Autumn is hunting season in Switzerland’s woods and mountains, and some of the game (called Wild in German) finds it way to Zurich’s restaurants. Jugged venison or rehpfeffer is one of the most popular dishes, but occasionally you’ll find roast venison or wild boar which may be served grilled or as a roast. The oppulent side dishes are nearly as important, typically consisting of red cabbage, steamed pear, lingonberry sauce, brussel sprouts, glazed chestnuts and egg pasta called spätzli or chnöpfli. Game has many fans, some look forward to the season all year! If you like meat in general, you most probably will become a fan too. Hunting has a tradition in Switzerland, but don’t be spoofed: nowadays the local hunt can’t keep up with the demand for venison, so ¾ of it is imported, a lot from farms in New Zealand and Australia. We would recommend going for a restaurant that has local game on the menu, not just for environmental reasons. We list a few places below that usually serve game in autumn, though not always and only from the local hunt. Local game is always subject to availabilty so we recommend checking by phone quickly before you go.