Bahnhofbuffet Olten

Located in the heart of Olten’s transit hub, Bahnhofbuffet Olten has long held a legendary status as Switzerland’s most famous railway station buffet. Situated at Bahnhofstrasse 22, directly within the Olten train station, this historic establishment has served as a beloved meeting point for travelers, business professionals, and local community groups alike. Currently undergoing a long-awaited renovation, the restaurant is poised to reopen in the autumn of 2026 under the new management of Great Moments Gastro GmbH. The owners have pledged to preserve the venue’s cherished traditions while infusing it with renewed vitality, ensuring it remains a vibrant destination for casual dining, seminars, banquets, and take-away delights.

Before its temporary closure, Bahnhofbuffet Olten earned a solid 4.0-star rating on Google Maps from over 648 reviews. Diners consistently praised the warm, attentive service, the refreshing draft beer selection, and the satisfying, uncomplicated cuisine. The price level was noted as moderate, with many guests reporting a cost of 20 to 30 CHF per person, making it an accessible choice for a quick bite or a leisurely meal during a layover. The atmosphere has been described as stylish and inviting, perfectly balancing the charm of a historic railway buffet with modern comfort.

Menu Highlights at Bahnhofbuffet Olten

The menu at Bahnhofbuffet Olten reflects a marriage of Swiss culinary tradition and accessible, hearty fare. While the full post-renovation menu is yet to be revealed, insights from previous years and existing marketing materials highlight several signature items and categories that have defined the restaurant’s reputation.

• Flammkuchen: A signature offering, this Alsatian-style thin-crust flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon or other seasonal ingredients has been a patron favorite.
• Fitnessteller: Catering to the health-conscious traveler, the Fitnessteller (fitness plate) offered a balanced, lighter alternative without compromising on flavor.
• Egli-Knusperli: A standout local specialty featured in customer reviews and photos. These crispy fried perch fillets were praised for their freshness and delicate, crunchy coating, often served with a side of tartar sauce and a lemon wedge.
• Solothurner Weinsuppe: A regional classic, this Solothurn-style wine soup was highlighted by Google Maps reviewers as a fine, warming starter, embodying the restaurant's connection to local culinary heritage.

The Dining Experience

The dining experience at Bahnhofbuffet Olten was consistently described by Google Maps reviewers as a high point of their travel. The restaurant was praised for its calm and orderly ambiance, a rare find in a bustling station setting. Service was frequently noted as friendly, attentive, and efficient — a combination that left a lasting positive impression. One reviewer, a Local Guide, remarked, "Very suitable for a stopover when trains are delayed: quiet, very pleasant service, fresh beer on tap (4 draught beers among other things to choose from), light food to go with it." This sentiment echoes across many reviews, painting a picture of a reliable, comforting culinary anchorage amidst the flow of commuters and long-distance travelers. The restaurant is known to be dog-friendly, welcoming four-legged companions alongside their owners.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

Bahnhofbuffet Olten holds a 4.0-star rating on Google Maps, based on 648 reviews, a testament to its consistent quality over years of operation. Recurring themes in customer feedback emphasize the outstanding service and the high-quality, unpretentious food. A review by Jeannine Hellbach, a Local Guide with over 300 reviews, captured the essence of the experience: "Very nicely styled restaurant. The food was fine. The Solothurn wine soup was tasty and the fish knusperli were top-notch. The dishes came to the table quickly and the service was friendly and attentive. Happy to return!" Another reviewer, Michael Blum, described the restaurant as "legendary" and confirmed that even after a long absence, the service was "absolutely top and the food delicious." Guests also valued the extensive beer selection, with four varieties on tap, and the flexible menu that catered to both light and hearty appetites.

Bahnhofbuffet Olten in Olten's Transit District

The restaurant occupies a prime location at Bahnhofstrasse 22, directly integrated into the Olten railway station complex. This places it at the epicenter of Swiss rail travel, making it an ideal venue for everything from a quick coffee to a full business seminar. The area is highly accessible via all forms of public transport, and the station provides all necessary infrastructure for intercity and regional connections. For those arriving by car, municipal parking options are available in the vicinity of the station. Specific details on parking and post-renovation wheelchair accessibility will be updated upon the restaurant's reopening.

What Sets Bahnhofbuffet Olten Apart

What distinguishes Bahnhofbuffet Olten is not just its location but its institutional role in Swiss culture. It is more than a restaurant; it is a designated meeting place for clubs, associations, and business gatherings, offering dedicated spaces for seminars and banquets. Its description as "the most famous station buffet in Switzerland" is a title earned through decades of reliable service and a unique atmosphere that blends the romance of rail travel with genuine Swiss hospitality. Under the new ownership of Great Moments Gastro GmbH, the restaurant is set to evolve while safeguarding its core identity as a place of "tradition and heart."

Common Questions

When will Bahnhofbuffet Olten reopen?

The restaurant is currently closed for extensive renovations and is scheduled to reopen in the autumn of 2026 under new management.

Does Bahnhofbuffet Olten offer take-away food?

Yes, "Take Away" was a listed service and is expected to be part of the concept upon reopening, catering to travelers needing a quick meal on the go.

Can I host a private event or seminar at Bahnhofbuffet Olten?

Yes. The official description explicitly mentions facilities for "Seminar – Bankett" (seminars and banquets), indicating dedicated spaces for corporate and private events. For booking details after the reopening, contact the management directly.

Is Bahnhofbuffet Olten dog-friendly?

According to Google Maps attributes, dogs are allowed at the restaurant.

What type of cuisine does Bahnhofbuffet Olten serve?

The restaurant serves a range of Swiss and European-inspired dishes, from regional specialties like Solothurner Weinsuppe and Egli-Knusperli to popular favorites like Flammkuchen and lighter Fitnessteller options.