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Flanked by the breathtaking Swiss Alps, dotted with vineyards, and situated on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva, Montreux is undeniably stunning. In addition to its great beauty, which is truly a sight to behold, this picturesque town in Switzerland offers rich culture, celebrated history, and delectable cuisine. You will find no shortage of cultural touchstones in this French-speaking resort town that hosts the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival. The food scene is burgeoning, as well, with a wealth of options from understated local fare to Michelin-starred gourmet restaurants. Start your exploration of Montreux cuisine!

ENJOY A CURATED MENU AND A LAKE VIEW

Nestled within the Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic, which overlooks Lake Geneva, Restaurant 45 Grill & Health offers an impressive backdrop. This is just the beginning of an extraordinary upscale dining experience. Diners get the opportunity to curate their own menu from a variety of options presented to them. Restaurant 45 serves high-quality dishes that are as delicious as they are healthy, striking the perfect balance between indulgent and nourishing.

SHARE A MEAL AT A COSMOPOLITAN TRATTORIA BRASSERIE

Travelers who have a yearning for fresh seafood and seasonal Italian specialties will be thrilled to discover La Rouvenaz. This casual yet chic restaurant is as well known for its fresh seafood as it is for its oven-fired pizza and pasta dishes. La Rouvenaz is a favorite among locals, which speaks volumes about the quality of its food and the service guests receive.

FEEL THE RHYTHM OF JAZZ MUSIC WHILE SIPPING FINE WINE

You do not have to visit Montreux during the legendary Montreux Jazz Festival to experience the atmosphere of the event. Inspired by the festival, Montreux Jazz Café is decorated with Claude Nobs memorabilia. And even if you are not a jazz aficionado, you can still appreciate fine regional wines that will impress any wine connoisseur. The internationally tailored menu includes dishes like terrine de foie gras, tomates farcies, and risotto de homard.

UNWIND LAKESIDE WHILE NIBBLING ON ELEVATED CASUAL FARE

Whether you eat indoors or snag one of the in-demand tables outside overlooking Lake Geneva, KJU is the perfect spot to enjoy a great meal in a relaxed setting. While the ambiance is casual, the food is a step above, with a rotating selection of seasonal dishes like pork neck marinated in tagliata. Make sure you review the menu before you go to familiarize yourself with current offerings on the consistently evolving menu.

DINE ON FRENCH FOOD IN A RUSTIC VILLAGE HOME

If you are ready for a change of scene from the standard restaurant, Le Pont de Brent will fulfill that desire. This upscale French eatery is in a rustic village home replete with charm. While the surroundings might be quaint, Le Pont de Brent has achieved culinary greatness as a Michelin-starred restaurant. From the seasonal gourmet French fare to the excellent wine selection, this special place will provide a unique experience that won’t soon be forgotten.

DISCOVER TRADITIONAL SWISS CULINARY DELIGHTS

Eating Fondue in America is one matter. Eating it at Caveau des Vignerons in the Old Town of Montreux is an entirely different matter. The Swiss restaurant is widely revered for its fondue, and this distinction is well earned, thanks to offerings like fondue with Vacherin and Gruyère. Diners who want something other than fondue have plenty of options, including croûte de fromage and raclette. And while the culinary delights are plentiful at Caveau des Vignerons, the food is not the only reason it is a must-do. As one of the oldest restaurants in downtown Montreux, it has become immersed in the fabric of the region’s history. Caveau des Vignerons looks the part, with an atmosphere reminiscent of an authentic Swiss inn of yesteryear.

GET A TASTE OF THE EAST WITH AUTHENTIC THAI FOOD

Montreux may not come to mind when you think of authentic Thai food, but Coco Mama serves some of the best. Formerly known as Maï-Thaï, the culinary team whips up delicious Japanese and Peruvian fare in a setting with décor that evokes the great Japanese-Peruvian era of the 19th century. And with its location in the heart of Montreux, on the Grande Rue, Coco Mama is within walking distance of the sights and sounds of Montreux.

FEAST ON ITALIAN DISHES IN THE PRESENCE OF A CASTLE

Located in close proximity to Chillon Castle, Il Brigantino is an undeniably fun and festive place to eat. You will find a vast selection of Italian dishes here, including fish, pasta, and pizza. Il Brigantino is also reasonably priced and serves generous portions that will satiate even the biggest appetites.

TAKE A TRIP AROUND THE WORLD WITH INTERNATIONAL SEAFOOD

As one of the best places in Montreux to eat seafood, Restaurant Safran offers dishes from around the world. The four-star establishment even has a bar dedicated to enjoying an aperitif prior to the main course. Further sealing the elevated dining experience at Restaurant Safran is the sweeping view you get of the Swiss Alps.

REFUEL WITH LIGHT BITES AT A BELOVED BAKERY

Sometimes you just need a light bite to give you enough sustenance to continue with your day. Fleur de Pains is an ideal eatery for this purpose. The bakery serves everything from sweet pastries to savory sandwiches. One of the bakery’s most popular creations among locals and tourists alike is the homemade sourdough. And while you are there, you can also check out Gare Montreux, the railway station, which is located opposite Fleur de Pains.

The food scene in Montreux offers the very best of authentic Swiss cuisine, along with fare from countries like Italy, France, and Asia. Michelin-starred restaurants will please even the most discerning foodies. Phenomenal dishes pair with spectacular sights like Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps to create an experience that is nothing short of extraordinary.

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Jim Bozzelli