My travels are often centered around the culinary experiences a city has to offer. When I recently visited Basel, Switzerland, I was thrilled by the variety and richness of its food scene. The city is a delightful mix of Swiss, French, and German influences, making it a true haven for those who appreciate good food. From rustic Swiss dishes to modern European cuisine, Basel offers something for every palate. In this guide, I’ll take you through some of the best restaurants in Basel, as well as the must-try dishes that will make your visit unforgettable.
1. The Old Town Charm: Restaurant Kunsthalle Basel
My food journey in Basel began in the heart of the Old Town at Restaurant Kunsthalle Basel, a charming spot that perfectly blends contemporary design with historic ambiance. Located just a stone’s throw from the Kunsthalle Basel art museum, this restaurant is a hidden gem that serves modern Swiss cuisine with a twist. The sleek, minimalist interior immediately caught my attention, and I was eager to try the innovative dishes on the menu.
The first dish I tried was the Swiss Cheese Fondue. This classic Swiss comfort food was everything I hoped for and more. The cheese was perfectly melted, rich, and creamy, served with a selection of bread cubes, vegetables, and potatoes for dipping. It was the perfect start to my culinary adventure in Basel, and I couldn’t help but indulge in every bite. The fondue was paired with a glass of Swiss white wine, which complemented the dish beautifully.
Next, I ordered the Veal Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a traditional Zurich-style veal dish served with Rösti. The veal was tender and perfectly cooked, with a creamy mushroom sauce that was rich but not overpowering. The Rösti, a Swiss-style potato dish, was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it the perfect side dish. The meal was hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor, offering a true taste of Swiss comfort food.
2. Fine Dining at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl
For a more upscale dining experience, I visited Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the luxurious Hotel Les Trois Rois. This fine dining establishment offers a refined and elegant atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion or a memorable meal. The restaurant boasts a stunning view of the Rhine River, and the ambiance is as sophisticated as the food.
The tasting menu at Cheval Blanc was an absolute highlight of my trip. Each dish was a masterpiece, showcasing the creativity and technical skill of Chef Peter Knogl. The Foie Gras with Mango and Saffron was a standout dish—rich, buttery foie gras paired with the sweetness of mango and the delicate warmth of saffron. It was a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Another dish that took my breath away was the Swiss Trout with Beurre Blanc and Caviar. The trout was incredibly fresh, cooked to perfection, and complemented by the luxurious beurre blanc sauce. The addition of caviar added a touch of opulence to the dish, elevating it to a whole new level of sophistication. Every bite was an explosion of flavor, and I found myself savoring each course as if it were my last.
The dessert was equally impressive. The Chocolate Soufflé with Raspberry Sorbet was a perfect way to end the meal—light, airy, and decadently rich in chocolate flavor, with the tartness of the raspberry sorbet providing a refreshing contrast.
3. A Taste of Italy: La Pignatta
If you’re craving Italian food while in Basel, La Pignatta is the place to go. Located in the lively St. Alban district, this cozy and intimate Italian restaurant offers a menu filled with traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with rustic décor and a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home.
I started my meal with a classic Bruschetta, topped with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The bread was perfectly toasted, and the combination of flavors was simple yet delicious. For the main course, I ordered the Risotto ai Funghi, a creamy risotto made with wild mushrooms and Parmesan cheese. The risotto was perfectly cooked, with the mushrooms adding an earthy depth of flavor to the dish. It was the kind of comforting dish that makes you feel like you’re dining in a small trattoria in Italy.
The highlight of my meal was the Tiramisu, which was the best I’ve ever had. The layers of mascarpone cheese, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and cocoa powder were perfectly balanced, creating a dessert that was both rich and light at the same time. It was the perfect ending to a fantastic Italian meal.
4. Basel’s Best Street Food: Marktplatz
One of the best ways to experience Basel’s food culture is by visiting the Marktplatz, the central square in the heart of the Old Town. Here, you’ll find a variety of street food vendors offering everything from Swiss pretzels to Bratwurst sausages and freshly baked pastries. The atmosphere is lively, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the vibrant market scene.
I couldn’t resist trying a Basel-style Pretzel, which is a bit different from the classic German pretzel. The dough was soft and slightly sweet, with a golden-brown crust that was crispy on the outside. It was the perfect snack to munch on as I explored the square. I also grabbed a Bratwurst, which was served in a soft roll with mustard and sauerkraut. The sausage was juicy and flavorful, and the tangy mustard and crunchy sauerkraut complemented it perfectly.
Another must-try treat at the Marktplatz is the Basler Läckerli, a traditional Basel biscuit made with honey, almonds, and kirsch. These little sweet treats are a local specialty, and I found them to be the perfect souvenir to take home with me.
5. Basel’s Café Culture: Café Spitz
For a more relaxed dining experience, I visited Café Spitz, a charming café located on the banks of the Rhine River. This café is a great spot for breakfast or a light lunch, offering a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and coffee drinks. The outdoor seating area is perfect for people-watching, and I enjoyed sitting here with a flat white and a fresh pastry while taking in the views of the river.
The Swiss Croissant was a standout, with its buttery, flaky layers and delicate sweetness. I also tried the Smoked Salmon Bagel, which was fresh and flavorful, with perfectly balanced toppings. The café has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a leisurely meal.
6. Traditional Swiss Cuisine: Gasthof zum. Neuen Sternen
For a more traditional Swiss experience, I headed to Gasthof zum Neuen Sternen, a family-owned restaurant that specializes in authentic Swiss dishes. Located in a quiet part of Basel, this restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with wooden beams and rustic décor that give it a cozy, alpine feel.
I tried the Swiss Rösti, a crispy, golden potato dish that is a staple of Swiss cuisine. The Rösti was served with a hearty portion of Sausage and Sauerkraut, and it was the perfect comfort food after a long day of sightseeing. The flavors were simple yet satisfying, and I found myself enjoying every bite.
Another must-try dish at Gasthof zum Neuen Sternen is the Schweinshaxe, a roasted pork knuckle served with mashed potatoes and gravy. The pork was tender and flavorful, with a crispy skin that added a satisfying crunch. It was the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re sitting in a traditional Swiss mountain lodge, enjoying a hearty meal with friends.
Basel is a city that offers a wide variety of culinary experiences, from traditional Swiss dishes to international flavors and modern European cuisine. Whether you’re indulging in a Michelin-starred meal, enjoying a casual street food snack, or sipping coffee by the Rhine, Basel’s food scene has something to offer every foodie. I hope this guide has inspired you to explore the city’s hidden culinary gems and discover the flavors that make Basel such a special destination for food lovers.
