Fondue fun in Bern

Winter means the fondue season has begun! From a charming chalet atmosphere to cosy cable cars and rickshaws – we reveal the eight best places to indulge in mouthwatering cheese fondue in Bern.

Sitting together with friends in a warm and welcoming ambience and dipping bread in melted cheese is definitely possible even with the coronavirus still around. This is because the virus is transmitted via the air we breathe. According to the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office, there is no known case in which anyone has been infected via food. In short, it is not the act of eating fondue that can cause transmission of the virus but rather non-compliance with the current rules concerning hygiene and conduct. For this reason, compliance with the Federal Office of Public Health measures is crucial.

  • Fact

    Due to the current situation, the bars and restaurants close at 9:00 p.m. and only a maximum of four people may sit together at a table.

Fondue gondola at the Marzilibrücke Restaurant

Mountain romance in the middle of the federal city! Under the large chestnut trees in the garden of the Marzilibrücke restaurant, four pretty cable cars from the Gstaad-Saanenland holiday region invite you to a fondue. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the tastebuds: The gondolas are charmingly decorated with red and white chequered curtains and authentic accessories such as traditional ski poles. Seated on snug warm seats, you can sense the spirit of the mountains. In addition to cheese fondue - classic or with black truffle - with bread, potatoes, pickled gherkins and silver onions, there are many Gstaad specialties to try. The restaurant is located directly on the banks of the Aare. How about a late even-ing stroll along the river after your meal? Tip: Book in advance, the gondolas are in great demand! Information Information

  • Information
    Location Restaurant Marzilibrücke, Gasstrasse 8, 3005 Bern
    Dates October 2020 to February 2021 (closed on holidays)
    Fondue time Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.–11:30 p.m.
    Sat 12:00 p.m.–11:30 p.m.
    Sun 10:00 a.m.–10:30 p.m.

    Reservations by e-mail at marzilibruecke@taberna.ch or by telephone at +41 31 311 27 80.

    More information available on the website (in German).

Full Moon Fondue on the Gurten

Wrapped in warm blankets and in good company: in nights with a full moon, a special cheese experience awaits on Bern’s local mountain: after being greeted with mulled wine and roasted chestnuts and enjoying a bowl of homemade soup, a traditional cheese fondue is served. The meal is rounded off with a variety of desserts, but the highlight of the evening is the starry night sky and the panoramic view of the city with its sparkling lights.

  • Information
    Location Gurten – Park im Grünen, Terrace Restaurant Gurtners, 3084 Wabern
    Dates 30 November 2020, 30 December 2020, 28 January 2021, 27 February 2021
    Fondue time from 6:00 p.m.

    Reservations by e-mail at restaurant@gurtenpark.ch or by telephone at +41 31 970 33 33.

    More information available on the website (in German).

Restaurant Moléson

The Moléson is definitely a classic among Bern’s fondue restaurants. Absolutely delectable cheese fondue made from ripened AOP Gruyère and Vacherin has been served here for 99 years. The “moitié-moitié” blend can also contain either morel mushrooms or "Nidle" (cream), or be accompanied by a cold platter of dry-cured Bündner raw ham and air-dried meat. Did you know that the restaurant is named after the local Moléson mountain in Gruyères? It’s no wonder that many of the ingredients in the dishes here come from that region. Bon appétit!

  • Information
    Location Aarbergergasse 24 / Speichergasse 21
    3011 Bern
    Dates open all year
    Fondue time Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.–11:30 p.m.
    Sat 6:00 p.m.–11:30 p.m.
    Restaurant closed from 24 December 2020 to 3 January 2021

    Reservations online (in German) at www.moleson-bern.ch (reserve by 10:00 a.m. for lunch and by 5:00 p.m. for supper) or at any time by telephone at +41 31 311 44 63.

