Gluten-Free Fondue in Geneva

Although a gluten-free individual may regretfully feel exempt from indulging in fondue, an activity which stereotypically involves using bread as the “dipping” ingredient, there are restaurants that cater to those needs!

One interesting tidbit is that there are some traditional versions of fondue that involve potatoes rather than bread. One of these varieties is “Fribourgeoise” (which uses Vacherin cheese). Due to this, there are some places in Geneva that offer potatoes in place of bread if you ask, for often no extra cost! Allow me to share my two favourite restaurants that make this substitution with you!

1. La Buvette des Bains

This restaurant offers fabulous fondue at a great price in Geneva (believe me, it’s difficult to get cheaper fondue that’s as good a quality here).

Wooden stoves and dazzling views of the lake aid in the creation of a snug atmosphere propice for eating mountains and mountains of cheese and potatoes (a winning combination in my books).

The staff were very open to substituting the bread for potatoes, and didn’t charge us any extra for the switch.

The fondue itself tastes fantastic, and it was a great way of spending a cold day. After all, it was mid-November, and I’m basically a bear waiting to go into hibernation at that point. Bring on more fondue!

Views of the lake that you can see from outside La Buvette des Bains’ window.

Another benefit of La Buvette des Bains is that’s it a spot popular with the locals. One of my Genevan friends introduced it to me as a place he often frequented, and I can definitely see why it’s so attractive.

This restaurant is located along the Bains des Pâquis - a popular beach in Geneva which offers views of the famous Jet d’Eau (The Geneva water fountain).

Do note, however, that the Jet d’Eau is not in operation from the end of October to mid-November. Check the times online in order not to miss this iconic Swiss sight (like I did… oops).

There are always lovely swans and ducks flapping around which is still enjoyable to see even in the Winter months.

La Rotonde

For a more “upscale” gluten-free fondue experience, head over to La Rotonde on Rue des Pâquis.

I found this place while trying to find somewhere to eat before getting the train at Gare Cornavin back home to Paris. What a great find!

The staff were incredibly accommodating, and had no qualms at all about providing potatoes in lieu of bread for our fondue.

The dining atmosphere was great, and the fondue had a rich flavour.

Although I’ve only ever tried the fondue here, there are a number of different Italian-inspired food options that could make for a good supper.

Based on the quality of the service and the fondue, I feel confident when I say I would venture to guess that the other food options are up to par, as well.