Pumpstation — Restaurant in Zurich

Giving 3 stars means "it's OK" according to Google maps and to me, this seems about right.

It's one of the few places where you can sit on lake Zurich close to the center and have a drink or eat something. Service is hit or miss. Some people are great and unique and a big joy, some are terribly stressed and just try to get drinks and food somehow to the table. The day we last visited staff had no real idea of the menu and / or not enough language skills to give proper answers. I kept being confused which fried fish dish was the smaller one and I realised, they were confused themselves. (it's well marked in grams on the menu but I couldn't remember how to say it).

The fried fish used to be better, crunchier and with more flavour. It was OK but not a big joy. The salad that came with it had few very sad and old leaves. The corn was not of good quality and also didn't seem to be very fresh.

Considering the food comes out of a shack it would be nice if prices were more moderate. Especially when you never know if it's hit or miss. The toilets are also not a big joy.

Yet, we come and as mentioned some of the staff makes you want to return. AndI the lake plus convenient location is what makes...

During my recent visit to this outdoor restaurant, I had the chance to enjoy veal sausages with bread and mustard. The meal was simple yet delicious, and the overall atmosphere was quite pleasant. The terrace offers a stunning view of the lake, making it a lovely spot for an outdoor lunch or dinner.

However, despite the quality of the food and the beautiful scenery, the experience was ruined by the terrible service. The staff was incredibly rude from the moment we arrived, with a cold and very unfriendly reception. Every interaction with the servers only reinforced the feeling that we were not welcome, which sadly overshadowed our overall impression of the place.

It’s unfortunate to see a spot with so much potential, right in the heart of Zurich, leave such a poor impression of the city due to the attitude of its staff. A good meal and a great view just can’t make up for such appalling service.

I recommend going to Sternen Grill instead. The sausages are much better, and the staff is much friendlier and more...

I won't go back there. My main complaints are: The service was bad: inattentive, had to call twice a waiter (that was just telling us "ask the other guy") after waiting one hour between ordering drinks and food. They were not clear while taking the order, not specifying that the side dishes were not included (e.g. "do you want a burli, OR a salad?" to me it means that you choose between the two, and either of them comes at no cost). They don't take credit cards. In 2017? in the most touristic spot in Zurich? but the order is taken and submitted via smartphone... Not polite: when discussing the charges of the sides we ordered the waiter was just able to say "I am sorry, I am sorry" and quickly run away saying "if you want we can offer you a coffee.." Minor point: more than 5 CHF for a 0.33 L water? or more than 6 for a pinch of fresh...