Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, Blumenrain 8, 4001 Basel

If I had to pick one word to describe Cheval Blanc, it would be impeccable. From the greeting as we arrived a bit early to the flawless dining experience and finally, the unexpected, super enjoyable after dinner drinks and cigar bar, this dining experience was unrivaled. Our group of 4 came to Basel for one night and were fortunate enough to score a lunch reservation Friday, May 9th. From the moment we stepped into the stunning hotel and absolutely beautiful restaurant we knew our experience would be memorable. As we arrived early, we were greeted immediately and escorted to the bar area right outside the main restaurant. It was almost as if they expected us early. We drank some champagne before entering the main restaurant experience right on time. The dining room was tastefully decorated and the subtle touches made the experience special. The setting along the Rhine River was just one more Iconic element. The dining room was full and at the same time entirely intimate. We knew there were other guests in the room with us, but never really felt or heard their presence. To say the food was amazing is to sell it short. When you dine at an establishment like Cheval Blanc, you expect the food to be exceptional. The food on this day was more than up to the task. Two of us were grateful that the chef allowed us to substitute for our main protein course. The presentation was amazing with each course seemingly looking and tasting better than the previous one. I will post a few pictures and hope you will accept our apologies for the one course/picture that has a spoon in it. That course looked so delicious that we all started eating before we took a picture. The cheese course was a welcome and unique experience for us. Note: the picture I posted was AI adjusted as we removed the photobombers from the picture. No cheese was altered by AI. The wine list was extensive and impressive and our selections matched up well to our menu. The Cheval Banc team was a perfect accompaniment to the food and drink. The entire team worked with precision, knowing just when to serve the next course with compelling descriptions. The team was personal and engaging, yet never intrusive. Flawless in execution while at the same time graceful in delivery. Our chef came out at the end of our meal and engaged our table for a few minutes. He was authentically interested in learning about our experience and outwardly pleased we enjoyed our time. To finish off the day, our group was escorted to the Cigar Bar for drinks and a smoke. It could not have been a better setting for our nightcap . The setting was reminiscent of a scene from a James Bod movie. Yet again, we felt refreshingly alone in a room with multiple groups present and our experience only enhanced by the people serving us. Our only regret was cutting or trip to Basel short by a day. Hopefully we will have a chance to return to the wonderful city on a future trip and be lucky enough to dine at Cheval Blanc again. Maybe we will see you there!

Great food, experience and service from all the staff in a beautiful setting. This is up there with the very best Michelin starred restaurants we’ve had the pleasure to dine at. Each dish was unique and flavourful, the perfect portion size that leaves you waiting in anticipation for the next course. Thanks to all you all for an experience never to be forgotten.

It's obviously amazing since it didn't get three stars by chance but even with high expectations it was outstanding. Delicious food compositions, flawless service and a sophisticated atmosphere.