Basel Gastronomy

Basel gastronomy

The Basel audio-guided tour invites you to discover the city also by its flavours. At the crossroads of borders, its cuisine mingles Swiss traditions, Alsatian influences and German touches.

Läckerli, Mehlsuppe and other specialities

One of the best-known specialities is the Basler Läckerli, a small spiced biscuit with honey, almonds and candied citrus peel, prepared for centuries and often taken home as a souvenir. Another typical sweet, the Basler Mehlsuppe, a soup based on roasted flour, broth and onions, traditionally eaten during the carnival, very early in the morning. As for dishes, one finds fondue and raclette, but also the Zwiebelwähe, a savoury onion tart close to Alsatian specialities.

What there is to see

In the bakeries of the old town, the windows overflow with artisanal breads, brioches and pastries, notably in the small organic shops and the traditional ovens. A cultural and student city, Basel offers a very varied culinary scene: chocolate shops, historic cafés, modern restaurants and local breweries rub shoulders at every street corner. To taste these flavours is to prolong the visit in another way.

Practical information

The Basel specialities can be discovered in the bakeries, patisseries, chocolate shops and restaurants of the old town of Basel. The shops follow their own hours; some sweets, like the Mehlsuppe, are especially associated with the carnival period. It is a tasting to savour throughout the visit, according to the season.

What is the Basler Läckerli?

A small spiced biscuit with honey, almonds and candied citrus peel, one of the best-known specialities of Basel.

What influences mark Basel cuisine?

Swiss traditions, Alsatian influences and German touches, reflecting Basel's position at the crossroads of borders.