A Riviera Revival on the Shores of Lake Zurich
- Luxe magazine Switzerland
- Sep 25, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 31, 2025
CHEZ FRITZ - INA RINDERKNECHT
Originally built in 1963, Chez Fritz has long been a cherished part of the Kilchberg shoreline. Now, it enters a new era honouring the original pavilion structure while embracing a fresh, modern character. The restaurant’s clean architectural lines and generous windows have been enhanced to blur the boundary between interior and lake.
Inside, pale limestone floors evoke sun-washed Mediterranean terraces. Cold- pressed tiles crafted from recycled materials form a graphic rhythm on the terrace. Bronze accents catch the shifting daylight, while warm woods and considered textiles introduce softness and depth.
Lake-Inspired Interiors
Ina Rinderknecht drew her palette from the lake itself its ever- changing light, muted tones, and expansive calm. A refined spectrum of cool greens, mineral hues and soft neutrals flows through the space,
connecting indoors and out.
Quartzite dining tables in Emerald Jadore reflect the water’s surface. Upholstered benches in striped Dedar fabric recall mid-century beach clubs, reinterpreted with contemporary restraint. Custom pieces such as deep green Douglas fir cabinetry and handcrafted service stations
framed by translucent glass bricks anchor the space.
From limestone underfoot to the layered softness of curtains and cushions, each material contributes to a sense of warmth and belonging, whether under summer sun or in the quiet of colder months.
Heritage Held Close
Chez Fritz remains a family affair. Founded by the grandparents of co- owners Elios and Ermes Elsener, the restaurant has long been part of their lives and that deep connection resonates in the new interior. From curated lighting and custom furniture to the restoration of original
structural details, every choice reflects care, continuity, and character.
Quiet Design
Throughout the restaurant, Ina Rinderknecht’s guiding principle is clarity over spectacle. Ceiling beams once considered visually disruptive have been subtly rebalanced through thoughtful use of colour, harmonising them with the overall design and surroundings. Spaces are zoned to let guests flow naturally uninterrupted, yet gently guided.
A Table Set for the Mediterranean
The space now serves as a graceful stage for the cuisine of Head Chef Igino Bruni, whose menu reflects a clean, contemporary take on Mediterranean classics infused with Swiss precision. From fritto misto to bouillabaisse to his signature iced coffee, each dish is matched by an atmosphere of relaxed refinement.
Guests can enjoy the 70-seat dining room, a lakeside lounge, or the generous 120-seat terrace. Chez Fritz now welcomes diners throughout the day: lunch from 11:30am to 2:00pm, a laid-back lounge menu in the afternoon, and dinner service from 6:00pm to 10:00pm.
A Revival Rooted in Feeling
The redesign of Chez Fritz was shaped by a close collaboration between Ina Rinderknecht and the Elsener family, telling a story of what hospitality can be when design, history, and emotion come together.
“It’s not about trends, it’s about soul. Guests may not notice every material or finish, but they’ll feel the intention behind them and the ambience they create. And that’s what sticks.”
Ina Rinderknecht
“Chez Fritz stands for quiet luxury good food, fine wine, and a setting that feels both refined and relaxed. Ina’s design captures that perfectly.”
Elios Elsener
Chez Fritz
An institution for over 60 years, Chez Fritz was founded by Thea and Fritz Elsener in 1963 and, following a thoughtful renovation in 2025, continues to delight guests in fresh splendour. Under the guidance of General Manager Lukas Schrottenbaum renowned for his warm hospitality and passion for fine dining and Head Chef Igino Bruni whose refined, market-fresh Mediterranean fish cuisine brings Sicilian flair to Zurich Chez Fritz remains a beloved destination for exquisite food and relaxed charm.
Sustainability is central to the restaurant’s philosophy, with regional and seasonal produce sourced from trusted partners like Bianchi, Val Paradiso and ViCAFE. Art also plays a vital role here, with works by Thirza Schaap and Caspar Faassen adding a thoughtful dimension to the dining experience. At Chez Fritz, tradition, contemporary gastronomy and conscious enjoyment come together creating memorable moments on the shores of LakeZurich.
Seestrasse 195b, 8802 Kilchberg, Switzerland
About Ina Rinderknecht
Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, with an international upbringing across many continents, Ina Rinderknecht’s love of design began during a school exchange in Yogyakarta where she learnt traditional Indonesian arts and crafts. From there, she graduated from the Instituto Europeo di Design, and then obtained a Master’s Degree of Arts in Design from Domus Academy Milan. Ina started her professional career in Milan before moving to Hawaii to create renowned hospitality spaces
with Peter Vincent and Associates.Whilst working as the lead interior designer on the Park Shore Waikiki Hotel in 2005, owned by the Blackstone Group, she was subsequently asked in 2006 to join this Private Equity firm as a design consultant for their own luxury hotel brand, LXR Luxury Resorts. In 2006, she founded Ina Rinderknecht, her design agency in San Francisco and return to her homeland, Zurich, in 2008 where she finally established the firm.
