Elsie’s Wine & Champagne Bar, Zermatt
Oysters, caviar and champagne in a traditional wooden chalet: Elsie’s, on the Kirchplatz in Zermatt, is a place of contrasts which somehow blend surprisingly well together.
Where an evening can last longer
Elsie’s has been a fixture in Zermatt since 1964 – with a concept that combines the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, the sophistication of Zermatt and the coziness of an old wooden chalet so naturally it feels as though they have always belonged together.
Champagne and wine, often available by the glass, feature prominently on the menu, along with oysters, caviar, snails and specialties from all over the world – such as the filet of bison or Elsie’s lobster spaghetti. In the summer, lighter dishes intended for sharing are added to the selection. After all, that’s when a cozy meal for two really comes into its own.
The wine list rewards a closer look. Together with international labels, the menu also features local vintages from Valais, such as Heida and Petite Arvine, or Cornalin and Humagne Rouge. These are complemented by rare wines from Champagne, Bordeaux, Piedmont and Tuscany. For aficionados, the compact bar on Zermatt’s Kirchplatz presents the opportunity to embark on something of an extraordinary journey.
By the way: Where an evening ends elsewhere, it can continue at Elsie’s. In the winter, the kitchen closes at 10 p.m. but the bar stays open until midnight. For those who don’t feel like heading head home straight after their candlelit dinner, Kirchplatz is the perfect place to keep an evening going.
What do the guests order, what does the chef love?
Chef de cuisine Lukas Ryfell tends to prefer classic luxury: His choice lands on a chilled glass of Laurent-Perrier Rosé together with the fresh Gillardeau oysters and homemade veal tartare.
It’s a similar story with the diners, who frequently choose the veal tartare accompanied by the "Larme de Décembre" sweet wine from the Valais and Thierry Constantin. The oysters, caviar and Elsie’s lobster spaghetti are also among their favorites.
In the winter months, the "Chef’s Table" experience with Lukas Ryfell is especially popular. Every Monday and Tuesday, the chef hosts an exclusive culinary event. The guests are spoilt with a sophisticated four-course menu – which changes every three weeks – complemented by exceptional wine pairings.
