Practical information : Eating out Lausanne
Timetable
Schedules are random. Some of the restaurants in the centre sometimes serve continuously, but the smaller shops have reduced hours, at lunch and dinner, and never too late in the evening. Tea rooms are also open in the afternoon. It should be noted that on Saturdays, the city centre is crowded and the restaurants are quickly sold out, whereas it will be deserted on Sundays. So remember to book your establishment accordingly depending on where you are visiting.
Budget & Tips
The food budget is very quickly becoming important in Switzerland. It is difficult to get a dish for less than CHF 20 in a restaurant, even at lunchtime. In the evening, the bill can very quickly become heavier. Fortunately, there are very good snacking establishments, to eat on the go for lunch during your visits... before catching up on a fondue to share in the evening!
What costs extra
Prices always include service, but the Swiss easily leave a 10% tip in restaurants, taxis and bars.
To be avoided
We say it right away for those who are not used to it: don't drink water during a fondue! Indeed, with cold water, melted cheese will tend to solidify in your stomach and can quickly become indigestible. Prefer wine at room temperature... or hot tea, to facilitate digestion at the end of the meal.
Last point on haggling. The rule is clear: there is no haggling in Switzerland!
Kids
Children are almost always taken into consideration in museums and other cultural places as well as on board means of transport, through discounts and other small attentions such as adapted visit programmes or play corners (especially in some restaurants). There are many possibilities for attractions and family visits on the Riviera.
Smokers
Nothing different with France either. Since 2010, it is no longer possible to shoot a cigarette in a restaurant or bar. Smoking corners exist, of course.