Café & Conditorei 1842 on Postcard

"There are some places you go for ambiance and some places you go for food — and then there are places that nail it on both counts, like Café & Conditorei 1842. The restaurant has a 19th-century European drawing room feel, with ornate plastering on the walls painted in pastels. The pastry case matches the ambiance, with decorative selections like vermicelles: velvety chestnut puree pushed through a press to form long, vermicelli-like strands, layered atop meringue." - N.A. Mansour

The 33 Essential Zurich Restaurants

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@afar

"Romancing in a red velvet room This "boutique coffee house" offers various pastries, macarons and croissants with wide selection of teas and coffees. It is a romantic place for coffee! By AFAR Traveler"

The Best of Chocolate in Zurich

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@travelleisure

"The secret to this Old Town Zurich café’s rich, creamy hot chocolate? Melting chocolate into whole milk for an impossibly decadent winter treat. Order yours with a dollop of fresh cream whipped into peaks resembling the surrounding alpines, or add in a shot of espresso for an afternoon pick-me-up." - Travel + Leisure Editors

Where to Find the World’s Best Hot Chocolate

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Aurora

Google

Nice place with a wide variety of hot chocolates and breakfast options. However, I’m giving only 3 stars for the service, as the staff seems unfamiliar with the basics of what they sell. For instance, when asked about caffeine-free tea, they tell you they don’t have any, despite the menu listing a variety of herbal teas. Similarly, when inquired about how the hot chocolate is made—whether it’s prepared from powder or real chocolate—the staff confidently said it’s made from real chocolate but then had to verify this information with the kitchen.

Anya M.

Google

Very cute baroque café! The ambiance and decoration is amazing. When we arrived, there was about 10 minute wait in the queue. I chose a coffee, which tasted really medium. Nothing mind-blowing. The prices are quite high, you pay for the cozy place.

Javier Gereda

Google

According to our guide, this is the oldest café in Zurich. Not gonna lie, I didn’t fact-check that. It’s quite spacious, but since it’s so famous, there’s usually a line of people waiting for a seat. If you’re patient enough (or lucky), you’ll probably find a spot. We were served quickly, and our order arrived in no time. Don’t expect the pastries and drinks to be overly sweet. For me, they’re just right—without being overwhelming. I’d recommend this place if you’re visiting Zurich, but it’s not a must-see if you don’t make it." PD: If you're looking to try something local and perhaps a bit surprising in flavor, give RIVELLA a try. You’ll find it in various places across Switzerland. It’s a fizzy drink made from whey. It sounds a bit strange, but trust me, it’s really good!

Prateek Madaan

Google

Beautiful example of when history and modernization integrates. Over 120 years old cafe serving best hot chocolate in Switzerland (maybe amongst top 5 in the world) along with amazing pastries and snacks. Staff is courteous and ambience is superb. A must visit cafe if you are in Zurich.

zimmj zimmerli

Google

An incredible old-style café in the heart of Zürich, offering amazing cakes and a delightful variety of hot chocolate drinks. From the spicy chili-infused hot chocolate to the comforting cinnamon option, there’s something for every taste. The cakes and other sweet treats are of exceptional quality, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cozy afternoon or escape a cold, rainy day.

Lena Bar-Maor

Google

Stopped here for the Vermicelli!! Loved it, as always. Everything looked so tasty. Especially I would like to mention our waitress Cathe!!! What a wonderful lady, pleasant, huge smile, funny and friendly. She definitely is what made our experience so special. Thank you Cathe!!

Dr Toey

Google

Spicy hot chocolate was nice, might be too spicy for some who's not too keen. Many choices for pastries and desserts. Also some salads on the menu. Waited around 20 to be seated.

Ali

Google

A charming restaurant nestled in the heart of the old town, offering a beautifully designed interior and an inviting exterior patio—perfect for a relaxing brunch. We ordered an omelet, fried eggs, and a variety of breads, all paired with lattes, and everything tasted incredibly fresh and delicious. The quality of the eggs in Europe truly stands out, and unlike in North America, where I often have an allergy to the yolk, I had no issues here. The service was warm and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. We highly recommend this spot to anyone considering a visit!

Aurora

Google

Nice place with a wide variety of hot chocolates and breakfast options. However, I’m giving only 3 stars for the service, as the staff seems unfamiliar with the basics of what they sell. For instance, when asked about caffeine-free tea, they tell you they don’t have any, despite the menu listing a variety of herbal teas. Similarly, when inquired about how the hot chocolate is made—whether it’s prepared from powder or real chocolate—the staff confidently said it’s made from real chocolate but then had to verify this information with the kitchen.

Anya M.

Google

Very cute baroque café! The ambiance and decoration is amazing. When we arrived, there was about 10 minute wait in the queue. I chose a coffee, which tasted really medium. Nothing mind-blowing. The prices are quite high, you pay for the cozy place.

