Restaurant of the Month - September 2012

Restaurant La Fuente, Hauptplatz 9, Rapperswil

http://www.restaurante-lafuente.ch/
If one needed another reason to visit the beautiful lakeside town of Rapperswil with its picturesque harbour, imposing castle and quaint old town, then it might be to visit the authentic Spanish restaurant La Fuente. Located in the top corner of the main square fronting the steps up to the old castle, this restaurant offers al fresco dining as well as a cosy, traditionally decorated interior. And the food selection certainly lives up to the idyllic location.

Every weekday there's a huge and tempting array of tapas to try, and for around CHF 26 you can return to the buffet a discretion to select from the platters of roasted vegetables, fragrant seafood and spicy meat and egg dishes. Or pick a dish from the daily menu of reasonably priced main courses costing from 20 to 30 francs, and sit back to enjoy the friendly waiter service. There's also a monthly menu featuring seasonal dishes such as truffles, mushrooms and topical meats and fish.

At weekends there's still a choice of small and large tapas platters from a selection of around 12 dishes, as well as the menu of the day. And in the evenings, the world of Spanish cuisine is your oyster! Choose from the following specialities: parrillada de pescados (mixed grilled fish), pincho de gambas (prawn kebab), filete de buey con pepe (beef in a pepper cream sauce) or pechuga de pollo a la paprica (spicy chicken with rice). Or push the boat out and order the paella valenciana for two at a cost of CHF62.50.



The wine card will not disappoint either, with a selection of open and bottled wines from Spain, Portugal and Italy. The Baron de Ley white Rioja is particularly refreshing on a warm day. You can start your meal with a chilled glass of cava to get in the Spanish mood. And if you have room for one dessert, then it has to be the crema catalana. Delicious!


On sunny days and in the evening it's best to book ahead. Que aproveche!

Swiss Traditions - Thalwil Market

Gotthardstrasse Market - Saturday 25 August 2012

http://www.thalwil.ch/de/verwaltung/dienstleistungen/?dienst_id=4486

Local crafts make pleasing gifts and souvenirs

Thalwil, a small town on the left side of the Zurichsee, celebrates several annual markets as well as the weekly produce markets in the main street, Gotthardstrasse.

The Gotthardstrassenmarkt always takes place on the last Saturday of August and is amongst the most popular with local residents and visitors. The weather is usually fine, all the shops along the main street open their doors and spill out onto the pavement, and local clubs and businesses have stands.

Entertainment for children

It's a local event when you are bound to meet your neighbours and greet the regular stallholders. You can also have a health check, try a new skill, pick up a gift made by a local craftsman, or try to win a prize.

There is entertainment for children, choirs and bands provide the music, and there are snacks galore to tempt you. Just follow the scent of the barbecue, garlic bread and popcorn. There's also a convivial beer tent, and the Kung Ming Chinese restaurant offers a choice of delicious hot meals. See this link: http://www.kunming-thalwil.ch/

Street food Chinese style

You should also look out for the autumn flea market in September on the Chilbiplatz, the October Chilbi market with fairground rides, and the Friday Christmas Market also in the main street.


And in Spring look out for the May Flower Market and the Spring Flea Market.


Thalwil market - always the same but always a pleasure - that's Swiss tradition!