Many call it the world’s best bar.
Since it opened in 1965, the Kronenhalle Bar has been considered the epitome of a classic American bar – and as a special place for socialising, enjoying outstanding hospitality and experiencing a sophisticated drinking culture. The successful combination of attention to tradition and joy in innovation is also a reason why the bar has such a large clientele of regulars.
Magnificent microcosm
“Sans pareil” – that was the aspiration of Gustav Zumsteg when he created the Kronenhalle Bar in 1965. The space was the tableau on which the Zurich architect and designer Robert Haussmann created his unmatched work of art: seats upholstered in green morocco leather and the ceiling finished with mahogany panelling. The light fixtures were designed by the Swiss sculptor Diego Giacometti specifically for this space. And just as important for the exquisite bar experience: The quality of the drinks is equal to that of the furnishings in every measure.
Blank soundscape
One of the Kronenhalle Bar’s unique qualities is the absence of music. Enjoyment of the carefully crafted cocktails, the outstanding artwork, the attentive hosts and the exceptional interior is never marred by any musical accompaniment.
Excellent keepers of secrets
Christian Heiss, our head bartender, keeps his guests’ favourite cocktail recipes stashed under the bar, with his notebooks forming a type of historical record. Gathered over decades, they hold the preferred recipes of guests from all over the world. Heiss is a master of his craft: His precise concoctions of spirits and fruit juices and his understanding of the impact of colour have won him numerous bartending awards.
Appreciation and time for everyone
No matter how great the rush – our dedicated bar team has internalised the maxims of hospitality: always take time for every guest and show them appreciation and respect. That is the key to continuously creating the unique “sans pareil” atmosphere that the legendary hosts Hulda and Gustav Zumsteg brought to life in the Kronenhalle.
Art in space – art in glass
Diego Giacometti’s five-armed alabaster light fixtures bathe the bar in moonlight, and works by Joan Miró, Pablo Picasso and Paul Klee enliven the space. Art is everywhere – by tradition, also in the cocktail glasses.
Memories in the mix
The Kronenhalle Bar stands for a place where unique moments happen that remain in our memories forever. Some of these memories can be found in the drink repertoire of our Chefs de Bar over the years: Paul Nüesch, Peter Roth and – currently – Christian Heiss.