Zurich Gourmet Tour (Self Guided), Zurich
Apart from its high-quality watches, Switzerland is famous for its unique delicacies. The secrets of their making have been preserved for centuries and passed on from father to son. In this respect, it is not at all surprising that a global banking and financial center such as Zurich can be also a haven for food enthusiasts seeking gourmet delights. On this self-guided walk, we invite you to explore Zurich as home to chocolatiers, confectioneries, and patisseries and acquaint yourself with an array of made-by-hand delicacies with inimitable flavors.
Our first stop in the heart of Zurich is Schwarzenbach Colonial Goods Shop (Schwarzenbach Kolonialwaren). This establishment offers an extensive selection of spices, teas, coffee beans, and exotic ingredients from around the world.
For a more dynamic and local experience, visit BĂĽrkliplatz Market. This bustling market is a hub of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and a wide variety of delectable Swiss specialties. It's an ideal place to savor authentic Swiss cuisine and interact with local vendors.
SprĂĽngli Confectionery (Confiserie SprĂĽngli) has been synonymous with Swiss chocolate and confectionery excellence since 1836. Here, you can indulge in luxurious chocolates, exquisite pastries, and their famous macarons. A visit to SprĂĽngli is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Teuscher Chocolates is another chocolate lover's paradise. Their handmade truffles and pralines are crafted with the utmost care and love of the trade. The unique flavor combinations will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
For a more exclusive experience, Prétôt Delikatessen offers a curated selection of gourmet products, including fine wines, cheeses, and prepared meat items (charcuterie) – a true haven for discerning food connoisseurs seeking the finest ingredients.
Finally, Laderach Chocolaterie is yet another place renowned for its Swiss chocolate craftsmanship. Their chocolates are made with Swiss precision and a passion for quality, making them an irresistible treat.
In Zurich, you'll find a whole world of culinary wonders waiting to be explored. So, why wait? Grab the opportunity to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a palate satisfied beyond measure.
Our first stop in the heart of Zurich is Schwarzenbach Colonial Goods Shop (Schwarzenbach Kolonialwaren). This establishment offers an extensive selection of spices, teas, coffee beans, and exotic ingredients from around the world.
For a more dynamic and local experience, visit BĂĽrkliplatz Market. This bustling market is a hub of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and a wide variety of delectable Swiss specialties. It's an ideal place to savor authentic Swiss cuisine and interact with local vendors.
SprĂĽngli Confectionery (Confiserie SprĂĽngli) has been synonymous with Swiss chocolate and confectionery excellence since 1836. Here, you can indulge in luxurious chocolates, exquisite pastries, and their famous macarons. A visit to SprĂĽngli is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Teuscher Chocolates is another chocolate lover's paradise. Their handmade truffles and pralines are crafted with the utmost care and love of the trade. The unique flavor combinations will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
For a more exclusive experience, Prétôt Delikatessen offers a curated selection of gourmet products, including fine wines, cheeses, and prepared meat items (charcuterie) – a true haven for discerning food connoisseurs seeking the finest ingredients.
Finally, Laderach Chocolaterie is yet another place renowned for its Swiss chocolate craftsmanship. Their chocolates are made with Swiss precision and a passion for quality, making them an irresistible treat.
In Zurich, you'll find a whole world of culinary wonders waiting to be explored. So, why wait? Grab the opportunity to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a palate satisfied beyond measure.
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Zurich Gourmet Tour Map
Guide Name: Zurich Gourmet Tour
Guide Location: Switzerland » Zurich (See other walking tours in Zurich)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Author: ellen
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Switzerland » Zurich (See other walking tours in Zurich)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Author: ellen
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Schwarzenbach Kolonialwaren (Schwarzenbach Colonial Goods Shop)
- BĂĽrkliplatz Market
- Confiserie SprĂĽngli (SprĂĽngli Confectionery)
- Teuscher Chocolates
- Prétôt Delikatessen
- Laderach Chocolaterie
1) Schwarzenbach Kolonialwaren (Schwarzenbach Colonial Goods Shop)
If your legs are protesting and your eyes are glazed from all the churches, towers, and charming cobblestones of Zurich’s Old Town—fear not. Schwarzenbach Colonial Goods Shop is your elegant excuse to hit pause. This isn’t just any pit stop. It’s a gourmet time machine disguised as a shop, roasting beans and tempting tastebuds since 1864. It was back then that Heini Schwarzenbach decided Zurich needed less boredom and more spice. Quite literally...
