geneva

Morning

Kiosque Des Bastions

Originally an open air music pavilion, this belle-époque building has been re-furbished as a cafe in the Bastions Park right underneath the old city walls. It runs the whole day and offers light bights, drinks and coffee inside of its airy greenhouse, which sometimes still hosts live music especially during summer when they open up their enormous terrace.

Afternoon

Fiskebar

Nordic inspired restaurant attached to the Ritz Carlton serving mostly fish based dishes. Go for the lunch menu which features nice light options and plus it up with a course of caviar if you're feeling extra.

Evening

Monsieur Ador

Classy little neo french bistrot with a short but well executed menu and views on the lake. James Bond memorabilia plasters the walls which adds just enough dorkiness to be charming. You'll find all the classic on theme cocktails like the Vesper Martini. Definitely go refresh yourself at the bathroom behind the hidden sliding mirror door. Fwoosh sound and all.

Night

Little Eminente Barrel

Cocktail bar specializing in Rums. It's a block away from the lake side so no breezy terrace but they compensate for that with a cosy tiny backroom with only three tables which you can get to yourself if you're lucky. If you're in the city during the winter it offers a great break from fondue and hot cocoa with its Havana themed interior and outstanding Tiki drinks.

Chez Piaf's Bar

Chez Piaf is a great french restaurant but it has a little secret. Go to the back and through the wardrobe and you'll find yourself in one of Geneva's only speakeasy style bars. They make some textbook classic cocktails with top shelf liquors. Go right after dinner for a chill drink or wait past midnight for the unhinged DJ who can make the place go from quiet to raucous.

When in Rome

Buvette Des Bains Des Paquis

A very informal and beloved institution among locals. The restaurant is part of the public baths, which are found at the end of a pier going out to the center of Geneva's bay, offering some of the best views out onto the city. During the day it can be hectic with kids and families bathing, but come the evening, especially in winter, you should enter to the thermal area; enjoy a nudist sauna and plunge into the freezing lake overlooking the glitzy hotels, and then go straight to the restaurant for, what many believe to be, the best fondue in town.