Eric D
Google
I have travelled the world extensively over 40 years. I ate at all restaurants ranging from pop & mom’s to Michelin three stars. This is my honest review of the restaurant Tosca in Eaux-Vives neighborhood, Geneva, Switzerland.
The restaurant had just reopened following some interior renovations, particularly in terms of its decoration. The dining room was stunning — the original barococo elements had been preserved, with a majestic grand piano at the center and gallery-worthy artwork beautifully hung on the walls.
We were also fortunate to have a pianist perform live that evening, with a repertoire ranging from classical to jazz, pop, and rock — adding an incredible touch of elegance and emotion to the night.
The service throughout the evening was warm and attentive. Even the menu set the tone for what was to follow: it opened with elegant illustrations and thoughtful explanations of the restaurant’s origins, its ties to opera and Tuscany, and was richly adorned with photos from across Italy — especially Lombardy. As a photographer, it was a true visual treat.
We began with a few amuse-bouches — not the most memorable part of the meal in terms of flavor, but still a thoughtful and pleasant start. The sturgeon carpaccio, marinated and hay-smoked, was a highlight: beautifully plated, perfectly seasoned, and a joy to eat.
Then came the Ravioli del Plin, filled with guinea fowl and topped with a 36-month aged parmesan and a deeply flavorful salmì sauce. This was the standout dish of the night — rich, balanced, and unforgettable. It’s clearly a signature dish, and rightfully so, having remained on the menu even after the recent relaunch.
Next, we tried the medium paccheri with seafood, accompanied by a sea-water-infused verbena. The shrimp were perfectly cooked with a slight natural sweetness. The pasta was perhaps just a touch too al dente for my taste, but still excellent overall.
The main course was a steamed wild turbot filet, served with zucchini and zucchini flowers and a red wine jus. The fish was delicately cooked, pearly and tender — a testament to the chef’s respect for top-quality ingredients.
Although several desserts on the menu caught our eye, my friend asked the chef — who had personally visited tables to chat with guests, which we truly appreciated — if he could prepare a tiramisu, even though it wasn’t listed. To our delight, he kindly agreed, and the result was delicious. We even managed to get a photo with the chef, a gracious and talented host.
In the end, the overall value for such a refined experience was excellent. I wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking a sophisticated and memorable Italian meal in a beautiful setting.