Step inside, and you're instantly wrapped in the old-world charm and the sweet, seductive smell of freshly roasted coffee. The wooden shelves groan (happily) under the weight of dried fruits, artisan jams, wild honey, and enough chocolate to make your dentist nervous. Also, there’s wine. There are syrups. There’s rice that probably has a better passport than you. And yes, the teas and coffee beans come from just about every corner of the globe that knows how to grow something aromatic.
But what's more. Next door, you’ll find their cozy little café. Just grab a seat, order a cup of their lovingly roasted coffee or fragrant tea, and pair it with a baked good that whispers sweet nothings to your soul. It’s the perfect break—part history lesson, part foodie fantasy.
So, if you're strolling through the Old Town of Zurich and feel the need for a snack with a story, Schwarzenbach is ready to serve.
Step inside, and you're instantly wrapped in the old-world charm and the sweet, seductive smell of freshly roasted coffee. The wooden shelves groan (happily) under the weight of dried fruits, artisan jams, wild honey, and enough chocolate to make your dentist nervous. Also, there’s wine. There are syrups. There’s rice that probably has a better passport than you. And yes, the teas and coffee beans come from just about every corner of the globe that knows how to grow something aromatic.
But what's more. Next door, you’ll find their cozy little café. Just grab a seat, order a cup of their lovingly roasted coffee or fragrant tea, and pair it with a baked good that whispers sweet nothings to your soul. It’s the perfect break—part history lesson, part foodie fantasy.
So, if you're strolling through the Old Town of Zurich and feel the need for a snack with a story, Schwarzenbach is ready to serve.
2) BĂĽrkliplatz Market
Nicknamed by the locals as “Bürklimäärt”, this cozy open-air market sits at the far end of Bahnhofstrasse, on Bürkliplatz, between the banking district and picturesque Lake Zurich. If you're keen on fresh herbs, seasonal and regional fruits and vegetables, this place is for you!
Here, under the canopy of horse chestnut trees you will find stalls laden with organic products, exotic foods from all over the globe, and many other savory delights. The market offers a large choice of fresh products, such as mushrooms and berries, different sorts of cheese, fish, fresh bread, bakery and confectionery, as well as numerous regional farm specialties.
A visit here can be easily combined with a leisurely stroll along the lake, the wonderful sight of which alone makes it well worth the while. In addition to the idyllic location, the market is also famous, not to a lesser degree, for its beautiful cut flowers and potted plants which are much popular with those eager to make a gift for their loved ones.
Here, under the canopy of horse chestnut trees you will find stalls laden with organic products, exotic foods from all over the globe, and many other savory delights. The market offers a large choice of fresh products, such as mushrooms and berries, different sorts of cheese, fish, fresh bread, bakery and confectionery, as well as numerous regional farm specialties.
A visit here can be easily combined with a leisurely stroll along the lake, the wonderful sight of which alone makes it well worth the while. In addition to the idyllic location, the market is also famous, not to a lesser degree, for its beautiful cut flowers and potted plants which are much popular with those eager to make a gift for their loved ones.
3) Confiserie SprĂĽngli (SprĂĽngli Confectionery)
Founded in 1836 by Rudolf Sprüngli, this sweet empire began churning out chocolate long before Zurich became a global banking giant (talking about priorities...). Indeed, Confiserie Sprüngli is one of the city's oldest and most luxurious confectioners, but the real showstopper here isn’t chocolate. What is, is the dainty, dangerously addictive “Luxemburgerli” macarons, invented by a homesick Luxembourger in the kitchen. These pastel treats have gone from petit four to cult status, faster than you can say “truffle overload.”
In 1892, Sprüngli’s chocolate-making arm went its own way (think conscious uncoupling, but with more cocoa) and became Lindt & Sprüngli. That’s right, the silky squares of Lindt you know and love—they’re the rebel offspring. Meanwhile, Confiserie Sprüngli stayed put, happily crafting pralines, Grand Cru truffles, and enough sugar-coated temptation to derail any diet.
