




Events in the Heart of the Merian Gardens (20-200 People)
Welcome to Restaurant Iris, a culinary jewel in the magnificent Merian Gardens in Basel.
Situated in an environment inspired by nature itself, the Restaurant Iris offers an oasis of peace and relaxation. The Merian Gardens, known for their diversity and beauty, provide an impressive spectacle year-round. Whether spring, summer, autumn, or winter – nature always shows its best side here, influencing the atmosphere and cuisine of the restaurant.
Restaurant Iris is located in the heart of the Merian Gardens, in the newly restored New Barn. This historic building, originally constructed in 1906, has been lovingly renovated and now offers a modern yet charming setting for the restaurant and various events. The surrounding gardens invite you to linger and are the perfect place to leave everyday life behind and relax your soul.
Your Christmas Party & Christmas Dinner for Groups up to 200 People
Plan your Christmas celebration at Restaurant Iris and experience festive cuisine amidst the picturesque Merian Gardens. Our seasonally inspired menus provide the perfect setting for an atmospheric Christmas dinner that will delight your guests. Whether an intimate dinner in a small circle or a larger celebration with colleagues and friends – we tailor your event to your wishes.
Rooms for Events
The Merian Gardens offer a variety of extraordinary venues known for their unique charm. In addition to the New Barn that houses Restaurant Iris, numerous other locations are available for your events.
Villa Merian (per room 20 people, up to 120 people)
The historic villa, nestled within the beautiful Merian Gardens, offers an incomparable ambiance for your occasion. Whether a seminar, team-building workshop, or club meeting, the villa’s various rooms accommodate different group sizes, provide the necessary tranquility, and feature optimal infrastructure for a successful and productive event. We are also happy to accompany your event with culinary delights. To perfectly conclude your seminar, we offer various additional options, from an aperitif in the garden to an exquisite dinner.
New Barn with Restaurant Iris and the Large Hall (up to 250 seated guests + standing options in the garden)
The New Barn, the heart of the Merian Gardens, provides the ideal location for larger banquets, receptions, panel discussions, and business events with its large hall and foyer. Accessibility and modern facilities make this place suitable for all types of events.
Clay House (up to 150 people)
The Clay House, built in 2012, is an architectural masterpiece with solid clay walls. It offers a natural, peaceful, and private space for your events. The spacious hall, which can be divided into smaller areas, and the generous terrace with views of fruit trees and meadows create an inspiring environment.
Orangery (up to 80 people)
The Orangery, built around 1850 and lovingly restored, offers a stylish, light-filled space overlooking the medicinal plant garden. This historic venue is perfect for inspiring workshops, seminars, or private celebrations. The atmosphere invites you to let your thoughts wander and be inspired by the surrounding nature.
Greenhouses (up to approx. 150 people)
In the greenhouses, a unique atmosphere prevails where industrial flair and nature blend perfectly. These rooms are ideal for large celebrations and are particularly highlights during the summer months. The interplay of glass, steel, and the surrounding nature creates an unparalleled ambiance, making your event unforgettable. Bookable from June to late September.
Cuisine
At Restaurant Iris and Villa Merian, you will experience a cuisine that seamlessly integrates into the natural environment of the Merian Gardens. Our culinary offerings are strongly influenced by the seasons and focus on the freshest regional ingredients available from nature. Whether a hearty breakfast, light lunch, relaxed coffee and cake break, refreshing aperitif, or a delicious dinner – the guest team will delight you all day long with seasonal options catering to every taste.
We place great importance on the variety and quality of our ingredients, sourced from long-standing regional suppliers. Our offerings are for everyone who enjoys life – whether you prefer vegan, vegetarian, or meat-based dishes. Our chefs create dishes with passion and creativity, bringing out the best in every ingredient. Sustainability and responsible resource use are always at the center of our actions.
Catering
In addition to restaurant services, Iris also offers comprehensive catering to make your events in the Merian Gardens unforgettable. Whether planning a wedding, birthday, Christmas party, or business event – we gladly assist with organization and bring your wishes to life with enthusiasm and joy.
Our catering team is available to advise and prepare a personalized offer tailored to your needs. We use fresh, seasonal ingredients from the region to create menus that will impress your guests. Furthermore, we offer a wide range of spaces that make every event special.
We Look Forward to Seeing You and Are Happy to Advise
Visit one of the locations and discover the beauty and diversity of the Merian Gardens – a place where cuisine, nature, and hospitality merge into a unique experience. Get inspired and enjoy unforgettable moments in one of Basel’s most beautiful venues.
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