Sometimes the weather is calling you outdoors, and even with all the lovely terrace options in and around the city, there's something about nestling on a park bench or on a grassy knoll and enjoying your lunch al fresco. Here are some ideas of where to grab your picnic near three popular Lausanne parks:
Parc Mon Repos
Grab a souvlaki for under 10 francs and head over to the park to enjoy this absolute flavor bomb al fresco. Note that the souvlakis usually take about 15 minutes to prepare (since they’re made fresh), so plan ahead. We also learned from a good friend that you can substitute the tzatziki sauce for an off-menu cocktail sauce to change the flavor if you’d like.
Our love for GreenUp is no secret, and their salads and wraps made fresh to order are a perfect picnic option. We are huge fans of the chicken and smoked tofu salads, and yes to the chili flakes and seeds, and yes you want a juice.
Parc de Valency
A fairly new addition to the Lausanne food scene, Trigo opened it’s doors in 2021, branding itself as a contemporary bakery offering speciality breads, pizzas, sweet treats and most importantly – delicious focaccia with a variety of topping options. Grab one of them to go (and a dessert if they still have them) and grab a bench in Parc de Valency.
©Mangiobevo
Just next to Trigo (and with the same owners) is this mecca of Italian sandwiches. Great bread, loaded with well-considered combinations of classic Italian fillings – think good quality smallgoods, cheeses, antipasti and homemade pesto – make a sandwich from the wide selection offered by this pint-sized Italian deli a delicious weekday feed.
While we do love frequenting this delightful Peruvian spot and sitting on the terrace behind the restaurant, there are some days when you want to take your ceviche to a nearby park and people watch. Look out for their daily specials, as they offer an entree and a plat for under 25 francs.
Read our review of El Batan here.
©L’Indochine
Being one of our favorite genres of food, Vietnamese cuisine always hits the spot. L’Indochine is a great lunch spot where they have a plat du jour (entree + plat for under 22 chf) and loads of other delicious offers on their menu. You can call ahead and make sure your order is ready for you when you arrive.
Parc de Milan
©OliMy
Easy, delicious, doesn’t break the bank. Grab a Banh Mi, Bo Bun, or a plat du jour and head over to the expansive Parc de Milan to enjoy your lunch.
Just like the one near Parc de Valency, they’ve opened up a second location near Parc de Milan. With a small selection of Italian sandwiches and pastries, it’s an easy option to grab & go.
Tip: grab an iced coffee next door at Ça Passe Crème to take with you to the park.
©Farmacia Angelucci
More known for his ultra-popular food stand at the Wednesday and Saturday market in Riponne, Antonio Angelucci opened up a brick-and-mortar shop just a short walk away from Parc de Milan where he sells his Italian meats and cheeses, as well as offers in-house and takeaway dining options for lunch.
©Diabolo
With it’s front facade literally facing Parc de Milan, grabbing a pizza to go and enjoying it under a canopy of trees at the Parc is an easy way to please a group (or yourself if you’re really hungry).
Just a few blocks away from Parc de Milan you’ll find Inglewood burgers. With a side terrace under the trees and occasional sidewalk tables, it’s tempting to dine sur place, but if the park is calling just grab your burger and fries to go.
Check out all of our favorite burgers in Lausanne here.
©Sushizen
With an entire section upon entrance dedicated to takeaway, Sushizen Grancy is an easy option when you’re in a hurry and want something light and delicious. Grab a pre-made salmon bowl or sushi assortment and walk a few blocks to Parc de Milan.
Best places to get ramen in Lausanne here.
©Baytouti
Fresh Lebanese cuisine with lunch offers during the weekdays makes this spot a neighborhood favorite. With hot and cold mezzes, grilled meat options, and sandwiches as well, it’s a guaranteed hit for anyone looking for something fresh and delicious.
