"Einzigart" in Zurich is a treasure trove of gorgeous things you never knew you needed. I like it for thoughtful, ethical gift ideas for someone special!

"Beetnut" in Zurich is my suggestion for all plant lovers and vegetarians out there! These guys specialize in porridge, buddha bowls, salads and smoothies.

"Motorrad Hangar" is the perfect garage & bar for motorbike enthusiasts visiting Zurich. My husband is a hardened biker and I'm also slowly becoming a fan.

"Il Pentagramma" in Zurich makes the best sandwiches, or paninis, in the whole city. I almost always get the 'Goloso', and like that there's no pretension.

"Kennedy's Irish Pub" is my home away from home in Zurich - I had sworn I would avoid the expat trap, but this pub tought me that you can have it all...

"Kaisin" in Zurich's Europaallee is a poke bowl and sushi burrito restaurant and it's my favorite! It's perfect for a quick, healthy lunch...

"Café Noir" Zurich is fairly small and the decor is unaffected and cozy, but of course the thing that really does the talking here is the coffee...

"Barfüsser" has long been part of Zurich's cultural history of tolerance and openness. Today they're also a restaurant which offer some of the best sushi!

If you are short on time, Rigiblick is the easiest option in my opinion for spotting the Alps. To get the best views, make sure the skies are clear.

Enjoy the incredibly aesthetic brutalist open space with high ceilings, soft concrete, and brass-finished elements. To complete the experience, take a seat in their art deco-inspired bar.

For an active getaway, follow one of the tens of hiking paths to wander in the forest, or navigate to Loorenkopf for an overview of the whole city with the Alps in the background.

To reach the spot, navigate by public transport to the tram stop Römerhof and jump on a Dolderbahn funicular. From the final stop at Dolder Grand, head to the forest and follow the signs to the Loorenkopf.