Basil Café Aargauer Kunsthaus

Welcome to Basil Café Aargauer Kunsthaus, a vibrant meeting place where art and culinary delight come together in the heart of Aarau. Nestled within the iconic Aargauer Kunsthaus, our café offers a unique retreat for museum visitors, art enthusiasts, and locals seeking quality homemade products in a beautifully designed setting. From handcrafted pastries to internationally inspired daily menus, every visit is an invitation to slow down and savor the moment.

The atmosphere at Basil Café is one of modern comfort and creative energy. Striking yellow sofas, distinctive lighting, and a layout that complements the surrounding art galleries create a space that feels both cozy and inspiring. Whether you're stopping by for a morning espresso, a leisurely lunch, or an afternoon treat, the team is dedicated to warm hospitality and memorable flavors. Our location on Aargauerplatz makes us easily accessible and the perfect cultural pit stop.

Services & Facilities

A visit to Basil Café is a multi-sensory experience designed around quality and convenience. We proudly serve freshly prepared food and beverages in a space that encourages both social connection and quiet reflection.

Artful Café Experience

As the museum's own café, we create a seamless bridge between visual art and culinary art. Our space is part of the Aargauer Kunsthaus environment, meaning guests can enjoy a coffee break without leaving the artistic atmosphere. The interior design features custom lighting and comfortable seating zones ideal for solo visitors with a book or small groups sharing impressions of the exhibitions.

Group Events & Celebrations

We specialize in hosting private and group events. Whether you're planning a corporate gathering, a birthday celebration, or an apéro riche with a creative twist, our team works closely with you to design a menu and setup that matches the occasion. Guests consistently praise our special event offerings as a "direct hit" for those seeking something unique and delicious.

Flexible Dining Options

Enjoy your meal exactly how you prefer. We offer dine-in service during opening hours, plus convenient delivery service so you can experience Basil Café favorites from home or office. Our reservation system accommodates parties of up to eight people directly, with a dedicated inquiry pathway for larger groups.

What We Offer

Our menu reflects a commitment to freshness, variety, and homemade quality. We rotate offerings throughout the week to keep things interesting while maintaining the consistent excellence our guests expect.

• Tuesday – Thursday: Fatima prepares authentic Moroccan specialties, bringing vibrant spices and traditional recipes to your table. These dishes are a beloved highlight for regulars and first-time visitors alike.
• Friday: Momo-Tag! Our dumpling day features handmade momos with a variety of fillings and dipping sauces. It’s a fun, casual way to end the work week.
• Weekend Specials: Saturdays and Sundays showcase varied daily menus that incorporate seasonal ingredients and chef inspirations. Expect everything from hearty warm bowls to delicate patisserie items.
• Homemade Products: Our counter displays an array of house-baked goods, sweet confections, and savory snacks. From a simple butter croissant to an elaborate layered dessert, every item is made with care.
• Coffee & Beverages: Our coffee is prepared by skilled baristas using quality beans. We also offer a selection of teas, cold drinks, and curated wines to complement your meal.

Why Customers Choose Us

In a city with many coffee spots, Basil Café stands out for its unmistakable location, design-forward interior, and ever-evolving menu. Visitors consistently mention the special ambiance—designer sofas in a bold yellow hue, artistic lamps, and a layout that feels both intimate and expansive.

We value genuine feedback and continuously improve based on guest experiences. We heard concerns about pricing and table service and have taken steps to ensure every item represents fair value and that our space remains tidy and welcoming at all times. Our loyal clientele appreciates that we take these conversations seriously.

Our connection to the Aargauer Kunsthaus adds an extra layer of cultural enrichment. Guests can tour world-class exhibitions and then debrief over a cappuccino without ever leaving the building. This integration of art and daily life makes us a key destination for locals and tourists exploring Aarau.

Serving Aarau & Aargau

Located at Aargauerplatz in central Aarau, we serve a diverse community including museum members, local workers, families, and students. The Aargau region is known for its appreciation of both heritage and innovation, and Basil Café embodies this balance. Our menu honors traditional European café culture while incorporating global influences—particularly from Moroccan cuisine—that reflect the cosmopolitan palate of modern Switzerland.

The café’s position within a major cultural institution makes it a natural gathering point for art openings, guided tours, and community events. We offer a welcoming environment that is proudly LGBTQ+ friendly, ensuring all guests feel seen and respected.

Hours, Location & Directions

Planning your visit is simple. Our doors are open throughout the week, with extended hours on Thursdays to accommodate museum evening programs.

Opening Hours

• Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Thursday (extended hours): 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Monday: Closed

We are situated at Aargauerpl., 5001 Aarau, inside the Aargauer Kunsthaus. The museum entrance leads directly to our café space. Public transportation stops are within a short walking distance, and bike parking is available nearby. For those driving, municipal parking options exist around the central Aarau area.

To reach us by phone, call +41 62 835 23 37. For reservations, menu inquiries, or event bookings, email hallo@basil-cafe.ch or visit our website at basil-cafe.ch. We look forward to welcoming you with coffee, cake, and culture.

Frequently Asked Visitor Questions

Many first-time guests have similar questions about our concept and services. Below are quick answers to help you plan the perfect café experience. For anything we haven't covered, don't hesitate to reach out directly.

Can I visit the café without a museum ticket? Yes, Basil Café is open to the public independently of the Aargauer Kunsthaus exhibitions. You do not need a museum ticket to dine with us, though we highly recommend combining your visit with the galleries.

What is the best time to enjoy Moroccan specialties? Fatima’s Moroccan dishes are available Tuesday through Thursday. These lunchtime favorites tend to be popular, so arriving around midday gives you the best selection while still securing a comfortable seat.

Does the café cater to dietary requirements? We offer a rotating selection that often includes vegetarian and vegan options. We recommend contacting us in advance if you have specific allergies or restrictions so we can confirm the day’s menu and make adjustments where possible.

How do I book for a group of more than 8 people? Our standard table reservation system handles up to eight guests. For larger groups, please submit an inquiry through our website’s “Gruppenanlass” form or send an email directly to hallo@basil-cafe.ch. We'll craft a customized experience for your party.