Top Bars in Zurich – Most Viewed (2025)

Nestled in a cobblestone alley of Zurich’s historic Altstadt, Old Crow is a boutique jewel of a cocktail bar celebrated for its staggering collection of rare spirits—boasting over 1,600 bottles, some extremely hard to find. The atmosphere is intimate and warmly lit, furnished with dark wood, chequerboard floors, and flickering candles that complement the antique‑style décor. Co‑owned by Markus Blattner (former Widder Bar manager) and Petra Blattner, alongside bartender Jvan Paszti, Old Crow delivers profound expertise and passion in mixology. Their motto rings true: “We don’t offer something to all guests, but a lot to some guests”—a personal approach to rare spirits and cocktails, tailored to each visitor. The cocktail menu includes classics and forgotten recipes, alongside signature creations like the Swiss‑inspired Downtown Switzerland, featuring kirsch, Campari, vermouth, Cynar, amerena cherry, and Champagne. Expect an average cocktail price around USD 22 (CHF 20‑25 range), though premium pours from their ultra‑rare whiskey collection can exceed CHF 1,300 for a dram. With a focus on whiskies (Scotch, bourbon, rye, Japanese) and other rare spirits—rum, gin, cognac, tequila—the bar offers guidance-first service: the staff thrives at recommending perfect pairings, often mid‑conversation without a menu needed. A small, tucked‑away beer garden at the back provides a charming contrast for guests looking for fresh air and relaxed conversation. Open from Tuesday through Saturday (17:00–00:30; closed Sundays and Mondays), Old Crow is perfect for seasoned collectors, adventurous newcomers, or anyone seeking an elevated yet intimate drinking experience in Zurich’s Old Town.

Nestled within the legendary Kronenhalle restaurant—an institution since 1924—Kronenhalle Bar, established in 1965, stands as the quintessence of a classic American bar in Zurich. Designed by Robert Haussmann, its interior features green Saffiano‑leather seating, mahogany‑paneled ceilings, and sculptural alabaster lighting crafted by Diego Giacometti. Here, the art isn’t just decoration—it’s integral. Guests sip cocktails surrounded by treasured works from Miró, Picasso, Klee, and Braque, crafting a cultural haven where refinement meets creativity. The ambience is uniquely serene—remarkably, there’s no music playing. This deliberate calm lets each carefully mixed drink, every brushstroke on the wall, and every gesture from the attentive team resonate fully. Leading the bar with quiet precision is bar‑chef Christian Heiss, whose guest‑curated recipe notebooks form a living archive of bespoke creations from loyal regulars over decades. This is more than a nightcap—it’s an immersive sensory experience. From the tactile warmth of leather and mahogany to the hush of hushed elegance, every moment here feels laden with gravitas and hospitality.

Widder Bar, nestled within the Widder Hotel in Zürich’s Old Town, artfully fuses medieval character with modern luxury. Set under antique wooden beams, its interior features rich red leather seating, brass accents, and a stunning lapis‑lazuli wall, all meticulously crafted to create refined ambiance. With an on-site Library of Spirits boasting over 1,200 spirits and 650 whiskies, Widder Bar is a connoisseur’s paradise. The bar menu is organized into themed categories—Martini, Tiki, Luxury, Experimental—offering creative reinterpretations like the Huay Chivo mezcal blend or Port 75 with white port, Frangelico, pear juice and champagne. Patrons enjoy live piano jazz throughout the week; the venue remains a beloved nightlife institution for both hotel guests and Zürich locals, particularly for evening “apéro” gatherings. As the 2022 Swiss Bar Awards “Best Hotel Bar,” it has earned acclaim for its craftsmanship, cocktail quality, and vibrant atmosphere. Widder Bar operates without reservations—walk-ins welcome as space allows. It’s open Monday–Thursday 12 PM–1 AM, Friday–Saturday until 2 AM, and Sunday until midnight.

Located on the lively Langstrasse in Zürich’s Kreis 4 / 5 nightlife district, Fat Tony is a hybrid bar-pizzeria with stylish club vibes and a laid-back, quirky attitude. With its Miami-1970s inspired décor — flamingos high above the bar, neon signage and vibrant energy — it’s more than just a place for drinks. Visitors often start their evening here: the menu features hefty pizza slices (ideal after a few drinks) and signature spicy tomato-vodka shots named “Mexikanerli” that set the tone for a fun night. The music pumps, the crowd crosses all ages and styles, and the bar stays open until the early hours — often until 4 a.m. or later on weekends. Fat Tony also stands out for its dual personality: during early evening it can feel like a bar-café with pizza; as the night deepens, it transitions into more of a club-atmosphere space, especially with its connection to the club venue below the same building. If you’re looking for somewhere lively, unpretentious, and central for starting or continuing your Zürich night out, Fat Tony hits the mark.

