Alphitta is a cozy mountain restaurant located at Riffelalp (2,222 m), just below the famed Riffelalp Resort. It’s a wooden, chalet-style eatery with a spacious sun deck and unobstructed Matterhorn views that will make your lunch unforgettable.

Alphitta serves a mix of traditional Swiss dishes and international comfort food – you’ll find rösti, cheese fondue, hearty stews, alongside burgers and salads. Run by a friendly Swiss-Irish-Dutch duo (Dave and his partner), the place exudes a fun, welcoming atmosphere. In fact, Alphitta is known for its occasional live music afternoons; don’t be surprised if you visit on a sunny day and find local musicians or even the owner strumming a guitar, creating a jovial alpine ambiance.

Prices: Mains are reasonably priced for on-mountain dining – around CHF 25–35 (e.g. homemade barley soup CHF 12, Alpen macaroni pasta ~CHF 24, BBQ spare ribs ~CHF 32). A daily set lunch special with dessert might be ~CHF 30.

Getting There: Take the Gornergrat cog railway to Riffelalp station (fourth stop from Zermatt). From Riffelalp, it’s an easy 10-minute walk down a gentle path to Alphitta (located opposite Riffelalp Resort). Alternatively, hike up from Zermatt (2 hours) or down from Riffelberg/Rotenboden. In winter, you can ski down a trail that passes Riffelalp and pop out at Alphitta.

Seasonality: Open during winter ski season and summer hiking season. Generally mid-Dec to late Mar, then late Jun to late Sep (check exact dates). In winter, open for lunch and après-ski; in summer, open lunch through mid-afternoon. Some clear-weather evenings they might host special dinners or events (with reservation).

Practical tips: If the weather’s nice, definitely sit outside – the panorama of the Matterhorn from their terrace is spectacular (and they have blankets if it’s chilly). It’s a prime spot for sunset too, since Riffelalp faces west. Time your lunch later in the afternoon (they serve until around 5 pm in high season) and you can bask in golden light. Kids: a small playground and plenty of safe space to play in view of parents on the terrace. The atmosphere is casual – muddy boots and ski gear are just fine. Reservations aren’t usually required except on very busy days or for larger groups; but if you’re planning a Sunday visit during peak season, a quick call can’t hurt, especially if live music is advertised. Enjoy a Valais plate of dried meats and local wine here – it captures the soul of Swiss mountain dining.