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El Alebrije

Mexican Restaurant ·

Hardstrasse 9, 8004 Zürich, Switzerland

Menu and hours last checked

El Alebrije

About El Alebrije

If you're looking for authentic Mexican flavors in Zürich, El Alebrije at Hardstrasse 9 is a spot that really delivers. This lively Mexican restaurant balances a casual, welcoming vibe with a menu that caters to all sorts of tastes. Whether you're popping in for a late-night bite or enjoying a more relaxed dine-in experience, there’s something for everyone. The restaurant features outdoor seating, making it perfect for sunny days when you want to soak in the city atmosphere while sipping on a cocktail or a glass of wine.

The drink selection here is impressive, ranging from refreshing beers and expertly crafted cocktails to hard liquors and smooth coffee, so whether it’s happy hour or a post-dinner nightcap, you’re covered. Food-wise, El Alebrije doesn’t disappoint-vegetarians and vegans will find thoughtful options alongside more traditional fare. The menu is designed to provide comfort and indulgence, with flavors that pop and dishes that are easy to share in small plates style. This flexibility makes it a great choice for groups, couples, or even solo diners looking for a satisfying quick bite.

Service is efficient and friendly, with takeout available if you’re on the go, though the atmosphere really shines when you settle in for a meal. Each dish reflects the richness of Mexican cuisine, from bold, spicy flavors to more subtle, aromatic touches. Whether you’re pairing your meal with a cocktail, enjoying a craft beer, or keeping it simple with coffee, every option complements the vibrant dishes on offer. With its mix of drink variety, vegan and vegetarian-friendly plates, and a space that invites you to linger, El Alebrije brings a slice of Mexico to Zürich in a way that’s approachable, flavorful, and fun.

Where this information comes from

Prices and dish names are transcribed from the restaurant's printed menu, photographed in August 2026 and reproduced on the menu page. Hours, address and service options come from the restaurant's public business profile. An editor confirmed the restaurant was trading on 4 September 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

Photos

Business info

Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • No Delivery

Highlights

  • Great cocktails
  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert

Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining

Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Hard liquor
  • Late-night food
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine

Dining options

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom
  • Wi-Fi

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Trendy

Crowd

  • Groups

Planning

  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Children

  • High chairs

Opening hours

  • Monday Closed
  • Tuesday Closed
  • Wednesday 06:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Thursday 06:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Friday 06:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Saturday 06:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Sunday 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM ,06:00 PM - 11:30 PM

Hours can change on public holidays. Call ahead if you are making a special trip.

Location

Hardstrasse 9, 8004 Zürich, Switzerland

Diner notes

4.2 4.2 out of 5 · 426 notes
  • 5 stars 277
  • 4 stars 47
  • 3 stars 44
  • 2 stars 34
  • 1 stars 24
5 out of 5
We had an incredible experience at El Alebrije. The surprise menu consisted of five courses, all of which were outstanding and full of flavor. Unlike in some other restaurants with a similar concept, the portions were nicely sized. We left very satisfied, but not overly full. Miguel, the owner, was an excellent host and checked on us frequently to make sure we had everything we needed. He was very attentive and created a very nice atmosphere. We will definitely go back. It's probably the best Mexican restaurant in Zurich.
AM Alina Meletta Ate here , 23:56 am
5 out of 5
In Zurich’s bustling culinary scene, El Alebrije stands out with its masterfully presented Mexican cuisine. The passion and dedication of the chef and his wife are palpable from the moment you step in. Every ingredient is meticulously chosen, every dish prepared with an eye for detail. The five-course tasting menu is a sensory experience, worth every franc. The drinks are particularly noteworthy – a true explosion of flavors that perfectly complement the culinary journey. Each cocktail is a small masterpiece, capturing the essence of Mexican flavors in their purest form. The intimate atmosphere, facilitated by the limited guest number of just twelve, allows for the full appreciation of each exquisite dish. It feels almost like a private dining club, where every guest is treated like a VIP. I can’t wait to return and be transported once again into this culinary world. Hasta la próxima, saludos!
MR Marcel Rapold Ate here , 22:55 am
5 out of 5
Had a fantastic experience at El Alebrije tonight and am actually somewhat surprised by some of the reviews I read as I went to post this. As a Californian who has been in Europe for a month, I was craving some comfort food and really was satisfied by the Mexican cuisine at El Alebrije. The jalapeno margarita was on point, the flautas were on par with what I would expect from a local food truck at home (a good thing!) and the pescado was well seasoned (and the owner Miguel was incredibly kind and brought me homemade blue corn tortillas to make the plate my own). I also really appreciated the trio of salsas - reminded me of my fave taqueria in SF and each salsa had a truly different flavor profile and level of spice. They also all paired nicely with the dishes, which isn't always the case with a salsa bar. For what it's worth, I had the opposite experience of many of the other commenters and felt that service was more than adequate - my order was taken immediately, menu choices were described clearly even with a language barrier, I was checked on multiple times, and I didn't have to wait at all for a second drink order or to get the bill. Maybe it's because I've been in some more "relaxed" parts of Europe for the past month, but this was by far the most attentive service I've had in weeks. The vibe is good, ambiance trendy and it felt like a "less explored" neighborhood of Zurich - would absolutely recommend. For any Americans out there, it isn't going to be your classic huge menu / Tex Mex fajitas a la Chuy's or Cozymel's (nor is it purporting to be!), but it is going to be similar to what you'd get at an authentic Oaxacan place in NYC or LA.
CS Celina Stewart Ate here , 04:11 am

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