Javier Gereda

Google

According to our guide, this is the oldest café in Zurich. Not gonna lie, I didn’t fact-check that. It’s quite spacious, but since it’s so famous, there’s usually a line of people waiting for a seat. If you’re patient enough (or lucky), you’ll probably find a spot. We were served quickly, and our order arrived in no time. Don’t expect the pastries and drinks to be overly sweet. For me, they’re just right—without being overwhelming. I’d recommend this place if you’re visiting Zurich, but it’s not a must-see if you don’t make it." PD: If you're looking to try something local and perhaps a bit surprising in flavor, give RIVELLA a try. You’ll find it in various places across Switzerland. It’s a fizzy drink made from whey. It sounds a bit strange, but trust me, it’s really good!

Prateek Madaan

Google

Beautiful example of when history and modernization integrates. Over 120 years old cafe serving best hot chocolate in Switzerland (maybe amongst top 5 in the world) along with amazing pastries and snacks. Staff is courteous and ambience is superb. A must visit cafe if you are in Zurich.

zimmj zimmerli

Google

An incredible old-style café in the heart of Zürich, offering amazing cakes and a delightful variety of hot chocolate drinks. From the spicy chili-infused hot chocolate to the comforting cinnamon option, there’s something for every taste. The cakes and other sweet treats are of exceptional quality, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cozy afternoon or escape a cold, rainy day.

Lena Bar-Maor

Google

Stopped here for the Vermicelli!! Loved it, as always. Everything looked so tasty. Especially I would like to mention our waitress Cathe!!! What a wonderful lady, pleasant, huge smile, funny and friendly. She definitely is what made our experience so special. Thank you Cathe!!

Dr Toey

Google

Spicy hot chocolate was nice, might be too spicy for some who's not too keen. Many choices for pastries and desserts. Also some salads on the menu. Waited around 20 to be seated.

Ali

Google

A charming restaurant nestled in the heart of the old town, offering a beautifully designed interior and an inviting exterior patio—perfect for a relaxing brunch. We ordered an omelet, fried eggs, and a variety of breads, all paired with lattes, and everything tasted incredibly fresh and delicious. The quality of the eggs in Europe truly stands out, and unlike in North America, where I often have an allergy to the yolk, I had no issues here. The service was warm and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. We highly recommend this spot to anyone considering a visit!

Yoojin S.

Yelp

We came here recommended by a local. It's such a cute, lovely, historical cafe in old town. On a Sunday afternoon it was filled! After a week of trying hot chocolate here and there in Switzerland, this was our favorite hot chocolate in Switzerland so far!! They made it less sweet and more dark thankfully. Usually for hot chocolate, they'll give you a Caotina packet, but not here! They use their own and it taste more handmade. If you opt for whip cream, it's huge. I love how not sweet it is. Like we needed another cup to put the whip cream in it to taste the hot chocolate haha. For food, we had Veggie Flammekueche. It's so fresh, smokey and delicious. Such a good one to share! My friend had the ham & cheese and they toast it so it tastes so fresh. Side salad was refreshing. Muesli was very fruity and had a strong berry taste. A lot of their cakes were fruity so I think that's their style!

Julia G.

Yelp

5 STARS FOR BEST HOT CHOCOLATE OF MY LIFE. They were not lying. Order this drink and it will change your life. If you like chocolate and decadent things, try this. Best thing I had in Switzerland. The restaurant is very cute. There's indoor and outdoor seating. It's very pink and flowery inside. The servers were nice. They take card. The hot chocolate will put you out around 10 CHF but it was worth it for the experience. Savor every sip! Tell all your friends!

Samantha C.

Yelp

We did not eat inside of the cafe since we had lunch plans with friends, however, the counter service cafe was quick and painless! We truly just wanted to check out the oldest cafe in Zurich! It was so cute, and very beautifully decorated for the upcoming Easter holiday! Everything in there was very extravagant and over the top, but felt very 19th century luxe! The croissant we ordered was good! It was a nice way to take away and continue our walk around the city!

Momma C.

Yelp

I love, love, love this café. The old world ambiance, the delicious cases of pastries and bakery. I could go on and on. Delicious Swiss hot chocolate. Can't say enough about this place.

April L.

Yelp

Amazing and beautiful. Our tour guide recommended us to come here for hot chocolate. Upon entering you step into a wonderland. This was the day after Christmas on a Sunday and they were one of few shops that were open. Everything looked magical. If I entered the Harry Potter world this is what it would look like. We went upstairs and we were seated. Don't forget your QR code and ID. The room upstairs on the left is bright. The room on the right has red cushions on the ceiling and walls. Hot chocolate 4/5 Vermicelli 4/5

Uma M.

