Fishy flirtation

Monsieur Gourmand has a strange relationship with fish. On one hand, he can’t shake the childhood memories of picking tiny bones out of his teeth and peeling flesh off slimy skin, while the mere mention of prawns (bugs of the sea) sends shivers down his spine.

On the other hand, he has always loved octopus and bemoans the fact that he hasn't mastered the art of grilling tender tentacles. Once in a while he even fancies some sashimi salmon or tuna, and he's become quite partial to filets de perche, the local lake fish.

Our recent visit to the balmy terrace of the Auberge de Crassier only enhanced his newfound liking for the lake's bounty. His filets de perche were fresh, unusually large, skinless and served with delicious skinny frites. I went for the other lake fish — filet de féra — which was tangily seasoned with lemon and herbs and served with a bowl of (a bit too salty) basmati rice.

We shared a trio of desserts — profiteroles, crème brulée and vodka-soaked lemon sorbet — and thought about when we might return to this excellent auberge to try the rest of the menu. The bison steak and flambéed brochettes of lamb, chicken or beef all looked amazing, although seared giant prawns might still be a step too far for Monsieur Gourmand.

Auberge de Crassier, Route de la Rippe 6, 1263 Crassier
+41 (0)22 367 1201