Kleinwäscherei

Kleinwäscherei is a restaurant, bar, café and meeting place within Zentralwäscherei, a non-commercial cultural venue at Neue Hard 12 in District 5. Its setting near Hardbrücke combines everyday dining with the social character of a place designed for gatherings, conversation and cultural events. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, with the café and bar making it suitable for anything from a daytime meal to a drink or a small bite later in the day.

The kitchen focuses on vegetarian and vegan cooking, using organic and sustainably produced ingredients from regional suppliers. The food is practical, generous and vegetable-led, with a menu that can include pasta, soups, salads, focaccia, hummus, small plates and baked items. Seasonal produce, grains, pulses, herbs and vegetables form the basis of the cooking, while influences from different Mediterranean and Middle Eastern traditions appear alongside familiar comfort dishes. Vegan options are clearly part of the offer, rather than an afterthought.

Lunch is served during the week, with dishes suited to a proper midday meal as well as simpler options for a shorter stop. In the afternoon, Kleinwäscherei works as a café for focaccia, cakes, pastries or a light snack. Dinner brings a broader selection of small plates and seasonal vegetarian and vegan dishes, with the bar providing a natural setting for drinks before or after eating. The menu is complemented by organic and sustainably sourced beverages, including wine, beer and spirits from selected producers.

The venue’s character comes from its connection to Zentralwäscherei. Kleinwäscherei is not presented as a formal dining room, but as a welcoming social space where food, drinks and cultural activity meet. The combination makes it a good fit for casual lunches, low-key evening meals, informal meetings and event-related visits. The menu also includes budget-conscious choices, helping the restaurant work for different types of diners without changing its focus on vegetarian and vegan food.

Located in Zurich’s District 5, Kleinwäscherei suits diners looking for plant-based food in an easygoing cultural setting. Lunch group requests can be made in advance, while evening visits are arranged on a walk-in basis rather than through reservations. Sunday opening is connected to the event programme, so the venue’s availability can vary.