Atelier Classic Bar

In the heart of the historic quarter of Thun lies a unique spot — Atelier Classic Bar. This is a premium cocktail bar housed in an authentic 14th-century cellar on Rathausplatz. The venue harmoniously blends the spirit of deep antiquity with modern industrial chic, offering guests a place to relax across three elegantly designed levels.

This bar is rightfully considered one of the brightest stars of the cocktail scene that Switzerland has to offer. High service standards and a creative approach to mixology have earned the establishment recognition at prestigious competitions, including the Swiss Bar Awards. Atelier Classic Bar is a space with a special charisma, where every element of the interior and every detail in the drink presentation is infused with a passion for the craft.

For your convenience, we have gathered the essential contact information for Atelier Classic Bar. Please note that the venue is very popular with locals and tourists alike, so making a table reservation can be quite helpful.

At Atelier Classic Bar, guests can immerse themselves in the world of high mixology, tasting cocktails from the renowned bartender Ivan Urech. A special feature of the local drink list is the use of signature infusions and botanical ingredients, making every sip unique. You can grab a seat at the bar to watch the magic of preparation or settle into the cozy lounge area upstairs for a quiet conversation.

Be sure to take the time to explore the local menu, which is presented as an 80-page book. It's a fascinating read: 23 chapters containing not only ingredient lists but also stories about film characters, personal anecdotes from the creators, and interesting facts about spirits. Choosing a cocktail here turns into an engaging literary journey.

For those who prefer active relaxation or a change of scenery, there is a billiard room at the back of the premises. Thanks to the three-level layout, it's easy to find a spot for a large group or a romantic evening for two, with a sense of privacy and home comfort maintained throughout.

Finding Atelier Classic Bar is easy — it is located in the heart of the historic center at Rathausplatz 3. A good landmark is the Town Hall building (Schlossberg), situated in the immediate vicinity of the bar's entrance.

If you arrive in the city by train, the bar is about a 10–12 minute walk from the Thun railway station. The walk takes you through picturesque old streets which are a pedestrian zone, making the journey pleasant and safe. For those who prefer comfort, you can always take a taxi from the station, which will drop you off at the edge of the Old Town.

For GPS navigation, use the coordinates: 46.7594598, 7.6289255. A visit to the bar fits perfectly into a cultural itinerary through the city, allowing you to combine sightseeing with a break at one of the region's finest establishments.

The history of Atelier Classic Bar is inextricably linked to the city's past, as the venue occupies a historic 14th-century cellar. The owners managed the nearly impossible: carefully integrating a modern premium bar into an ancient space while preserving the massive stonework and that authentic atmosphere of medieval coziness.

Founder and visionary Ivan Urech put years of work into creating a unique concept where mixology intertwines with art. One of the establishment's main achievements was the creation of the famous menu-book, which earned the bar the Best Bar Menu award at the Swiss Bar Awards in 2021. This is not just a list of drinks, but the result of a collaboration with local talents — designer Simone Hirschbrunner and tattoo artist Norine Benham, who created the illustrations.

Interestingly, each page of this "recipe book" is wrapped in genuine leather produced in a local Thun workshop. The design, held together by special screws, allows Ivan and his team to constantly update the menu, adding new cocktail stories inspired by movies, travels, and personal observations.

To fully experience the unique aesthetics of Atelier Classic Bar, it is recommended to set aside 1.5 to 3 hours for your visit. This is enough time to leisurely study the legendary menu-book, chat with the professional bartenders, and enjoy a couple of signature cocktails.

Visiting this place is more of a cultural experience than just a trip to a bar. Guests often stay longer than planned, getting lost in the stories behind the drinks and enjoying the intimate atmosphere of the ancient cellar, so it's best not to plan a rushed visit.

Atelier Classic Bar operates on a regular schedule and is ready to welcome guests daily. The doors are open from 4:00 PM to 12:30 AM, which is convenient for both an early evening aperitif and a late conclusion to a walk through the city.

The schedule remains consistent throughout the week, including weekends. However, before visiting during holiday periods, it is recommended to check the bar's official website for any updates to ensure there are no changes.

Exploring the surroundings of Atelier Classic Bar can significantly enrich your trip. Thun is a city with a rich heritage, and most of its iconic sites are within walking distance of Rathausplatz.

A stroll after visiting the bar will allow you to enjoy views of medieval architecture and Alpine landscapes. Below is a list of nearby attractions: