The summer vibe is on ladies and gentlemen, and so is the rain! Welcome to my top choice of food spots, parties, and rooftops in Zurich!

This blog post will reveal spots you need to visit in the summer of 2021 in Zurich. No official travel guide will hit this very personal list I put together for you! Whether you are Zurich-based or visiting from abroad, profit from all discoveries listed exclusively for my blog readers!

Where to have Breakfast outdoors in Zurich

• La Stanza
  La Stanza brings a slice of Italy to Zurich with its charming flair. Indulge in cornetto  alla crema e sfogliatelle or savor their delicious focaccia – it’s the perfect spot to enjoy authentic Italian treats. Get more in my coffee guide here!
• Mame Seefeld or Josefstrasse
  Mame offers the best specialty coffee in town, with tropical and fruity notes that make your taste buds dance. Pair it with a pastry or a croissant that rivals those in Paris for an unforgettable treat! During the week you can easily stay for some work at your computer, too. Weekend’s it gets very busy!
• Nude Café
  This spot is located at the Letten river and is very peaceful. Their coffee is delicious, also their bagels are worth trying.

Working remotely? Then check out these beautiful spots!

• Seebad Enge
  This Badi is small and cosy so go early, it gets full fast. There are power stations to recharge your computer and also tables. Working from here is tranquil because it’s not noisy. When it gets too hot, a jump into the lake refreshes your brain cells!
  Find a daily changing lunch menu and delicious caffé freddo!
  Entrance fee: 8 CHF, did you know that you can buy a season card for 110 CHF valid in all Badis (public pools) of Zurich?
• Panorama Flussbad Oberer Letten
  This public Badi is for free and located at the river. Get here early and use their tables or sunbath spots to spend some hours of work. The view over the riverside from here is special.
• Kraftwerk
  This spot is familiar to many remote workers. I love their terrace a lot, it’s spacious and colourful. Lunch varies, too.

Tipp: bring your power bank, so you’ll never be out of battery!

Summer lunch with riviera feeling in Zurich

The Letten river is the place to be in Zurich. You can choose between Oberer Letten, this is the hang-out zone for Zurich hipsters. People come here to show their well-trained bodies, turn on the music loud and enjoy the summer vibes! You can lounge around on the wooden panels, play a game of beach volley or enjoy a cocktail from the container bar.

Go for the longest swim: the current takes you to the lifeguard at Pier West!

• Gump Oberer Letten
  At Gump you’ll have to try the Cordon bleu! Yes I admit maybe bit heavy on a hot summer day, but absolutely worth!  For a top view over the river, book a lounge at the Sun terrace they have and sip your Aperitivo while observing everyone else jumping into the water.
• Stazione Paradiso
  This spot is only 5 minutes away from Oberen Letten. By following the beach volley fields and the skater’s park you’ll easily get there. A must-try here is the focaccia
• Float down the Zurich Limmat River! Take It’s a mild river and easy to navigate, with one small dam you need to walk around with your boat. The official float starts at Wipkinger Park. Take your colourful duck or flamingo, a six-pack of beer and a music pill – you’ll never forget about this experience!

Enjoy an Aperitivo Italian Style in Zurigo

How many of you know the typical Italian Aperitivo? You order a glass of wine and you get little tiny finger snacks like olives, pizzette, or a variety of prosciutto and cheese. Well, this kind of plate is available also in Zurich, of course, you’ll have to pay extra, sorry, nevertheless, I recommend trying them!

• Vineria Centrale
  A spot in the side street of Langstrasse is truly Italian style. The Aperitivo plate is homemade and comes in a portion for two. The spot is a mall and super cosy. There is always a cool playlist that throws you back to your last Italian holiday. Find wines or Classicals such as Crodino or Aperol Spritz!
• Seelounge 8008 is the secret spot to have an aperitivo and enjoy the sunset in a very exclusive location. Check their events on the website and register to get your free member pass. It’s a “Member-only” Club.
• Il salotto
  Salotto means living room in Italian, and that’s exactly the atmosphere you can expect inside and outside at their terrace. Ciccio and his wife serve high-quality homemade Aperitivi. Ingredients are mainly from southern Italy. I love their cheese and salami selection!

Dance and enjoy the sunset with top world’s finest DJs and…an Aperol Spritz!

• Secret Island
  What comes to your mind, when reading this? No, it’s not a TV program, it’s THE summer spot in Zurich located at Tiefenbrunnen. Feel the sand under your feet and watch the sunset going down by sipping your cocktail. The place reminds me of a beach bar in Mykonos or Capri. On top of the lounges, there is a house where you can dance to the world’s finest sound of DJ’s. Get the lineup of this summer here.
  Get the program here, it’s on until the end of August.
• Rundfunk Fm
  An event that belongs to Zurich taking place in the historical Landesmuseum is Runfunk.Fm.
  The inner courtyard of the Landesmuseum Zurich (just at the Main station) has been home to the Rundfunk.fm festival since 2004. Rundfunk.fm plays in the beautiful inner courtyard for 45 days, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere with contemporary music and creative elements to create a unique event experience.
  For Food: Hungry bellies find what their hearts desire, too. Find sausages from Francis, delicious Momo from Tenz, or the legendary Rundfunk Pizza! The entrance is free.

A good day ends with the perfect summer Dinner!

Zurich people, did you discover the new area around Zentralstrasse yet? It’s getting a new urban and cosy destination to chill and have some great food!

