets and pop-ups

“Chäs fondue” (cheese fondue) and raclette are both a culinary and social experience. These traditional Swiss dishes are served in cozy fondue chalets and raclette rooms in Zurich restaurants. Many venues also feature specially designed winter lounges in gardens or on terraces with open flames (fire bowls) for a real winter Christmas atmosphere.

What makes these locations special is the festive decoration, atmospheric lighting, and soft cushions, furs, and blankets on rustic wooden benches, all of which create a cozy ambience. Added to this are the smell of melted cheese and the gentle crackling of the caquelon (fondue pot) and the open fire in the winter garden.

However, the focus is not only on the dishes themselves but also on the sociable experience. Dipping into warm cheese together, enjoying the pleasant atmosphere, and sharing a convivial meal make for an unforgettable winter experience in Zurich.

Whether romantic for two, with family, in a large group of friends, or as part of a business dinner – fondue and raclette suit every occasion and group size. It is also possible to reserve venues for private events.

Cheese fondue varieties: from classic to fondue chinoise and new creations

Traditional Swiss cheese fondue usually consists of only a few ingredients. The base is typically made from Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois or a blend of both, refined with a clear cherry brandy. Crisp fondue bread, small potatoes (“Gschwellti”), mushrooms, pickles, and onions are the typical accompaniments.



Today, there is a wide variety of fondue options, including vegan versions with plant-based alternatives. Modern Swiss cuisine has also created new interpretations of the original. Exclusive cheese fondue with black truffles, deluxe fondue with morels, or rustic fondue with bacon combined with high-quality mountain cheese can be found at the restaurant “Zum Königstuhl” in Zurich’s old town.

A culinary highlight is also fondue chinoise. Never heard of it? It is a type of broth fondue, originally popular in Asian cuisine. In Switzerland, it is known as a “hot pot.” Thin slices of meat (e.g., beef, pork, lamb, chicken, turkey, veal) are dipped into hot broth and cooked. Typical side dishes include vegetables such as carrots, mushrooms, onions, snow peas, and peppers.

For fondue and raclette preparation, mainly locally sourced ingredients from regional farmers are used. These products ensure maximum freshness and high quality and are mostly seasonal. This allows restaurants to support regional businesses and promote sustainability.



A wide selection of side dishes is served directly at the table, providing variety. For raclette, each guest has their own small pan to prepare individual portions. Drinks such as regional wine, aperitifs, champagne, mulled wine, or other beverages complete the dining experience.

Winter Zurich restaurants: tips for cozy fondue, raclette and mulled wine

If you are looking for a suitable location for a fondue or raclette experience, Zurich offers a wide range of restaurants. From classic hotels to traditional restaurants, rustic cellar fondue rooms, and cozy fondue chalets in winter-decorated gardens or on illuminated terraces, places such as Winterthur or Lake Zurich invite guests to enjoy fondue and mulled wine.

Special fondue locations can be found in the old town and the Niederdorf district. Many restaurants are located in former guild houses—historic buildings where traditional Swiss crafts were once practiced. Today, these places serve as modern dining venues. Enjoy Swiss cheese fondue in a 16th-century guild house at the restaurant “Zum Königstuhl” and take a cultural and culinary journey through history.

A fondue experience at Lake Zurich is also unforgettable. The taste of melted cheese, the warm chalet atmosphere, and the beautiful view of the lake create a perfect setting for couples, families, or friends. Additional fondue locations can be found in Winterthur, on Uetliberg, or centrally on Bahnhofstrasse. A fondue experience at a Christmas market also offers a festive atmosphere.

No fondue meal is complete without the right drinks. Whether hot mulled wine or tea to warm up, or sparkling champagne or aperitifs to accompany the meal, the beverage selection is diverse and caters to all tastes.

Conclusion: warming winter atmosphere in fondue chalets in Zurich and surroundings

Winter in Zurich is not only about snow-covered mountains and festive Christmas markets – it is also filled with the scent of seasonal spices like cinnamon, star anise, and cloves, and above all, melted cheese.

Winter in Zurich is the time for fondue in a chalet. The traditional dish made from high-quality mountain cheese is popular with both locals and visitors. Modern variations include truffle, morels, bacon, or even sweet fondue versions. Delicious side dishes such as vegetables, potatoes, and bread complete the meal – perfect for any festive occasion.



Enjoy the convivial atmosphere in a cozy chalet or a historic guild house with your loved ones, or impress guests at your private events with this famous Swiss specialty. Suitable fondue locations can be found throughout Zurich and the surrounding area – whether in the historic old town, by the scenic Lake Zurich, or in the heart of the city. Experience the special, warming atmosphere of fondue and the authentic taste of this traditional Swiss dish.