The Swiss Alps slide into Beijing with a pop-up chalet

The Swiss Chalet, a pop-up bar that brings the essence of a Swiss alpine winter, officially opened in the Houhai area located in the heart of Beijing last week.

Initiated by the embassy of Switzerland in China in collaboration with Switzerland Tourism and with the support of the Xicheng district government, the pop-up bar aims to serve as a gateway to Switzerland's winter culture, tourism and innovation. It also kicks off the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and China in 2025.

The Swiss Chalet is built on the shore of Houhai Lake on the foundation of a Chinese-style octagonal pavilion, fusing Swiss architecture and design with traditional Chinese architecture.

The chalet showcases a minimalist, modern style by adopting three dominant colors — red for Switzerland, white for snow and brown for the tree trunks in the Alps.

Jurg Burri, the Swiss ambassador to China, expressed his happiness with the opening of the Swiss Chalet. "We are full fans of winter sports. But winter sports are not only a physical activity, they are a whole culture."

"I also see a strong trend toward winter sports in China, so why not showcase a way of life? With the Swiss Chalet, we try to bring some Swiss culture to the heart of Beijing," he said.

The Swiss Chalet is brought to life by the visionary Beijing gastro-collective Hide & Seek, a bar in Beijing, in partnership with Hope & Sesame, a bar in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, founded by internationally acclaimed Swiss bartender Bastien Ciocca.

Together, they've crafted a menu that showcases modern Swiss cuisine with a traditional twist paired with a curated selection of exceptional cocktails inspired by Switzerland's flavors and alpine spirit.

Guests can enjoy alpine favorites like Alplermagronen with cheese and a charcuterie board, along with seasonal drinks such as mulled wine and hot chocolate. Grilled sausage on baguette and mulled wine tart are additional enhancements to the menu.

The Swiss Chalet is part of the Swiss embassy's public diplomacy campaign 2024-2025 under the slogan "Pretty Good Switzerland" and will be open until Jan 19.