Le Restaurant de la Plage, idyllic setting and fine cuisine
Summer is slowly taking hold on the shores of Lake Geneva. While fondues are becoming rarer on the tables of the Bains des Pâquis, it’s on the other shore that the gastronomic scene is waking up, a few steps from the Plage des Eaux-Vives. At the end of a discreet footbridge, bathed in light, the Restaurant de la Plage offers a breathtaking panorama.
Chef Jean-Briac Monboussin, recently named Sustainable Restaurant of the Year 2024-25 by the ÀTable! competition, is at the helm of this short menu, designed to respect seasonality and local produce. Lake fish, rack of lamb, Sbrinz gnocchi, vegetarian options… Few dishes, but a thoughtful choice that seeks to please without spreading itself too thin.
Playing with textures
The appetizer opens the ball gently: egg brouillade espuma, crunchy sucrine, grilled ciabatta and dried beef charcuterie. A plate full of contrasts, between crunchy, melting and bitter, slightly unbalanced by a hint of salt that’s too present. However, you’ll be surprised to find yourself dipping every last drop before the main course.
A few homemade nachos keep us waiting a little longer for the main courses to arrive. I opt for a tofu skewer with pea and spring onion ragout, served with shredded potato croquettes. The à la carte menu also includes a Léman tench cookie with beurre blanc, rump steak or a suggested rack of lamb, served with baby vegetables. Something for every palate.
A light-hearted finale
As for the dessert, it hits the spot: a Madagascar vanilla mille-feuille. Surrounded by three crunchy cookies, the vanilla mousse is enhanced by hazelnut praline and salted butter caramel. A gourmet finale to a generous meal, under the last reflections of the sun in the water. The Restaurant de la Plage seduces with its setting and its respectful, diligent cuisine. A very pleasant address, where you come as much for the food as for the view.
