What it is: Self-billed as “Zurich’s first craft beer–focused restaurant,” this is now a decade-old institution that delivers on all counts: delicious food, welcoming and attentive staff, and an impressive beer list selected with love backed by knowledge. It’s also family-friendly, featuring a kids’ menu and play areas both indoors and outdoors. With its huge yet cozy garden, it can also serve as an event space. Equally enjoyed by locals and expats, it’s usually filled with a gleeful rumble of casual chatter among all kinds of visitors—cyclists and runners after workouts, seniors, families with strollers, colleagues after work, and so on.
Why it’s great: Beer pairing suggestions for brunch and the seasonal menu are thoughtful touches. Its rotating list of 40-plus beers mixes Swiss craft in equal measure with European all-stars and the occasional American import. If you’re with folks who aren’t so into beer, there’s an extensive wine list plus a few ciders. The barbecue parties and special dinners are also a sight to behold—not to mention the banana salted-caramel pancakes with bacon, one of the best brunches I’ve ever had. Tip: Book your table in advance for the brunch because it’s usually packed full.
Hours: 5 p.m.–10 p.m., Tuesday; 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., Wednesday–Friday; 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Saturday & Sunday
Address: Allmendstrasse 20, Zurich, Switzerland
Web: forkandbottle.ch