• Santa Sete
  Means holy thirst translated. This Italian Restaurant has an open kitchen and prepares classical dishes with a very own touch as a special version of the parmigiana (with ricotta & mozzarella) or Cacio e Pepe. They do also have a variety of fusion dishes as the pikeperch in a coconut soup or a guinea fowl leg. The cocktail menu is very creative! Find a drink called Santo Papa (holy pope) that I tried and liked a lot! In the restaurant, you find funny Italian sayings all over the walls. It conquered my heart in 3 seconds. The food they prepare is humble. You get good value for money.
  Check the menu here.
• Yu-an
  My favourite Japanese restaurant with a large garden terrace!  I tried several Japanese restaurants in town, Yu-An is the one I opt for when it comes to fresh and authentic Japanese cuisine that is affordable. Their menu varies with seasonal dishes. I love their hot pans: „Yakiniku“ (CH Rib-Eye) is a must-try if you love meat.
  Keep always space for their dessert: The Yu-An Macha Mille Feuille brings you to another level of happiness right away! It’s located close to Stauffacher. Find a more detailed review of my blog here.
• Puente
  Ceviche is one of the most famous dishes in Peruvian cuisine, and that’s the one dish I recommend trying at Puente. They know how to season it best so that all flavours unfold. Find a variety of dishes such as grilled octopus or the Fluffy Chinese bun with pork belly. The Pisco Sour is a must!
  The location is small and cosy, I love the dimmed light! At Puente, you get good quality for an honest price.
  It’s located in Kreis 5 a 10 min. walk from the Main station.

  Nikkei cuisine, by the way, is the combination of Japanese and Peruvian culinary arts that inspires tremendous creativity.

• Brera
  Dining with a design and cosmopolitan flair. This is what I feel when at Brera. That’s why you need to check it out at least once! The interior reminds me of a cool restaurant in Milano! Choose from a small menu with fresh products. They also have pizza & homemade pasta. Besides “Vino” we try their cocktails and homemade lemonades. The music they play comes from their vinyl box! Buon Appetito!
• Coco & Grill
  In the mood for meat on a hot stone and a very natural chic surrounding? Then Coco & Grill is the place to go! The restaurant is hidden in a tranquil spot just 2 minutes from the busy Paradeplatz. What makes this place special is the direct interaction between the staff and the Chef. This spot is famous for meat on the charcoal, choose your piece directly from their counter. The ambience is idyllic and fills you directly with maritime vibes!

Don’t forget: Zurich people love to dine out, so make sure you get your table reservation ahead! 

Are you a gelato lover?

Check my preferred gelato places in Zurich in this blogpost!

Must visit Rooftops in Zurich

Zurich has lovely apartments with rooftops! In case you don’t owe one, there are some options!

• Mandarin Oriental Paradeplatz
  Freshly renovated, the iconic Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich, established in 1838, now dazzles with Tristan Auer’s designs. Nestled near luxurious shops, the Old Town, and the charming lakeside promenade, this Paradeplatz gem fuses timeless elegance with modern sophistication and impeccable service. Sip your cocktail high above Zurich’s most luxurious square!
• The Nest
  I will reveal to you, why this spot is called The Nest – It’s on the rooftop of the beautiful Hotel Storchen, and guess it’s the cosy nest of the stork!
  The rooftop overlooks the memorable towers of Zurich, the Grossmünster. The rooftop is open every day for an Aperitivo or breakfast on Sundays. I am a big fan of their focaccia. Never go wrong with a “Swiss Plättli” offering traditional Swiss cheese and different dried meat. Various products they offer are grown on their farms Terreni Alla Maggia in Tessin and are truly delicious.
• Freitag Tower
  This place is not for food or drinks but for a fantastic view over the industrial area of Zurich!
  Freight containers stacked on top of each other inspire city explorers and Friday bag lovers in Zurich West. It’s located in the Freitag Flagship store at Geroldstrasse 17 and accessible through the shop. Means you have to walk up some stairs until you get to the viewpoint, but it’s worth every step promise!
  Opening hours are Monday – Friday. 11:00 – 19:00, Saturday, 11:00 – 18:00.

How to spend an entertaining summer evening outside

• Rote Fabrik open air cinema
  Are you in the mood for some open-air cinema at the lake? I suggest stopping by at Rote Fabrik. Have a look at the program here. They are showing old movies such as “Night of the living dead” for example.
  It’s running every Thursday (and once on Friday).
  Film start ca. at 21.30 – Admission is for free // Collection at the place. In case of bad weather, they have an indoor room.
• Theater Spektakel
  This is one of my favourite late-summer events. The atmosphere is very special here, guess it’s the freedom you feel in the air observing artists like clowns or fire-eaters moving around the Landiwiese. Stroll through the program and get a feeling of what the shows have to offer. The Festival is from 15.8 – 1.9.2024.
• Allianz Cinema
  August wouldn’t be as fun without the open-air cinema organized by Allianz Cinema. It takes place from 18.7. – 18.8.2022. The location is Zurichhorn. Movies start as soon as the sun is down, around 21.30. Cozy summer evenings with a magnificent backdrop lure film fans outdoors. National and international delicacies are screened under the open skyBelieve me, experiencing the sunset and counting the seconds until the big screen goes up is an exciting feeling! Movies on the program are mixed, current and older ones even from the ’90s,

Happy summer everyone! Stay safe and enjoy the beautiful city of Zurich!

My father used to say: It’s all about the best quality ingredients you have in your kitchen to create a tasty recipe.

And I feel so lucky that since my childhood my palate got to experience the True Italian Taste! This makes it very easy today to recognize if a product derives from genuine and high-quality ingredients.

Now you can ask, how can you recognize an original Italian product?
To recognize real Italian products you have to read PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) or D.O.P. It stands for Denominazione di Origine Protetta (literally Protected Designation of Origin.

