7 places for drinks and snacks during your visit in Lausanne
A quick bite, a relaxed beer or cocktails over sharing plates: Lausanne has plenty of options for continuing the conversation after the scientific sessions. Here are seven places to consider during your stay.
1. The Great Escape
For a casual beer and a burger
Near Place de la Riponne, The Great Escape is an informal pub serving beers, spirits and burgers. It’s a straightforward choice when you want something uncomplicated to eat and a relaxed place to meet colleagues. Sports screenings are part of the atmosphere, so expect a livelier setting when a match is on.
Find it: Rue de la Madeleine 18
2. Le Vestibule
For cocktails in the old town
Hidden inside a bookshop in Lausanne’s historic La Cité district, Le Vestibule offers a more intimate setting for an evening drink. Cocktails take centre stage, alongside gin, absinthe and other drinks. Boards and snacks make it an option when you want a little food without committing to a full dinner.
Find it: Rue Cité-Devant 4
Explore Le Vestibule and its menu
3. Ta Cave Lausanne
For wine and something to share
On Rue du Simplon, in the station district, Ta Cave combines wines by the glass with sharing boards and small plates. It suits an evening built around conversation and trying a few things together. If you’re coming with a group, reserve ahead.
Find it: Rue du Simplon 35
4. Le Pointu
For an apéro that can become dinner
Le Pointu offers plenty of flexibility: start with a cocktail or a beer from nearby brewery La Nébuleuse, then order tapas or a sharing board if you’re hungry. Its evening menu also includes more substantial dishes and vegetarian choices. Alcohol-free cocktails give those skipping alcohol something interesting to choose from, too.
Find it: Rue Neuve 2
5. Eat Me Lausanne
For cocktails and small plates from around the world
Eat Me’s menu brings together influences from several continents, with small plates designed for sharing. Choose a few dishes for the table and explore its cocktail selection, which also includes low-alcohol and alcohol-free options. The cocktail bar welcomes guests without a dinner reservation; book a table if you’re planning a meal.
Find it: Rue Pépinet 3
6. Brasserie de Montbenon
For a more leisurely evening
Set in a Belle Époque building overlooking the gardens and lake, Brasserie de Montbenon is an option for a longer sit-down meal. The kitchen focuses on regional produce, with Swiss wines and a selection of mostly Swiss gins alongside it. Check the seasonal menu and reserve ahead for dinner.
Find it: Allée Ernest Ansermet 3
7. Holy Cow! Lausanne Terreaux
For a quick burger or takeaway
Sometimes a quick meal is exactly what you need. This permanent Holy Cow! location serves beef, chicken and vegetarian burgers with fries. Eat in or use click and collect when you’d rather take your food away—useful for a low-key evening after a busy day.
Find it: Rue des Terreaux 10
Restaurant details and ordering
Menus and opening hours can change. Check the venue’s website before heading out, especially for kitchen hours, and book ahead when visiting with a group.