Restaurant Le Train Bleu

Beim Warten auf einen TGV-​Anschluss (18. Oktober 2015) haben wir uns am Sonntagmorgen früh nach einem Kaffee im Bahnhof Basel umgesehen. Es sollte mehr als eine Stehbar sein. Das Bistrot auf der anderen Seite des Bahnhofplatzes hat uns sehr angesprochen. Die Bedienung war rasch und freundlich. Der Kaffee kam heiss und wohl riechend an den Tisch. Nicht ganz optimal erschien mir das Buttergipfeli, für mich war es eine Spur zu wenig gebacken. Die Preise waren im oberen Segment, dafür gibt es aber einen tollen Service und eine gute Atmosphäre. Gerne werden wir wieder ein Kaffe im Le Train Bleu geniessen.

Had a fine meal tonight at the «Blue Train» restaurant. This open, bistro-​style eatery is connected with the impressive Victoria Hotel right out in front of the Basel train station. We dined here on the advice of our concierge and it turned out to be a good bet.
After ordering a refreshing local lager, I opted for the fixed price menu for CH68, which is a little over 70 bucks. Yeah, things are pricey in Switzerland, but this was a meal well prepared, well presented, and full of flavorful surprises!
Two cute little samosas with avocado cream sauce and what looked like lentil sprouts were presented by the staff as soon as we ordered. These were tasty and an indication of good things to come. Our salads arrived looking fabulous, with big, grilled prawns, and some of the freshest organic lettuce I’ve had in a while. But the best part were the slices of fresh creamy avocado lining the bottom of the salad plate. A truly outstanding salad in every way. This was followed by a tasty tomato soup, again homemade, with fresh basil and cream. This was a bit tart for me, although I devoured every bite. The main was a big fillet of organic salmon on a bed of lentils and light mustard sauce. Very good, but the fish was a touch overcooked to my taste. On a sidenote, I’ve become sensitive to a delicacy of fish and usually like a bit on the «raw» side. So I’m not complaining a bit about this preparation — I think most customers wouldn’t have even noticed. For dessert a gorgeous white and chocolate mousse presentation, a marvel to taste buds and delightful to the eye. This was creamy and not too sweet — perfect for me.
The service was great, with the waiters first speaking to us in German, then in French, then finally in English, realizing we were American.
I recommend Le Train Bleu anytime you’re in Basel on business or pleasure. The location is great and the people-​watching from the outer patio is reason enough to hang out here, even if you only want a beer!

We are staying at the Hotel Victoria. Last night we ate at this restaurant/​bar. We both had the fish and fries. One of the best meals we have had so far since we have been in Paris and Basel. This morning we had a very good breakfast. We ordered off the menu, it also was very good.

Hot chocolate made from Caotina powder for CHF 5, CHF 2.2 per croissant (which were fresh and tasty though). Service so so. Comfortable chairs. Still better than Starbucks across the street.

Was super busy after a long day of Art Basel being in town. Got a table and had to catch a train within the hour, so they really made and effort on getting us to the train on time, otherwise dinner in Europe can last for 2 hours sometimes.
I had a salad and Asparagus soup, hubby had Steak/​potatoes. Salad was fine, hubby ate all his.
BUT… this hands down has to be the BEST Asparagus soup I have ever had in my life. It will be a dish that I will never forget, be on my top meals, and crave for it to eternity. Was so simple and fresh. I think only 4 ingredients total. Wasn’t the typical creamed soup you get in America. They showcased the Asparagus to it’s highest form. Can’t say enough.
Right across is the Banghoff SBB and the Tram is in front of the place, so super easy to get to.

Saftige Preise. Typisch für die Lage. Dafür ist der Service ok.