According to latest market insights, the most copied Italian product is Parmigiano Reggiano, followed by Prosciutto di Parma and San Daniele, but also, Grana Padano cheese, Mozzarella di Bufala, Asiago and Gorgonzola cheese are copied.

Pay attention on the labels and the packaging. If you read “traditional ham” or “country ham” for example, usually they aren’t real Italian products.

100% Made in Italy products combined with creativity make the magic happen in the kitchen!

On this occasion, Chef Cristian Pratelli from Casa Artusi and presenter Sara Bello provided a group of media experts with their expertise during an online cooking class organized by the Italian Chamber of Commerce from Geneva & Zurich under the motto: Authentic Italian Table. Chef Cristian used a selection of fantastic Italian products we had received at home, too.

Can you imagine how high my heart jumped when I got delivered the True Italian Taste box full of flavours?

This is what the box included:

A white wine called Greco di Tufo – L’arietta Vinosia from the Campania Region!
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A Franciacorta from the company Ca’del Bosco
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A Moscato sweet wine with bubbles called “Dolce Le Rughe”
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Oliixir Biologic Extra virgin Olive Oil from Sicily distributed by Foodforhealth in Switzerland
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Pacchetelle di Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio DOP
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Olive Caiazzane Nuova Eden – Agricola San Giovanni Antonio
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Conchiglie Pasta di Gragnano – Afeltra
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Ceci di Controne – Chickpeas from Michele Ferrante – Controne (Salerno)
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Risotto rice from Risoacquerello
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Parmigiano Reggiano 24 month Consorzio Vacche rosse

What would you create with Conchiglie pasta, tomato sauce, eggplants, Parmigiano Reggiano and Mozzarella di Bufala?

Chef Cristian inspired me a lot with the preparation of the crunchy rice paddies paired with hummus & Friarielli. By now I had never stuffed Conchiglie pasta with mozzarella di Bufala &  eggplant! Watch how I prepared the Conchiglie here.

How to prepare the Conchiglie pasta

Ingredients:

• 200 gr of Conchiglie Pasta Afeltra
• 1 aubergine
• 250 gr Pacchetelle di Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio DOP
• 2 Mozzarella di Bufala (ca. 125 gr each)
• fresh basil
• Biologic Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Oliixir

Preparation:

• Boil the Conchiglie for ca. 7 Min. – Take them out of the water and let them cool down.
• Peel the skin of the eggplant and cut the same amount of stripes (ca. 0.5 cm thin) as Conchiglie you are going to stuff.
• Cut the eggplant into little cubes and pan-fry them golden with Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Season with salt and herbs. Let it cool down. Fry the eggplant stripes until they get golden, too – put apart.
• Cut the Mozzarella into little cubes, and add it to the eggplant cubes.
• In another pan, fry the garlic with Extra Virgin Olive Oil and the tomato to make a delicious sauce.
• Stuff the Conchiglie with the cubes, and make a loop with the eggplant strip around the Conchiglia so that it looks like a little cute package.
• Take a square mould and distribute the Conchiglie
• Pour the tomato sauce over the Conchiglie as a final step. Grate as much Parmigiano Reggiano you like over the pasta
• Put it in the oven for ca. 20 min. You can put an aluminium foil for the first 15 min. in order to prevent the pasta to dry out.

Pair a delicious white wine from Campania – The Greco di Tufo “L’arietta Vinosia”. It is refreshing with a marked but harmonious acidity, supported by fresh minerality.

A big thank you to all involved parties for this unforgettable culinary trip with 100% Made in Italy products!

In the mood to get inspired on a Piedmont Trip? Read my blog post here!

This blog post has been created as part of a collaboration with the Italian Chamber of Commerce for Switzerland. The project “True Italian Taste” is part of the government program “The Extraordinary Italian Taste” which is promoted and financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) and carried out by Assocamerestero. It was launched in 2016 in the markets of North America, to then land in the following years also on the main reference markets of Italian agri-food exports in Europe, South America, Asia and Australia. The project is being developed in collaboration with 36 CCIEs in 23 countries around the world and aims to raise awareness among foreign consumers about the consumption and informed purchase of food 100% made in Italy to counter the phenomenon of Italian Sounding, which improperly uses words, colours, locations, images, names and recipes that recall Italy for foods that have very little Italian about them. True Italian Taste aims to spread a greater knowledge of the characteristics of typicality, places of origin and nutritional aspects and DOP-IGP certification.

My body asked for a reboot: The Mimicking Fasting diet ProLon designed by Prof. Valter Longo was the solution. Use Promo code LOVEFOODISH13 for your 13 % discount!

I’ve never done fasting and I could not imagine surviving 3 or 4 days without food! In order to find out what suits best to me, my research brought me to intermitting fasting and the mimicking fasting program.

How does intermittent fasting work?

Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern where you cycle between periods of eating and fasting. It does not say anything about which foods to eat, but rather when you should eat them. There are several different intermittent fasting methods, all of which split the day or week into eating periods and fasting periods. The fasting period is usually around 12 or more hours which, helpfully, includes time spent sleeping overnight. There is the 16/8 fasting plan. Fasting for 16 hours and then only eating within a specific 8-hour window. Another strategy is to eat only one meal a day (OMAD). There are a lot of possibilities for fasting and somehow you’ll need to experiment, adjust to working for your lifestyle and goals, and see how your body responds.

What about the ProLon Mimicking fasting program?

Reading through a variety of articles I got in touch with the longevity diet by an Italian professor called Valter Longo. And guess what, he is from my hometown Calabria. Thinking back on the healthy organic food my relatives in Calabria consume and how old my grandparents got, I can absolutely imagine, that this scientifically developed and clinically tested program works. Valter Longo invented this program at the University of Southern California at the USC Longevity Institute. It brings together multidisciplinary ageing research to enhance human healthspan. Read also more in his book “The longevity diet”.

