Sens is a restaurant on the shore of Lake Lucerne.

by ALEXEY Kostyliev

4 May 2025

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Hotel Vitznauerhof is a real gem where culinary art meets scenic scenery. From June to September, Sens becomes the summer residence of star chefs, each of whom contributes their own vision and creativity to this exceptional establishment.

Every few weeks, a new chef prepares an exclusive menu that turns each visit into a unique culinary adventure. Expect bold tastes, artistic presentations and an intimate atmosphere that allows you to enjoy high culinary cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere on the lakeshore.

Chef who left his mark

Jeroen Achtien: This Dutch chef joined Sens in 2018 and quickly earned recognition with 16 GaultMillau points and the title “Opening of the Year” in Switzerland. In 2019, the restaurant received the first Michelin star, and in 2021, the second. His cooking philosophy combined traditional fermentation methods with experimental flavors. In August 2023, he left Sen to head the restaurant Manoir Inter Scaldes in the Netherlands.

Marcel Koolen: Sens’ former chef, Cohen returned in the summer of 2024 as a guest chef from the 7132 Silver restaurant where he has two Michelin stars. His dishes, such as “the best tomato in the world” were praised by critics.

Matteo Morbini: An Italian chef from Lucca, Morbini brought innovative Italian cuisine to Sens by combining traditional recipes with modern methods such as fermentation and the influence of other cultures.

Menu: gastronomic route in several actions

The Sens does not have a traditional menu with a list of dishes. Instead, guests are invited to choose the number of dishes desired and the chef creates a personalized set taking into account preferences and dietary restrictions. This allows everyone to feel part of a unique culinary journey.

Cost of tasting kits:

4 course— €118.45
6 course — €159.65
8 course — €190.55

Examples of dishes: when food becomes an art

Combining innovative techniques and unexpected ingredients. Here are some of them:

Amuse-bouche (as pictured) is a compliment from the chef, and not paid separately. It is included in the tasting menu.

Marinated or smoked fish with emulation, vegetables, berries and pearls yuzu or citrus jelly – a dish that balances texture and temperature, with an emphasis on visual art.

Main dish on black plate:
Venison with red wine or wild game sauce, boiled egg, morel, green peas and microgreens.
Upper composition on the right (in hay):
Sandwich with bone marrow and tartars or meat mousse, served on fragrant hay.
Left top dish (in grains):
A miniature piece of rib, probably made from lamb or calf, lined with grains (serving for flavor or crunch).

These dishes demonstrate the craftsmanship of chefs combining traditional methods with modern innovations.

Evening fondue: Swiss classics in a new light

In winter, Sens offers special fondue evenings which include: Salad with spicy sauce. Mountain cheese fondue with marinated vegetables, crispy bread and potatoes. Dessert with meringue, cream and fresh ink.

Cost: € 66,95 per person.

Drinks: from wine to home cooking

Each set offers a carefully selected wine pairing that enhances the dish’s flavor. Also on the menu is a home-made lemongrass bunk – an ideal choice for those looking for non-alcoholic alternatives.

The price of the tasting menu is accompanied by a wine €118.45.

Private events and parties

From October to May, Sens offers a unique “Private Kitchen Party” experience where guests can enjoy an aperitif right in the kitchen, watching the chefs work and enjoying a 3-course menu with their favorite music. This is ideal for private events up to 30 people in an exceptional location on the lake.

Sens is a place where every dinner becomes an unforgettable event, and each dish tells its own unique story. Discover new horizons of taste on the shores of Lake Lucerne.

Backup system and spare parts

Working hours: Wednesday to Saturday from 18:30 to 21:00. Address: Seestrasse 80, 6354 Vitznau, Switzerland Phone: +41 41 399 77 77