Falstaff Barguide 2024: These are the best bars and bartenders in Switzerland
Perfect cocktails, ice-cold long drinks and eloquent wine selections - Falstaff presents the best of the Swiss bar scene.
With over 1,200 entries and 61 award winners from various categories, the Falstaff Barguide 2024 is the most comprehensive to date. The best of the best result from both the 16,000 votes of a passionate Falstaff community and the knowledge of our expert jury.
Numerous awards were presented in various categories, including "Bartender of the Year", "New Opening of the Year" and many more. The best bars in the country are rated in cocktail and wine bars. Falstaff congratulates all award winners 2024!
Host of the Year
Thomas Huhn, "Les Trois Rois", Basel
Since 2007 Thomas Huhn has been at the helm of the bar "Les Trois Rois", one of the best bars in Switzerland. Quite a few regulars come not only for the constantly changing selection of contemporary cocktails, for the high class and the exquisite spirits, but above all because of him, because Huhn is a host with body and soul.
Bartender of the Year
Paulina Bastian, "Exer Bar", Zurich
After various stations in the city on the Limmat (including "Canvas Bar" in "The Dolder Grand" and "Canapé Bar"), the young bartender took over in the city-famous "Exer Bar" at the beginning of 2023. There she mixes the right drinks to go with Sandra Böhm's colourful cuisine. These are sometimes wild, sometimes classic - and always consistently impressive.
Most Innovative Bartender
Telmo Pacheco, "no idea", Zurich
With Zurich's "no idea" bar, Jasmine Gill and Andrew Sutton have created a place where the boundaries between culinary and mixology are exploded. With Telmo Pacheco they have found the perfect barman for their concept; with his years of experience and almost endless creativity, he transforms complex ideas into delicious cocktails.
Rookie Bartender of the Year
Andrin Krummenacher, "Louis Bar", Lucerne
Andrin Krummenacher rose to the position of Deputy Chef de Bar at the "Louis Bar" in Lucerne's "Montana" hotel shortly after completing his apprenticeship. His work shows great passion, is extremely creative and reveals the immense potential with which he will enrich the Swiss bar scene in the coming years.
Best Cocktail Bars 2024
Bar Jewel
"Bellevue Bar", Bern
The bar of the Grand Hotel Bellevue Palace in Bern's old town is a true gem of the Swiss bar scene. For decades, locals, tourists, politicians and journalists have met here for aperitifs or nightcaps. Despite all the history, neither the atmosphere nor the drink selection is dusty - the bar is and remains on the pulse of time.
New Opening of the Year
"La Catedral", Zurich
This "cathedral" is where the Mexican art of bartending is indulged. The diverse selection of mezcal is adorable, enjoyed neat or made into cocktails. In addition, various other Mexican spirits classics can be found. The extremely knowledgeable bar team is happy to help with the selection and recommends the appropriate "Antojito" (snack) to go with it.
American Bar
"Le Bar des Bergues", Geneva
Thanks to the elegant decor and courteous service, this time-honoured bar makes you feel transported to another era. From noon until late in the evening you are in good hands here, looked after by the attentive team and given everything your heart desires, from delicious snacks to fine spirits and perfectly mixed cocktails.
Restaurant Bar
"Carlton", Zurich
The "Carlton Bar" offers top-class drinking pleasure in the middle of Zurich's city centre. Offered is creative mixology from hand-picked spirits. The bar team masters both classic cocktails and a whole range of special new creations - it's worth having an aperitif here, whether you dine at the Carlton Restaurant afterwards or not.
Hotel Bar
"Verve by Sven", Bad Ragaz
The trip to the bar is worth it, even if you don't stay at the hotel. In the style of Sven Wassmer's alpine cuisine, they offer cocktails made from local ingredients and prestigious spirits. But those who want to do without alcohol will also be happy thanks to the excellent offer of homemade non-alcoholic drinks.
The Best Wine Bars 2024
Special Price Special Selection
"Uva", Geneva
In a cosy châlet atmosphere, Swiss wines are enjoyed here, accompanied by artfully arranged cheese and meat platters. The offer is varied, you can always find new, little-known producers, especially from the Geneva area. The friendly team will help you choose the right wine.
New Opening Wine Bar
"Cor", Zurich
The cosy "COR" is not far from Zineb Hattab's famous first restaurant "Kle". Sommelier Bernd Vogel has created his own wine paradise here, the selection is extremely large and changes frequently. From Domaine de la Romanée-Conti to the affordable Txakoli, there is a bottle for every taste and budget.
Classic Wine Bar
"Consum", Basel
All of Basel meets for an aperitif at "Consum", from businesswomen to workers. No wonder; the atmosphere is relaxed, the service is cordial, the plates are generously filled, and the selection of wines is excellent. For orders of three deciliters or more, every wine on the 100-plus-bottle menu is even served by the glass.
Natural Wine Bar
"Sauvage", Biel
Sauvage - that is, wild - are only the wines here. The décor is modern, yet cosy, and the mood is usually animated. The extremely friendly young team has put together a wonderful selection of natural wines, many of which are exclusively imported. To go with it, there are small, tasty dishes.
Wine Bar in a Wine Shop
"Südhang Oyster Bar", Zurich
In the oyster bar, as the name promises, there are always market-fresh oysters. The bar belongs to the wine shop Südhang, which has made a name for itself with its nice offer of ecologically produced wines from Europe. If you don't like oysters, you can order cheese from Italy or meat from the minimarket to go with your glass of wine.
Wine Restaurant / Bistro
"Bleu Nuit", Geneva
The well-known restaurateur Florian Le Bouhec has taken over the former trendy pub to breathe new life into it with chef Mathias Fréré. The "Cave à Manger" now offers a creative, contemporary seasonal cuisine alongside a fantastic selection of natural wines. Also great is the speakeasy cocktail bar behind a refrigerator door.
