Is there any place in Zurich that's like Park Slope/Prospect Heights/Williamsburg in Brooklyn? In other words, any place that's heavy on restaurants, bars and general shopping? (We can do without the "kids" bit, but it's not necessarily a negative, either) Also not overtly concerned about being around exclusively Swiss or expats, so open to really any possibilities. I've heard that Wiedikon and Bellevue are "sort of" close, but that's about it.

I couldn't turn anything up in the thread searches, hence the question..

well, zurich is as big as a part brooklyn. so its all over the city centre.
but why you want to find something like "back home"? its the point about travelling/moving abroad... to see and explore something new, innit?

Flow,
Excellent point made, but there are some core things that we do appreciate, fine dining and drinking being two of them. Most other things we can do without, but we do love having easy access to those items. I understand that finding good restaurants in Zürich can be a challenge, but I think it's a constant that could keep us well-grounded.

Actually I understand what you mean. I am from Rome and sometimes I miss a lot getting into a small bar or shop and get recognized and get my cappuccino prepared even before I ask for it because "they know what I want". A lot of very positive things in Zurich, but quite difficult to have the feeling to live in a community.
Some friends of mine believe that Seefeld is a bit like this with several bars and restaurants. Very good for rich expats but in my opinion it doesn't have a strong "soul".
I like some small streets between the main train station and Limmatplatz. Small etnic shops (still crazy prices but quite nice), bars and restaurants.
Also Langstrasse is somehow "special": ok, a lot of strip bars but also some good restaurants and bars.

HA! I remember Langstrasse well; that was one of my favorite spots in the city! (I wanted to try the Alte Metg bar, but wasn't feeling brave enough to go in, yet. I think that's where it is -- isn't it?) Realistically, all I'm looking for is something
- With a little bit of an art scene/soul
- Where we have choices of restaurants/bars close by

That's pretty much it. I don't know if that's too big of an "ask" or not, but, hey, I'm trying!

I'll do some reading up on Seefeld. There's a chance we'll be in Zürich next month, so I'll be stopping by all these neighborhoods to check them out.

Thanks for the tip!

I'm looking for the same sort of neighborhood -- perhaps a little more on the crunchy side than you were looking for. Did you turn up anything in your searches?

(I know this thread is a little old... I thought I'd ask before posting a similar question.)