Tales Bar is tucked away on Selnaustrasse in Zürich, in the Werd / Kreis 1 district, and carries the vibe of a refined, relaxed “cocktail living room.” From the moment you step through the door, the space greets you in low light, wooden tones, leather seating, soft ambient music, and an attentive yet unintrusive service. The bar is modest in size (reports suggest ~8 tables, capacity up to ~20 people), which enhances the sense of intimacy. The drink program is the star: classic and contemporary cocktails, themed chapters (e.g. “Early Age of Mixed Drinks,” “Rising of the Tiki”) and a deep spirits library. Bartenders here often customize drinks based on your flavor preferences, and are said to share stories behind each cocktail; part of the “tales” concept. Because of its cozy size, it’s recommended to reserve ahead, especially on busy nights. Open from the evening into the early hours (typically 18:00–03:00) on most nights (with Sunday & Monday closures). Though not a “themed bar” in the gaudy sense, Tales leans into craftsmanship, narrative, and attention to detail. It’s the kind of place where you go not just to drink, but to linger and enjoy the story behind each glass.

In the heart of Zürich’s Kreis 1 district, just steps from Sihl Platz, you’ll find Baradox on Sihlstrasse 73 — a lively, welcoming cocktail bar that balances craft-drink ambition with relaxed urban vibes. From the moment you walk in, the setting strikes a friendly tone: comfortable seating, a good mix of locals and city wanderers, and bartenders who know their stuff. Reviews highlight how the team is “top” when it comes to drink-making, and how the bar is “gemütlich mit toller Atmosphäre”. Baradox doesn’t just lean on its cocktails — it also offers snacks and light dishes, making it suitable for a proper stop rather than only a quick drink. Some reviewers mention having steak-plates, entrées or lunch menus too. The beverage menu is described as strong, and the service spoken of as very good — drinks delivered fast, bartenders friendly. The bar is also used for team-events and cocktail-mixing courses (“Fun-Mixen”) hosted in the same venue, adding an experiential dimension beyond just going out. On weekends, the bar opens “open end” (i.e., until late) and the terrace becomes a draw for summer evenings. In short: whether you want a refined drink in a relaxed setting, a terrace spot in central Zürich, or a fun group experience with cocktails and snacks — Baradox is a strong pick. It’s less about ultra-luxury, more about authenticity: good craft, good company, central convenience.

Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Langstrasse nightlife district, Olé Olé Bar stands out as one of Zürich’s true institutions. Located at Langstrasse 138 in the 8004 postal code, the bar has been part of the city’s bar scene for decades and is known for its eclectic atmosphere, friendly staff and timeless appeal. Walking through the door, you'll feel the mix of past and present: a space where the décor leans toward classic bar style, including a legendary jukebox, and where you’ll find a diverse crowd—students, office workers, regulars, visitors—all mingling in a lively but welcoming space. The bar thrives on simplicity: good drinks, good company, and that Langstrasse energy. As one local guide describes it: “The bar at Langstrasse 138 … a true original … colourful mixture of guests … every weeknights cosy, weekends crowded and loud.” Opening hours are generous: Monday to Saturday from about 17:00 (5 pm) to 04:00 (+1 day) and Sundays until around 02:00. Though it may not boast boutique cocktails or ultra-luxury interiors, its strength lies in authenticity. Many guests highlight the bar’s consistent atmosphere, the friendly team behind the bar, and the feeling of being part of something familiar yet full of stories. If you’re in Zürich looking for a place to experience local nightlife with a dash of history and an unpretentious vibe, Olé Olé is a strong contender. Great for starting your evening in Kreis 4 (the fourth district) or ending the night after exploring the bars and clubs along Langstrasse. Be prepared for crowds on weekends, and maybe come early to grab your spot.

In the heart of Old Town Zürich, just a stone’s throw from the Limmat and the legendary church towers, BarMünster offers a refined yet friendly cocktail experience. Located at Münstergasse 30, 8001 Zürich, this cocktail bar exudes a polished but comfortable ambiance with antique-style lamps, green leather benches and high tables arranged around a prominent stone bar. The bar’s concept is straightforward but effective: friendly, competent service with a serious focus on cocktails, fair pricing and a capable wine or beer offering for those looking for something simpler. With a menu boasting around 100 cocktails, the bartenders are ready to craft something tailored — either directly from the menu or based on your preferred flavour profile. Food is modest but sufficient — expect antipasti plates (with or without Bündner Salsiz), tomato-mozzarella salads and chocolate cake — designed to accompany the drinks rather than act as a full dinner. The environment is welcoming, making it suitable for business apéros, birthday drinks, casual get-togethers or a calm pre-club stop. The layout allows for three high tables up to 25 people, and a standing area up to 40 guests for slightly larger gatherings. Opening hours vary slightly: Monday–Thursday from 17:00 until midnight, Fridays from 17:00 to 02:00, Saturdays starting 14:00 to 02:00, and Sundays from around 15:00 until 23:00. During busy evenings, especially weekends, the vibe is more lively, but the core ethos remains cocktail-and-conversation rather than full club mode. Whether you're exploring Zürich’s Niederdorf district, starting your evening out or winding down after shows or meetings, BarMünster offers a dependable spot for well-made drinks, relaxed company and central location convenience.