BUVETTE DES BAINS - RESTAURANT REVIEW

Generally, I rarely or rather never go out to eat because my ridiculous financial situation doesn't give me the possibility to do such fun things. As a matter of fact, I can't remember the last time I went to the restaurant and I had a romantic evening with my boyfriend during which I didn't have to play the role of the chef cook...

Thankfully, sometimes I do get the chance to leave my appartment in order to have a relaxing afternoon with my friend Corinne who never fails to find the best dining locations. As a rule, we either invite one another for lunch or occasionally enjoy a meal at MANOR's cafeteria, a falafel sandwich from a kebab joint in town or an assortment of fabulous Lebanese specialities at "Good Taste" in neighboring France. Nothing high-class, bling-bling or stylish, but nonetheless greatly convivial and fun. Then again, I'm no snobbish/snotty or show off foodie and don't care about what's in or not, because my tastes are timeless and not linked to appearance (the same can be said about me in general).

Consequently, we choose places that are extremely budget-friendly, but offer scrumptious grub. So, today, I have decided to review a lovely eatery we went to at the begining of autumn and which we really liked.

The canteen is called "Buvette Des Bains" and is situated in the middle of the Rade, in a unique site on the Pâquis jetty: "Bains Des Pâquis" ("Pâquis Baths"). Those baths are a historical institution (they were opened to the public back in 1932) and an example of cosmopolitan Geneva where young and old alike, dynamic business men and women as well as artists, students, mothers, unemployed job seekers and many others meet. Being designed as a beach resort that is famous for its bars, concerts, spa/sauna facilities, relaxing areas, swimmimg pools and diner, this charmingly singular and hyper trendy location is a city landmark for hanging around aimlessly, meeting friends, having lunch in the sun, escaping the daily grind, outdoor bathing and playing cards in a relaxed atmosphere.

This exceptionally calm, non-smoking and self-service café is open 365 days a year and has a capacity of 160 people, a gorgeous terrace as well as a cosy hut heated by three wood-fired ovens.

The view there is just breathtaking as you can admire the lake, Jet d'Eau, Saint-Pierre Cathedral, Mont-Blanc mountain and old boats sailing away on their daily cruise. Food-wise, the "Buvette Des Bains" serves cheap, colorful, well-balanced (they have received the "Fourchette Verte" label), varied, seasonal and simple, but creative lunches (tomato and mozzarella, penne and tomato sauce, Greek salad, smoked salmon, etc...), but also breakfasts (fresh juices and Swiss specialities like bircher müesli, bread and Cenovis, etc...) and fondue in the evening (it is reputed to be one of the best of Geneva and is famous for being made with Crémant instead of white wine). Not forgetting the friendly and caring team who make the whole experience even more pleasant.

There is no other bistro like this one in the city. When sitting on the exceptionally calm exterior lounge, one feels as if on holiday at the seaside. It is the perfect spot for forgetting the stress of the metropolis and is for sure the best value of Geneva as the portions are immense (I even had difficulties finishing my plate), the food is fresh and the prices are absolutely correct.

If ever you are in the region, then don't forget to visit the "Bains Des Pâquis" as you'll be seduced by everything about them and will encounter something totally new!

Menu:
Breakfast from 8.00-11am CHF 10.-
Lunch from 11.30am CHF 12.-
Fondue from 18.00-21.00pm CHF 20.70
(No credit card payments accepted)

Buvette Des Bains
Bains Des Pâquis
30, Quai Du Mont-Blanc
Tel.: 022 738 16 16
info@buvettedesbains.ch
www.buvettedesbains.ch