Le Richemond in Geneva is home to the wonderful Le Jardin restaurant. Head Chef Philippe Bourrel has crafted a menu of stylish dishes sourcing the best of the local seasonal produce. We must add, with Lake Geneva as a backdrop, it adds a special touch that you’ll only find at Le Jardin.
Last time we visited we sat out on the terrace overlooking the lake and sweeping mountainous landscape which is a joy in the summer months. As we were visiting during October this time, we decided to dine inside, It took nothing away from our experience, in fact, bringing us that bit closer to the kitchen is never a bad thing.
To begin our evening, we started with an aperitif, two fine glasses of Laurent-Perrier Cuvee Rose. A drink as elegant as our surroundings, and perfect for stimulating the pallet before our starter.
To begin, we both opted for the crab as a starter. Served with lime, and prepared with fresh mint and cucumber from the Jardins de Trajets, the crab tasted so tender and fresh we wouldn't have been shocked if it had been caught that morning, and the presentation was really quite impressive.
“Their seasonal menu means there are special dishes to explore throughout the year.”
For our main courses, I decided on the John Dory de petit bateau flambe with absinthe and confit of fennel. I do enjoy a good John Dory when well-prepared, as it was at Le Jardin, there are few fish that have a sweeter, more delicate texture. My partner opted for the hay-smoked fillet of beef, served with chanterelles and complete with a gorgeous rich jus. The kitchen was attentive to our personal preferences, the fillet of beef oozed flavour, and all seasoning was perfectly balanced.
We couldn’t pass on dessert but decided to keep it simple, I had their mango and strawberry sorbet and vanilla ice cream. Each scoop offering a smooth beautiful flavour on the palate. My partner went for the coconut served with a unique mojito sorbet. There’s no mistaking the refreshing hit of a mojito, a perfect end to an exquisite evening of dining.
A meal of this standard wouldn’t have been complete without the right wine. With the help of their friendly sommelier, we were excited to experience some fine local Swiss wine, settling on a bottle of 2014, Gerald Clavien, Cave des Deux Cretes, Humagne Rouge, Valais, Switzerland. Best described as a light and perfumed red, it couldn’t have married any better with our meat and fish dishes.
We were equally as impressed as our previous visit to Le Jardin. Their seasonal menu means there are special dishes to explore throughout the year, even if you're not staying at Le Richemond we would recommend visiting even if its just for a pre-dinner drink in the bar, we're quite sure you won't be disappointed.