Why Switzerland is a great expat country for food

Katharina Roland • February 3, 2022

Let's face it: what is more important than eating well? Food influences our mood, brings people together, and makes us happy. What you might not know is that Switzerland is just what you are looking for to make sure this part of your life is well-covered.

Geography makes perfect

Located between countries that are vastly different, Switzerland is the perfect place to meet the cuisine from France, Italy, Germany, and Austria, all without giving up on the quality. You can take a train from Zürich to Fribourg and find yourself in a completely different culinary world, and from there to Lugano in still another one. Added to that, the countless immigrants that settled down in the Confederation (Asia, Africa, Middle East and Eastern Europe) make sure you can always have something new to try.

More than you think

Do not think because of this that Switzerland does not have its own, unique dishes. There is far more here to discover than cheese fondue. Ever tried the cherry pie from Zug? Or the famous and unpronounceable geschnetzeltes, made with succulent veal meat with cream and (by original recipe) liver? Go out there and try it, you will not be disappointed.

Enjoy more than others

Places with a high income like the cities of Zürich or Zug have a purchasing power that is much higher than in many global cities, allowing you to afford upscale restaurants in Switzerland and even more in most countries of Europe. And surprises do not end here: main cities offer plenty of places to chill and spend the right money. Want a view on Zürich in a cozy and elegant environment wondering where in the world they get such amazing ingredients? Try Die Waid, just up the hill. Want to eat like a god with the best wine list ever on the green hills outside Bern? Hurry up to Restaurant Schützen, a hidden pearl. And ask for a table on the veranda!

Do it the Swiss way, with beer

If you want to do things the Swiss way, there is nothing better than stopping at some restaurant on the mountain, which is simply great no matter where. No need to have a hike but the food will give you even more satisfaction, if you do. For an even more exciting experience, try and see if you can find the book Beer Hiking Switzerland, a guide that takes you through the Swiss mountains leading you either in the middle or at the end of a hike to a fine place to enjoy a fine craft beer.

Hard to beat

There are few things comparable to having lunch on the shore of a Swiss lake, chilling at a restaurant in beautiful Montreux with the reflexes of the sun on Lake Leman, the wind blowing through your hair, the snowy mountains in the distance. Have a drink on Lake Como in Morcote or by the hotel Burgenstock with a view of Lucerne. And among this all, you will feel carefree, knowing your wallet can afford it and that a bus will (almost) always) be there to take you home. What more can you ask for?

This article is not financial, tax or legal advice by any means.

I am only sharing my own personal experiences here.

Always seek professional financial, tax or legal advice before making decisions.

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