Once upon a time, I had a lovely friend visiting Geneva who wanted to try “Swiss food”. She wanted the famous fondue, the raclette, the rosti, and anything that was “typical”. I thought for a bit, then I went for La Cave Valaisanne – Chalet Suisse, in Plainpalais. It was the first place I tried when I came to Geneva to taste the local specialties, and it’s still the place where I go now and again when I’m in the mood for all that yummy cheese.

And cheese we got, yes we did. After an appetizer of cold cuts & gruyère cheese which set us in the right mood, we continued with a cognac-flavored fondue – something I’d never tried, but that was simply delicious. Then we got the raclette a go-go (as many portions of melted cheese to spread on boiled potatoes as we wanted). 

We were too filled up to try the rosti, but I know it, and it’s worth it: it comes with ham, cheese, and even a fried egg on top. And if it’s meat you crave, then the Fondue Bourguignonne is a must: you dip raw meat in boiling oil until it’s well cooked, top it with a variety of sauces, and get French fries to complete the experience. 

Not full yet? Why not try the sublime meringues with double Gruyère cream? You might have to walk back home to digest it all (we did), but my friend was in ecstasy. I was too. I will be back.