Jason N.
Yelp
Recommended by guidebooks and locals alike as the best place for fondue in Zermatt, Whymper-Stube perhaps only disappoints due to American misconceptions about what traditional fondue is (e.g., apparently and perhaps unfortunately, chocolate dessert fondue ain't the real thing, folks).
Whymper-Stube is named for the first person to summit the Matterhorn. It is adjoined to the hotel from which Monsieur Whymper set out on his successful venture. The restaurant is a cozy nook consisting of two small rooms so reservations are definitely required. There are seatings at 18:30 and 20:30, and getting a reservation on the day of is fairly easy though you might not get the slot you want. Also, the restaurant is fairly flexible, allowing you to arrive close to 19:00 if you have the 18:30 seating, which allows you to begin and finish within an hour and a half without any feeling of rush.
The cheese fondue is the only fondue available for one person. It comes with bread and potatoes. You can get additions such as mushrooms and pears for a small additional charge. Also, the dried meat carpaccio appetizer pairs well and provides a more well-rounded meal. The pork cordon bleu is awesome, but the fries that accompany it are not good at all. I would recommend just asking for vegetables instead, and your request will be happily accommodated.
The servers are quite busy and occasionally must be hailed down. The prosecco, at 8 CHF a pop, was quite good for the price. There is one and only one beer ("Cardinal"). It is pilsener style and good.
The raclette looked and smelled delicious but after eating an entire bowl of cheese fondue myself (our waitress was impressed), even after a day of skiing, I could eat no more!
Reservations are required. Expect dinner for two to run in the 100 CHF range before tip.
I originally wrote this review in January 2012 and returned to the restaurant in January 2013 and had an identical and equally satisfying experience.