Fast forward to today, and the business is still family-run, now in its sixth generation. You’ll find Sprüngli shops sprinkled around Zurich like edible jewels—inside the main train station and twice along Station Street, at No. 21 and No. 67.
But the real gem is the Parade Square café at Station Street 21. Picture this: a salon of elegance where Zurich’s high-society grandmothers sip coffee with diamond-studded discretion. Legend whispers that young bachelors used to signal their availability to the ladies by discreetly flipping their coffee spoons—a sort of edible Tinder for the silk-scarf set... Though Sprüngli’s director insists it’s just a myth born of stricter times, when the women of status had few public places to converse without raising eyebrows.
So, next time you're here, mind your spoon—just in case folklore decides to make a comeback...
In 1892, Sprüngli’s chocolate-making arm went its own way (think conscious uncoupling, but with more cocoa) and became Lindt & Sprüngli. That’s right, the silky squares of Lindt you know and love—they’re the rebel offspring. Meanwhile, Confiserie Sprüngli stayed put, happily crafting pralines, Grand Cru truffles, and enough sugar-coated temptation to derail any diet.
Fast forward to today, and the business is still family-run, now in its sixth generation. You’ll find Sprüngli shops sprinkled around Zurich like edible jewels—inside the main train station and twice along Station Street, at No. 21 and No. 67.
But the real gem is the Parade Square café at Station Street 21. Picture this: a salon of elegance where Zurich’s high-society grandmothers sip coffee with diamond-studded discretion. Legend whispers that young bachelors used to signal their availability to the ladies by discreetly flipping their coffee spoons—a sort of edible Tinder for the silk-scarf set... Though Sprüngli’s director insists it’s just a myth born of stricter times, when the women of status had few public places to converse without raising eyebrows.
So, next time you're here, mind your spoon—just in case folklore decides to make a comeback...
4) Teuscher Chocolates
Based in Zurich and housed within a historic building dating back to 1647 in the Old Town, Teuscher Confiserie has been serving customers since 1932. The company prides itself on the top-notch quality of its offerings, crafted solely from natural ingredients, eschewing any use of chemicals, even in their sugar-free options.
In line with Swiss confectionery traditions, Teuscher not only specializes in chocolates but also offers an extensive array of pastries and cookies, handcrafting over 200 varieties of sweet treats. Among their notable creations are the Champagne Truffles, a pioneering delicacy made with champagne and buttercream, encased in a dark chocolate ganache derived from 66% cocoa. Each truffle is coated in either milk chocolate with a dusting of confectioner's sugar, or dark chocolate with a coating of unsweetened cocoa powder. Additionally, Teuscher boasts a diverse selection of chocolates, ranging from 55% to 99% cocoa content, in intervals of 11%.
The flagship store, situated on the renowned Bahnhofstrasse, epitomizes the enchanting world of Teuscher. Adorned with vibrant decorations and brimming with delightful assortments of chocolates, pralines, fruit jellies, marzipans, and exquisite truffles, it offers a welcoming atmosphere. The ambiance exudes warmth, and the staff consistently exhibit politeness and friendliness, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
In line with Swiss confectionery traditions, Teuscher not only specializes in chocolates but also offers an extensive array of pastries and cookies, handcrafting over 200 varieties of sweet treats. Among their notable creations are the Champagne Truffles, a pioneering delicacy made with champagne and buttercream, encased in a dark chocolate ganache derived from 66% cocoa. Each truffle is coated in either milk chocolate with a dusting of confectioner's sugar, or dark chocolate with a coating of unsweetened cocoa powder. Additionally, Teuscher boasts a diverse selection of chocolates, ranging from 55% to 99% cocoa content, in intervals of 11%.
