Le Relais de l'Entrecote Zürich — Restaurant in Zurich

Legendary for its only dish on the menu, the Steak Frites, it’s an attraction on its own, that creates loads of curiosity on how good this spot can be - but is it actually worth the hype?

From the moment you step in, you are welcomed with its bustling energy and cheque but classic brasserie decor sets the one. “You are then guided to your table where you are just asked one question: How would you like your steak?”

Couple minutes later, you are then being presented their signature salad with mustard dressing. A nice touch before the main event but truly nothing special - especially the leaves that were a bit too big for me.

Then came the highlight, the star of the show: The Entrecôte, cooked beautifully bleu in true French fashion accompanied by golden and crisp fries and it’s secret green sauce. Quality of the meat was good, tender and flavourful, matching well with the sauce! The portion might seem a bit modest at first glance but just as you might’ve thought you are finished, a second serving arrives. In total you’re getting about 200-250g of meat alongside a very generous portion of fries and sauce. Paired with the salad, it was a satisfying meal that left us full but not overly stuffed. For people that are extra hungry, they can from 26 different desserts!

That being said in total we paid 55.- including drinks per person - reasonable by Zurich standards. But does it live up to the legend? It’s enjoyable no doubt, but not exactly groundbreaking. Also keep in mind during rush hours it can get quite loud. A solid experience but nothing to...

I brought my mum to Le Relais de l’Entrecôte in Zurich to try their famous steak-frites, having loved their Paris and Geneva branches, but the host’s appalling attitude ruined everything. Upon entering, we waited to be seated, only for the host to approach with a smirking, “Do you know the menu?” delivered with such condescension it felt like we were intruders. I explained I knew the menu well from past visits and wanted my mum to try it, but her dismissive, almost mocking demeanor made us feel unwelcome from the start. With the restaurant barely half full, she deliberately led us to a cramped, unappealing table squeezed next to another diner, ignoring far better empty spots. I know Parisian-style bistros can be tight, but this felt like a purposeful slight, especially given her haughty attitude. When I mentioned we’d share a meal since we’d had a big lunch and just wanted mum to taste the dish, she snapped that sharing wasn’t allowed, her tone dripping with impatience. I clarified I’d eat, but she snatched my mum’s cutlery with a theatrical flourish, cementing her hostility. The host’s arrogant, inhospitable behavior—marked by smug smiles, curt responses, and an air of superiority—made staying unbearable. We left without eating, stunned by the lack of warmth at a place charging around 50 CHF per person. Compared to the welcoming vibe at Paris and Geneva, this Zurich experience was a bitter disappointment. I...

Le Relais de l'Entrecôte in Zurich is one of those places you just have to try. In my case, I kept coming back. Over the past 1.5 to 2 years, I have been there more than five times 😋

The whole experience gives the Parisienne bistro charm, from the style of the waitresses to the classic décor and tight table layout. The menu is simple and unique: a fresh salad with moustard followed by entrecôte served in their house-made Café de Paris sauce with pommes allumettes, and a side of Parisian bread. That’s it, nothing else, just focused and delicious.

What I have always appreciated is how they serve the meal in two rounds, keeping the meat hot despite the small bistro-style tables. The wine selection is also very solid, with options in various sizes. And try to not skip the dessert, their menu has over 20 different options.

That said, I have noticed a change in the last few visits. The service, while still efficient, has lost some of its earlier passion and attention to detail. Most recently, we visited for a birthday and unlike previous experiences, there was no small gesture, and no special acknowledgment. It may seem minor, but details like that make a difference in a place that positions itself on tradition and experience.

Still highly recommended, but with the hope that the team finds back to their...