Kronenhalle Bar

The Kronenhalle Bar adjoins the celebrated Kronenhalle restaurant at Rämistrasse 4, a few steps from Bellevue and the Opernhaus, and is one of the most atmospheric drinking rooms in Zürich. The dark wood panelling, brass fittings, and walls hung with original works by artists such as Chagall, Miró, and Picasso reflect the restaurant's history as a haunt of writers and artists, and the room gives the sense of a private club rather than a trendy bar. The bartenders concentrate on the classics, with well-made martinis, Manhattans, and old fashioneds priced around CHF 17-25 (approx $21-31), and a short list of Swiss wines and spirits. The crowd is mixed and well dressed: couples after the opera, business people, and visitors who come for the setting, with smart casual dress the sensible choice though no strict code is stated. Service is polished and unhurried, music is kept low, and conversation is the main entertainment, making it a good place to begin or end an evening in the city centre. Opening hours vary by source, but the bar typically operates from late morning or late afternoon until about midnight, with later closing on Friday and Saturday, so a quick check before going is advisable. The bar can be busy on weekend evenings and after performances at the Opernhaus, when walk-in seats are limited; arriving early or booking a table is a safe approach. The adjoining restaurant is known for Zürcher Geschnetzeltes and other classic Swiss dishes, so many visitors combine a drink with dinner. Reaching the bar is easy by tram 2, 4, or 5 to Bellevue, and the venue is about 15 minutes' walk from the Hauptbahnhof along the Limmat.