F.P. Journe - Le Restaurant

The great Geneva watchmaker François-Paul Journe and the former chef of Le Chat-Botté, Dominique Gauthier, have set their sights on this legendary institution (listed as a heritage site in the canton of Geneva), a chic upmarket bistro, with its black and white tiled floor, old wooden panelling and ceiling, red velvet banquettes and chairs.Studded with fine produce, the plates turn like fine timepieces, like this saddle of lamb from Chandossel with fennel and artichoke, accompanied by a purée worthy of Robuchon's own. Expect colourful dishes too, such as lobster from Brittany with Green Zebra tomatoes or langoustines roasted with kadaif. In this lively atmosphere, you can also count on perfectly oiled service and excellent advice from the sommelier.

What makes it distinct

• A watchmaker-chef partnership: François-Paul Journe and Dominique Gauthier built the project as a crossover of craft and dining.
• A protected, old-Genève brasserie interior: woodwork, mirrors and a coffered ceiling, the room keeps its historic atmosphere.
• Horology details at the table: tables are named after famous artisans, and watch components appear as design motifs.

Signature Ingredients

• Giant prawns: roasted in kadaif, lifted with citrus and basil.
• Simmental beef: served with Voatsiperifery pepper.
• Frog's legs: a Vallorbe tempura variation appears in the house repertoire.
• Citrus and herbs: citrus, basil and other clean aromatics keep the plates bright.

A polished, upmarket bistro on Rue du Rhône where chef Dominique Gauthier cooks modern French plates in a dining room of dark wood panelling and a coffered ceiling, with a serious wine focus. The cooking leans classic in structure but sharp in detail, shellfish and prime beef show up frequently, and lunch and dinner services run Monday to Friday.