Tom Yum Kung and Chasstubli, Interlaken - Switzerland

Previously:

McDonald's in Switzerland

Originally, we planned to enjoy a classic Swiss cheese fondue at Chasstubli, the cozy restaurant inside Hotel Krebs.  After a long, packed day of sightseeing, though, we were feeling exhausted and craving something heavy and filling, but in an Asian comfort food way.  So, at the last minute, we decided to go for Thai food instead.  So, we went to this restaurant called Tom Yum Kung. 

We ordered two soups: a spicy tom sap for us and a simple tomato and egg noodle soup for the kids.  For mains, we chose garlic pork and lemon pork, two dishes that usually feel like safe, satisfying options.  To be completely honest, the Thai food here just couldn't compare to what we're used to back in Sydney.  I wouldn't say it was bad, but it definitely wasn't great either.  The spice level was acceptable but overall dishes were far too salty.  At around CHF 25 per dish, the portions we received felt quite underwhelming for the price. 

Looking back, we really should have stuck with the cheese fondue plan.  After postponing it that night, we never got another chance to try cheese fondue during this trip - something I genuinely regret.  Very, very much.

Tomato and egg noodle soup

Garlic pork

Lemon pork

Tom sap soup - spicy and sour soup

Toblerone schokoladenmousse - Toblerone chocolate mousse CHF 9.50 (around AUD 17.30)

Schokoladen-Fondue mit Fruchte and Biscuit CHF 16 (around 29.10)

Chocolate fondue served with fresh fruit and crispy biscuits

On the bright side, we still managed to end the evening on a sweet note.  We went back to Chasstubli for dessert and ordered chocolate fondue and a chocolate mousse.  That part did not disappoint.  We had so much fun stuffing ourselves with their delicious chocolate desserts.  The Toblerone chocolate mousse was sooo rich, smooth and delicious.  That chocolate fondue was amazing too.  I literally scrapped up the last drop of melted chocolate because it was just too yummy.  Honestly, wish we ordered more!!!!  If only we had gone for the cheese fondue too - it would have been the perfect Swiss dining experience.

 

Tom Yum Kung

Centralstrasse 7, 3008 Interlaken

Open: Daily 11:00 - 21:00

Chasstubli Restaurant

Bahnhofstrasse 4, 3800 Interlaken

Ph: +41 33 826 0330

Stay tuned for the next blog still in Swiss:

Grindelwald and Lunch at Hirschen Restaurant, Switzerland

McDonald's in Switzerland

Previously:

Coop Supermarkt, Switzerland

One thing I always do whenever I visit another country is to try their McDonald's.  It may sound a little weird but hear me out.

McDonald's in every country always has something special - menu items that you can't find anywhere else.  It's like a small cultural experience served in a paper box.  You get a taste of local flavours but still wrapped in that similar golden-arches comfort.

Here in Switzerland, they have some seriously unique items.  Two of the best things I've ever had from McDonald's around the world are the McExtreme Bacon Burger and their chocolate pie.  Let's start with the burger.

The McExtreme bacon burger is rich, saucy and incredibly meaty.  It's stacked with juicy beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese and a bold, creamy sauce that ties everything together perfectly.  It's not your average fast-food burger.  It tastes premium, hearty and deeply satisfying.  Definitely not something I expected to fall in love with at McDonald's.

An then... the chocolate pie.  Oh My Goodness!!!

This is hands down the best McDonald's pie I've ever had.  Unlike the usual pies you find in other countries, where the filling can taste like artificial jam or overly sweet custard.  This one is different.  The chocolate filling is rich and smooth, almost like real melted chocolate.  Nothing can go wrong with Swiss chocolate.  It's not overly sweet either, which makes me think they're using something closer to dark choc.  It tastes deeper, more intense and way more luxurious that you'd expect from a fast-food dessert

McExtreme Bacon meal CHF 17.50

The M CHF 11.10

Chicken wings (6pcs) CHF 6.60

Schokoladentasche (chocolate pie) CHF 2.90

So yes, trying McDonald's in every country might sound strange.  But for me, it's like a mini food adventure inside a global brand.  Sometimes you may unlock something unforgettable.  Like this bacon loaded burger that hits all the right notes or a chocolate pie that completely redefines your expectations.  And Switzerland?  You definitely did not disappoint.