Valter Longo discovered that specific diets can activate stem cells and promote regeneration and rejuvenation in multiple organs to reduce the risk for diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s and heart disease.

So how does ProLon work?

With the ProLon Fasting Mimicking Program the body does not recognize that it is being fed. The ProLon five-day fasting program is based on healthy natural products and ingredients, all whole-food derived and 100% plant-based, gluten-free, non-GMO, and with no artificial additives. It comes prepackaged in meal kits, so you don’t have to care about cooking or shopping. The meal kits are low in carbs and protein yet high in healthy fats like olives and flax.

The box includes soups, bars, crackers, olives, drinks, and supplements. You receive a specific menu where you see, which items to eat per day.

Day one of the diet provides approximately 1,090 kcal (10% protein, 56% fat, 34% carbs), while days two through five provide only 725 kcal (9% protein, 44% fat, 47% carbs). The low-calorie, high-fat, low-carb content of the meals causes your body to generate energy from noncarbohydrate sources after glycogen stores are depleted. This process is called gluconeogenesis.

My personal experience of the ProLon diet

The sleek, modern, glossy white box reminded me of unboxing a new MacBook or iPhone. Inside the box are five smaller boxes, marked with Day 1, Day 2, etc. Each box contains all of the food allowed for the specific day. A suggested menu card is provided so that it’s easy to understand when to take which meal.

Foods provided include dried soup blends (they require adding hot water) and I seasoned them with pepper and fresh leaves (mint or basil), delicious nut and cocoa-based bars, pouches of olives, and kale flax crackers. There are also supplements, including algal oil for plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, and multivitamin/minerals. The box contains herbal teas, too and a large water bottle used to sip a flavoured glycerol-based drink. This is used on days two through five to help maintain fullness.

My absolute favorite item: the nut bar! And I have to admit, the kale crackers were a flavorful snack, too.

Overall, I have to admit that getting through the five days wasn’t easy. The first two days I was ok and kind of excited to try all the different food portions. On day 2 I felt a strong headache. After Day 3 I started to feel new energy and I got motivated to do some workouts. By that time I was already missing fresh food, fruits, and veggies. I typically eat 2-3 times veggies and fruits each day. On day 4 and Day 5 I felt terribly hungry and couldn’t wait to just have the 5 days gone! I miss biting and chewing. I experience waking up more energetic and with a more clear mind, although.

After the five days I lost 3 kilos, by now I got 1 back again. My waste line was reduced 4 cm and I can say my clothes fit more loosely. Thanks to ProLon I gained motivation to eat more controlled. I already was used to eating healthy and fresh food. Thanks to this diet I realized, that I don’t need food every 2 hours. It feels easier to stick to breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon snacks, and dinner. All of that is to be eaten in a time frame of 12-14 hours.

Having all of my food for the day pre-planned made it decision-free and easy to follow

Will I do it again? I guess so! The company recommends not extending the program past five days or completing more than one cycle per month. They encourage repeating the diet “from time to time” when looking for rejuvenation – every 3 months approximately.

Are you motivated to try the ProLon Mimicking Fasting program? Use Promo code LOVEFOODISH13 for your 13 % discount and order the box here. (Normal price is 229 CHF). Shipping costs are included in the price. Valid for Switzerland only. Let me know, if you like to order from another country, we can find a solution for that.

Get more information also here info@vmmt.ch or call 044 558 42 44 and have a chat with Dr Marica Brnić (PhD in human nutrition)—who speaks Italian, German, French, English, and Croatian. I felt very well consulted by her large knowledge of nutrition!

Why are ceremonies and rituals still so important?

During the last year, I felt like practising yoga, meditating, and being surrounded by people with similar vibes makes me feel more balanced and down to earth. We are all somehow going through changes, and guess everyone finds their way to recharge energy and clean the mind. Ceremony and rituals add depth and dimension to our journey. They can add extraordinary to the ordinary and help us to remember, honour, feel, and connect.

Today I’d like to bring you closer to the Cacao Ceremony! I had the privilege to attend one with Zurich-based Yoga Teacher Aleks Nicolic at the studio Yoga Tribe. (All covid-measures were safely applied, of course, attendance was limited to 4 people).
Aleks immediately conquered my heart with her feminine and natural attitude. The studio we were having our ceremony felt safe and sacred as all the moments we shared together during the two hours. A beautiful altar of fresh flowers and offerings such as crystal stones or jewellery that we could bring illuminated by lots of candles created a magic atmosphere in the room.

Let’s talk about the Sacred Power of Cacao

Cacao is a sacred plant found in Central and South America. Also known as a natural plant medicine. Cacao has been used for thousands of years in the Mayan culture of South America for medicinal, spiritual, and ceremonial purposes. Raw Cacao is a source of theobromine, magnesium, antioxidants that help the body naturally produce anandamide (the bliss chemical), serotonin (feel-good-chemical), phenylethylamine (love chemical) which results in a better quality of physical and mental health.

Aleks mentions, that cacao is the food of the Gods and the Medicine of the Heart. And that makes a lot of sense to me. As a hearty and passionate person.

Her cacao ceremonies offer a variety of cacao blends by Naked Chocolate, get them in her online shop! Experienced Yogis can surely organize their little private cacao ceremony also at home. It can also be used as a daily supplement. Sprinkle a teaspoon on your food or add it to a smoothie or coffee to enhance general wellbeing.

The cacao we got had a wonderful aromatic taste. It contained various ingredients like hibiscus, rosemary, peppermint, hemp, camomile, cinnamon, and black pepper. The taste was not sweet at all, it doesn’t taste anything like hot chocolate, it’s pure and slightly bitter.

