Domino Bern – Lebanese Mezze Variety in the Old Town

Atmosphere: Well-Kept Interior with Street-Feel Dining

Domino Bern has been a fixture of the Bernese dining scene for decades. The interior is well-maintained but feels like it hasn’t undergone major changes in quite some time – which is part of its charm. Bordeaux-red leather armchairs and padded bench seating invite you to linger and lend the room a warm, welcoming character.

Particularly noteworthy is the clever design of the large front windows: they can be opened wide, making the indoor tables feel like you’re sitting outside in the fresh air. This creates a wonderful connection between interior and exterior space. When the weather is fine, tables and chairs are also set up directly on Schwanengasse.

The Kitchen: Lebanese Specialties

For my visit, I chose the Domino Platter – a curated plate offering a comprehensive introduction to Lebanese cuisine.

Main Course: Domino Platter – CHF 37

The Domino Platter is an impressive assortment of warm and cold mezza specialties: sambussek (meat-filled pastries), chickpea dip (hummus), eggplant dip (baba ganoush), kebbe akras (fried bulgur with beef), tabbouleh salad, spinach pastry, falafel, and two generous chicken skewers served in flatbread with tabbouleh.

The tabbouleh was wonderfully refreshing with a distinct parsley flavor – exactly as good tabbouleh should be. The eggplant dip was mild and creamy, while the chickpea dip was savory with a pleasant smoky aroma. The chicken skewers were tender and aromatic; I used the flatbread to scoop up both dips – an excellent combination.

Alongside these came four different small bites: falafel, a fried beef kubbeh ball, spinach pastries, and a meat-filled dumpling. Each component was flavorful in its own right and contributed to the overall experience. The result was a diverse flavor journey with many nuances. The portion was generous – I came with a big appetite and left more than satisfied.

Dessert: Lebanese Coffee with Cardamom

To finish, I treated myself to a Lebanese coffee with cardamom. The flavor was distinctly oriental and unfamiliar to my palate – perhaps a bit of sugar would have helped balance the strong cardamom note. Still, it made for an interesting and authentic end to the meal.

Service

The service at Domino Bern is friendly, uncomplicated, and almost familial. You feel welcome and well taken care of – without any stuffy formality. The staff is attentive to guests and ensures a relaxed, pleasant atmosphere throughout the visit.