Versatile Small-town Gem

The Mühlbach, in the small town of Chur (population 35,000), takes its name from the river which flows directly beneath it. A seven-metre-high concrete cube has become a unique eatery with 42 seats in an area of 120 sq m. It is the work of Swiss architect Conradin Clavuot, a rising star of the architecture scene, known for his aesthetic building designs and his keen eye for detail. nvestment: CHF1.2 m. The concept: in the daytime, a wide, healthy choice of small, elegant foods such as panini caldi, salads, pasta and sweet snacks; all freshly prepared every day in the restaurant's own kitchen. Then, in the early evening, comes the transformation into an apéritif bar: lavish, relaxed atmosphere, select range of wines and spirits and so on. The day-time business is still stronger than the evening's, but that should change in the winter months. Average bill: CHF15, and a seat turnover of four. Since September there has been a second (take-away only) outlet in the underpass at Chur railway station. The Mühlbach concept has the business backing of the Merz Group, a premium-segment company involved in bakery, cakes and pastries, confectionery and the restaurant trade. Merz has a further four units in the restaurant business as well as a banquet/catering division.www.muehlba.ch