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With a heavy heart, René Wassmer says goodbye to the Weingarten (“Wygärtli”) restaurant in Thalheim. After 48 years of tireless work in the catering industry, the 64-year-old is closing the business on May 31st. Professional burnout and a health warning in 2024 led him to this step. He actually wanted to hold out until the end of 2026, but now he feels forced to let go earlier and retire.
With a lot of commitment, dedication and passion
For decades his everyday life was determined by the restaurant: early starts to work, late nights, often until the last guests had left. Despite the enormous strain, Wassmer only allowed himself one day of rest per week and kept the “Wygärtli” open throughout the day. The extended vacation was necessary to gain new strength. With a lot of commitment, dedication and passion, he ran the company successfully and was always able to rely on a small, loyal team.
The final Metzgete
The “Wygärtli” became known far beyond the region, especially through the traditional Metzgete. The secret family recipes for blood and liver sausages will now be served for the last time every day from February 26th to March 1st. After the holidays in February, the final butcher’s get-together, the Easter offer with Gitzi and fish and the last military cheese slice follow – all farewell to cherished traditions.
A noticeable gap
The restaurant remains an important meeting place for the village clubs until the end. The community’s regret about the impending closure is all the greater. Although there are still few other restaurants, the loss of the “Wygärtli” leaves a noticeable gap in village life.
Hope dies last
The restaurant is still for sale for 1.75 million francs, supplemented by an optional building plot for 225,000 francs. Despite its very good condition and long history of success, interest has so far remained low. Wassmer rules out renting – he wants to draw a clear line in the sand. If no solution is found in the coming years, the building could be converted into living space.
But René Wassmer still hopes that someone will find the passion to continue running this house, which was built in 1870, after 91 years of family business. It’s obviously difficult for him to say goodbye – because with the “Wygärtli” a life’s work comes to an end.
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Restaurant Weingarten
Main Street 110
5112 Thalheim
056 443 12 74
www.wygaertli-thalheim.ch
Warm cuisine all day, Sunday until 8 p.m
