Switzerland: This Needs Kirsch 

The Alphorn Restaurant  – 209881 ON-26, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0K3
Country: Switzerland       
Must-try dish: Fondue (Cheese and Meat)
Seating: Indoor and outdoor seating. 
Dinner guests: Daddy Pig, Dirty D, Loud Lucy, Pornstar Sam, RP & Suited Sebastien 
The high: The atmosphere is incredible, especially if you’re in the mood to drink beers from around the world. 
The low: Some of the dishes that we ordered were underwhelming, but in future we would order more traditional dishes. 

In an effort to transport ourselves to the heights of Mont Blanc, we recently savoured a late afternoon feast at The Alphorn Restaurant in Collingwood, the go-to Swiss eatery near Toronto. Stepping into this establishment feels like stepping into the heart of the Alps, adorned with wooden beams, vintage ski equipment adorning the walls, and an après-ski ambiance that sets the perfect tone.

Alpine Ambiance and Global Beer Selection

As you step into Alphorn, you’re immediately immersed in a Swiss mountain chalet vibe. Wooden beams line the ceiling, vintage ski equipment decorates the walls, and an après-ski atmosphere beckons. What’s more, if you plan to stay for a few beers, the diverse beer selection here allows you to embark on a global tasting journey.

A Swiss Culinary Odyssey

The menu at Alphorn boasts a delightful array of Swiss specialties, including fondue, raclette, and schnitzel, alongside comforting dishes from the European mountain regions.

Fondue à la Neuchatel – A Cheesy Delight

Our culinary journey commenced with the Cheese Fondue à la Neuchatel, a classic blend of emmental and gruyere served over a candle, ensuring a continuous, bubbling delight. The touch of nutmeg provided a unique twist, although we missed the distinct flavor of kirsch. A tip for perfection: enhance the experience with high-quality, room temperature bread.

Alphorn’s Famous Schnitzel – A Pork Lover’s Paradise

For an unbeatable burst of flavor, always opt for the pork schnitzel over chicken. Thin, crispy pieces of meat, battered and fried, offer a choice between the smokey Hunter sauce and the Whiskey Mushroom Cream sauce for an additional burst of seasoning.

Beef Stroganoff with Spatzle – A Non-Traditional Delight

For those looking beyond the classics, the Beef Stroganoff with spatzle is a must-try. Thin slices of beef cooked with peppers, mushrooms, and onions in a creamy paprika sauce, served over fluffy spatzle noodles. It’s a generous portion, perfect for sharing or satisfying a hearty appetite.

Hunter Platter for Two – A Meat Lover’s Extravaganza

Our final culinary expedition led us to the Hunter Platter for Two—a carnivorous delight featuring steak, chicken, schnitzel, and sausage, accompanied by boiled potatoes and various sauces. While the beef and chicken were underwhelming, the sausage stood out. We would consider opting out of this dish and opting for others on the menu such as the Raclette or Fondue Bourguignonne on your next visit.

Our visit to Alphorn Restaurant offered a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Swiss cuisine. Despite a few misses, the highlights, including the Schnitzel and Beef Stroganoff, left us eager to return for more authentic Swiss flavors.

Eat with you soon,

Mandrea Bike

(Mat & Andrea)

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