4 traditional first-floor restaurants in St.Gallen
Tradition and enjoyment in unique restaurants in St.Gallen's old town
The charming first-floor restaurants («Erststockbeizli») in St.Gallen are true culinary treasures of the region. These restaurants are located on the first floor of historic half-timbered houses that once formed the vibrant centre of medieval life. Today, they are a real insider tip and offer a special atmosphere that combines history and enjoyment. Whether for a cosy dinner with friends or a romantic dinner for two, you will find the perfect ambience here.
The history of this unique restaurants dates back to a time when the building site in St.Gallen was still damp and marshy. The half-timbered houses were therefore built on sturdy wooden piles. While the dark ground floor was used for livestock and trade, the brighter upper floor developed into a place of enjoyment and conviviality. Today, you can enjoy the cosy atmosphere of the «Erststockbeizli», created by the low, wood-panelled walls and well-preserved Gothic ceiling beams. From the first floor, you can also watch the hustle and bustle in the squares and alleys while enjoying a delicious meal.
1.
Weinstube zum Bäumli
The historic half-timbered house in which the «Weinstube zum Bäumli» is located was built in 1422. The wine bar and restaurant opened in 1813 and were originally an exclusive meeting place for the wealthy population and loyal regulars. Later, the doors were opened to the entire population. The paintings and pictures on the walls of the Weinstube zum Bäumli still tell of times gone by and exude an atmosphere of tradition and heritage. In this historic setting, you can now enjoy fine wines and culinary specialities ranging from delicate rarities such as tripe in white wine sauce to classics such as the St.Gallen Bratwurst or veal liver with rösti. An impressive detail at the «Bäumli»: cooking is done on just four hotplates. In addition, the «Weinstube zum Bäumli» has been run by women for 100 years.
2.
Genuss Manufaktur Neubad
The «Genuss Manufaktur Neubad» is located within historic walls that were built around 1550. Behind these walls there used to be a bathhouse with medical facilities, but today the restaurant is known for its gourmet dishes. These are served instead of traditional dishes, allowing guests to sample a variety of delicacies and send their taste buds on a journey of discovery. The architecture of this «Erststockbeizli» is also remarkable: not only is food served on two floors, but it is also cooked there.
3.
Zum goldenen Schäfli
Nestled within the walls of a former butchers' guild hall is «Zum goldenen Schäfli», probably the best-known restaurant on the first floor. The guild hall was built in 1484 and is the last of its kind in St.Gallen. The special feature of «Zum goldenen Schäfli» is its charming sloping position. From the floors to the Gothic wooden ceiling to the levels of the wine glasses, everything in the first-floor restaurant is slightly crooked. Anyone who takes a seat here will experience a truly slanted perspective. The person at the top of the table sits about 20 centimetres higher than the person at the bottom. Over the centuries, the foundations of the guild house have slowly sunk due to the lowering of the groundwater level, giving the first-floor restaurant its unique character. To humorously emphasise the charm of the guild house, even the menu has been cut at an angle at the bottom. The veal liver with onions, herbs and rösti is a particular treat.
4.
Wirtschaft zur alten Post
Since 1552, the building has been shining in its rustic ambience and harbours stories from times long past. Johannes Kessler, a companion of Vadian and co-responsible reformer in St.Gallen, once lived here. Today, the «Wirtschaft zur alten Post» combines tradition and modernity. The menu offers a selection of classic dishes with a contemporary twist. An absolute highlight is the lava stone-grilled bratwurst with crispy rösti, which comes highly recommended as a culinary masterpiece. The specialities of the «Wirtschaft zur alten Post» are said to be prepared in the smallest kitchen in town. But the wine cellar is all the bigger for it.
Ready for a culinary adventure?
Visit one of these traditional first-floor restaurants and let yourself be enchanted by the unique atmosphere and delicious dishes. Plan your next restaurant visit today and experience the culinary diversity of St.Gallen!
