Where to eat in Geneva? 8 must visit restaurants

Geneva is not only a city of international institutions and banks, but also a city with a rich gastronomic culture. Here you will find restaurants to suit all tastes and wallets, from fine dining overlooking Lake Geneva to home cooking and cozy bistros!

In this guide, we take a look at the 8 best must-see restaurants in Geneva.

Le Café des Banques

This restaurant has become my favorite place to stay in Geneva. Chef Yoann Calouet and his team welcome you to their new establishment with a modern and casual atmosphere. The cuisine reflects the image of a delicious and elegant establishment. The exquisite cuisine is a delight for the taste buds.

It is advisable to sit inside rather than on the terrace because the kitchen overlooking the dining room is a real sight during meals.

La Perle du Lac

La Perle du Lac is a restaurant where people come not only for the food but also for the view. Located in Mont Repos Park on the shores of Lake Geneva, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of the lake, and on a clear day, Mont Blanc The plates are prepared with elegant seasonal dishes.

The most challenging moment comes during dessert. In front of you is a cart filled with tartlets, meringues, fruit salads, and other delicacies, but can you choose?

Warning: despite the high prices for the place, the restaurant is very famous and very busy. Be sure to reserve a table in advance to have the opportunity to dine there.

Balila

Balila restaurant, located on the second floor of the Longemalle Hotel, a stone's throw from the city center and the lake, invites you to travel through Lebanon.

Here, oriental flavors are reinterpreted with western accents to offer you delicious dishes. I recommend the "Discover" menu consisting of five cold mezes, five hot mezes, meat and fish dishes, and an assortment of Lebanese pastries. All this, of course, accompanied by Lebanese wines.

It is a great place to spend some time together. But beware: this restaurant is a victim of its own success, so make reservations a few days in advance.

Le Pilier

This cozy and relaxed restaurant in the heart of the city offers elegant and refined cuisine. Chef Eva Magiere prepares beautiful as well as seasonal dishes that are a feast for the taste buds and eyes.

Le Pilier also works with local winemakers and honors a Geneva winemaker each month.

Les Bains des Pâquis

It is not just a restaurant, it is an art of living. Swimming, relaxing, feasting and aperitifs are all part of the program. The atmosphere at Bains des Pâquis is relaxing, especially when sharing the fabulous fondue au crémant.

Be warned: the concept and popular prices attract numerous visitors, so be sure to reserve your table in advance.

Les Armures

In the heart of the Old Town is Les Armures, known for its fondue. It is said to be Bill and Hillary Clinton's favorite Geneva restaurant.

The restaurant serves authentic traditional cuisine. The menu includes very tasty local dishes, although not always the lightest. The plates are very large, so it is worth planning a short nap or walk after the meal to improve digestion.

Le Cottage Cafe

Located near Lake Geneva and next to the Brunswick Mausoleum, Le Cottage Café is a warm and casual restaurant. Here, among other things, you will find tapas that can be shared for additional socializing.

On nice days, you can get a little extra seating on the terrace to enjoy the view of the fountain.

Café de Peney

This new place is located in Satigny in the Geneva countryside. Surrounded by foliage, this bistronomy restaurant offers classic cuisine. It is the perfect place for a relaxing and friendly meal.

Whichever restaurant you choose, you are sure to have an unforgettable gastronomic experience in Geneva.