de MATOS

In a prime Old Town location right by the River Reuss, this couple – Oscar de Matos and Nadine Baumgartner – run their restaurant, which has a tastefully modern bistro vibe with a relaxed feel and an open kitchen. Made from top-quality ingredients, the dishes are brimming with personality – bold, creative and out of the ordinary, characterised by an intense interplay of acidity and contrasts. Think kohlrabi with Nashi pear, buttermilk and chipotle ketchup, or halibut with walnut, parsnip, Chasselas grapes and sauerkraut beurre blanc. "Unusual, but down-to-earth and with a pinch of punk" is how they aptly describe themselves. There is a five- or seven-course set menu – the opening gambit in the form of a selection of tapas reflecting the chef's roots gets things off to a fantastic start. Hostess Nadine Baumgartner is always on hand and impresses – as we have come to expect – with her charm and expertise. Right next door is a café that turns into a wine bar in the evening, so it's worth arriving a little earlier for an aperitif! Tip for motorists: Park at Parkhaus Kesselturm, just a short distance away.