Caffè Spettacolo in Genève

Extremely Disappointing Experience at Caffè Spettacolo I recently had a deeply disappointing experience at Caffè Spettacolo that compelled me to leave this review. Despite being a regular patron, I was met with disrespectful and unprofessional behavior from the staff. This was my first encounter with such an unfair attitude in Geneva. I can say with absolute certainty that this woman exhibits clear signs of racism. Prior to her joining the staff at this café, both my partner and friends were treated with warmth and kindness, which is why I've been a loyal customer here for two years. However, since her arrival, we've noticed an immediate shift in her demeanor. The atmosphere is noticeably warmer and friendlier when she's not around, but everything changes when she is. 1. We're rushed to place our orders as soon as we walk in, even before we've had a chance to settle down. There seems to be an unwarranted concern that we might occupy seats without ordering, but in reality, we've been nothing but courteous and respectful patrons for over two years. We don't engage in such behavior, nor do we make unfounded assumptions about others. We show respect and understanding. 2. One of my friends is fluent in French, having studied French literature at a university in France and earned a master's degree in economics from the University of Sorbonne. She's lived and worked in both France and Switzerland, conversing fluently in French and English. Yet, when she attempts to order in basic French, the woman feigns ignorance and repeatedly asks my friend to repeat herself. This bizarre behavior is exclusive to this café and is truly baffling. 3. I come here primarily to study English and French. When we were asked to turn off the lights, despite other customers still present, we exchanged puzzled looks. This café mainly caters to students and working professionals, with its proximity to the International School of Geneva and convenient location near the train station. Providing charging facilities and table lamps in dimly lit areas is entirely fitting for their clientele. Before this woman arrived, both myself and others have used these lamps without any issues. However, this recent incident, where I was treated differently, undoubtedly reeks of racism simply because of my Asian heritage. 4. Racism is contagious. Before her arrival, the younger staff members were consistently polite and friendly—a feature of the café experience I greatly appreciated. Studying here was a joyous and uplifting experience. It's why I've been coming here with friends every week for the past two years, and even recommended it to others. However, since her arrival, and likely under her influence, the younger staff members have begun to mirror her behavior. This revelation has been shocking. I urge you to consider attending the event "The City of Geneva Fights Everyday Racism" depicted in the image. Think about this: Apart from the staff, numerous students from neighboring international schools frequent this café for study purposes. Her poor example sets a dangerous precedent and negatively impacts impressionable young minds, which is wholly unacceptable. 5. My husband works at the UN, which offers counseling and complaint services for instances of racism. He'll assist me in drafting a formal complaint to the UN. We have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to racism. Given these recent events, I remain steadfast in my determination to stand up for what is right. I believe in the inherent goodness of people and hope that this individual will reevaluate her prejudices and strive to make Geneva a truly inclusive and welcoming city. Additionally, I extend my well wishes to her—true happiness can only be attained by treating others with the same kindness and respect one expects for themselves.

I stopped to have a coffee. I found it good.

Good people running it but cappuccino with oat milk was terrible. I see someone else also commented the same below and I wish I had read the review before coming for a coffee here.

Most expensive café in Geneva and smaller than average to avoid

Nice team, great coffee and some nice croissants/small sandwiches. The chai latte is really excellent. Great spot also to work with plugs foreseen.

Your prices have increased considerably and exaggeratedly. Example Dolce cannella is overpriced and very small CHF4.90 and so is your coffee…. Not to mention the rest! Damage !

Coffee without taste looks like water and capuchino is like chocolate milk in which chocolate is missing. No taste

What a horror to avoid Sinister place, dirty sad work premises yes modern Café 4.60 undoubtedly the most expensive in the area. No need to tell me that you pay for quality because the coffee is not good. Also a hot space impossible to breathe A new station with traders like that doesn't make sense

I love the food and coffee at Caffe Spettacolo Geneva. The staff are always friendly and helpful. However, I have to say that the inside of the store in Eaux-Vives is too hot and stuffy. Unfortunately, this makes it difficult to fully enjoy our coffee and the pleasant ambiance created by the staff. I would really appreciate if steps could be taken to improve ventilation and make the experience more comfortable for guests. Other than that, I highly recommend this place for the delicious food and friendly service.

