Today marks the day when we have officially been in a state of confinement or under restrictions for an entire year in Switzerland. Let that soak in for a hot minute. For 365 days we have been navigating the unknown in our day-to-day and stepping uneasily into an unpredictable future. We have pivoted our daily habits, learned new hobbies, adjusted and readjusted our expectations. We have canceled holidays, we have stopped hugging friends, and we have forgotten what it feels like to sit in a restaurant and order from a menu. But alas, nothing lasts forever–even pandemics–and there are some brave and creative entrepreneurs who have decided to open new businesses this spring despite the current economic climate. Here are a few new restaurants that will be popping up around Lausanne this spring–we cannot wait to see you, dine alongside you, and raise a glass with you to brighter times ahead!
Un Po’ Di Più
Jasmine of Tic-Toc and Cedric and Matthias of Loxton/Le Pointu have joined forces to bring us a retro Italian trattoria in the literal heart of the city. Un Po’ Di Più, meaning ‘a little bit more,’ will have a menu inspired by iconic Italian dishes and ingredients that come straight from Naples, which their Neapolitan chef Ugo will undoubtedly cook up with regional know-how and gusto. The restaurant’s interior will consist of hand-painted murals by local artist Kim Straehler combined with hardwood, tiles and playful decor. And the terrace–an urban oasis to be enjoyed in the summer months with a cocktail in-hand, surrounded by familiar faces and facades.
Address: Rue du Tunnel 1, 1005 Lausanne
Uncle Gau
Swanky signage, modern and sleek interior design, and mouthwatering Eurasian dishes await in this new restaurant and bar in the Galleries St. François. With a globe-trotting chef who focuses on innovative and sustainable cuisine, we expect to see a marriage between local products and exotic flavors that minimize their carbon footprint. Opening just underneath Uncle Gau will be its sister bar, “Don’t Tell Aunty”–a speakeasy that desires to remain mysterious, but guarantees creative cocktails and fun vibes.
Address: Galerie Saint François A, 1003 Lausanne
Belga
Because the only thing better than deep-fried frites is double-deep-fried frites (in beef fat nonetheless). This french fries and beer spot is an institution in Geneva, and now they’ve opened their doors right here in Lausanne offering authentic Belgian specialties to us all. Words of wisdom: the ‘mini’ frites are more than enough for one.
Address: Place de l’Ours 1, 1005 Lausanne
Brasserie de Paudex
This restaurant on the lake road had been known for quite some time as the ‘eternal raclette spot’ with a sign out front that read “Raclette ce soir ” no matter what ‘soir’ it was. Now the large building is not only being completely restored, but the team has changed along with the concept. Executive Chef Jean-Baptiste Munduteguy and Manager Dimitri Dupuy have collaborated for several years at Les Cerniers restaurant in the Whitepod Resorts complex in Valais. Now they begin writing the new chapters of an old and iconic establishment with the faithful team of the Brasserie de Paudex (formerly Hôtel restaurant du Château de Paudex). They will put forward the spirit of le brasserie, open 7 days a week with
with four seasonal menus.
Address: Route du Simplon 7, 1094 Paudex
Street Cellar
Self-described as a “wine bar that breaks all the codes”, Street Cellar is the result of a crowd-funding initiative by two friends. They will offer local wines drawn directly from the barrel, elevated but unpretentious street food, and their space will be decorated and painted by local street artists. From the tone of their social media, it’s definitely a spot where you arrive as a stranger and leave as a friend.
Address: Rue du Port-Franc 2a, 1003 Lausanne
Guanaco Peruvian Kitchen & Bar
Although situated in Morges, we will certainly venture “outside of the city” to our neighboring village to try this new Peruvian restaurant and bar opening this spring. With the team of Julia Christ behind the design and branding, and the idea of authentic Peruvian cuisine, Pisco cocktails and Sunday latino brunches, we cannot wait to experience the energy and flavors Guanaco will offer.
Address: Quartier des Halles, Pr. de Castellane 9, 1110 Morges