Geneva Watch Days 2023 is all set to open its doors on August 29, resulting in an influx of watch professionals, traders, media personalities and watch enthusiasts to the Swiss city by the lake. No doubt, the star attractions during the exhibition will be the horological debutants. However, the city’s gastronomic scene, which has also earned itself worldwide acclaim, deserves exploration. Offering both variety and exceptional quality, Geneva’s fine-dine venues have the flair to elevate any occasion.
Starting Tuesday, August 29, and running until September 2, this year’s Geneva Watch Days exhibition is expected be the biggest yet, according to the organisers. Nearly 40 watch brands are showcasing their latest releases at the Rotonde du Mont-Blanc pavilion, as well as at boutiques and venues throughout the city.
The pavilion, open to the public from August 30 onwards, is where visitors can discover the participating brands’ latest novelties, all arranged by theme. The organisers also offer free guided tours every afternoon, beginning at the pavilion and travelling to the various brand boutiques and showrooms.
Those planning to visit Geneva for Watch Days, or any other occasion, will be spoilt for choice when deciding on the place to dine. From the enchanting lakeside fondue to the innovative creations of no less than twelve prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants, from vegetable-focused dishes to seafood or family-friendly venues, Geneva offers a gastronomic journey with an abundance of options.
Nestled in the heart of Beau-Rivage Genève Hotel, Le Chat-Botté restaurant serves contemporary French cuisine infused with Mediterranean flavours. For a more classical French cuisine experience, Domaine de Châteauvieux is a must-visit destination. Located just a short distance from Geneva, and surrounded by vineyards, this historic 16th-century establishment showcases dishes made with exquisite ingredients like Blue lobster from Brittany and Simmental beef filet, served within the delightful gourmet ambience where tradition and innovation intertwine.
To experience the region’s local fish and seasonal produce in a gourmet lakeside setting, there is Restaurant de la Plage. The soothing sounds of lapping waves provide a serene backdrop to dishes like Perch Fillets from Lake Geneva and Trout from Guibert’s in Montreux.
Octopus is a recently established seafood venue located in the Champel district. Adorned with ample natural light, this restaurant offers an array of tantalizing dishes, including Octopus carpaccio with pomegranate and caper, Grilled octopus tentacle with pepper emulsion, and Crispy octopus tentacle with egg. The menu also offers the opportunity to delight in the delicate flavours of red mullet, scallops, and teriyaki salmon.
For those planning to visit Geneva with their families, the city offers a range of child-friendly restaurants that prioritize the enjoyment of both parents and children. One of these, located on the left bank of Lake Geneva, is Les Bains des Pâquis. Renowned for its picturesque waterfront setting, guests can start their day with a delightful breakfast, indulging in delicious pastries and jam. In addition to hosting birthday parties for children between the ages of 4 and 12, the restaurant also offers a variety of activities suitable for all ages.
Similarly, Un R de Famille is a delightful restaurant that caters to children’s needs by serving child-friendly dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. It also offers a dedicated playground where children can have fun and enjoy themselves.
For those seeking international flavours, Geneva has restaurants serving classic and fusion cuisine from Mexico, Peru, Japan, China, Lebanon, India, and Morocco, all within the city limits. At Balila, nestled within the charming Hôtel Longemalle on Rue Basses, guests can experience the flavours of Lebanon. From creamy Hummus to Tabouleh, Moutabal and Falafels, the classics are all there.
Rasoi in Carouge blends Swiss and Indian influences to offer a unique cillinary experience. Highlights include succulent Tandoori salmon, delectable Samosa with chickpea curry, and aromatic Roganjosh lamb infused with saffron and ginger.
These are just some of the highlights of Geneva’s culinary scene, a vibrant tapestry of flavours, from haute cuisine to international fusion and traditional Swiss delicacies. Those who are unable to travel to Geneva for Watch Days and experience the unique combination of haute-horology and haute-cuisine, can look forward to Watches and Wonders. It is scheduled to be held from April 9 to 15, 2024, in Halles de Palexpo. New for next year, the general public will be able to attend the event over a long 3-day weekend.
