Zurich Bar Tip: Where Urban Flair Meets Business Class

Zurich has no shortage of culinary concepts – but few combine urban flair and relaxation quite like the Haus am Fluss. Located just minutes from the main train station, directly on the river, it has quickly become a hotspot for companies, creatives, and connoisseurs.

The project is led by 23-year-old Jacob Schümperli and his twin brother Maximilian, who built both the venue and their hospitality firm, Flightmode. The «Schümperli twins» embody a new kind of hospitality – and a generation rethinking how experiences are created.

A deliberate destination

«You have to really want to come to Haus am Fluss,» says Jacob Schümperli in conversation with finews.ch. Its location is both blessing and curse: no parking, no walk-ins – but guests who come deliberately, and stay longer. «Most people spend the whole evening here. It’s not just about having a drink; it’s about immersing yourself in the place.»

The venue is based in a converted greenhouse that has been transformed with great care into an urban summer oasis. Lounge areas meet bars, Asian food stalls meet cultural formats. The Zurich-based company Flightmode is responsible for concept, renovation, and operations.

Thriving B2B business

The Haus am Fluss is particularly strong in the event business – including the B2B segment. Corporate clients use the location for summer parties, brand events, or networking gatherings.

«We operate a hybrid model,» Schümperli explains. «One third of the space can be reserved, while the rest remains open to the public. That way, we preserve the place’s openness and character.»

Alcohol-free elegance in a glass

Day raves are also a key part of the concept. «We work with local DJs, not international bookings,» says Schümperli. Even without big names, he believes in the model: «Our community grows organically. We offer identification, not interchangeable event design.»

The drinks menu plays a central role – and hits the spirit of the times, especially in corporate contexts. «Half of our drinks are alcohol-free – not out of duty, but by conviction,» Schümperli says.

Kinley Tonic as a mixer

Alongside wine and classics like Spritz and Negroni, the bar offers its own non-alcoholic signature drinks: for example, a Passion Spritz based on essences, fresh lemon juice, honey syrup, and Kinley Tonic Water from the Coca-Cola portfolio – a close partner of the house.

The fact that alcohol-free options are curated with care is appreciated not only by corporate clients. «The trend clearly points toward lighter enjoyment and mindful choices – even in event and networking settings.»

Work culture: young, pragmatic, efficient

The team behind the project is young but experienced. Schümperli founded his first venture at 19. Today, he and his brother run a team of eight full-time employees and about 30 part-time staff with two managing directors.

While many restaurateurs complain about staff shortages, Haus am Fluss has so far escaped that fate. «We’re a place people enjoy working – maybe because we speak our generation’s language,» says the 23-year-old.

Measured growth

Currently, the venue operates seasonally – from April to October. The goal of a year-round concept is in sight, with discussions underway with the city and partners. The team is also expanding its focus: more cultural events, stronger sustainability collaborations with brands, and new business experience formats.

Haus am Fluss is not a traditional gastronomy project – it’s a hybrid meeting place that fills an urban gap and sets new standards for hospitality, business culture, and brand activation. In an era when “experience” is the new “ownership,” it could become a model for the hospitality industry of tomorrow.

This bar recommendation is presented by The Coca-Cola Company.