Ratskeller Bern is a top address for exquisite French cuisine and fine wines in the heart of Bern's historic Old Town. Accompanied by the warm hospitality of Gerhard Liechti, every visit promises a special experience. But does Brasserie Ratskeller Bern meet expectations? We tested it and report on our culinary experience in our detailed review.
Quick Overview
- Location: Altstadt Bern
- Cuisine: French
- Price Range: $$$ (Upscale)
- Special Features: Stylish interior, seasonal cuisine
- Ideal for: Special occasions, business dinners, romantic evenings
- Overall Rating: 4.6 / 5
Content:
- Our Visit to Ratskeller Bern
- Our Review of Ratskeller Bern
- All Important Information about Ratskeller
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Our Visit to Ratskeller Bern - a Culinary French Experience
Elegance Inside and Out
The first glimpse of Ratskeller Bern from the outside already promises elegance. It is located in a historic building in the Old Town. Underneath the arcades, small bistro tables invite guests to linger, and next to the entrance, two wine barrels welcome visitors. The interior also lives up to this promise. As soon as you enter, you immerse yourself in a typical French ambiance: the beautiful wooden tables, lovingly decorated walls with framed photos, and soft lighting create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Menu with Typical French Dishes
Ratskeller's menu impresses with classic French dishes, complemented by selected Swiss specialties. As a starter, for example, a lamb's lettuce salad is available, optionally with eggs and bacon. Other delicacies include beef tartare, foie gras, or Russian salad. Main courses feature favorites such as Entrecôte "Café de Paris" or sliced veal liver, as well as a Wiener Schnitzel. The selection varies according to the season.
From Russian Salad to Coq au Vin to Café Gourmand - A Delight!
As a starter, I chose the Russian salad. This consisted of small vegetable and potato diced pieces, dressed in a rich creamy sauce, and garnished with two half, filled eggs and two anchovy fillets. The sauce had a mayonnaise note. Together with the eggs and the salty-savory taste of the anchovy, this was a heavenly and fulfilling combination.
My main course followed: the classic Coq au Vin (see featured image). It was served in a robust, dark red wine sauce, refined with crunchy Paris onions, mushrooms, and crispy croutons. It came with mashed potatoes, which perfectly complemented the rich sauce. This authentically French-prepared Coq au Vin is definitely a highlight at Ratskeller Bern.
For wine, we chose a Don Daniele from the Toro region in Spain. This is an elegant Tempranillo, priced in the upper segment, which impressed with its truly intense and profound taste.
To finish, we enjoyed a Café Gourmand with a delightful selection of caramel crème, Christmas tiramisu, and vanilla ice cream. A successful sweet conclusion to our meal.
True Hospitality at Ratskeller Bern
The service at Ratskeller Bern was impeccable and convincing: friendly and attentive, without being intrusive. Particularly noteworthy is the personal touch from host Gerhard Liechti, who personally stopped by our table, creating an inviting and familiar atmosphere. You truly feel like a welcome guest here.
Review for Ratskeller Bern
| Criteria | Description | Score from 1 to 5 (1 = poor, 5 = excellent) |
| Rating | The complete package of charming ambiance, excellent cuisine, and exquisite wine is compelling, even if the price is in the upscale segment. | 4.6 |
| Atmosphere | Elegant and cozy both inside and out. The clientele matches the upscale brasserie. | 5 |
| Service | The service is friendly and attentive, supported by the dedicated host. | 4 |
| Selection | The menu and wine list are compact but offer classic brasserie dishes for starters, meat and fish main courses, and desserts. | 5 |
| Quality | The food and, furthermore, the wine were of high quality. | 5 |
| Price | The prices at Brasserie Ratskeller are definitely high, but they match the quality of the cuisine and the elegant atmosphere. | 4 |
Last visited on 14th December 2024
Practical Information about Ratskeller
Menus (Food Menu, Drinks Menu)
You can find the current food and drink menus for Ratskeller Bern directly on the restaurant's homepage.
Contact and Reservation
Gerechtigkeitsgasse 81
3011 Bern
+41 31 311 17 71
Directions to Brasserie Ratskeller Bern
From Bern train station, it's best to take bus number 12 towards "Zentrum Paul Klee" and get off at the Rathaus stop. From there, it's just under 100m on foot.
Guests arriving by car can find parking at Casinoparking.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ratskeller Bern
Yes, early reservation, especially for evenings and weekends, is strongly recommended. Due to its popularity and upscale ambiance, this is advisable to avoid waiting times and an early reservation is recommended.
Ratskeller Bern always offers a selection of vegetarian dishes, such as mushroom Risotto or mushroom pastries. For vegan options, we recommend contacting the restaurant directly to discuss current possibilities.