Thomas Gorhan, the mixologist at LOFT FIVE in Zurich, is more than a master of cocktails—he’s an artisan of experience. With a background in both visual design and gastronomy, Gorhan approaches mixology as a creative discipline where storytelling, flavor, and atmosphere converge. At the popular Zurich-based bar, he’s known for crafting drinks that are as thought-provoking as they are delicious, always pushing the boundaries of taste and technique.
Timed to the 2025 edition of Art Basel, Whitewall spoke with Gorhan about his favorite hidden corners of Zurich—from meditative walks in the forest to tucked-away art installations and secret bars.
Courtesy of LOFT FIVE.
WHITEWALL: What is the best spot to find inspiration in Zurich?
THOMAS GORHAN: For me, it’s a quiet walk through the forest, especially where there’s water. The calm of nature, the scent of wild herbs, and the ever-changing shapes of clouds create a kind of natural poetry. It’s surprisingly similar to crafting a cocktail: subtle layers, seasonal notes, and a sense of flow. Both offer a moment to pause, observe, and get inspired.
Courtesy of LOFT FIVE.
WW: Where is the best off-the-beaten-path to see art in Zurich?
TG: I love stumbling upon metal sculptures tucked away in unexpected corners of the city—like Tinguely’s art pieces at the Lake of Zurich. They have a raw, almost alchemical feel, like watching materials transform. That’s the same feeling I chase behind the bar—blending textures, movement, and emotion into something expressive and ephemeral.
“I love stumbling upon metal sculptures tucked away in unexpected corners of the city…”
—Thomas Gorhan
Courtesy of LOFT FIVE.
WW: What’s your best-kept secret in Zurich?
TG: Tales Bar, without a doubt. It’s not just about cocktails—it’s about storytelling through flavor. The bartenders craft each drink with such care and creativity, it feels like performance art. The ambiance, the attention to detail, the unexpected twists—it’s the kind of place that reminds you how powerful a well-made drink can be.
“It’s not just about cocktails—it’s about storytelling through flavor.”
—Thomas Gorhan
Thomas Gorhan’s Best of Zurich
1. Zurich’s Forests
Courtesy of My Switzerland.
“By definition, virgin forests are “natural forests that have never been influenced directly by human activities in their development over the centuries”. Forests that are totally untouched by humans hardly exist in Switzerland today. Parts of the Bödmeren forest in Muotathal, the primeval spruce-fir forest of l’Echorcha in Derborence and the virgin spruce forest of Uaul Scatlè above Brigels are small primeval forest-like areas that have remained in their pristine state over the years. Today, there are also over 800 natural forest reserves in Switzerland, where the forests develop largely without human intervention and have not been managed for decades These special areas requiring protection are often open to visitors, making it all the more important to stay on the trails, behave with care and comply with the regulations.” via My Switzerland
2. Lake Zurich
Lake Zurich, courtesy of Zeurich.
“Lake Zurich was once above all a transport route. Today, it is a popular excursion point for swimming, boating or having a picnic on the lake’s banks. After Lake Geneva, Lake Neuchâtel, Lake Constance and Lake Lucerne, Lake Zurich is one of Switzerland’s “Big Five” in terms of lakes. In the past, it was mainly used as a traffic and transportation route, but today it is a popular excursion destination for swimming, sailing, boating, and picnicking on the shore.” via Zeurich
3. Tales Bar
Courtesy of Tales Bar.
“A mainstay of the Zurich cocktail scene for the past decade, Tales Bar is located in the heart of the city, offering a warm welcome in an exceedingly comfortable and cosy space. With plenty of wood and warm tones throughout, lit by an abundance of candles, this is somewhere to settle in for the day and night which is easy to do when the bar stays open until 3am and serves bar food until close. Upon opening the leather-bound cocktail list it’s clear where the focus lies, with a combination of classic and contemporary drinks on offer made using the best ingredients – not to mention an extensive selection of spirits – and employing modern techniques. Travel back in time with a selection entitled Early Age of Mixed Drinks, or opt for something fruitier from The Rising of the Tiki section. Low- and no-alcohol are well covered here too, with plenty to choose from.” via Tales Bar
