Rooftop Frau Gerolds Garten in Zurich

Frau Gerolds Garten: a terrace on the containers of Zürich-West

An urban garden at the foot of the Prime Tower

Set on the Geroldareal, in Kreis 5, between the Prime Tower and the Freitag tower, a stone's throw from the Hardbrücke, Frau Gerolds Garten combines a kitchen garden, seasonal cuisine, small shops housed in containers and several bars. Nearly a quarter of the site is cultivated: herbs, vegetables and fruit from the garden end up on the plate.

The big draw in summer is the terrace laid out on the roof of the stacked containers, at second-floor height: tables, climbing plants, colourful parasols and string lights. It keeps the sun until late in the evening and overlooks the bundle of railway tracks, with the Prime Tower close by and, in fine weather, the peaks in the distance.

Two seasons, two atmospheres

From April to September, the garden works like a large self-service open-air tavern: daily menus at lunchtime and in the evening, grill, bars, open-air parties on certain evenings, open every day, lunchtime and evening. From October to early March, it makes way for the winter garden, in the open air, with fires, blankets, fondue, raclette and Asian food stalls, and for the Winterstube, a heated room with a fireplace where you can eat fondue in the warm.

Practical information

Geroldstrasse 23, a few minutes' walk from Hardbrücke S-Bahn station. No parking for cars, but spaces for bicycles. Just turn up without booking: table reservations are for groups of ten or more only. Season dates and opening hours change every year and depending on the weather: it is best to check the website before you come. Family atmosphere during the day, with activities for children on certain days.