Thanks to Sylvie for her advice and warm welcome, everything was delicious..

Very friendly welcome and excellent coffee 👍

Great atmosphere, clean and modern, and friendly service. Exclellent croissants (particularly the chocolate ones!) but coffee is really standard, not at the level of the speciality coffee houses in the city. Very dark roast, very foamy Cappuccino with a very milky taste (almost a latte) and no latte art.

Very nice place to study quietly.

I come every Wednesday with a friend and we are always well received. There is a choice, it's nice with children. You can spend some quiet time there or even work.

Nice place with comfortable armchairs, fast and courteous service.

Horrible cappuccino. It was more like a latte. Very milky

For months, every morning I go to Spettacolo, an obligatory stop for my morning coffee and depending on the mood of the day... for a pastry. Absolutely delicious and very good quality products (perfect value for money). I recommend their lemon cream muffin and their chocolate-filled croissant. The most important... Sylvie the manager; a pearl of happiness that slips into my day. Always caring for you, joyful and devoted. Make the trip, you will undoubtedly be won over!

It opens long hours til 10pm. The panini and food items are delicious. It is quiet and perfect to read or work there.

Great coffee location with excellent service.

Very beautiful, very cozy place which gives the impression of being in Italy and enjoying an excellent coffee or cappuccino accompanied by an equally delicious croissant or other pastry. The place is quiet and very pleasant. I had a great time there. The dolce vita😊

A friendly place to drink coffee or any other hot or cold drink. It's quiet and there are plenty of tables to sit, be with friends or family, read the newspaper or take a short break before going to work.

Excellent coffee and pastries. It's worth the detour for a quick break or to take a little more time to work, study... Ask for the milanesi ;-)

The channel occupies a nice space in the station, right at the entrance. The Italian and non-Italian drinks and coffee specialties are the real reason to stop. Croissants of all types, too. Lacks a choice of savory foods worthy of other (appetizing) pastries.

Thank you Sylvie for the warm welcome and professional service last Saturday

Nestled in the new Eaux-Vives station, Caffè Spettacolo plays the Italian card with decoration inspired by the 50s. There is a Dolce Vita spirit. The summary menu offers a selection of coffee recipes including an intense cappuccino. There you can find Italian-style croissants (the famous filled cornetti). I had cream (filled like in Italy) and chocolate (unfortunately filled in the French style). They are a little too crunchy for my taste. On the zinc, where you can have ristretto, some Italian beers. A poster behind the bar offers the Spritz. Question: Why closed at 2:00 p.m.? It could be a place for an evening aperitif. Like other people, I find the price of coffee horribly expensive. Given the responses of the owner who plays on the small merchant who has difficulty purchasing large volumes allowing him to have correct prices, I said to myself: ok, it's difficult to start in the restaurant business. BUT, that was before discovering that this place is part of a chain that belongs to the Valora group! So seriously, change the price of your coffees. Another downside. No table service. When you pay 5.80 for a cappuccino, you still expect it to come to your table.

4.40 chf for a small coffee... (with milk and sugar lying around on the counter: do you know that it's forbidden? Check with the cantonal hygiene service (a restaurateur friend got caught for this reason! ) and everyone finds this price normal? Their response is that they can't be cheaper... who are you kidding? How do other establishments do it? (between 2.50 and 3.80.- chf but yes!) we are not in Swiss-Germany where prices, in fact, are increased tenfold Phew! Even if the staff is friendly it's really exaggerated ++ but they don't care, as long as people pay:( NB at Wollwisberg at the end of the station the ristrette is already at 4.- :( so boycott the establishments outside price, don't be sheep...🤣🤣🤣

LOVE the excellent coffee's and service is exceptional. The lovely ladies and gent who work here are the best! Finally a coffee shop that you can chill, work, chat with friends whilst enjoying quality snacks and hot drinks. Highly recommend.

Ideal place to drink a little coffee. Friendly waitresses.

Very nice café, very good quality coffees, teas and catering in addition to friendly and very helpful staff.

too expensive for what it is..just a little normal coffee 4.50 with any taste..the prices are abusive, I don't recommend it

Great place to have a coffee, a hot chocolate, a glass of wine or a cocktail, eat a pastry, sandwich or have breakfast

Top modern and new Spettacolo 👍😃