Grand Café Lochergut, Zurich, Switzerland

Following the launch of of the much-talked about Lily’s Factory earlier this year, it seems the food scene in Zurich’s District 4 is really starting to kick off. The latest opening brings a boost of Middle Eastern warmth to the ground floor of a brutalist 1960s building on Badnerstrasse.

The concept of restaurateur Yves Niedermayr, furniture dealer Adil Pajaziti and designer James Dyer-Smith, who wanted to bring a bit of their travels to their hometown, Grand Café Lochergut features a relaxed, informal menu of small bites or sharing plates - from lamb kebabs served with halouomi and pistachios to sabich (pita stuffed with eggplant) - all served on vibrant middle eastern-inspired crockery and tableware.

In contrast, the interiors are sleek and understated; four Art Deco chandeliers hang above a brass-topped bar, which takes centre stage, while elsewhere, stained oak tables with brass-milled edges are paired with grey suede armchairs or black leather banquettes.

In true grand café style, the restaurant is open from 7:30am until midnight. Although we suggest popping by  on a Saturday at 11am for the ‘funky brunch’,  where classics such as french toast or pain au chocolate are available along with more exotic offerings such as shakshuka Marocaine, a mouthwatering dish of eggs poached in spicy tomato sauce.