The Best Brunch Spots to Start Your Basel Morning

Basel, a city brimming with art, culture, and a charming riverside atmosphere, also boasts a fantastic brunch scene. Whether you’re a local looking for a new weekend favourite or a visitor eager to experience the city’s culinary delights, this guide will lead you to the best brunch spots to kickstart your Basel morning.

Traditional Swiss Brunch Experiences

For those wanting a taste of authentic Swiss flavours, several establishments offer hearty and delicious brunch options.

Restaurant Schlüsselzunft: Located in the heart of Old Town, Schlüsselzunft offers a classic Swiss brunch with regional specialties. Expect a spread including Zopf (braided bread), cheeses, cold cuts, and homemade jams. The atmosphere is traditional and cozy, perfect for a relaxed start to the day. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

Café & Konditorei Schipper: A Basel institution, Schipper is renowned for its pastries and cakes, but their brunch is equally impressive. They offer a selection of sweet and savoury options, including Birchermüesli (a Swiss oatmeal), croissants, and various egg dishes. It’s a bustling spot, ideal for people-watching.

Brauerei Fischerstube: While primarily a brewery, Fischerstube also serves a substantial brunch on Sundays. Their offering leans towards the savoury side, with hearty sausages, cheeses, and bread, accompanied by their own brewed beer (or a non-alcoholic alternative!). The riverside location adds to the appeal.

International Flavours & Modern Brunch Concepts

Basel’s brunch scene isn’t limited to traditional Swiss fare. A growing number of cafes and restaurants are offering international flavours and innovative brunch concepts.

Roots: A popular choice for health-conscious brunchers, Roots focuses on fresh, organic ingredients. Their menu features smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and vegan options. The bright and airy interior creates a welcoming atmosphere.

Markthalle Basel: While not strictly a brunch restaurant, Markthalle is a fantastic option for a diverse and customizable brunch. This indoor market offers a wide range of food stalls, from Vietnamese pho to Italian pasta, allowing you to create your perfect brunch plate. It’s open on Saturdays and is a vibrant, social experience.

Café Bebbes: This charming café offers a delightful mix of sweet and savoury brunch options, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their pancakes are particularly popular, and they also offer a selection of salads and sandwiches.

Holy Cow! Gourmet Burger Company (Brunch on Weekends): Don’t let the name fool you! Holy Cow! offers a surprisingly good brunch menu on weekends, featuring delicious burgers (of course!), eggs benedict, and other brunch staples with a gourmet twist.

Brunch with a View

Basel’s location on the Rhine River provides opportunities for brunch with stunning views.

Restaurant Volt: Situated atop a former electrical substation, Restaurant Volt offers panoramic views of the city and the Rhine. Their brunch menu is sophisticated and features a mix of classic and contemporary dishes. It’s a more upscale option, perfect for a special occasion.

Restaurant Rheinpark: As the name suggests, this restaurant is located directly in Rheinpark, offering beautiful views of the Rhine. They have a lovely terrace where you can enjoy your brunch al fresco during warmer months. Their menu includes a variety of egg dishes, salads, and sandwiches.