The flagship store, situated on the renowned Bahnhofstrasse, epitomizes the enchanting world of Teuscher. Adorned with vibrant decorations and brimming with delightful assortments of chocolates, pralines, fruit jellies, marzipans, and exquisite truffles, it offers a welcoming atmosphere. The ambiance exudes warmth, and the staff consistently exhibit politeness and friendliness, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
5) Prétôt Delikatessen
No passionate carnivore gourmet visiting Zurich should ever pass by Prétôt Delikatessen on Kuttelgasse. The name of this street (“Tripe alley”) rings the bell and fits the profile perfectly. As for the place itself, this treasure-trove of a sausage shop offers a wide range of smoked and air-dried meats from all over Switzerland, boasting the highest quality and appealing to different tastes. The large slates on display announce all the current and seasonal specialties, and lure passers-by in their numbers. Even with your eyes closed, you can't miss it, really, as the smell of something deliciously smoked greets you at the door.
Here you will find superb Bündner and Walliser beef, Saint Galler bratwurst and smoked Röteli from Lake Zug, Saint Gallen sausage for children and Olmabratwurst from several butchers available in different sizes and tastes. There is Andouiette de veau, the wonderful inner sausage with tripe; small, spicy salice from Ticino and all kinds of saucissons raw and cooked to eat, such as thick boutefas from Welschland, dried beef and lamb from Engadine and Valais. Boiled sausages from Appenzellerland, Schüblige from Zurich and the surrounding area, plus the numerous blood and liver sausages, merguez and luganighe, are also present in rich supply. The list is almost endless.
Practically every Swiss village with a good sausage butcher is featured in this sausage paradise, which stands almost exotic amid the neighboring boutiques.
Here you will find superb Bündner and Walliser beef, Saint Galler bratwurst and smoked Röteli from Lake Zug, Saint Gallen sausage for children and Olmabratwurst from several butchers available in different sizes and tastes. There is Andouiette de veau, the wonderful inner sausage with tripe; small, spicy salice from Ticino and all kinds of saucissons raw and cooked to eat, such as thick boutefas from Welschland, dried beef and lamb from Engadine and Valais. Boiled sausages from Appenzellerland, Schüblige from Zurich and the surrounding area, plus the numerous blood and liver sausages, merguez and luganighe, are also present in rich supply. The list is almost endless.
Practically every Swiss village with a good sausage butcher is featured in this sausage paradise, which stands almost exotic amid the neighboring boutiques.
6) Laderach Chocolaterie
A symbol of quality, freshness, variety, and overall excellence, when it comes to chocolate-making, the premium manufacturer of finest handcrafted Swiss chocolate Läderach was founded in Ennenda (Switzerland) in 1962 by Rudolph Läderach. Since 2018, this family-owned business has been run by the third generation of Läderach chocolatiers, maintaining the tradition of discovery and innovation.
In 1970, Rudolf Läderach Jr. invented a revolutionary process of manufacturing thin-walled hollow balls for truffles, rendering the professional manufacture of chocolate truffles easier and significantly improving their quality, taste and texture. In 2008 the company launched a new brand “Läderach Chocolatier Suisse” timed with the opening of show confectioneries in their spacious boutiques on Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich and Spitalgasse in Bern. In 2018, Elias Läderach of the the world-famous family beat 19 international competitors to win the title of World Chocolate Masters in Paris.
The inventor of FrischSchoggi (Fresh Chocolate), MaClair, Mini Mousses and other finest premium chocolates and pralines with incomparable tastes, today Läderach stands not only for finest premium products, but also for a family-minded social responsibility, fostering ecological thinking.
All Läderach chocolates are handcrafted masterpieces made of handpicked and selected ingredients, with great passion and professional handcraft ensuring their utmost quality.
In 1970, Rudolf Läderach Jr. invented a revolutionary process of manufacturing thin-walled hollow balls for truffles, rendering the professional manufacture of chocolate truffles easier and significantly improving their quality, taste and texture. In 2008 the company launched a new brand “Läderach Chocolatier Suisse” timed with the opening of show confectioneries in their spacious boutiques on Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich and Spitalgasse in Bern. In 2018, Elias Läderach of the the world-famous family beat 19 international competitors to win the title of World Chocolate Masters in Paris.
The inventor of FrischSchoggi (Fresh Chocolate), MaClair, Mini Mousses and other finest premium chocolates and pralines with incomparable tastes, today Läderach stands not only for finest premium products, but also for a family-minded social responsibility, fostering ecological thinking.
All Läderach chocolates are handcrafted masterpieces made of handpicked and selected ingredients, with great passion and professional handcraft ensuring their utmost quality.
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