The glass columns behind the bar, containing Dr. Zhivago’s own spirits, are undoubtedly a highlight at this Zurich cocktail bar, but it’s the warm and welcoming hospitality that steals the show. The small team here takes pride in creating a comfortable atmosphere and putting guests at ease, while providing top-quality drinks and bar snacks, starting with complimentary homemade popcorn, seasoned with herbs from the venue’s garden. And if you’re visiting from out of town, the team will invariably provide you with a handwritten list of other excellent things to do in Zurich too.

This commitment to welcoming hospitality extends to the interior at Dr. Zhivago, with an abundance of cushions and comfortable seating throughout, and thoughtfully-chosen furniture sourced from local suppliers. Contemporary – even a little futuristic – in design, and effortlessly classy, the venue consists of distinctly different spaces to suit every occasion, including a high table for cocktail masterclasses, as well as a lounge area. There are tables outside, in a lush garden, while the interior is filled with plants sourced from local flower shops, reflecting the season. The gents bathrooms, meanwhile, feature Sketch-inspired pods and a mirrored window that looks back into the bar.

The most striking design feature, however, is the row of bespoke glass columns behind the bar, rather than a back bar stocked with miscellaneous bottles. These contain ten Dr. Zhivago spirits – including vodka, rum, rum honey, cherry, pear and more – all made at a local distillery using organic ingredients. After at least 12 months of resting after distillation these are delivered in bulk in metal tanks, reducing the bar’s impact on the environment, and significantly cutting down on glass waste. The columns, custom-made by a local glassblower, are double walled, with the spirits kept chilled by a separate cooling liquid.

This collection of spirits is central to the cocktails on offer here, which are sophisticated without being unnecessarily complicated – there’s no high-tech lab equipment here. Beyond the spirits, other ingredients tend to be sourced locally, from Switzerland. Expect perfectly-executed contemporary takes on classics such as Fizzes, Sours, Rickeys and Milk Punches, each showcasing the base spirit beautifully plus there are plenty of non-alcoholic options, with five cocktails on the list to choose from.

The tunes here are noteworthy too. The number of guest enquiries about the music led to the team making the playlist public – look for ‘Zhivago Cruisy’ on Spotify. On weekends, the music tends a touch more towards disco.