Stay tuned for the next blog in Swiss:

Tom Yum Kung and Chasstubli, Interlaken - Switzerland

Coop Supermarkt, Switzerland

Previously:

Winterlaken - Interlaken, Switzerland

If you travel in Switzerland, one supermarket you'll quickly become familiar with is Coop.  I find myself going there almost every day, whether it's for snacks, drinks, quick meals or even small souvenirs to bring home.

In Switzerland, Coop is especially impressive.  Some stores dedicate nearly two full blocks of shelves just for cheese, which isn't surprising in a country famous for its dairy culture.  From well-known varieties like Gruyere and Emmental to local regional specialties, the selection feels endless.  You can even find cheese for raclette as well.

What also surprised me is how international the offerings are.  Asian cup noodles, for example, have their own large selection.  It's comforting to find familiar flavours from home while travelling and Coop does a great job catering to diverse tastes.

Beyond packaged goods, the fresh food section is a highlight.  You'll find ready-to-eat salads, sushi, hot chicken, pastries and seasonal items - perfect for a quick breakfast or dinner meal.  The quality is fresh and reliable, and compared to eating at restaurants in Switzerland (which I found, it can be quite expensive), the prices are much more affordable while still being pretty decent in taste and portion.  It's worth checking out while you're there.

Bread and pastries

Cakes and desserts

salad bowls

Asian section

Hot roast chicken

Instant noodles

Stay tuned for the next blog still in Swiss:

McDonald's in Switzerland

Winterlaken - Interlaken, Switzerland

Previously:

Hotel Krebs, Interlaken

This will be a short post, as I'm only sharing photos from Interlaken during our visit in wintertime.

In winter, Interlaken truly lives up to the nickname "Winterlaken".  Around this time, parts of the garden areas are beautifully set up with lights and seasonal decorations, creating a festive atmosphere that's perfect for a slow stroll.  You'll also find cozy cafes, chocolate shops and small boutiques along the main streets.  

When you cross the river, you enter Unterseen, which feels quieter and more traditional.  The streets here are lined with charming Swiss chalets, wooden balconies and historic buildings that especially beautiful dusted in snow.  

 

Together, both sides offer two different but equally magical winter experiences - one lively and festive, the other calm and full of old-town charm.

Stay tuned for the next blog still in Interlaken:

Coop Supermarkt, Switzerland

Hotel Krebs, Interlaken - Switzerland

Previously: 

Wirtshaus Taube Lucerne

Located right in the heart of Interlaken, Hotel Krebs Interlaken is one of those places that beautifully blends history with modern comfort.  Established back in 1875, the hotel has stood the test of time.  Over the years, it has undergone thoughtful renovations, ensuring that while the facilities feel fresh and contemporary, the traditional Swiss charm remains wonderfully intact.

The classic exterior reflects its rich heritage, but stepping into the rooms tell a different story, modern interiors, clean lines, comfortable furnishings and all the amenities you'd expect from a contemporary stay.  It's truly the best of both worlds.

We stayed as a family of five so the lounge area was converted into a second bedroom.  Even with the additional bedding, the room still felt spacious and comfortable.  

One small but delightful touch we absolutely loved was the complimentary Swiss chocolate on the beds.  A simple gesture, yet so memorable.

View from our window

Breakfast at the hotel was simple but satisfying.  While the selection wasn't extensive, every item was thoughtfully served and of high quality.  Sometimes it's not about quantity, but about getting everything just right and they certainly did.

The cold cuts and cheeses were excellent (as you would expect in Switzerland) and the variety of jams available was impressive.  I found myself going back to the same favourites every morning for three days straight and I never got tired of it.  That's when you know the breakfast truly hits the spot.

Drink section

Bread section

Cold meat and cheese section

Cereal, danish and jams section

In the afternoon and evening, this breakfast area turns into a restaurant.  Apparently, they're famous for their cheese fondue.  I had added it to my bucket list, but unfortunately, we didn't get the chance to try the cheese but we got to try the chocolate one instead. 

Hotel Krebs Interlaken 

Bahnhofstrasse 4, 3800 Interlaken

Ph: +41 33 826 0330

Stay tuned for the next blog still in Interlaken:

Winterlaken - Interlaken, Switzerland