SWISS CHALET® LEGACY
Discover the rich history and savoury traditions at Swiss Chalet® that have delighted Canadian families for generations.
1950s & 1960s
The first Swiss Chalet® restaurant opened at 234 Bloor Street West in Toronto in 1954
Fun facts:
- Our founder was inspired by the Swiss method of cooking chickens, roasting chickens on a spit over an open flame.
- Our first location on Bloor Street featured exposed-beam ceilings in the "Chalet" style, carved dark-wood paneling, wooden ceiling beams, and windows with frilly curtains.
- Our top-secret Chalet Sauce recipe was born, and quickly became a Canadian favourite!
- We didn't serve our food with cutlery! Your server brought you a finger bowl to clean your hands.
- We had a sign at the door, telling Guests whether we had small or large chickens that day.
1970s
Delivery Arrived! Canadians could now get Swiss Chalet® delivered to their doorstep
Fun facts:
- Delivery was done out of the restaurant office. A hostess answered the phone, and wrote the order down by hand.
- Swiss Chalet® opened in Rochester and Buffalo in 1973 & in Egypt in 1978.
1980s
1990s
Swiss Chalet® restaurants were specially renovated with new decor, and the Brand got a new logo!
Fun facts:
- Swiss Chalet® opened a location in Prague, Czech Republic in 1991.
2000s & 2010s
Swiss Chalet® expanded the menu and brought our family favourites to a grocery store near you
Fun facts:
- Welcomed Canadian AAA Rotisserie Beef to the menu.
- We tested other new menu items like Chicken Stir Fry, Quesadilla, even All-You-Can-Eat Fries!
- Swiss Chalet® Smoky BBQ Back Ribs claimed #1 spot in the category across grocery stores in Canada.
- Brand Mascot 'Dippy' became part of the Swiss Chalet® family.
2020s
Launched Chicken Strips in grocery stores and became the first restaurant brand in this category.
Swiss Chalet® continues to open new restaurants and renovate beloved locations, to continue to serve Canadians for many years to come!
