Heatwave in Lausanne? Our beer bar stays cool while the city swelters

May 2026, and RTS has already published its article on the heatwave. It’s not even June yet, and we’re already hearing about record temperatures in Pully. Lausanne is melting, and the City has republished its official map of cool spaces: over 140 places to cool your sweaty brow — air-conditioned libraries, churches, museums, the Riponne fountains. Very well done, really.

Except there’s one category missing from the map. Guess which one.

That’s right: there isn’t a single beer bar on the official heatwave map. We get it, don’t we — the heatwave plan is for public service, not for business. But that still means there’s a gap in the coverage for those who like to cool off with something other than tap water.

So, we’re taking the liberty of suggesting an unofficial addition to the City’s list: the La Mise beer bar, 14 Rue de la Tour. Why us? For a very simple reason: our 32 draught kegs need to be kept at around 4°C, otherwise the head goes haywire and the sours turn to vinegar. Logical conclusion: it’s in our best interests to keep the room cool. All year round. You can thank us — or rather thank the NEIPAs, which don’t like the heat.

In practical terms, here’s what it’s like in the middle of July: you push open the door, you immediately feel the ten-degree drop on the back of your neck, and you find yourself facing a tap rail where drinks suited to the weather are constantly on rotation. A local Session IPA for when you want to keep going without crawling home on all fours, a fruity Berliner Weisse that goes down a treat, a sour with a sharp edge to wake up a parched palate, a non-alcoholic for those who prefer to stay cool, a Swiss Pilsner for those who just want something simple and well-made. In short, plenty of choice.

What about the terrace? It’s there, we love it, we have our aperitifs there in May and September. But let’s be honest: at 33°C in the blazing sun, the cool spot is inside. The terrace is the option for days when it’s sunny—but not too hot. For the real heatwaves, we’ll save you a spot in the shade of the bar, under the barrel rack.

A little bonus for forward-thinking Lausanne residents: if you’ve neither the inclination nor the energy to go out, the shop is right next to the bar (same address, same freshness), and you can put together a crate to take home for the fridge. We can also deliver anywhere in Switzerland — or, for more ambitious get-togethers, rent you a beer tap from 45 CHF (but then you’re in charge of the temperature, mind you).

The verdict: the City of Lausanne has mapped out its 140 cool spots. We’re claiming a 141st, on Rue de la Tour. With 32 draught beers, a cellar that’s constantly rotating, and zero pressure to stay (we needed that pun). If you see anyone sweating on the Riponne this summer, tell them where to go.

— Lupulynn