Authentic Lake Fish Cuisine in Geneva – L’H

By Liu Jiawen | Compiled and Reported | Source: Monocle Editorial Department

Since Geneva has close cultural ties with France, it naturally has discerning tastes when it comes to cuisine. Especially given its proximity to large lakes, fresh lake fish has become a local specialty. In Geneva’s Old Town, it’s not difficult to find authentic local dishes—just pick any restaurant to sit down in, as nearly every one of them has a history of over a hundred years. This historic restaurant, sharing its name with the Town Hall, has for centuries been a gathering spot for government officials during their lunch breaks, so the deliciousness and refinement of the dishes go without saying.

If you want to sample the best of Geneva’s local cuisine all at once, we recommend ordering the CHF65 set menu. This five-course meal includes appetizers and dessert, and the second course—sliced perch (Filets de Perches)—is a must-try dish when visiting Geneva. The perch is freshly caught from Lake Geneva, sliced, pan-fried in butter, and served with lemon slices and herbs. Its tender texture and sweet flavor make you wish there were more than just three pieces.

Next came Geneva-style sausages and the traditional spicy pork chop stew, instantly satisfying the appetite that had been whetted by the perch. The final dessert was also unique—the pear mousse was served in tulip-shaped soft biscuits infused with pear liqueur flavor, and the whole thing was wrapped in a nest-like layer of pulled sugar glaze, offering a highly modern-artistic visual appeal.

L'Hôtel-de-Ville Restaurant

Address: Grand-Rue 39, 1204 Geneva

Phone: +41-22-311-7030

Website: www.hdvglozu.ch