Best Food on a Budget in Geneva

An unpretentious, country-style restaurant, with quick and friendly service, and tasty, cheap food. With two other locations, apart from this one, Chez Ma Cousine is a handy option for a great, basic meal. Provincial French designs await with wooden tables and cheery yellow and green table settings. Chicken is the speciality; in fact, there are a handful dishes on the menu and all involve chicken: chicken, roast potato and salad, Thai chicken salad and Indian chicken curry, at very reasonable prices. Large bowls of salad and platters of food are served, and dinner guests serve themselves, lending a homey feel to the place.

Located in Bains des Pâquis, Buvette des Bains des Paquis overlooks Lake Geneva. This charming, old bistro is known best for its delicious fondues. Buvette des Bains des Paquis offers a fantastic seasonal, prix fixe menu making use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Reasonable rates, delicious food and a fantastic view make Buvette des Bains des Paquis one of the most popular restaurants in the city. Apart from this, the place offers a varied range of entertainment, check the website for a calender of events. You'll have to call ahead if you plan on eating the fondue; it's definitely worth the trouble!

Offering a delicious Italian fare, Il Carosello on Boulevard Georges-Favon is one of the most popular Italian restaurants in Old Town. The charming eatery is always abuzz with lively conversations and people. Apart from delicious pastas, calzones and pizzas, Carosello boasts of a fine list of European wines. The penne gorgonzola comes highly recommended; drop in to enjoy a fine Italian meal!

Located on Rue de Toutes-Ames in the Old Town, the Taverne de la Madeleine is a unique tavern, probably the only tavern in Geneva that doesn't sell alcohol! Known for their healthy dishes and balanced meals, the menu at Taverne de la Madeleine includes a lot of vegetarian options. Drop in and enjoy some healthy yet delicious grub and finish the meal with one of their awesome pies, you'd soon be coming for more!