Bistro Althaus - Sissach

I happened upon this place by sheer coincidence while hiking and feeling rather hungry. Since the local restaurant Sonne chose to ignore me (even though I arrived there during business hours), I walked on discovering this little bijou hidden away in a tiny side street...off the main road. Run by a very energetic and friendly elderly lady, the place has three sunny and peaceful outdoor tables and an inside area that feels like a private dining room which it probably is, but no worse for that. You will get anything from coffee, sweets, ice cream to sandwiches and the like at any time, but the hostess also usually has some hot home-cooked lunch waiting for the passer-by. That day, I happened to have a craving for both coffee and gherkins, so I asked whether she would humor me. No problem at all, as it turned out, and within five minutes I was served a beautifully arranged plate with slices of cucumber, tomatoes and bread, a cup of coffee and a chocolate egg. Upon asking for the bill, the hostess only wanted to charge me CHF in Basel, you'll easily pay as much for just a cup of coffee! Very recommendable little place, indeed; friendly, quiet and personal.

I happened upon this place by sheer coincidence while hiking and feeling rather hungry. Since the local restaurant Sonne chose to ignore me (even though I arrived there during business hours), I walked on discovering this little bijou hidden away in a tiny side street off the main road.Run by a very energetic and friendly elderly lady, the place has three sunny and peaceful outdoor tables and an inside area that feels like a private dining room - which it probably is, but no worse for that. You will get anything from coffee, sweets, ice cream to sandwiches and the like at any time, but the hostess also usually has some hot home-cooked lunch waiting for the passer-by. That day, I happened to have a craving for both coffee and gherkins, so I asked whether she would humor me. No problem at all, as it turned out, and within five minutes I was served a beautifully arranged plate with slices of cucumber, tomatoes and bread, a cup of coffee and a chocolate egg. Upon asking for the bill, the hostess only wanted to charge me CHF 4.50 - in Basel, you'll easily pay as much for just a cup of coffee!Very recommendable little place, indeed; friendly, quiet and personal.