Paradiso sits at 2,181 meters above Saint Moritz and opens with sunlight on snow and wide views of the Engadin valley. Paradiso is both a mountain club and a dining destination where Traditional Alpine cuisine meets modern hospitality. Early afternoons bring long lunches and clear views; evenings shift to music and a lively crowd. The setting is literal altitude dining: reach the venue by chairlift, walk ten minutes, then arrive hungry for regional flavors and an exceptional wine program. The phrase fine dining fits here because the kitchen focuses on refined technique applied to alpine staples, while sommelier-led pairings sharpen every course.
The restaurant’s vision balances regional respect with contemporary presentation. Chef Jeremy Degras leads the kitchen, shaping menus around seasonal alpine produce, local cheeses and classic preparations. Benedict Schempf serves as sommelier and also supports front-of-house leadership alongside general manager Andrea di Mauro. Paradiso is part of the Badrutt’s Palace group and appears in industry listings such as the Michelin Guide directory, reflecting its high-profile position in St. Moritz hospitality. The wine program is a signature asset: 600 selections with strengths from France, Switzerland and Italy, a wine inventory reported at 10,000. Practical details reinforce the venue’s standards—a $150 corkage fee, member-only Gucci Paradiso lounge, and an entry fee for non-members during busy periods.
The culinary journey at Paradiso centers on familiar alpine dishes executed with precision. Cheese Fondue is a must-order, prepared with rich melted mountain cheeses and white wine, served with crusty bread and pickles for bright contrast. Slow-cooked Ribs move from long braise to a finishing grill, glazed in a reduced herb jus and paired with rosemary potatoes and seasonal greens. The Alpine Cheese Board showcases regional hard and soft cheeses with house chutney, dried fruit and toasted rye, curated by Benedict Schempf for ideal wine matches. For texture lovers, Engadin-style rösti offers a crisp exterior and melting interior, often accented with raclette or smoked ham. Seasonal game ragout arrives in colder months, slow-simmered with juniper and root vegetables, paired with creamy polenta or rösti. The kitchen emphasizes clear flavors and precise reductions, so sauces taste of the main ingredient, not excess butter or salt.
Wine and beverage pairing is integral to the meal and helps define the Paradiso experience. The cellar favors French Burgundy and Rhône, Swiss bottlings that reflect local terroir, and Italian alpine varietals for brightness. Expect staff recommendations to include vintage options from the 1990s for special orders and focused pairing suggestions for fondue or game. The sommelier will advise on by-the-glass choices and tasting sequences, enhancing both lunch and evening services. Live DJs and evening events alter the energy, so pairings may lean toward lighter bubbles or bold reds depending on the night.
Inside, design is practical and mountain-focused. Large windows frame the Engadin valley and provide mainstage views for daylight dining. A member-only Gucci Paradiso lounge adds an exclusive corner for private groups. Furnishings mix durable alpine finishes with comfortable seating and warm lighting for cold evenings. Service is attentive and informal—staff guide wine choices and explain dishes without ceremony. Music and DJs contribute to a relaxed, social mood without overwhelming conversation during meals.
For planning, the easiest visits are weekday lunches or early afternoon windows when views and service are at their clearest. Weekends and event nights fill quickly; reserve at least two weeks ahead during high season. Dress code leans smart casual—warm layers recommended for outdoor seating. Reservations are advised via the official website; note the venue charges a member entry fee for some evenings and applies a $150 corkage fee. Chairlift access requires basic mobility, followed by a ten-minute walk to the restaurant.
Paradiso in Saint Moritz delivers a distinct alpine dining experience where mountain air, well-crafted dishes and a deep wine cellar meet in a social, lively setting. Whether you come for a long lunch, a curated wine pairing, or an evening with music and views, book ahead to secure a table at Paradiso and plan for a memorable high-altitude meal.