Cool Cats

Cool Cats is a casual Chamonix spot for burgers, fries and quick bites. Expect fast service, good-value comfort food and easy takeaway for lunch or a no-fuss dinner. Book ahead. Book ahead in peak season.

Last updated: 2025-12-23

Website: http://coolcatsrestaurants.com
Phone: +33 4 50 54 41 20

Key takeaways

Handy for quick burgers and a relaxed, informal meal.
Central location in Chamonix—easy to reach on foot.
Takeaway available—useful for a quick night in.
Check the latest menu and opening times before you go (seasonality is common in the valley).

Quick answer

Overview

Cool Cats is a trendy street-food café in Chamonix that has earned a cult following for its artisan hot dogs and laid-back vibe. Tucked away on Rue des Moulins (the town’s historic bar street), Cool Cats stands out with its bold graffiti-style signage and cheerful outdoor benches. The concept is simple: take the humble hot dog and elevate it with quality ingredients and creative toppings. Since opening a few years ago, it’s become the spot for a quick, satisfying bite after skiing or during a night out. The atmosphere is fun and youthful – often there’s music playing (sometimes even live bands or a DJ for special events) and a small crowd spilling onto the street enjoying gourmet dogs and local beers. In short, Cool Cats brings a bit of modern street-food flair to Chamonix’s dining scene.

Food & Drink

The menu centers on hot dogs, but these are not your average franks. Cool Cats uses quality sausages (locally sourced where possible) tucked in fresh buns, then piles on inventive toppings. For example, their signature “K2” dog comes loaded with crispy onions, Savoyard cheese, bacon, and house- made BBQ sauce; the “Sherpa” might feature curry-mango relish and cilantro for a zingy twist. They also usually have a vegetarian dog option – like a spiced veggie sausage with grilled peppers and feta. In addition, you can get sides such as truffle fries, slaw, or loaded nachos. The portions are hearty but not gut-busting – perfect for refueling without feeling too heavy. On the drink side, Cool Cats shines by offering a selection of local craft beers, lemonades, and often a hot wine or two in winter. It’s an ideal après-ski stop because you can grab a hot dog and a beer within minutes of walking off the slopes. Prices are reasonable for the quality (more than a fast-food stand, but far less than a sit-down meal). Importantly, everything is available to take away in eco-friendly packaging – so you can wander with your street food or pop into a nearby bar with it (they’re cool about that in Rue des Moulins).

Ambiance

Cool Cats has a distinctly casual, almost festival-like atmosphere. The seating is mostly outdoors on communal picnic tables or barrels where people stand and chat. Inside, the space is very small – just the order counter and a couple of bar stools – but decked out in colorful art and posters. In the evenings, especially in winter, heat lamps keep the outside seating cozy, and the area is illuminated with strings of lights. There’s a young, international crowd – you’ll hear a mix of English, French, Swedish, you name it – as seasonnaires and tourists alike converge here. Often you’ll catch live music on weekend afternoons or DJs spinning tunes as part of the lively après scene in this quarter of town 18 . The staff are young and upbeat, matching the vibe; service is quick but personable, with menu recommendations and the occasional free sample of a new sauce they’re trying out. The whole setting encourages socializing – don’t be surprised if you make a new friend while sharing a table or end up following the crowd to a nearby pub after your meal.

Tips

Cool Cats typically opens around midday and goes through late evening (check for exact hours by season). It can get busy right at lunchtime and in the 5–7 PM après-ski window, so if you see a queue, don’t worry – it moves pretty fast. Since everything is made fresh to order, you might wait 5–10 minutes for your dog during peak times, but you can use that time to grab a beer or chat with fellow customers. If you have dietary preferences, note that they usually have a vegan sausage option available on request, and they can customize toppings (their staff is quite accommodating). Being on Rue des Moulins, it’s a pedestrian zone, so you’ll likely be on foot already when you find it – it’s about a 3-minute walk from the town center hub. Prices for a loaded hot dog are around €10–€12, and one will satisfy most appetites (though serious eaters might go for two different varieties!). For a tasty, social meal without the formality of a restaurant, Cool Cats is purr-fect – pun intended!

Getting there

Cool Cats is in the Chamonix valley. In high season, it’s often easiest to arrive on foot or by local bus—parking in town can be limited.

Map: Open Cool Cats on Google Maps

Need an airport transfer?

If you’re arriving via Geneva Airport, we can help you get to resort quickly and comfortably. See our Geneva to Chamonix Transfer options.

FAQs

Do I need to book in advance?

It depends on the time and season. Cool Cats is busiest in winter and peak summer, so booking is a good idea for evening meals.

Is it suitable for families and children?

Cool Cats can still work for families, but the atmosphere may be quieter or more adult-focused at peak dinner times.

Are there vegetarian options?

Often yes, but options vary. If you need a veggie or vegan burger, check the current menu or call ahead.

Where is it in Chamonix?

Cool Cats is in the Chamonix valley. Use the Google Maps link on this page for the exact location and the quickest walking route.