Don’t-Miss Dishes in Zurich

If you crave an indulgent treat—whether sweet or savory—make your way to Zurich. The picture-perfect Swiss city is celebrated around the world for its chocolates and its beautifully aged cheeses. Given the Alpine winters, hearty dishes (from fondue to potato rösti ) are also on the menu. Here’s everything you should be sure to try in Zurich.

Fondue is probably Switzerland’s best-known dish, and for good reason: Who could say no to a generous pot of gloriously melted cheese, often spiked with white wine or kirsch (cherry brandy)? Fondue is best enjoyed in a traditional, chalet-style environment—just be careful with your skewers.

Swiss chocolate is one of the country’s most popular exports, and Zurich is fittingly home to dozens of tempting dessert boutiques and master chocolatiers. Grab a sachet of truffles to sample on the go, save a few bars (if you can) as souvenirs, and warm up with a rich cup of cocoa in the winter.

Speaking of winter: When the thermostat plummets, there are few better culinary combinations than steaming potatoes and melted cheese. Raclette is a simple but perfectly satisfying dish, which sees the cut side of a wheel of cheese grilled before it’s scraped onto your plate of potatoes. Piquant cornichons are served alongside to help counterbalance the richness.

Given the country’s bounty of excellent Alpine cheeses, it’s no wonder the Swiss have developed plenty of decadent, cheesy dishes as a result. Another one to try is Chäs-Chüechli, or savory cheese pie, which is handheld in size and easy to polish off.

You may struggle to pronounce “Zürcher Geschnetzeltes,” but you certainly won’t struggle to eat it. A hearty meat stew that’s native to Zurich, it consists of delicate veal, white wine, cream, and, frequently, mushrooms. It’s just the thing to warm up with postskiing excursion or wintertime tour.

Named for western Europe’s highest peak, the Mont Blanc is a dessert that has been around for centuries and was once enjoyed by royalty. Consisting of a tiny mountain of sweet chestnut purée and whipped cream, it’s a rich, autumnal treat.

If you like hash browns, then you’ll definitely enjoy rösti. A large potato fritter that’s served for breakfast (often with eggs, spinach, and other sides), it makes a restorative start to the day. Head to a local café to give it a try.