The 7 Best Cheap Eats in Geneva

It’s no secret that a trip to Switzerland is going to be expensive, and that’s especially the case if you’re visiting Geneva. In fact, Geneva is often ranked third in the world’s most costly cities, just behind Hong Kong and New York City. However, don’t panic – there’s lots to do in Geneva that won’t cost you the world – including finding some of the tastiest food in the city at bargain prices. From healthy options to sweet treats, here are the 7 best cheap eats in Geneva.

Geneva's best cheap eats

1. Saj Eat

Tucked away in the Genevan Alps is Saj Eat, a traditional Levantine bakery, offering a range of dishes from the Middle East – perfect for warming up in the winter months if you’re an avid skier! You can expect a range of Middle Eastern favourites such as falafel served with fresh yoghurt and tahini, various flatbreads topped with meat and vegetables, freshly cooked wraps (vegetarian and vegan options also available) and more – and the majority of their dishes are in the range of €10–€12.

Address: Rue des Alpes 18, 1201 Geneva

Opening Hours: 10:00–23:00 Monday–Wednesday, 10:00–00:00 Thursday–Saturday, 10:00–22:00 Sunday

2. Nero’s Pizza

Bordering Italy, it’s little surprise that you’ll find some of the best pizza in Europe in Switzerland – but did you know that you can get pizza by the square slice – in central Geneva? Visit Nero’s Pizza and you won’t be disappointed. Expect thin-crust, rich tomato-sauce-based, cheesy slices that are so good, you’ll be coming back for more (and more, and more…) – and because it’s so cheap, you’re able to! You can expect to pick up a steaming hot slice for as little as €7. You can also visit their food truck which sits in central Geneva on Friday and Saturday nights to satisfy those late-night pizza cravings.

Address: Rue du Marché 15, 1204 Geneva

Opening Hours: 07:30–19:00 Monday–Wednesday, 07:30–20:00 Thursday, 07:30–19:30 Friday, 07:30–18:00 Saturday

3. Muller’s Factory

Ideal for those with a sweet tooth, Muller’s Factory will satisfy all of your dessert cravings! Switzerland is world-famous for its chocolate, but, like their pizza is excellent because they share a border with Italy, similarly their crêpe game is strong because they share a border with France! At Muller’s Factory, you can pick up a range of different crêpes, whether you want a pistachio-glazed crêpe, one topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, or indeed anything in between. The majority of their crêpes sit around the €6–€10 range, with a few options on either side of that price range.

Address: 48 Rhone Street, 1211 Geneva

Opening Hours: 10:00–21:00 Monday–Wednesday, 10:00–22:00 Thursday–Friday, 09:30–20:00 Saturday 

4. Chez Ma Cousine

For chicken lovers, this is a must-visit when in Geneva. Just a stone’s throw away from Cornavin train station, Chez Ma Cousine offers chicken, salads and desserts all at very reasonable prices. You can pick up a Thai-style salad, or some good old comfort food in the form of fried chicken and chips. In addition, if you have hungry children with you, you can pick up a kid's meal consisting of a quarter chicken, potatoes, sauce and ice cream for €10. In addition, Chez Ma Cousine also offers vegetarian options, as well as adult portions for around the €12 mark.

Address: Rue Lissignol 5, 1201 Geneva

Opening Hours: 11:00–15:30, 18:00–22:00 Monday–Wednesday, 11:00–22:30 Thursday–Saturday

5. Parfums de Beyrouth

A name which translates as Smells of Beirut, this Lebanese restaurant in the heart of Geneva is a favourite among locals and tourists alike – not just because of its incredible food, but because of its excellent prices, too. Browsing the menu, it’s hard to decide whether you want to opt for a juicy lamb kofta (€11), or a decadent chicken shawarma (€10). Why not add a side of sizzling-hot fries (€5) if you’re extra hungry? You could also finish off your Lebanese meal with a dessert such as baklava, konofa or basbousa (all €4). All of their meat is halal, and they offer vegetarian and vegan options, too. Another thing to love about Parfums de Beyrouth is that they’re open all day and well into the night – ideal for those late-night cravings.

Address: Rue de Berne 18, 1201 Geneva

Opening Hours: 11:00–02:00 Sunday–Thursday, 11:00–04:00 Friday–Saturday

6. El Catrín

If you’re a big fan of Mexican food, then you’ll love El Catrín! Serving up all of Mexico’s most famous dishes, El Catrín is one of the best Mexican spots in Geneva. On top of that, it offers these dishes at incredibly reasonable prices, given that they use only the freshest ingredients. Pick up some birria beef tacos (€8), or try out their vegan tofu tacos instead. Their classic grilled cheese quesadilla comes in at just €8, and you can add birria for just another euro. They also have a range of soft and alcoholic drinks, including imported Mexican beer, which is perfect for washing down the delicious food.

Address: Rue de Richemont 7, 1202 Geneva

Opening Hours: 18:00–23:30 Wednesday, 12:00–14:00, 18:00–23:30 Thursday–Friday, 11:45–14:15, 18:00–23:30 Saturday–Sunday.

7. Elsalad

If you’re conscious about eating healthily during your visit to Geneva, or simply just want something nice and nutritious, then pay a visit to Elsalad. As their name suggests, they serve a wide array of salads, including vegan and vegetarian options. However, while their salads can be on the pricey side, they offer a range of other healthy food and drink options instead, proving that you can eat healthily on a budget in one of the most expensive cities in the world. For example, their soup is made fresh every day, changes daily, and is available for €7. They also offer a range of healthy drinks such as kombucha (sparkling green tea), iced tea made with seasonal fruits, cold-pressed juices and more, all of which are under €6. Finally, you can treat yourself to some homemade banana bread, chia pudding or chocolate chip cookies (which are available vegan-friendly and gluten-free) afterwards for around the €5 mark.

Address: Carrefour de Villereuse 4, 1207 Geneva

Opening Hours: 10:30–21:00 Monday–Sunday