Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and though we aren’t huge fans of this mostly commercial holiday, we ARE fans of any excuse to indulge a bit with loved ones. That’s why we’ve rounded up ten places where you can spend a perfectly cozy evening with your special person or people.
1. Fondue menu inside a gondola at Le Mirador Resort & Spa
Nestled just above Vevey, this 5* hotel resort & spa has arguably one of the best views of Lac Leman and its surroundings. They’ve converted their terrace into a cozy mountainside oasis, with gondolas that serve as your table for a 3-course fondue menu. It’s original, it’s romantic, and the view (even at night) is other-worldly.
TLG tip: leave room for the included home-made dessert…the meringues were to.die.for.
2. Ristorante Amici
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That’s our go-to phrase every time someone asks us why we recommend Amici so often. The quality of the food, the familiarity of the service, and the overall experience never disappoint.
TLG tip: Ask Francesco to guide your order if you’re unsure…he has never steered us wrong.
3. La Grappe D’Or
The restaurant screams cozy-romantic with its exposed wooden beamed ceiling and roaring wood fire. It was between these walls that Queen Sophie waited while her fiancé, Juan, the future king of Spain, hurried up Rue du Bourg to buy an engagement ring.
TLG tip: Snag David Bowie’s old table just next to the fireplace.
4. Brasserie Grande Chêne
It feels like Paris, with its old-world charm. The Brasserie Grand Chêne is an old favorite of ours when we want a bit of elegance, a bit of class, and warmth and energy in a beautiful and cozy setting.
TLG tip: Try to reserve a table downstairs by the windows.
5. Pinte Besson
Founded in 1780 (yep, you read that right), this restaurant radiates history and tradition. There are two sections of the restaurant, the downstairs which is more traditional with stone ceilings and wooden walls, and the upstairs which feels a bit more formal and brasserie-like.
TLG tip: Spend some time walking around and looking at the photographs and pictures both downstairs and upstairs. There’s a lot of history here.
6. Auberge de l’Abbaye de Montheron
It may be a short drive outside of the city center, but this place is worth it 100 times over. With creative geniuses in the kitchen and some of the kindest servers working the dining room, this gorgeous interior is one of the most romantic and cozy spots to spend any meal.
TLG tip: Don’t be afraid to go vegetarian. The meatless options were mind-blowing.
7. Chalet des Enfants
Sister restaurant to the Auberge de l’Abbaye de Montheron, this charming and traditionally Swiss restaurant makes you feel like you’re in a mountain chalet without having to (really) leave Lausanne.
TLG tip: There’s no cell service in the best of ways, so enjoy your time off the grid.
8. Auberge de Dully
If you’re willing to travel a bit outside Lausanne, head to this iconic restaurant known for their roasted chicken and potatoes.
TLG tip: Make sure to order the custard tart for dessert–they’ve been making it the same way for over 50 years (and in our opinion, it doesn’t need to change…ever).
9. Bottle Brothers
Plenty of dark corners, intimate lighting, and mixologists who know their way around a bar make this a perfect recipe for romance.
TLG tip: Known for their innovative approach to classic cocktails, you can’t go wrong with any of their offerings. Just trust the bartender, sit back and sip.
10. Nandanam
Spice things up (literally) and head to our hands-down favorite Southern Indian restaurant right in the heart of Lausanne. It’s always packed, with incredible scents wafting from the kitchen. The dishes are all pretty spicy (so when it actually indicates spicy, be prepared!), but you won’t find these flavors anywhere else in Lausanne.
TLG tip: if you want a quieter more intimate experience, ask to reserve in the back room, closer to the terrace/garden.