Just a few steps from the lake, in the heart of Zurich, lies the Baur au Lac. A hotel steeped in history and culture, with an impressive art collection featuring works by Pablo Picasso, Fernando Botero, Louise Bourgois, and Rashid Johnson. Since its founding in 1844, this traditional hotel has been family-owned, currently in its seventh generation, and is still considered the epitome of discreet elegance.
Amidst this backdrop is Baur's Bar, where international flair meets genuine warmth. Opulent interiors and subdued lighting designed by London-based interior designer Martin Brudnizki lend the bar an atmosphere that is both elegant and relaxed. Behind the bar is Natascha Galus, bar manager for two and a half years. She is the kind of hostess who brightens up entire rooms with a smile.
Friendly, attentive, and with a keen sense of people, she makes strangers feel at home quickly. "Everyone should simply have a nice evening here—whether they're staying at the hotel or just dropping by spontaneously," she explains. Guests from Zurich sit next to travelers from overseas, and after just a few minutes, a familiar, pleasant atmosphere develops. The harmonious atmosphere is also thanks to Galus' team: seven people who work together like clockwork, consistent, motivated, and clearly enjoying their work.
Between style and lightness
Baur's Bar stands for quality without formality. The separate entrance ensures that even spontaneous visitors feel welcome. No one has to walk through the imposing hotel lobby to take a seat. "It's not about status or etiquette, but about enjoyment and atmosphere," says Galus. The result is a place that combines the elegance of a grand hotel with the informality of a good neighborhood bar.
Here you will meet business travelers as well as regulars from Zurich who appreciate the personal service and consistent quality. A new bar menu is created twice a year. Ideas come from the whole team, are tried out, adapted, and developed together. The management places a lot of trust in the bar team and gives them the freedom to try new things. This fosters creativity and the results are clear to see: drinks that combine craftsmanship and enjoyment.
It's not about status or etiquette, but about enjoyment and atmosphere.
Natascha Galus, Bar Manager
Signature drinks include Baur's Edigroni, an elegant variation on the Negroni, Baur's G&T, and Bellini – drinks that have long since become little rituals for many guests. The Edigroni, named after the Scottish city of Edinburgh, combines mild gin with lively citrus freshness and subtle bitter notes.
A cocktail that reflects the character of the bar: classic, but with a modern twist. "There are guests who come back every year and order their favorite drink first. That's the best compliment," says Galus. Non-alcoholic drinks also have a firm place at Baur's Bar. "With so many new products available, this is no longer a limitation."
Art, culture, and cocktails
The atmosphere behind the bar is characterized by openness and genuine camaraderie. Training sessions, joint tastings, and lively discussions are part of everyday life. "We challenge each other, but we also have a lot of fun together," says Galus. "People who work here usually stay for a long time—because you can tell that everyone is pulling in the same direction."
Guests can also feel this energy in the precision, service, and genuine smiles above the glass. The Baur au Lac combines art and cuisine in a natural way. Drinks that are small works of art themselves are served among world-class paintings. Baur's Bar is not an elitist luxury venue, but a lively meeting place – elegant, accessible, and full of charm.
