Top 5 Places to Eat in Appenzell

Breathtaking view of Schwende landscape in Switzerland featuring mountainous terrain and a serene river.
Janik Butz, Pexels

Appenzell's dining landscape leans towards hearty, traditional Swiss cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local cheese specialties and a few delightful international choices, catering to travelers seeking authentic flavors and comfortable settings.

1. Berggasthaus Aescher-Wildkirchli

Cuisine: Traditional Appenzell Swiss (cheese dishes, regional specialties)

Perched dramatically on a cliffside, this iconic mountain restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Alpstein mountains. It is known for its authentic Appenzell cheese dishes and Swiss sausage, cervelat. Guests can enjoy locally made sorbet. The rustic setting makes the meal a rewarding experience after a scenic journey. It is closed from December to April.

Price: CHF 25-45 per person (main dish)

Getting There: Not in Appenzell village. Take a train to Wasserauen (approx. 11 minutes from Appenzell). From Wasserauen, take the Ebenalp cable car (CHF 34 return, CHF 17 with half-fare card). A 20-minute downhill hike from the cable car station leads to the restaurant. Wear comfortable shoes as the hike is steep.

2. Gasthaus Hof

Cuisine: Hearty Regional Swiss (meat and cheese specialties)

A popular spot for both locals and visitors, Gasthaus Hof serves generous portions of regional specialties like Käseschnitte (cheese toast) and Käsespätzli (Spätzle with cheese). The atmosphere is rustic and lively, with shared tables and traditional wooden decor, reflecting a true local experience. It's an ideal place for those looking to immerse themselves in Appenzeller culinary traditions.

Price: CHF 30-55 per person (main dish)

Getting There: Located within walking distance from Appenzell village center.

3. Chanh

Cuisine: Vietnamese

Unexpectedly, Appenzell hosts a highly-rated Vietnamese restaurant, Chanh, offering a welcome change from traditional Swiss fare. Housed in a distinctive yellow, gabled building, this hospitable restaurant provides a wide selection of flavorful soups, curries, and noodle dishes. It is a family-friendly establishment known for its quality and inviting atmosphere.

Price: CHF 20-40 per person (main dish)

Getting There: Located near the Landsgemeindeplatz in Appenzell village, within walking distance from the center.

4. Bäckerei und Wirtschaft Drei Könige

Cuisine: Swiss Bakery & Café (light meals, pastries)

Situated on Hauptgasse, the main street of Appenzell, Drei Könige is a historic bakery and café run by the same family since 1839. It is perfect for a casual, affordable meal, offering a daily menu of seasonal dishes. A must-try is their Käse-Zwiebelfladen, a delicious cheese and onion quiche. It’s an excellent spot for breakfast, lunch, or a coffee and pastry break.

Price: CHF 10-25 per person (light meal/snack)

Getting There: Located in the heart of Appenzell village, on Hauptgasse, easily accessible on foot.

5. Hotel Adler Restaurant / Adlerkeller

Cuisine: Swiss, Italian, Traditional Fondue

The historic Hotel Adler offers diverse dining. Its atmospheric Adlerkeller, a 450-year-old cellar, is a prime spot for fondue during winter, featuring a medieval setting. The hotel also houses a 'Little Italy' restaurant, providing a range of Swiss classics and Italian staples. This venue suits guests looking for both traditional Swiss experiences and international flavors in a central village location. Reservations are recommended for the Adlerkeller.

Price: CHF 35-70 per person (main dish or fondue experience)

Getting There: Located on Weissbadstrasse, at the edge of Appenzell village but easily walkable from the main square.

Check out our other pages on Appenzell

Things to Do icon Things to Do Getting There icon Getting There Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays