I made only one reservation for my recent trip to Zurich–fondue on the terrace of Zunfthaus zur Zimmerleuten, originally the guildhouse for carpenters, first mentioned in print in 1416. This traditional Swiss restaurant, overlooking the river, and right near the Grossmünster church, is exactly what I knew I wanted to share with my daughter on her first trip to Switzerland.
I knew I’d get fondue, which I have had many times as a child and adult, but only once before in Switzerland, but that was in Lucerne over 20 years ago. I told the waiter to bring all they usually do, but also added pears and pickles (random, I know). Never having been to Zurich, the website description of “fondue on the terrace” sounded magical and important. Little did I know that the sun would be so oppressively strong (this sounds stupid coming from a city that barely ever sees it, but desperately wants it). July in Zurich, or at least when I was there, was impossibly hot. Ordering fondue when you are sweating through your clothes, but I can’t say I regret it. It. was. delicious. The pickles were amazing in the fondue. I over ate because it would have been stupid not to. The potatoes came in an insulated bag, the bread came in a paper bag, and I had no idea what was going on. It was so charming, on par with our young waiter who could not understand why my daughter was using a river cruise map to shield her face from the sun beating down on us. We were desperate for shade, but appreciated the proximity to, and view of, the gorgeous river. Believe it or not, the couple next to us had their baby entirely covered with a blanket in their carriage!
If you’re up for a change of cuisine, I cannot more highly recommend Cantinetta Antinori in the historic center of the city. Located at Augustinergasse 25 – 8001, one of the most adorable little streets I found, it is easy to get to after hopping off one of the free trams that goes up and down the main stretch.
Cantinetta Antinori is true, authentic Florentine food and it does not disappoint. I had a chilled watermelon and rose soup that I would order again and again. My daughter had a spicy red pepper pasta that was so good we went back three days later and split it. Everything we ordered was fantastic, their wine selection (the family who owns the restaurant are vintners) is plentiful and unique, and the desserts looked fantastic. Our first visit was at a tiny table on the first floor and we sat upstairs the second time. They also have a small outside patio. While we were fortunate to not need reservations, the place was packed both times and locals told us it’s one of the best restaurants in the city. I can attest to its reputation being well-earned.
