Posted: February 23, 2017
Author: Susanna Magruder
Best On-Mountain Restaurants Zermatt:
In Europe skiing is as much about lunch as it is the runs that take you there, from rustic mountain huts serving wooden plates of local cheese and dried meats, to gourmet restaurants with menus and wine lists to compete with Michelin starred restaurants, Zermatt has something for everyone. Here are our favorites:
“Zum See” - in our opinion the best mountain restaurant in the world! The restaurant occupies a three-story wooden house that dates back to the 16th century. Inside there’s a snug dining room with low ceilings, tiny windows, and, on a shelved sideboard, an arsenal of glistening fruit tarts and rare Swiss and Italian wines. Outside, the seating sprawls from a stone patio out into a kind of tiered plaza amid the barns. Markus, the owners’ son, who apprenticed with Daniel Boulud in New York City, oversees the front of the house, while his father Max works his magic in the kitchen. The food is far from fussy – simple perfection with local ingredients. www.zumsee.ch
“Chez Vrony” - in Findeln, on the other side of the skiing domain (eat here when you're skiing the Gornergrat / Rothorn / Sunegga side). Incredibly homey, with amazing decor, the best view in the world, and amazing food. Run by Vrony, the sister of Heinz Julen, the renowned and quirky artist / architect / designer whose work is ubiquitous in Zermatt. www.chezvrony.ch
“Blatten” - just down-slope from Zum See. The mountain guides' favorite, classic alpine food, done exquisitely. The wild mushroom soup with puff pastry is a must. www.blatten-zermatt.ch
“Franz & Heidi’s" - Also in Findeln, and technically named Findlerhof, exceptional views, food, and hosts. Every bit as good as Vrony, served in a cozy chalet or on the small terrace with unsurpassed views of the Matterhorn. www.findlerhof.ch
“Flühalp” - Below the Rothorn, classic Swiss mountain food, killer views & the Fluhalp band. Excellent. www.fluhalp-zermatt.ch
“Stafelalp” - Under the north face of the Matterhorn, the Julen family serves local specialties such as dried meats, cheeses and lamb from their own farm, as well as composed salads and lighter fare. Off the beaten path, with an incredible view and friendly service. www.julen.ch/en/stafelalp/welcome/
“Alphitta” - Tanja & Dave Siemerink ran the Hotel & Restaurant Schwarzsee and gained a loyal following for their warm hospitatlity and St. Patrick’s Day party. 2 years ago they moved to Alphitta, the authentic Swiss chalet just below Riffalp. The food is fantastic, a modern take on mountain cuisine, don’t miss Braised beef cheeks. www.alphitta.com
“Gandegghütte CAS” – Swiss Alpine Club Refuge overlooking Theodul Glacier - rustic food, and the best views of Monte Rosa 4634m. www.gandegghuette.ch
Hungry? Contact us for a custom ski trip to Zermatt
All photos courtesy of Andrew Rowat andrewrowat.com
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