Yelp

Racist behavior - unacceptable. We, party of 3, went during lunch hour as this was a highly recommended place by others. However, we encountered unacceptable RACIST behavior from waitstaff - we noticed such behavior towards other non-White folks as well. We were made to wait for a long period to be served while others who arrived and ordered after us were served. Server also was rude in their speech and manner - also not just to us but other non-White customers. We ended up leaving without receiving our full order - did not get to taste their hot chocolate or dessert ! Sad, as it is a beautiful cafe with pretty decor and good food.

D T.

Yelp

I went here in 2005 and since then the management has changed. I still like the place for its old glory and history going way back, but the hot chocolate seemed different and not as memorable. It was actually served room temperature and not hot which I thought was a little strange (like maybe it wasn't fresh but already poured for like an hour and waiting to be served). I would go back again but for some reason I remember it better 20 years ago. There is history there and I appreciate someone at least keeping the cafe going. The old ambience is still nice.

Susana T.

Yelp

Lovely quaint cafe with great service and good. I ordered the smoked salmon open face sandwich that is delicately made. Their hot chocolate is very smooth and not too sweet which is perfect for me, it even comes with a small piece of cookie.

Thomas M.

Yelp

Came here twice during the trip. The first time we were so hungry we couldn't decide where to sit so took it out on each other. Once we sorted that we sat down for a local wine which may have been the second best wine of the entire trip. We both got little sandwiches which were fresh and delicious. A few mornings later we came for breakfast and I got the French style one with coffee, a crouissant and jams. Was solid. My wife got eggs and they were super fluffy enough so that on the train I saw she was googling how to make fluffy eggs. Wonderful views.

Julia C.

Yelp

This cafe is now under new management and is called "Cafe 1884" or something like that. I really enjoyed the ambiance, which is sort of European shabby chic. There are multiple rooms with tiny tables and comfortable chairs to sink into. It's a great place to sit, relax and chat. If you want a slice of cake, you order and pay for it at the counter downstairs. Upstairs, they will take your order for coffee, tea, and hot food items. We ordered one coffee-flavored cake CHF 8.50 and one chocolate mousse CHF 8.50. Neither one blew me away but they were both quite tasty.

Corinne V.

Yelp

We came here for our first breakfast in Zurich. The staff were incredibly kind and the atmosphere was wonderful. We sat in the back garden which was a good spot. The food presentation was very aesthetic. For the food: Fruit platter was great, bread was great, caramel iced latte was very good. Just the eggs I would not recommend. I truly could not eat them, they were the worst eggs I have ever had. Also, it all felt a little overpriced for what we got. Got a chocolate chip cookie to go, it was decent but I wouldn't order it again. Overall I think the atmosphere made this place worth it and I had a good experience, but this is more of a place for coffee and cake than a full breakfast in my opinion!

Amanda M.

Yelp

What is this magical place? It's so beautiful and tucked off the side of the Main Street and looks really cute and small from the inside. But don't be fooled friends, there are many epic and unexpected surprises that await you inside! First you have the super fancy and posh and beautiful entry way that greets you with a counter and absolutely beautiful desserts. To the side I'd a room with seating, but please don't stop there. Go upstairs and be wowed by the awesome velvet room that awaits you with epic chairs and seats! But wait, there's more! The beautiful staircase continues and ends in another room with fantastic walls and more seating! What a wonderful and unexpected surprise! After being swept away with the fancy rooms, we ordered hot chocolate and had a lovely time enjoying our drinks and the ambiance. Yay.

S F.

Yelp

Perfect spot for an afternoon tea or coffee with yummy treats. I enjoyed my visit and sat outside and enjoyed the hustle and bustle around me as I took a pause.

Joey W.

Yelp

This was recommended by our Airbnb experience guide as a very romantic cake spot. We hoped to get some cake but nothing really enticed us. We got a chocolate chip and pecan cookie along with a chocolate bar. The cookie was only okay, it was very crumbly and had a shortbread like texture. The chocolate bar was a souvenir so can't say if it was good. It's slightly cheaper than Sprungli chocolate bars.

Ursula M.

Yelp

It's now called "1842 im Haus Conditorei Schober" - I came here because tripadvisor has it listed with "vegan options" and I assumed that meant food, specifically pastries. If that ever was the case, it no longer is. There are a couple of vegan chocolates and they're quite delicious but nothing I can't get elsewhere for cheaper. So overall a disappointment. Still cute decor though!

Sara S.

Yelp

This place is both great and kid's friendly. I took my 1-year-old baby with me to enjoy a relaxed afternoon and I truly did. The pastries are tasty, the coffee was great and the staff was very friendly. Will certainly stop by again in my next visits. Cheers!

Jerry E.

Yelp

Pick your passion, beer or Coffee and dessert. I've had both here and it's always worth the visit. I would only say that during the summer the upstairs sitting area it is elegant but I'd rather be sitting outside. The space outside is relatively small and it's difficult to stake out a claim .

Café & Conditorei 1842

Café & Conditorei 1842

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