What exactly happens during a cacao ceremony?

Aleks introduced us to the cacao we were going to enjoy with beautiful words of thankfulness followed by beautiful sounds and slow heart-opening exercises. After sitting with the cup of cacao and connecting to our hearts, we set our intention to call in our intentions and we drank our cacao. The next hour was dedicated fully to movements and further heart-opening exercises lying on our backs. The sound Aleks used was a mix of sound healing with instruments and beautiful chanting.

What happens in your soul & body during and after the ceremony?

The energy during the ceremony is very active and alive. Thoughts appear very clear – either positive or negative – it feels like the heart connects with the mind and finds a way to clear all mess up 🙂 Writing down the words or thoughts helps a lot, especially when you’re back home and want to go through it again.  The morning after the ceremony I had light cramps, and sweated a bit with little signs of diarrhoea. Guess clear indication, that the cacao cleaned up my body with antioxidants!

Thank you Aleks for making me feel safe and guiding me to the voice of my heart!

Do you know the most famous and provocative works of art about food?

Artists make tremendous sacrifices in their lives in order to feed their creative addiction, whether they become financially successful or not. Inspiration comes from action, from experimentation, the chaos, the fire, the big wins, and the big fails. This is why I admire creative minds on how they master the art of the unknown!

Reason enough for me today, to introduce to you a project realized by two hungry artists based in Switzerland & Germany: edgarunddieter was founded by Christoph Dieter Göttel and Markus Edgar Ruf.

Who stands behind edgarunddieter?

Christoph Göttel creates modern art in Basel using his graphic and illustration background as a way to let an image speak for itself. His objective is always to make a clear statement. Find more on Chris Art here.
The other creative mind of the project is Markus Edgar Ruf. He is based in Lörrach and specializes in photography, videography, and graphic design. Find more on his work here.

Together they go viral with a new project combining all of their creative power!

Let’s talk about their project_ May it be a little more?

Food offers the best prerequisites for arts to play wild! And if you give some meat into the hands of two experimental minds as Edgar and Dieter guess what comes out?

Not everything is sausage what we do, but almost everywhere is sausage. When is there too much “sausage” around? This question is addressed in this work. Implemented in an environment that couldn’t be more contradictory and yet suggests a common thread. It is the weariness of everything. The more absurd this connection of the pictorial structure, the greater it draws you into the visual language – edgarunddieter –

Are you curious to get to see their art live or want to buy a piece for your living room? Get in contact here!

For all the ones that are really hungry now and looking for the best sausage in town, check out my food guide (for takeaway of course).

My personal highlight: Staying in the Engadine in luxury and informal surroundings offering the best comfort you need for body & soul

Here is where you find a tranquil & intimate winter escape only a five-minute stroll away from St. Moritz. Welcome to Champfèr close to nature and far away from everyday life. Giardino Mountain is a modern luxury hotel with a homely touch. The architecture is traditional from Engadine, the sgraffitos (typical wall paintings from Engadine) on the walls made by the local artist Steivan Könz combined with wood elements add a particularly romantic touch! It has undergone an extensive transformation, preserving the local Engadine charm and fusing it with clean interior design.

Why choose 5 Star Hotel Giardino Mountain for your trip

Staying at Giardino Mountain feels like visiting a friend’s chalet with a luxury touch and excellent service. The interior design is modern, colourful, and arty. The view from the balcony over the Engadine Mountain is giving you the needed portion of tranquillity every time you slide the curtain!

Walking through the corridors you notice vibrant fuchsia and lime velvets that bring to mind a huge bouquet of wildflowers cascading down a snowy mountain. I absolutely love the wall of roses on the way to the fine dining restaurant Ecco by Chef Rolf Fliegauf.

Accommodation

The rooms are decorated with warm colours and delicate fabrics and provide soul-nourishing spaces, including a restful state-of-the-art wellness spa. I really loved the earthy tones that give to the 78 rooms and suites a feeling of warmth and pure cosiness.
The size of the rooms starts from an 18-square-meter Double Room Small to 60-square-meter Mountain Suite, each of the 78 rooms offers mountain views and either a king-size bed or twin beds. All rooms offer a shower or a bathtub—apart from the 32-square-meter Small Suite South, the 50-square-meter Suite, and the 60-square-meter Mountain Suite, which offer both—while some also boast a lounge or balcony.
The Mountain Suite also plays host to a wonderful fireplace to enjoy the best post-piste relaxation moment. Check their actual rates here.

Wellness & SPA, Gym or Yoga

Discover the brand “dipiù” – a declaration of love of Ticino’s nature and its efficacy at Giardino Mountain. Choose the program of Ayurveda or beauty you need out of their offer here. For all yoga lovers: go for the weekly yoga sessions! They help to relax and let go! The sauna world offers various dry and steam saunas. Use the indoor pool for some swimming and don’t miss their modern gym equipment from Technogym for your training practice.

Are you into short getaways in St. Moritz: choose the day pass to the dipiù Spa at the Hotel Giardino Mountain, there’s no need to be a hotel guest to enjoy a short relaxing break? Whether it’s summer or winter, spend a restorative day of wellness in the pool and sauna area of Switzerland’s largest dipiù Spa.
One treatment, such as a massage, is included. Including 60 min. treatment – CHF 220 p.p., Including 90 min. treatment – CHF 260 p.p.

