Cheap Eats Zurich: 15 Budget Restaurants To Try

Zurich is famous for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and unfortunately, its reputation for being one of the most expensive destinations in the world.

In this guide, we’ll explore fabulous budget restaurants in Zurich where you can enjoy a delicious meal for under 20 CHF. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a lover of exotic flavors, or simply looking for a quick and satisfying meal, my list of cheap eats Zurich has you covered.

Piadina Bar

Visiting the Niederdorf area, you’ll come across Piadina Bar – a cozy spot for Italian street food enthusiasts.

Nestled among historic buildings, this haven of authentic Italian flavors is a perfect spot for foodies on a budget in Zurich.

The specialty here is Piadina, a traditional Italian flatbread packed with sumptuous fillings such as eggplants, rucola, and stracchino cream cheese.

With prices starting from a modest CHF 10.50, Piadina Bar is a budget restaurant in Zurich for hungry travelers.

Given its popular location and the food quality, it’s wise to beat the lunch rush and secure a spot early.

No reservations are needed, as it’s a casual dining spot perfect for a quick bite.

Tips: You can get around Zurich easily by renting a car. Car hire is also great for day trips from Zurich, giving you lots of freedom and flexibility.

Sternen Grill

Sternen Grill is renowned as the home of the best sausage in Zurich.

The eatery is celebrated for its delectable sausages, particularly the St. Galler bratwurst and the Servelat, which are both known for being juicy, flavorful, and having an excellent snap.

To experience Zurich like a local, pair your hearty meal with Sternen Grill’s famous Sternen Bier.

Despite its popularity, Sternen Grill remains a budget restaurant in Zurich, with a bratwurst costing just CHF 13.80.

The shop is usually busy, but simply join the vibrant crowd and savor your meal in this lively setting.

The casual atmosphere means there’s no need for reservations.

Il Pentagramma

A stone’s throw from Zurich’s central station, Il Pentagramma is an authentic Italian Panino bar.

The panino with grilled veggies and mortadella is a must-try at Il Pentagramma.

The crusty exterior of the bread, the smoky vegetables, and the robust flavors of mortadella fuse to create a truly lavish meal. Also, its sizable portion guarantees you leave satisfied.

Il Pentagramma is an excellent choice for those seeking value. With prices starting at CHF 10.50, it’s a budget restaurant in Zurich to add to your list.

Given the compact nature of the establishment and the service style, there is no need for reservations.

Bahnhof Wiedikon

Not your typical eatery, Bahnhof Wiedikon is a buffet-style restaurant that is a rare find in Zurich.

The buffet selection is noteworthy, with a wide range of dishes. The food is delicious and freshly prepared, and the section changes regularly, so there’s always something new to try.

While Bahnhof Wiedikon is not the cheapest option available, it offers value for money, especially considering it’s a buffet.

The restaurant is usually busy, so booking ahead is recommended. It’s perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.

Friends Corner

Friends Corner is perfect for those seeking delicious Srilankan food in Zurich.

What sets this Sri Lankan restaurant apart is its communal atmosphere, an ideal space for locals and tourists to engage in a relaxed setting.

The dishes are simple but packed with flavor, served in generous portions. Don’t leave without trying their Masala Dosa, Kottu Rotti, and Hoppers.

As a budget-friendly restaurant in Zurich, Friends Corner allows you to enjoy a meal without breaking the bank. Prices are modest, and the environment is relaxed.

Reservations are not generally required, but it can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is advisable.

Libanes Take-Away

Libanes Take-Away is a treasured find for those with a palate for Lebanese cuisine.

Its fast-food ambiance and authentic Lebanese dishes make it perfect for a quick bite or takeaway.

Some of the must-try dishes at Libanes Take-Away include falafel, shawarma, and various Lebanese pastries. All are prepared with fresh ingredients and bursting with authentic flavors.

Compared to other restaurants in Zurich, Libanes Take-Away is very budget-friendly. It’s ideal for those looking for a quick, inexpensive meal without compromising on quality. Due to its fast-food nature, reservations are not needed.

Chiang Mai Thai Shop

Just a stone’s throw away from Zurich’s Hauptbahnhof, Chiang Mai Thai Shop offers a unique dual experience: part restaurant, part Thai grocery store.

Their commitment to providing some of the most authentic Thai cuisines in the city sets them apart, promising a sensory journey that mirrors the exotic flavors of Thailand.

The restaurant’s Pad Thai, Khao Soi, and Green Curry are highly recommended. These dishes are full of authentic Thai flavors, from spicy to sweet, and tangy to savory.

And if you’re a fan of cooking, the grocery section is a treasure trove of Thai ingredients, allowing you to bring the tastes of Thailand right into your home kitchen.

Chiang Mai Thai Shop is reasonably priced compared to other restaurants in Zurich.

The restaurant can get quite crowded, especially during lunch hours, so it is recommended to arrive early.

While reservations are not typically required, the popularity of this spot suggests getting there sooner rather than later.

Äss-Bar Zürich

Äss-Bar Zürich is a unique establishment that seamlessly combines a bakery and a sandwich shop into one delightful spot.

Their standout feature is their commitment to reducing food waste.

By selling day-old pastries and bread at discounted prices, Äss-Bar offers an eco-friendly, budget-friendly eating experience.

The selection of pastries, bread, and sandwiches at Äss-Bar changes daily, ensuring a fresh experience each time you visit.

