I am a sucker for sandwiches... Nothing beats a bit of bread filled to the brim with deliciousness, but it's hard to find a decent one here in Zürich. They are often dry, mini submarines filled with some dodgy meat and a lonely pickle. I had almost given up in my search until I came across Il Pentagramma.
You walk in and are immediately greeted by a big smile and a "buongiorno". They have all of the possible fillings lined up in the counter before you so you can pick and mix or go for one of their suggestions. I almost always get the 'Goloso'... This giant, fresh foccacia is filled with creamy gorgonzola, spicy salami and sharp, pickled aubergines. They heat it up so everything oozes out and it's just the best thing ever.
The other thing this place has going for it in a city that sometimes takes itself a little too seriously is that it has no airs and graces. You sit at old fashioned wooden tables with Italian radio chatting in the background. You don't get plates or cutlery, you just hang on to your sandwich wrapped in greaseproof paper, and once you're finished ,you mop up all the mess with the roll of kitchen paper provided (you will need most of it). If the weather is nice, have them wrap it up for you and go sit in Platzspitz park nearby.
Find your way with 182 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Tibits" in Zurich has been one of my go-to restaurants ever since I became a vegetarian. The core offering there is the creative salad buffet...
by
"Costa Brava" Zurich has one of my favorite dishes - grilled beef filet. The ambiance is cosy. The restaurant is not vast and stressful...
by
"Totò - Ristorante Bar" Zurich is a restaurant / bar where you can feel like a VIP. In the summer they have tables outside at the side street...
by
Beyond the waves, the venue offers a vibrant, beach-like vibe, with a relaxed hangout area where surfers swap stories and enjoy the sun.
by
Pass by on a sunny summer morning to immerse yourself in to the tranquillity of meadows, lily ponds and shadows of century-old trees.
by
"Palavrion Grill" restaurant Zurich has an amazing bio-beefsteak tatar. In the summer it is possible to sit outside - I love people watching here.
by
"Widder piano bar" in Zurich is in the hotel with the same name. This bar is famous: it's whiskies and concerts are excellent and the crowd is diverse...
by
"Churrasco Steakhouse & Bar" in Zurich is an expensive Argentinian restaurant, but the prices are definitely reflected on the quality of red meat...
by
"Sauna Enge" Zurich is one of my favorite saunas in town. There are three cabins - one of which (my favorite one) is reserved for women...
by
"Yan Ruyi" in Zurich serves the best dim sum and pecking duck in Zurich. There, I've said it. I know there will be people who disagree, but they're wrong.
by
"Terrasse Café" in Zurich has nothing special yet it's an excellent choice for all occasions. I find it ideal for a snack, a complete meal, a late drink...
by
"La Lumière" in Zurich is a French restaurant that's actually good! OK, I'm a bit biased, I've had very positive experiences with friends here.
by
182 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 182 Insider Tips