Restaurants

The hotel features 4 restaurants. Restaurant Hide & Seek and the Stüva provide culinary delights throughout the year. Ecco Restaurant is probably the best 2-star Michelin-rated restaurant in the Engadine run by Chef Rolf Fliegauf. They prepare amazing dishes with regional products combined with flair and imagination. I had the opportunity to experience the Menu prepared with the Guest Chef Renu Homsombat from Bangkok during the St. Moritz Gourmet Festival. Go for a romantic Fondue & Champagne in their new pop-up restaurant RSRV (pronounced “reservé”) on the hotel terrace. It’s a transparent dome, for an outdoor feeling with an indoor temperature! Get more here! Prices are from CHF 85 (with the Engadine fondue), CHF 96 (with the truffle fondue) to CHF 116 (with the champagne fondue).
The pop-up restaurant will be open from 20 December 2019 to 8 March 2020.

Note: From May 29 to November 1, 2020, when many Alpine hotels close down, Giardino Mountain transforms into a casual bed-and-breakfast, offering its normal five-star ambience, but without its restaurant and spa—perfect for those who seek a high-style luxury setting in the Alps during summer.

A warm thank you goes to all of the Giardino Mountain Staff and Woehrle Pirola AG that made this press trip possible

www.giardinohotels.ch/

Address: Hotel Giardino Mountain – Via alla Maistra 3 – 7512 Champfèr-St. Moritz – Schweiz

In the mood to discover more lovefoodish travel stories? Get them here!

My Personal highlight: Starting the day with no planning, preparing or shopping for meals. I just choose from one of three menus eat-fit.ch prepares and delivers to me!

Basically, this is what the perfect day could look like, no? When Peter from Eat-Fit.ch contacted me I was very curious to try this healthy meal catering out! What a feeling to open the fridge and know, that yummy meals are prepared for the day and you can focus on other projects coming along!
I personally could imagine ordering such a service 2-3 times a week, in order to still follow the joy of cooking in the kitchen. From the menus I got delivered I looooooved a lot the shrimps with rice noodles and veggies. I never calculated the calories I consume, so having them mentioned on the box was very interesting! All 5 meals together come to a maximum of  2000 – 3000 calories ca. depending on the menu option you choose.

Who stands behind Eat-Fit.ch?

Talking to Peter I find out that there is a big passion and motivation to support people, that need the motivation to eat healthily and have no time to prepare meals at home. Most of the time, it seems as if there is just a lack of creativity when it comes to cooking at home by oneself every day, so having someone like Eat-Fit.ch taking care of this important task is magic!

Eating healthy is living healthy, and a healthy life is a happy life, so simple 🙂

What does the menu look like? Is there a Veggie option available – What about the sanitary standards?

Eat-Fit has the goal to offer a properly balanced healthy meal plan that contains all the required vitamins and micronutrients and comes with 5 different tasty meals for the day. The menu consists of plant products and animal products.

Use Promo code ‚LOVEFOODISH2021‘ and receive a special deal

Get 50% on your order placed from today Jan. 7 until tomorrow, Jan. 8. 2021 (24.00 h) Or decide later and get a voucher of 30% valid for all January 2021!

Here is a menu example I got delivered

• Breakfast1: Joghurt & berries choco müesli  (400 kcal)
• Breakfast 2: Pea Cream with sunflower seeds (300 kcal)
• Lunch: Beef Stroganoff with quinoa (600 kcal)
• Afternoon snack: Semolina with roasted apple (301kcal)
• Dinner: Rice noodles with shrimp & veggies (400 kcal)

I really love the fact that every portion has a detailed overview with all the nutrition facts such as carbs, fats, proteins, fibre, sugar and salt.

You can choose out of three categories: Optimal, Vege or Vege & Fish. Find the meal plans for the actual week here.
The ingredients used for the meals are made from locally trusted sources and organic! Each portion is hermetically sealed which protects it from the influence of external factors. They are stored and transported in special freezers and thermal food containers. I love the fact, that the boxes are made of sugar cane pulp, their decomposition only lasts 12 weeks so they are very environmentally friendly!

Where do they deliver and what about the costs?

Find out online, if your area is covered by the service! The Zurich area is fully covered.
About pricing: The 5 meal menu starts at 49 CHF to 59 CHF. You can save money if you order the meals for 20+ days. I recommend going for the test kit. It’s a good start to make a personal experience and get convinced about the meal and service quality. It saves you 50% of the menu you choose. To find out more about pricing, check this section on the website.

A healthy food plan needs a good fitness plan, too, right?

Guess it’s not a secret, eating healthy is important and plays a main role in our lifestyle. But foodies, we need to move our beautiful asses, too 🙂

Here is a very personal list of online full body and yoga workouts I frequently use!

• Cotto al dente (only in Italian but easy to follow also with mute mode)
• Zumba Full Body Fitness
• Alo Yoga
• Kick ass yoga

So now go enjoy your day and stay safe!

Thank you peter for serving me these yummy 5 meals and taking care of my food plan!
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A little guide on how to mentally travel by creating your individual culinary experience at home!

We, travellers and foodies, are all facing a tuff reality: It got more complicated to travel after Covid19 time. But hey, why don’t we use this opportunity to challenge our creativity by spending more valuable time at home? Let’s experiment more in the kitchen and bring to our tables joyful culinary moments we collected on our travels. This little personal guide shall inspire you to create cosy travel moments at home!

Choose your favourite corner at home and decorate it with herbs & flowers that remind you of your holiday!

The spot that makes my mind wander most at home is my balcony! I decorated it with fresh herbs like basil and Moroccan mint and some lovely lavender! When it comes to spoiling myself with food I start with using special pottery to arrange my dishes! My latest shopping was at Coop where I found the perfect turquoise blue plates that remind me of Bali or Greece!

Create a playlist with all of your favourite songs collected!

Here you can find mine! I put together songs I listen to during my long flights or just while relaxing at the beach. Once back home I play it while I stand in the kitchen preparing my holiday delicacies!

