Café Bar ODEON is a historic café, restaurant and bar at Limmatquai 2, near Bellevue in Zürich. Opened in 1911, it has an Art Nouveau interior with marble, mirrors, high ceilings and chandeliers. Writers and thinkers including James Joyce, Albert Einstein and Lenin were among its former regulars, and the café was a meeting place for the Dadaists. Come for coffee or hot chocolate, breakfast and brunch, or an evening drink. The menu includes omelettes, apple strudel and cocktails.
A coffeehouse with a long history
Café Bar ODEON opened in 1911 as a Viennese-style coffeehouse. Its Art Nouveau interior retains marble, high ceilings, chandeliers and mirrors. The building is protected, and the café's historic character remains part of the visit.
The café became a meeting place for artists, writers and political figures. Its former regulars included James Joyce, Albert Einstein, Erich Maria Remarque, Lenin and Trotsky. Dadaists also used the café as a headquarters in 1915.
From breakfast to cocktails
The menu covers more than coffee and cake. Breakfast and brunch options include omelettes, scrambled eggs and croissants, while the drinks list includes coffee, hot chocolate, wine, beer and cocktails. Apple strudel and chocolate brownie are among the sweets.
For a meal, the menu also includes dishes such as steak tartare and a club sandwich. You can stop in for coffee alone or settle in for lunch, dinner or a drink. Prices are in line with Zürich, so plan accordingly.
Choosing a seat and time
ODEON sits at Limmatquai 2, close to Bellevue and the Limmat. The setting brings together local regulars and visitors, with tables for solo guests as well as groups. Window seating is a useful choice if you want daylight while you eat.
Book ahead for brunch or dinner, particularly at busy times. The café is cash-only, so bring cash for your bill. Staff speak several languages, and you can ask them about the venue's history.
Preguntas frecuentes
When did Café Bar ODEON open?
It opened in 1911 as a Viennese-style coffeehouse.
What can you eat at Café Bar ODEON?
The menu includes omelettes, scrambled eggs, club sandwiches, steak tartare, apple strudel and chocolate brownie.
Does Café Bar ODEON accept cards?
It is cash-only, so bring cash to pay.
Should you reserve a table?
Reservations are recommended, especially for brunch and dinner.