Despite being day-old, the quality is excellent. The croissants are flaky and buttery, and the sandwiches, prepared with fresh ingredients, are more than satisfying.

Äss-Bar Zürich is one of the most affordable eateries in Zurich, mainly due to its unique day-old selling concept.

The place functions more like a bakery than a traditional restaurant, so there’s no need to book a table.

This spot is a great choice whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a light lunch.

Pizza Nation

Situated at Rosengasse 3, Pizza Nation is a haven for pizza lovers.

With its rustic decor, welcoming atmosphere, and wood-fired oven, this pizzeria stands out for its authentic Italian pizzas that will transport you straight to Italy.

Pizza Nation offers a wide variety of pizzas with different toppings. Their thin, crispy crust pizzas topped with fresh, generous toppings are a treat to the palate.

The classic Margherita is a safe bet, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try their gourmet pizzas with specialty toppings.

Pizza Nation has affordable pricing, with pizzas starting from $8. Considering the authentic Italian flavors, it’s a fair price to pay.

It’s a good idea to book ahead, especially on weekends, as the place can get quite crowded.

India Street Food

Offering authentic Indian street food, India Street Food earns its place as one of the best cheap eats Zurich.

The ambiance is casual and vibrant, resembling the bustling streets of India.

The restaurant stands out for its wide variety of street food options, which are hard to find elsewhere in Zurich.

Some must-try dishes at India Street Food include Samosas, Chicken Tikka, and Lamb Curry. The samosas are crispy and filled with a flavorful potato mixture, while the Chicken Tikka is marinated in spices and cooked to perfection.

India Street Food offers meals at a moderate price point. The restaurant is small, so it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially during lunch and dinner hours.

Booking ahead is not necessary but can be helpful during peak times.

Holy Cow!

Holy Cow! is a trendy burger joint with a few locations around Zurich.

I really like its commitment to sustainability and the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Also, the restaurant’s vibrant décor and upbeat atmosphere make it a popular spot among both locals and tourists.

Regarding the menu, Holy Cow! boasts an impressive selection of gourmet burgers. The signature Holy Cow! burger, crafted from prime beef, crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and a special sauce, is a crowd favorite.

Vegetarians can also indulge in the equally delectable veggie burger options.

Considering Zurich’s pricing standards, Holy Cow! offers fairly reasonable rates, especially given the ingredients’ quality.

The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so reservations aren’t necessary.

However, due to its popularity, expect a wait during peak hours. It’s an excellent spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.

Thach

Not far from Zurich HB station, Thach is a charming Asian cuisine eatery specializing in Thai and Vietnamese dishes.

Ranked among the top restaurants in Zurich, Thach prides itself on the authenticity of its flavors and the freshness of its ingredients.

The must-try dishes at Thach include the traditional Vietnamese Pho and the Thai dish, Pad Thai.

The Pho broth is rich and aromatic, while the Pad Thai delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, a true testament to Thach’s commitment to authenticity.

Thach’s prices are moderate, but the quality of the food is well worth it.

Due to the restaurant’s smaller size, I recommend booking ahead, especially during peak dining hours.

PutPut Japanese Takeaway

Nestled in the lively neighborhood, Put Put Japanese Takeaway is a gem for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors without breaking the bank.

All menus are freshly prepared, and the tiny eatery’s minimalist interior allows customers to focus on the explosion of flavors in each dish.

A standout dish at Put Put is the Gyudon – a comforting bowl of rice topped with tender, savory beef.

Another must-try is their Japanese veggie curry, which is a flavorful medley of vegetables simmered in a rich curry sauce. These dishes reflect the traditional essence of Japanese cuisine and are a delightful treat for the taste buds.

Compared to other restaurants in Zurich, Put Put offers good value for money, with prices ranging from CHF 11.50 to CHF 15.50.

Due to its small size, it’s mainly a takeaway spot, so booking ahead is not necessary. Its cheap pricing and delectable menu make it an excellent choice for a quick, satisfying meal.

Memo Bar

Memo Bar is a unique blend of a traditional Turkish kebab shop and a pub, making it a flexible spot for a quick snack or a round of drinks.

The Döner Kebabs are a must-try. Made with fresh ingredients and flavorful meat, they are satisfying and delicious.

Pair your kebab with traditional Turkish tea or a chilled beer for a complete experience.

Memo Bar is an affordable option for dining in Zurich. The combination of a pub and kebab shop means that there’s something for every budget.

Reservations are unnecessary, but you may wait a bit as the place can get busy.

Manor

Imagine dining atop a bustling department store in the heart of Zurich. That’s exactly what Manor offers.

Known as the city’s unofficial canteen, this expansive eatery has many delicious options – be it a salad bar, grill, pasta, stir-fries, desserts, or fresh-squeezed juices.

The salad bar at Manor is a must-try. It invites you to create your perfect salad mound for around 12 Swiss francs.

Equally appealing is the grill section, where you can witness burgers topped with herbed butter, steaks, and local fish. The atmosphere is complemented with a refreshing juice or a decadent dessert, making it a complete dining experience.

Manor’s reasonable pricing sets it apart in the pricey Zurich dining scene. The spot is always buzzing with activity, so reservations aren’t needed.

Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a hearty meal, Manor provides an affordable, diverse dining experience.

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