Papa Ceviche, Badenerstrasse, Zurich

Ceviche as a standalone concept arrives in Zurich. Papa Ceviche opened up in the former Schmuklerski bar on Badenerstrasse. We arrived at 19.00 and the place is pretty packed, we get a nice table at the wall. The vibe of the place is pretty good. Unlike other concepts here, it’s full of people (we’ll hope it lasts) and seems to be buzzing. The menu is a simple sheet of paper and the concept is smart, it’s geared at getting people in and out of the door.

It’s almost a tapas like place, but with a peruvian twist. Essentially a whole array of small plates for you to choose from. They recommend 3-5 dishes per person, which as soon as you’re more than two almost becomes the whole menu. The appetizer we liked the best was a simple chorizo served with some sour cream, with the cream going nicely with the heat of the sausage. The pulled chicken salad was tasty too, just like the blue potato which had a distinct taste.

We were slightly disappointed with the Ceviche – the tilapia was good, had a strong and fruity acitidy. But the shrimp and especially the salmon didn’t work for us and we wouldn’t order that again. On the bright side the chicken wings marinated with Coke were great! I think the restaurant is going to be doing great. It has a good energy and a busy vibe, it’s certainly going to be popular with the ladies (tasty low carb dining) and that will draw in the men automatically. Personally I’d like even more different types of Ceviche, but then again I tend to be a grumpy old man 😉