Spoil your palate with a recipe that reminds you of a memorable food & travel experience

A recipe I really love is the Tuna in Coconut crust with edamame. It brings me somewhere between Greece and Israel!

Ingredients for the tuna:

• A piece of fresh tuna, about 150- 200 grams
• 1 tablespoon grated coconut
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 200 grams of edamame

Preparation steps tuna:

Mix the olive oil and soy sauce, put the tuna in the soy sauce, and wet it from both sides. Use another bowl, mix the sesame oil with the coconut flakes. Now put the tuna in the coconut mixture and after pan fry it for 2 min each side. Take the tuna from the pan and cut it into slices. Optional: put some lemon juice or extra virgin olive oil on the top of the tuna slices.

For the edamame:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pods in it (previously washed in clear water) for about 5 to 6 minutes at medium heat. You can defrost precooked but still frozen edamame in this way, which reduces the cooking time for them by about 2 minutes. Then pour them into a sieve and let them cool down a little before serving. Sprinkle with some sea salt.

ROLLI DAYS DIGITAL WEEK
A virtual journey around Genoa, UNESCO Heritage including culinary inspiration by young Italian Chefs in quarantine – May 16-23 exclusively available online

What a coincidence! I’ve never been to Genova! And as of May 16 until May 23 there is the unique possibility to virtually stroll through some of the most prestigious palaces, four of them shown for the first time during Rolli Days from May 16 – May 23.

An occasion that I will take for sure! Since I have to be honest, I do miss strolling in Italian cities a lot!

Come on a virtual trip through Genova with Lovefoodish !

The story of the Rolli Palaces

Genoa has historically been one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean and the birthplace of Christopher Columbus!

The Palazzi dei Rolli are a specific number of historical noble palaces in the so-called Strade Nuove in Genoa. The system of Palazzi dei Rolli consists of palaces that, in the period between the years 1576 and 1664, were listed in lists drawn up and maintained by the Republic of Genoa. Since the city did not have any representative buildings of its own, the noble palaces and their owners were legally forced to receive guests of the state (and to bear the corresponding costs). For this purpose, the palaces were classified according to size and splendour in categories (so-called bussoli) from which, in case of a state visit, the name of the palace in which the guest of state was received and accommodated was drawn. The UNESCO sites include 42 Palazzi dei Rolli, among the 100 existing ones.

Tune in from May 16 – May 23, 2020 to experience online exclusively some of the Rolli Palaces!

The uniqueness of this Digital Rolli Days lies in the fact that three of these “first showings” wouldn’t have been opened to the public, according to the traditional format and they even won’t be opened in the future; for this reason, the digital visit doesn’t represent a sort of emulation of the physical experience, it’s a real resource that allows the public to visit places which are not accessible in any other way.

Many contents will be available both in Italian and English languages!

Discover typical flavours and recipes from Genova during Digital Rolli Days!

In Genoa, pesto is the king of the table. Just as traditional is the focaccia, with its thousands of variants, though you can also enjoy the frisceu, savoury fritters, chickpea flour flatbread and panissa, a type of polenta also made with chickpea flour.

During the Rolli Days there will be the opportunity to discover Genovese flavours, thanks to the traditional recipes, reinterpreted by one of the chefs belonging to Genova Gourmet network and through an innovative “Rolli’s menu”, that includes many ingredients of the region, created by young Chefs in quarantine. 

Virtually discover some Art and Culture of Genoa

A walk through the art: the Musei di Strada Nuova collections in Genoa can be admired online using Google Arts & Culture portal. A few clicks will open the doors of surprising museums, offering you a heritage of culture and beauty

https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/musei-di-strada-nuova?hl=it

______________________________________________________________________________

Rolli Days Digital Week Genova 2020 is an event promoted and sponsored by the Municipality of Genoa, Palazzo Ducale Foundation for Culture, Genoa Chamber of Commerce, Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities – Regional Secretariat of Liguria, Association of the Rolli of the Republic of Genoa; in collaboration with the University of Genoa. (Humanistic science, Polytechnic school –Architecture science Department) 

More info: www.visitgenoa.it/it/strada%20nuova – www.rolliestradenuove.it

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Seeking delicious takeaway or delivery food options during the lockdown in Zurich and ideas on how to spend valuable time at home?

Find inspiration & creativity in this blog post for food, sports or love! We will be affected by this situation for several months, it is important to be well prepared!

Now that all restaurants in Zurich are closed due to the coronavirus, it is essential to support Zurich Gastronomy and order delicious meals for home. From street food to gourmet restaurants, there is a variety of options for vegan, vegetarian and meat lovers.

Discover here my lockdown food suggestions, most of them available through uber eats

• Try the website lockdown-gourmet with plenty of international food such as Asian, Italian, Local Swiss or Mexican for example. Some of the food is delivered by UberEats, some directly through the restaurant.
• My top Asian so far for Sushi: Hato Restaurant, get your order directly on UberEats or Smood.ch and for traditional Japanese dishes absolutely try Gaijin Izakaya. For super healthy fresh bowls or more sushi try: Barfuesser! Find more on the restaurant in my food guide, here!
• A light and healthy poke bowl? Kaisin was my choice for a light dinner! Get them on uber eats, too!
• Greek Food lovers, go for Oh My Greek,
• In the mood for some sweets for your romantic dinner or brunch family? Sweet pastry creations from Dolder Hotel, Star Patissier Christian Hümbs wait for you. They deliver for free if you live in Zurich Kreis 7! Otherwise, you can go for a pick up at the hotel.
• Pizza lovers know: Ristorante Luigia is one of the best addresses for Neapolitan Pizza, so don’t miss that one, too.
• Pizza al Taglio if you are around the Old City in Niederdorf! Ritù Pizza makes the best Pizza slices in town! Natural ingredients and seasonal toppings such as artichokes, salame calabrese bit spicy and much more!