Restaurant Harmonie

According to the TripAdvisor community, "the best fondue in town" is served at the restaurant Harmonie. Located right next to the famous Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and looking back on more than 100 years of tradition, the restaurant in the Old Town serves delicious Swiss specialties from grandma's kitchen. For a delicious fondue, you can choose between "classic", "aux truffes" (with truffles and champagne), "moitié-moitié" and "Bärner Chrütter" (Bernese herbs).

  • Information
    Location Restaurant Harmonie, Hotelgasse 3, 3011 Bern
    right next to the Zytglogge (Clock Tower)
    Dates open all year
    Fondue time Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
    Also open on Saturdays during the Advent season

    For more information please visit the website (in German) at www.harmonie.ch.

Feel like you’re surrounded by the mountains of the Bernese Oberland

Fondue gondolas at Bits and Bites

Reserve now (in German)

Bubble Tent Moosegg

How about a trip to the Emmental region? Be it to boost your energy for a snowshoe tour or for a perfect winter evening – enjoy a tasty fondue on Moosegg, served in the cozy bubble tent and accompanied by regional delicacies and a wonderful view of Langnau and the Bernese Alps. The table in the bubble tent seats four to seven people – perfect for a fun family dinner or a relaxed evening with friends!

Fondükscha

The special fondue experience for couples, explorers and anyone in search of something unique: A “fondue ride” on three wheels! While you dip bread in hot cheese and toast with a glass of white wine, the driver entertains you with funny anecdotes and interesting facts about the Swiss federal city. Woolen blankets and benches padded with fluffy fur keep you comfy and warm as you ride through the romantically lit alleys of Bern's Old Town. The perfect Advent or Christmas present for your sweetheart!

  • Information
    Meeting Point Restaurant Lötschberg, Zeughausgasse 16, 3011 Bern
    Dates all year
    Fondue time by reservation, fondue tour lasts 60–90 minutes

    Reservations by e-mail at citytours@bern.com or by telephone at +41 31 328 12 12.

    Bookings are possible up to three business days before the start of the tour.

    For more information please visit the website.

Fondue feast on the Stockhorn

If you have finally had enough of the fog, it's time to leave the city behind and head for the mountains. High above the clouds on the Stockhorn, you can look forward to a unique nature experience as well as culinary delights. Hot food is served in the igloo village on frozen Lake Hinterstocken. You can enjoy delicious fondue and the restaurant's own white mulled wine in the middle of an impressively designed world of glittering snow crystals. Our tip: Combine the fondue feast with snowshoeing, winter hiking, ice skating or ice fishing to experience a perfect Alpine adventure!

  • Information
    Location On the Stockhorn at the Chrindi midway station, right on Lake Hinterstocken
    Dates 10 December 2020 to 28 February 2021
    Fondue time Wed-Sun during the day between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
    Thu-Sun evenings 4:20 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
    Thu-Sat evenings 7:15 p.m.–10:00 p.m. (not available on holidays)

    Reservations by e-mail at info@iglu-dorf.com, by telephone at +41 41 612 27 28 or online.

    Find more information on the website at www.iglu-dorf.com.

Gin fondue from the Matte district

Had enough of traditional fondue blends and ready to try something new? How does a Bern gin fondue sound? The gin comes directly from the Matte district, while the cheese blend is from the Chäsbueb ripening cellar. Before the fondue fun begins, you will be taken on a tour of the Matte Brennerei (distillery) and enjoy an exclusive introduction to the art of gin and absinthe production – with a tasting included, of course. The evening ends on a perfect note with an enjoyable gin fondue at the Chäsbueb in the Lower Old Town. Our advice is "always be open for something new!"

Fondue in a cosy caravan dining room

Wagen zum Glück

Explore this charming ambience

Fondue veranda at the Rosengarten Restaurant

If you are looking for spectacular views, the fondue veranda of the Rosengarten Restaurant is the place to be. As the lights of Bern's Old Town sparkle on the other side of the panoramic window, you can sit back and enjoy a delicious meal. Fondue lovers can choose between the house mix (Schönrieder mountain cheese and creamy Heitenrieder), Alpine herb, Seisler chili and truffle fondue. For just 55 francs, you are served an entire fondue menu, including salad with egg, Valais meat platters and a dessert of sweet apple-cider cream. A tasteful ambience awaits with cozy candlelight, snug warm rugs and a crackling open fire.

