Auberge de Savièse

If you are looking for a corner of true Alpine traditions in the modern city of Geneva, then the restaurant Auberge de Savièse is exactly the place to visit. Located in the lively Pâquis district, this establishment is famous for its cozy atmosphere, reminiscent of a classic Swiss chalet, where time seems to slow down for the sake of enjoying the taste.

It is not just a restaurant, but a real gastronomic attraction for those who want to get acquainted with the culinary heritage that Switzerland is proud of. The interior, decorated with warm wood and traditional elements of rural life, creates the feeling that you are high in the mountains, although Lake Geneva splashes just a few minutes' walk away.

The main feature of Auberge de Savièse is loyalty to the recipes of the Valais region. Here reigns a cult of cheese and simple, but incredibly delicious and hearty dishes that gather at one table both locals and travelers from all over the world wishing to experience the authentic culture.

You can contact the restaurant to book a table or clarify details using the following contact information. It is recommended to book seats in advance, especially in the evening and on weekends, as the establishment is very popular.

The main reason people come to Auberge de Savièse is, undoubtedly, the tasting of legendary Swiss cheese dishes. Your main activity here will be the ritual of eating fondue. You can choose the classic "moitié-moitié" option (a mix of Gruyère and Vacherin cheeses) or try more exquisite versions, for example, with morel mushrooms or champagne. Watching the cheese melt in a ceramic caquelon and dipping pieces of crusty bread into it is a special kind of pleasure.

Lovers of raclette will be offered an equally exciting experience here. You will be served melted aromatic cheese with boiled potatoes, pickled cucumbers, and pearl onions. This is an interactive process that turns an ordinary dinner into a fun feast, ideally suited for groups of friends or a family gathering.

Don't forget to complement the meal with a glass of local white wine, such as Fendant or Petite Arvine, which perfectly set off the rich taste of the cheese. And in the warm season, you can settle on the cozy terrace and watch the colorful life of the district, enjoying the cool of the evening and the taste of a traditional dessert — meringue with double cream.

Getting to Auberge de Savièse is very simple, as it is located in the city center, in the lively Pâquis district. From the central railway station Cornavin, you can walk there in just 5–7 minutes. You just need to exit the station, head towards the lake, and turn onto Rue des Pâquis, where the establishment is located at number 20.

If you prefer public transport, the nearest tram (No. 15) and bus stops are "Môle" or "Monthoux". It is also convenient to get there by yellow taxi boats (Mouettes Genevoises) if you are on the left bank; get off at the "Pâquis" pier and walk a couple of blocks into the district. A taxi from the city center will take you right to the entrance in a matter of minutes.

The name of the establishment refers to the picturesque commune of Savièse, located in the sunny canton of Valais, which is considered the birthplace of raclette. The founders of the restaurant strove to transfer the spirit, hospitality, and tastes of this mountain region to the very center of Geneva. Since its opening, the restaurant has become a sort of "embassy" of Valaisan cuisine in the city, remaining faithful to traditional recipes for decades.

It is interesting that the interior of the establishment carefully preserves authenticity. Many decor elements are not just modern stylization, but objects reflecting the daily life of Alpine chalets of the last century. Massive wooden beams, cozy corners, and specific table settings allow guests to take a small journey in time and space without leaving the dining hall.

Over the long years of operation, Auberge de Savièse has acquired the status of a cult place among locals. Whole generations of families often come here, as well as employees of international organizations located nearby. This makes the restaurant a unique intersection point of local Swiss traditions and the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Geneva.

You should set aside 1.5 to 2 hours to visit Auberge de Savièse. Swiss cuisine, especially dishes like fondue and raclette, is not meant to be rushed. This is food that needs to be cooked and eaten slowly, enjoying every bite, the process of melting cheese, and leisurely conversation with companions.

If you are planning dinner in a large group or visiting the restaurant during peak hours (Friday or Saturday evening), it is better to allow a little more time. The atmosphere here encourages long gatherings, and you are unlikely to want to leave immediately after dessert.

The restaurant is usually open daily, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy lunch and dinner. Thanks to its location in the tourist center, the establishment tries to maintain a schedule convenient for travelers.

However, opening hours may change depending on the season, public holidays, or private events. We strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the official website or calling the restaurant before your visit to guarantee the availability of seats.

Exploring the surroundings of the restaurant can be a great continuation of the day. The Pâquis district is known for its proximity to Lake Geneva and the famous Bains des Pâquis, where you can swim or simply stroll along the pier with a view of the Jet d'Eau fountain. This is the ideal place for a promenade after a hearty lunch.

If you are interested in entertainment and active leisure within a radius of a few kilometers, pay attention to the following attractions: