Bar Culture: Lucerne’s «Fritz» Breaks the Mold
Founded by a passionate trio – Corinne Husmann, Christian Gujan, and Robert Zupan – «Fritz» was deliberately designed to break the mold, both in its aesthetic and gastronomic approach.
«The first year was tough – but with determination and a lot of communication, we managed to establish something truly our own,» says Corinne Husmann.
Living Room With Personality
From the moment you walk in, the unconventional design stands out: red walls, cozy sofas, stylish DJ booths – «Fritz» feels more like a personal retreat. «We wanted to create a living-room vibe with a 60s and 70s flair, and DJs who play listening sessions instead of party hits,» Husmann explains.
The attention to detail is evident throughout – from the lighting concept to the bar-centric layout. «We don’t hide anything – we show how the drinks are made. That’s part of our ethos.»
«Living room atmosphere»: Bar manager Corinne Husmann. (Photo: Dominik Inal)
Classic Meets Creative: The Cocktail Menu
The drinks menu features classic cocktails with a twist, alongside five non-alcoholic creations that surprise with ingredients like tea infusions, methylcellulose foam, and homemade syrups. «Our head bartender loves to experiment – and we want to show guests that alcohol-free drinks can be just as exciting.»
Collaborations with partners such as Kinley – whose products are used exclusively – and the curated selection of spirits like Kraken Rum or Swiss labels, round off the concept.
«What sealed the deal with Kinley, a Coca-Cola brand, was the fact that the drinks are made in Switzerland, deliver on flavor, and visually complement our design language.»
Guerilla Pop-Up and Lakeside Summer
Beyond its day-to-day bar operations, «Fritz» regularly explores new formats. A four-month guerrilla pop-up featuring tacos as a food pairing – in partnership with the restaurant Glou Glou – was a resounding success. In the summer of 2024, the team set up shop for two months at Lucerne’s lakeside Lido, bringing sofas, DJs, and drinks right to the water’s edge.
«We created three signature cocktails for the summer menu at the Lido – including the Dark n’ Story, which we’re happy to share for this interview,» says Husmann. «It was the perfect blend of lightness and depth.»
Despite its successes, Lucerne remains a tough market. Many clubs are closing down or shifting to one-off event venues. «What’s missing are sustainable concepts that keep guests coming back,» says Husmann. That’s why «Fritz» is committed to building a loyal clientele, prioritizing quality, and fostering a strong community.
«People have to come for you – not for the location,» she sums up.
With 45 seats and standing room for 80, «Fritz» is intentionally compact. The bar opens two nights a week, with special events like cocktail dinners and DJ nights generating additional buzz.
In the End
«Fritz» is more than a bar – it’s a statement. A stand against mediocrity, and for authenticity. Against mass production, and for craftsmanship. Above all, it’s for people who appreciate quality, design, and true hospitality culture.
This bar feature is brought to you by The Coca-Cola Company.