  • Information
    Location Restaurant Rosengarten, Alter Aargauerstalden 31b, 3006 Bern
    Dates Until the end of February 2021
    Fondue time Mon-Sun 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

    Reservations online at www.rosengarten.be.

    More information available on the website at www.rosengarten.be.

Swissness at Restaurant Lötschberg

Sociable, uncomplicated and authentic: Restaurant Lötschberg is a classic in Bern, well known for its traditional Swiss specialities, excellent wine and the most delicious salads in town. The savoury house blend of Gruyère and Vacherin is highly recommended for all fondue fans. The lively ambience is perfect for friends, groups and anyone who appreciates a diverse setting. It’s the kind of place where hipsters hang out with politicians, Japanese tourists share a table with homesick Valais natives, and students converse with tradespeople. If you’re looking for a secluded spot for a romantic tête-à-tête, you can reserve one of the retired mountain gondolas right outside the front door.

  • Information
    Location Restaurant Lötschberg, Zeughausgasse 16, 3011 Bern
    Dates all year (please note the special opening times for holidays)
    Fondue time Mon-Fri 11:45 a.m.–2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
    Sat–Sun 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

    Reservations by telephone at +41 31 311 34 55.

    Find more information on the website (in German) at www.lotschbergbern.com.

Schwellenmätteli Fondue Chalet

Fondue on Bern’s Riviera: The Schwellenmätteli Restaurant offers a strikingly unique location. Built directly on the banks of the Aare and offering a stunning view of the lights of the Old Town, the chalet-like extension invites you to enjoy a delicious fondue feast. Among other fondue mixtures, you can find the “Bärefondü” with sausage and bacon simmering in the caquelons. Literally meaning “bear fondue”, legend has it that it lends you the strength of a bear. A special extra: You can buy some of the carefully arranged decors on the spot.

Fondue Yurt Innere Enge

Colourful, snug and warm: The heated fondue yurt set up in the park of the 4-star superior Unique Hotel Innere Enge offers the ideal setting for a fondue feast whether it’s just the two of you, an entire family, or a private party. Do you prefer the classic version, the Alpine herb alternative, or perhaps with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil? Different variations of "moitié-moitié" can be served to suit your mood and cravings. After dinner, music lovers should definitely head over to the neighbouring "Marians Jazzroom", one of the most legendary jazz clubs in the world.

  • Information
    Location In the hotel park of the Unique Hotel Innere Enge Bern, Engestrasse 54, 3012 Bern
    Dates October 2020 to mid-February 2021 (please note special opening times on holidays)
    Fondue time Tue-Sun 5:30 p.m.–11:00 p.m.

    Reservations by e-mail at reservation-ieb@zghotels.ch or by telephone at +41 31 309 61 11.

    More information available on the website at www.innere-enge.ch.

Kairo-Fonduewagen

“Cheesy come, cheesy go.” You’ll find a creative, eclectic atmosphere in the Kairo-Fonduewagen, a retired construction caravan. This place is a must for everyone who likes things lively and authentic. The fondue at Café Kairo bubbles in its caquelon in the heart of the Lorraine district – a favourite among many Bern locals. The snug caravan and sparkling fairy lights create an unforgettable mood. Our tip: Finish off the winter evening with a nightcap at Kairo and experience a sense of the "real Bern".

  • Information
    Location Café Kairo, Dammweg 43, 3013 Bern
    Dates 02 November 2020 to 31 March 2021
    Fondue time Mon-Sat 5:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. (Sundays upon request)

    Reservations by telephone at +41 31 330 26 25.

    More information can be found on the website (in German) at www.cafe-kairo.ch.

Raclette and fondue?

You’ll be in cheese heaven on the Sky Terrace

Reserve now