One of the few remaining old bistros in Geneva is the Café du Soleil. It is extremely popular with the international community and locals due to the restaurant's proximity to significant UN Organizations. Fortunately, nothing has changed here for years, it still remains a quaint old house decorated in a typical café style. There is also a pleasant little terrace in front of the house. Generous portions of home-style cooking are served in large platters by friendly waiters. A typical Swiss Fondue and a selection of salad plates are also available. The prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food. Also, this is just the place to sample interesting local wines.
Situated in Carouge, Au Vieux Carouge may just be the best fondue place in Geneva. And not just for the food, but also because of the hospitality of the owners Jacky and Maryda. If they recommend the fondue with tomatoes, take their word for it. The fondue is consistently excellent, as is the memory of the café owners; you don't need to be a regular customer for them to recognize you. It does get crowded around meal times so it's advisable to call ahead and reserve a table.
Crazy for pasta and risotto? Then do drop in at Il Lago restaurant located in the opulent Four Seasons Hôtel des Bergues. The decor punctuated with rich carpets and chandeliers has a European influence. Relish the authentic Italian fare prepared with the season's freshest produce. Il Lago is the place for you to pep up the gloomy morning with a low-fat breakfast, gorge on the Cheese Ravioli Scented with Lemon dish and Mint or the White Truffle Tagliolini, or to get the much needed sugar rush with the chocolates served with hazelnut ice cream.
Often, restaurants whisper stories in our ears, stories about wine, travels, traditions, authenticity. Le Café de Peney, located in the picturesque area of Satigny, surrounded by vineyards, tells tales about wines and traditions; traditions of simple and noble foods, selected wines from Switzerland and other parts of Europe. Le Café de Peney offers French cuisine in an elegant and cozy setting, and located on the outskirts of Geneva, it can be reached by car or by the boat, navigating the Rhône. Prior reservation is strongly recommended.
Fine French cuisine is more than a good enough reason to head to Carouge, Geneva's neighboring town. L'Olivier de Provence serves up delicious favorites, including foie gras, lamb, and seafood dishes. The restaurant offers à la carte menus and prix fixe menus, depending on your mood and budget. The interior design is beautiful, with dark wood paneling and red curtains along the stone fireplace. Call or see the website for more information.
Boréal Coffee Shop is like Geneva's own little Starbucks, serving delicious coffee and delightful treats. Situated in the heart of the business and shopping district with a tram stop just in front of it, Boréal has become one of the favorites in the city. During the day it's very crowded, so a coffee to-go is the best option if you don't want to wait forever for a couch. The couches, however, are worth the wait if you want to rest up a bit. Like any decent coffee shop, Boréal offers free WiFi. The coffee is great and the prices are reasonable.