While the name might lead you to expect a traditional beer hall, Volkshaus Basel is a design attraction in its own right and far from folksy. Star Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron have created a dining space that is filled with light and clean lines, while retaining nods to classic brasserie interiors.
Firmly Swiss with a touch of French, the menu aims for simple made special. Perennial Swiss favourites share the page with seasonal dishes including daily wild game specials in autumn. Desserts merit a mention thanks to creative flourishes with crème brulées, as does the cheese selection. In summer, the courtyard beer garden offers a shady nook to enjoy a cold beer. And meals from the Brasserie menu are also served here.
It's possible to combine dinner or drinks with some live music at the Volkshaus, which regularly stages concerts by local bands and bigger names, as well as a popular 'Jazz Brunch' event in the brasserie on weekends.