Zurich, often celebrated for its high living standards and robust economy, is also emerging as a prominent hub for sophisticated coffee culture. This guide offers an in-depth look into the city's vibrant and evolving coffee landscape, showcasing a selection of establishments that embody its progressive spirit. From pioneering multi-roaster concepts to sleek, minimalist spaces, Zurich's coffee scene caters to a diverse palate, reflecting a blend of local innovation and international influences. The city's commitment to quality is evident in its meticulously curated coffee selections and the passionate individuals who drive its growth.
The coffee scene in Zurich has seen a remarkable transformation, moving beyond traditional preferences to embrace more nuanced and diverse offerings. This shift is partly due to the dedication of local figures such as Dario Stoop, a prominent Swiss entrepreneur, barista, and roaster whose ventures have significantly shaped the city's coffee identity. His roastery, Coffee Architects, launched in October 2023 at the Swiss Coffee Festival, exemplifies this commitment to quality and innovation. The influence of international professionals, including Brazilians like Catherine Queiroz from Neumann Kaffee Gruppe and Giovanna Tonelli from Mame, further enriches Zurich's coffee narrative, bringing global expertise and unique perspectives.
Among the city's notable coffee destinations is Auer & Co., an early adopter of the multi-roaster model situated in a renovated factory building by the serene Limmat River. This establishment fosters a strong sense of community, attracting a diverse clientele drawn to its exceptional coffee and high-quality food. Dario Stoop’s specially crafted medium roast, perfectly suited for milk-based drinks, and a selection of pour-over coffees from his Coffee Architects roastery, are central to Auer & Co.'s appeal. The welcoming atmosphere encourages patrons to linger, work, and engage in casual conversations, making it a true community hub.
Another distinctive spot is Kraftwerk, housed within a repurposed power plant. Its industrial aesthetic and relaxed ambiance resonate with the contemporary vibe of Zurich's western district, offering a striking contrast to the city's more traditional center. The interior design ingeniously uses stacked shipping containers to delineate separate zones for work, events, and the Kraftwerk Café & Restaurant. The café mirrors the coffee philosophy pioneered at Auer & Co., serving predominantly vegan options alongside its expertly prepared coffee. This blend of industrial heritage and modern culinary trends creates a unique urban sanctuary.
Commercial – The Project, founded by Nick Spanoudakis, a Greek expatriate, represents a journey of continuous evolution in the coffee industry. Having started his coffee career in 2008, Spanoudakis has transitioned from a barista to a café owner and soon-to-be roaster. His first café, which opened in 2024, quickly expanded to a second location on Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s bustling commercial artery. During a visit, the espresso offerings were particularly noteworthy for their vibrant character and nuanced flavor profiles. The minimalist, Japanese omakase-inspired design provides a clean backdrop for enjoying a variety of coffees, including milk-based beverages and filter coffee prepared with V60s, Origami Brewers, and AeroPress, featuring beans from local roasters such as Balloon, Mame, and Rose Coffee Roasters.
For a quintessential contemporary Zurich experience, COFFEE stands out. This café, deliberately named to emphasize its core offering, provides a minimalist yet inviting space with sidewalk seating. Co-owners Shem Leupin, a former Swiss Barista Champion, and Thomas Leuenberger, a recipe developer for Zurich's trendy John Baker bakery, ensure an unparalleled coffee and pastry experience. Leupin's expertise as a green coffee buyer for Stoll Kaffee ensures the café serves premium beans, while Leuenberger's connection to John Baker guarantees fresh, high-quality baked goods. The synergy between their individual talents culminates in a unique blend of exceptional coffee and delightful treats, exemplified by their popular banana bread served with Greek yogurt.
Finally, Mame, led by Emi Fukahori and Mathieu Theis, is a prominent roaster and retailer with multiple locations across Zurich and Geneva, and a dedicated roastery. Fukahori, an internationally acclaimed figure in specialty coffee, highlights the evolving preferences of Swiss coffee drinkers, noting a growing appreciation for nuanced flavors beyond simple caffeine consumption. Mame's Josefstrasse location in western Zurich is particularly recommended, embodying their commitment to quality and community. With plans for further expansion, including a new project in Tokyo, Mame continues to push the boundaries of coffee appreciation, fostering a deeper connection between consumers and their daily brew.