James Joyce

Classic in Zurich. Good daily menu.

The James Joyce bar, located on Pelikanstrasse in Zurich, is a unique establishment that beautifully blends Irish charm with Swiss hospitality. The bar is famous for its connection to the renowned Irish writer James Joyce, who spent the last years of his life in Zurich. In fact, the bar’s fittings were shipped from the iconic Irish bar of the former Jury’s Hotel in Dublin, adding an authentic touch to the ambiance.
The bar is also in close proximity to Fluntern Cemetery, where James Joyce is buried. This connection adds a layer of historical significance to the bar, making it a must-visit for literature enthusiasts and fans of Joyce.
The James Joyce bar is not just about history and literature; it’s also about good food and drinks. They host a popular ribs night every Monday, where you can enjoy juicy, delicious spare ribs with a variety of sauces. The bar also offers a wide selection of whisky, wines, and beers.
In summary, the James Joyce bar offers a unique experience that combines history, literature, and gastronomy. Whether you’re a fan of James Joyce, a food lover, or simply looking for a place with a unique atmosphere, the James Joyce bar is definitely worth a visit.

- I got a 8oz burger and it was soooo disappointing especially for this price - 36 chf. Such oily unhealthy french fries

- atmosphere also so so - we set on small chairs without backs

- slow, not that friendly service

I should have known when we walked up for dinner on a Saturday night around 8 pm and the restaurant was practically empty, what I was getting in to. We ordered their snack plate appetizer but they were out of shrimp so told us it was substituted with tempura. I asked if it was the same price and the server assured me “it’s a lot of tempura”. I guess 4 pieces of green beans is a lot to some people. The spring rolls were also cold and undercooked. We waited about 25-30 minutes for our mains. I had the fish and chips and my husband had the James burger. My fish and chips were also cold and the fish was super bland and dry. The burger was undercooked and you could tell it was literally pulled out of the fridge, thrown on the grill and then slapped onto a bun. I would absolutely not recommend this place. I’m shocked the reviews are as good as they are.