If you are looking for a cosy, friendly, after-work bar in Nyon then you don’t need to look much further than the Le St-Jean bar. Over the past four years, this bar (situated just at the bottom of the Place Perdtemps car park, in Rue St-Jean 22) has begun to attract a loyal following, not only with Swiss customers but with expatriates of different nationalities and in particular, an English speaking clientele.
Photo above - Christian, the bartender at the St-Jean bar
Since manager Philippe Kuratle took over the bar and hotel in September 2011, he has modernised the bar and has also introduced several themed nights. On Thursday nights between 18:30 and 21:30 there is live music with the group "Mark and Friends”. The group play a selection of British and American hits from the 60's to the 90's. A selection of Brazilian tapas are served at the bar on this night. On Fridays between 18:00 and 21:00 there is a free open buffet laid on for customers - a great TGIF idea!
Not your average G+T
The St-Jean also serves mean cocktails which are priced at just CHF 14, whilst a Gin and Tonic is 12 CHF. But don’t expect your standard G+T here - there are over 20 types of gin in the bar and each drink is carefully prepared by bartender Christian with fresh herbs and spices. There will even be a gin specialist coming to the bar on the 27th November for a gin tasting evening.
If you are after an authentic Brazilian Capirihna, this is also the place to come. Although manager Philippe grew up in Switzerland his Brazilian roots means that he knows what makes a great Capirihina and he ensures the bar stocks authentic good quality Cachaça to make the perfect drink There is even a specialised ice-making machine for the drinks to add the final touch. For those that simply prefer a glass of wine or a whisky rather than a cocktail, the bar also stocks a small but carefully selected choice of good quality wines and whiskies from around the world.
When Living in Nyon visited, a regular customer (to both the bar and adjoining hotel) explained “I could go for a drink anywhere in the region, but I choose to come here. It’s friendly, the service is superb and its like coming home”.
Note: it can get busy on a Thursday and Friday so if you are going with a group it might be best to call in and reserve a seating area at the bar. Call 022 361 5509
Special deal for Living in Nyon readers!
Book a table via this email address: st-jean@hoteldelange.ch and you will get a little selection of Brazilian tapas free of chargeat the St-Jean bar. Offer valid for one visit only on either a Tuesday, a Wednesday or a Thursday in November 2015 and must be reserved by email. Please write "Living in Nyon" offer in the email.