Everything you need to know about Gondola Island, the winter pop-up on the lakeside terrace of Restaurant Lake Side in Zurich.
What is Gondola Island?
Gondola Island is a winter pop-up on the lakeside terrace of Restaurant Lake Side in Zurich: Swiss cheese fondue in authentic ski gondolas right on Lake Zurich, from 31 October 2026 to 14 February 2027.
Which fondues are on the menu?
In the evening we serve a fondue menu: lamb’s lettuce salad with egg and croûtons, followed by cheese fondue of your choice – moitié-moitié, truffle or chili – with fondue bread, potatoes, pickled vegetables and baked mushrooms. To finish, there is Valais apricot sorbet with Abricotine. During the day, a separate day menu applies. You can find the full menu on our menu page.
How much does a visit cost?
The evening fondue menu costs CHF 69 per person.
Is there an alternative to cheese fondue?
Yes. Guests who do not eat cheese can choose an alternative main course from the day menu, for example chicken karaage.
How many people fit in a gondola?
Gondolas for 4 to 8 people can be booked online. For 2 people, please book by phone on +41 44 385 86 00. Groups book through our banqueting office: bankett@lake-side.ch.
When is Gondola Island open?
November and December: Monday to Friday 2:00–10:30 pm, Saturday 12:00 noon–10:30 pm, Sunday 12:00 noon–9:30 pm.
January and February: closed on Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday to Friday 2:00–10:30 pm, Saturday 12:00 noon–10:30 pm, Sunday 12:00 noon–9:30 pm.
Are the gondolas heated?
Yes, the gondolas are heated. Fire bowls, furs and blankets around the site add extra warmth.
Is Gondola Island open in any weather?
Yes. The gondolas are sheltered, so you can enjoy your fondue in any weather.
What is the atmosphere like?
Warm white fairy lights, fir trees, fire bowls and the jetty right on Lake Zurich combine Alpine hut charm with Zurich lakeside flair.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome.
Is there a minimum age?
No. Families with children are very welcome.
How do I get there by public transport?
Take tram 2 or 4 to the «Fröhlichstrasse» stop, then it is a short walk. Or take bus 912 or 916 to the «Chinagarten» stop. Address: Bellerivestrasse 170, 8008 Zurich.
Is there parking?
Yes, parking is available right next to Restaurant Lake Side.
Can I cancel my booking free of charge?
Yes. Bookings can be cancelled free of charge up to 24 hours before the reservation, using the same channel you booked with. For no-shows or late cancellations, a fee of CHF 50 per person may be charged.
Are gift vouchers available?
Yes, vouchers are available from our voucher shop (in German), from CHF 20.
Is Gondola Island suitable for corporate events and Christmas dinners?
Yes. Gondola Island is the setting for corporate events, client events and group dinners. Our banqueting office will be happy to help: bankett@lake-side.ch.