Summertime Aarau

Summertime Aarau brings the spirit of a carefree holiday right to the banks of the Aare River in the heart of Aarau, Switzerland. Visitors discover a large, welcoming outdoor restaurant where the everyday hustle takes a back seat and a little piece of vacation enters daily life. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and dedication to local cuisine, the venue is a favorite destination for everyone who enjoys sunshine, refreshing drinks, and delicious food in good company.

The team crafts an experience built around freshness and simplicity. From house-made ice tea and bright Aperol Spritz cocktails to chilled beers and juicy burgers, every item on the menu invites guests to unwind. Reviews regularly mention the courteous and attentive service, the original and very flavorful salads, and the special feeling of escaping the ordinary while sitting just steps from the water. Whether you are stopping by for a laid-back lunch, a sunset dinner, or late-night drinks under the stars, the ambience adapts beautifully from midday to midnight.

What We Offer

The menu at Summertime Aarau focuses on local dishes, creative salads, and tropical-inspired cocktails complemented by wine and cold beer. The kitchen is open every day from 11:30 to 22:00, ensuring guests can enjoy a satisfying meal from lunchtime well into the evening.

• Local dishes and fresh salads: The restaurant takes pride in serving original, house-made salads and hearty local favorites that change with the seasons.
• House-made ice tea and summer bowls: Customer favorites include the signature house-made ice tea and nourishing summer bowls, perfect for hot days.
• Tropical cocktails and Aperol Spritz: Bar offerings span from the classic Aperol Spritz to tropical-inspired cocktails designed to pair with the laid-back river vibes.
• Burgers, sandwiches, and more: Popular menu highlights include chicken sandwiches, burgers, and mojitos, attracting both meat lovers and lighter eaters.
• Dine-in, takeaway, and delivery: Guests can enjoy their favorites on-site, grab something to go, or order food directly for delivery.

Services & Facilities

Summertime Aarau is designed as a comfortable outdoor escape with amenities that support a truly relaxing visit. The spacious setting right beside the riverside promenade accommodates solo guests, couples, and larger groups alike. Thoughtful details make it a convenient and pleasant place to spend an afternoon or evening.

• Al fresco dining: The entire restaurant is oriented toward outdoor enjoyment, with generous seating that overlooks the Aare and the vibrant riverside footpath and bike lane.
• Phone reservations: The venue accepts table bookings exclusively via telephone, which allows the team to manage seating fairly during busy weekends and sunny evenings.
• Accessible location: Easily reachable by public transport, bicycle, or on foot, the restaurant also provides street-level details and nearby landmarks for easy orientation.
• Weather-adapted hours: Opening hours are adjusted depending on weather conditions, which ensures a pleasant experience whether guests visit on a balmy summer day or a crisp early-autumn evening.

Why Guests Choose This Riverfront Spot

Regular visitors and first-time guests alike mention a few consistent reasons that set this location apart. The combination of a scenic river setting and a carefully curated food-and-drink menu creates a distinct mini-vacation atmosphere. Online reviews across multiple platforms praise the extremely friendly staff, many noting that the team manages to stay attentive even when the restaurant is completely full. The practical price range of 10 to 40 CHF per person also makes Summertime Aarau accessible for a relaxed lunch, a casual dinner, or a round of cocktails with friends.

Another frequently mentioned advantage is the balance between liveliness and relaxation. Because the restaurant is separated from the river only by the lively pedestrian and cycle path, there is always a pleasant backdrop of movement without losing the peaceful feeling of dining close to the water. Guests appreciate the ability to pause and recharge, describing it as a place where they can genuinely switch off.

Location, Directions, and Hours

Finding the restaurant is straightforward. Situated at Schiffländestrasse in 5000 Aarau, the address places it directly beside the Aare River loop. The nearby road layout, public transport stops, and cycling routes make it simple to reach without needing a car. Visitors arriving by rail or bus can enjoy a short walk or ride, while cyclists find easy access and parking just outside.

Opening Schedule

• Monday to Thursday: 11:00–00:00 (midnight)
• Friday and Saturday: 11:00–02:00
• Sunday: 10:00–00:00 (midnight)
• Kitchen service: Every day from 11:30 to 22:00

Because the operation depends partly on weather conditions, call ahead when planning a visit on a day with uncertain weather. This adaptive approach guarantees guests the best possible open-air experience.

Serving Aarau & the Aargau Region

Summertime Aarau draws visitors not only from the city of Aarau but from the wider Aargau region and beyond. Its riverside location makes it a natural meeting point for families, professionals, and tourists exploring the cultural landscape between Basel and Zurich. The restaurant sits close to other well-known spots frequently searched on maps, including Little Sem, Thai Time Restaurant & Take Away, and Mürset Restaurants, yet it maintains a distinct character rooted in outdoor relaxation and local flavor.

The business is operated by Thommen Gastronomie AG, a hospitality group based in Niedergösgen, which guarantees a level of professional organization and consistency behind the laid-back façade. For guests seeking a seasonal job, the venue also recruits service staff and bar helpers for the summer period, contributing to the local economy and student job market.

Frequently Asked Topics

Before arriving, guests often look for practical details about booking, menu options, and payment. The team encourages phone calls for reservations and remains available daily from 11:00 onward. The accessible pricing, daily kitchen hours, and family-friendly atmosphere consistently rank among the top reasons customers return. Whether someone plans to linger over a long dinner or drop in for a quick Aperol Spritz and a snack, the team designs the experience to feel effortless.