A former photography darkroom converted to a bar, Kabinett operates from 7pm on weekdays and 5pm on weekends without a written menu: the bartender works from conversation with each customer. The spirits collection focuses on Swiss distilleries and unusual European producers. Maximum 16 customers at once. Finding the entrance requires knowing that it is on the ground floor of an apartment building with a single frosted glass panel illuminated in amber.
The room is Selnaustrasse's answer to Zürich's broader speakeasy scene. The bartenders take their craft seriously without making a show of it, and the menu rewards repeat visits rather than first-timers chasing the obvious order. The Converted Darkroom programme is the right place to start.
Best time to visit is mid-week between 6pm and 9pm when the bar settles into its rhythm. Weekends fill up and the room takes on a different energy. Reservations are recommended for groups, and on Friday and Saturday for couples.
Kabinett sits in Selnaustrasse, one of Zürich's most distinctive drinking neighbourhoods. The crowd skews toward thirty-something locals on weekdays and a slightly younger international mix on weekends. The lighting is low. Conversation works at the bar; the booths handle small groups.
Dress code is smart-casual. The bar is most rewarding for an unhurried 90-minute visit between 7pm and 9pm — early enough to talk to the bartender, late enough that the room has filled in. Tags worth knowing about: Converted Darkroom, No Menu, Swiss Spirits.
Kabinett accepts walk-ins mid-week before 8pm. After that, expect a wait — reserve in advance through their Instagram or by phone. The bar takes cards. Tipping follows local convention in Zürich. Most regulars order two drinks at the bar, then move to a table when one opens up.
What to order
- 01
The Converted Darkroom programme
- 02
Editor's Pick
- 03
Off-Menu Request