If we had to pick one place that embodies the innovative,
irreverent spirit of Kreis 5, Rosso would be a strong contender. Housed in a former
Erdgas building by the railway tracks, there is no ostensible sign of a
restaurant here, walk between 2 old industrial buildings, go into the less than
obvious doorway and ta-da – revealed are serried ranks of happy diners. The
mysterious location just adds to the rather ‘guerrilla’ feel, by design rather
than accident.

The five friends behind Rosso, an architect, journalist, chef,
restaurateur and designer, wanted to encapsulate the subversive days of the
early 90s, when tough licensing laws forced restaurants, bars and clubs
underground. Picking up tables and chairs from liquidation sales, they installed
a pizza oven, metal serving bar and large chimney but otherwise have left the
industrial setting to tell its own tale. This laissez faire approach does not apply to the kitchen though.

Chef David
Kaldek has rigorous standards for his ingredients, changing the menu daily
depending on what’s available. Whilst Rosso is justly famous for its delicious
pizzas, the Alpine / Mediterranean menu and homemade pasta deserve equal
praise. At busy times, service can be a little slow, so relax and watch the
passing parade of Zürich’s creative types.