Gallo

This new address in Geneva is a real treat for the bon vivant. Gallo (which translates as “rooster”) is situated in the dynamic area of Plainpalais, very close to the town centre and the “bank area,” as we like to call it here in Geneva. Th​e decoration is very warming – contemporary but snug, and welcoming. Inside, you immediately get the sense of a well-thought-out modern eatery with a love for food and products. The restaurant is run by three friends: Jacopo, Louis and his partner Tania; Jacopo cooks, while Louis and Tania take care of the front of house.

Jacopo will surprise you with his international cooking knowledge and is often tucked away behind his charcoal oven, where most of the food is prepared and which forms the main influence over the concept and dishes. Everything is centred on the ingredients​ and products, with seasonal flavours that will delight your taste buds. Smokiness,​ acidity, spiciness and texture are the keys to Jacopo’s cooking style. His “hors d’oeuvre” include a surprising, charcoaled artichoke with a red pepper and mint vinaigrette, and Amberjack with a brown butter ravigote, seasoned with horseradish and black garlic. Among the main dishes, you can enjoy scallops prepared in their shells with Vadouvan sauce, but a real highlight here is to order the full joints prepared in the charcoal oven – dishes to share between two people and upwards: the wild-caught fish of the day is highly recommended, and don’t miss the dry-aged Swiss Angus ribeye – a delightful mix of tasty meat fat and charred flavours. To finish, there is a warm 70% chocolate tart made in collaboration with local chocolate maker Orfève.

Louis takes care of the innovative wine selection and will happily guide you with his selection of the moment. You can take pleasure in letting yourself be guided or simply reading the list, in which you will discover some adventurous organic wines as well as more popular ones. The list is well balanced between local makers, Swiss-inspired wines, French, and some other European countries. From white to orange to red, the selection is lively and active – since Louis takes inspiration from the seasons (and Jacopo’s food), wines come and go.

Your experience at Gallo will be comforting and luscious, and will remind you that cooking and drinking is all about sharing and pleasure – that’s why I love it!