I wish some of the reviewers who gave this place low scores would be more specific about their…read moregripes because I didn't make a single deduction on my visit. I had found Uto Kulm while doing some homework for my trip to Zurich. I found a tour that ended in Uetliberg and I figured the perfect ending to the day would be a nice sit-down dinner at Uto Kulm.
Now, it is a little bit of a literal hike to get to the place. After all it is part of "The Top of Zurich." The hike is completely worth it for the views! It was too cold, windy and rainy to sit outside but I plan to visit again in the summer and take in those beautiful views at a table outside. I can't see anywhere else in the city matching those views. I timed our reservation for sunset and it was spectacular. The interior of the restaurant is warm and inviting. Some of the perimeter tables still offer a nice view of the hotel & restaurant's surroundings, so don't worry too much if less-than-ideal weather conditions force you inside.
Regarding the food, my entire group was RAVING about the Coconut Pumpkin Soup! I'm not a "soup guy" myself, but it was absolutely fantastic! The pumpkin seed oil on top was somehow a detail that made the dish stand out where others didn't. Get the pumpkin soup to start. Don't question it. I'll give you another tip: Get the Appetizer Étagère. It's built for two people but between the soup and other main dishes, it's a good start with multiple options (Pace yourself for dessert!) For main dishes I went with the Sea Bass but my friends were more adventurous and tried the venison, duck and beef fillet. There were no deductions and zero complaints for the food.
I finished dinner with the Pear Crump Dessert which I paired with a Pear Brandy that'll slap you into tomorrow. You have to try it yourself to see what I mean. I smells sweet and innocent, but it goes down anything but... *Wink* Try it. Thank me later.
A lot of people complain about the service timing, which I get, but I think you have to make some accommodation for the American vs. European ways of doing things. No matter where you go, in Europe, you're going to be waiting an eternity for the bill because the restaurant doesn't want to appear to be rushing you out. Service staff do not want to seem obtrusive. So please take that into account.
Otherwise, a visit to Uto Kulm is a MUST if you're ever in Zurich! It was one of the highlights of my trip and I'll most definitely be back.