Fresh Bread and chocolate croissants!

A bike ride in the fresh air will be good for your brain cells! Visit John Baker at Helvetia Platz or Stadelhofen for your fresh bread or croissant early in the morning. There are allowed only 2 people at a time in the shop, so no worries about nervous customers standing around you. Read my detailed blog post on their tasty chocolate croissant, here!

Specialty Coffee for takeaway or a Gelato to go!

• My favourite coffee shop Grande close to Central offers Coffee & Negroni’s to take away! Open Monday – Friday!
• Just Coffee is my new entry! Coffee is good, their Vegan Donuts are awesome! Try it out! Open Monday – Sunday!
• Don’t forget to stop by Gelateria di Berna for your ice cream! Be aware of the long line, so go early!

In the mood of a Negroni during lockdown made by your local Barkeeper?

The company Mikks supports Zurich bars and makes it possible to continue enjoying cocktails during the lockdown. Visit the site cheerstosupport and find the drink of your choice from your dearest Cocktail Bar in Zurich!

Among the bars that deliver from now on are, for example, the “Bar Sacchi“, which offers various Negronis, and the “Acid Bar“, which among other things mixes a Ginger Lemon Kick. The “Barista Corado” offers espresso martini and the “Kasheme” bar offers light my fire and purple haze. We love this initiative very much!

Cooking at home during quarantine or mixing your own cocktail

I’ve always been a fan of easy recipes, especially now when I don’t go out shopping every day I try to plan my shopping list as accurate as possible and go for recipes that are easy to prepare. There are plenty of recipes such as risotto or oven recipes, where few ingredients are needed. I try to vary with veggies and fruits! Bake your own bread, pancakes or nutrition bars with nuts and honey.

And if you like to mix your own very simple drink at home, absolutely recommend checking the online shop of agoimports for some artisan fruity soda drinks in from the brand Three Cents. They come in different flavours and taste supernatural! They are created with natural spring water from Rododafni (Greece). You can find also a selection of spirits such as Gin, Vermouth or Tequila. My choice is the 100% handmade pink grapefruit soda mixed with some vermouth!

Online shopping is still possible so if you love fresh juices I absolutely recommend a cold press where you can create fast and easy vitamin bombs to start your day! The drink I love most is carrots, ginger & apples!

Follow Laz uns Kochen for Mediterranean inspiration in your kitchen, anaundnina for fresh and creative recipes or my friend Alma for some yummy baking ideas!

How to emotionally survive quarantine if you are single or a family!

These apps are much more fun and allow you to interact with the people you know or B with random people around the globe!

• Houseparty
  As the name suggests, it offers a way to hang out and party with friends while couped up at home.
• Words With Friends 2
  Essentially a Scrabble clone built for phones, it comes with an interface designed for interacting online.
• comehome
  Meet new friends, participating in house events organized in your city. It’s focused on Italy, Spain & UK – Check it out 🙂
• Smule App to get your karaoke career started!

Zero cost travelling for mind and soul to Europe, Africa or Asia?

We all know, that one day we will travel again, get some virtual travel suggestions for Europe, Africa or Asia on my travel blog section!

In the mood for some virtual Museum visits around the globe?

Are you bored of Netflix and the endless browsing on the internet? Here comes your virtual museum visit without leaving your couch!

• British Museum, London
  This iconic museum located in the heart of London allows virtual visitors to tour the Great Court and discover the ancient Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.
• Guggenheim Museum, New York
  Get ready with Google’s Street View for a tour through the Guggenheim’s famous spiral staircase. Discover incredible works of art from the Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary eras!
• Musée d’Orsay, Paris
  Walk virtually through this popular gallery that houses dozens of famous works from French artists who worked and lived between 1848 and 1914. Get a peek at artworks from Monet, Cézanne, and Gauguin, among others.
• Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
  Are you a fan of this tragic, ingenious painter then see his works up close by virtually visiting this museum – the largest collection of artworks by Vincent van Gogh?
• Uffizi Gallery, Florence
  This less well-known gallery houses the art collection of one of Florence, Italy’s most famous families, the de Medicis. The building was designed by Giorgio Vasari in 1560 specifically for Cosimo I de Medici.

To see more of Google Arts & Culture’s collection of museums, visit the collection’s website. There are thousands of museum Street Views on Google as well. Google Arts & Culture also has an online experience for exploring famous historic and cultural heritage sites.

Single and in the mood to flirt online –  Spread  Love not Corona!

In Zurich, a group of single boys & girls launched a flirting platform called: be-my-quarantine. The website is in German but once you’re logged in you can chat in any language! Get more directly on their site!

Why not have a coffee talk with Swiss celebrities or random people living in Switzerland?

The platform that makes this possible is called “binenand“. The platform connects generations in Switzerland, makes projects visible and networks actors and interested parties. Get a better picture on Instagram. The website seems to be in maintenance right now.

Ever tried Breakletics ? Looking for some fun and creative online sports instructors?

I personally was attending some classes in the studio Balboa in Zurich before lockdown, this is where I discovered the workout “Breakletics” and Leo. Check his classes to sweat and have fun! On Instagram, he goes live daily!

Yoga & fitness go perfectly along together!
My preferred online yoga studio is called: Alo Yoga Give it a try and let me know how you like it! There is a wide mix of instructors you can choose of. They are running a 14 day free trial right now!

In the best case, we can even integrate some of these new habits into our routine and make them last also after this covid-19 pandemic.

Stay safe and healthy!

Marina