Gourmet Safari at the Hotel Eden Roc in Ascona (Safari del Gusto)

Ticino is Switzerland’s southern canton with its lush valleys, vast mountains and majestic lakes.

This geography brings about an abundance of culinary treasures, such as chestnuts, mushrooms, grapes, corn or even rice. (Gelati and tiramusù are just side benefits of being in close proximity to Italy.) Some typical local dishes are mushroom risotto, polenta with braised beef or chestnuts roasted at the open fire.

For the annual “Safari del Gusto” at the prestigious Hotel Eden Roc Ascona, a dozen chefs and wine makers will be presenting the best from their kitchens and wine cellars. And during one evening, those lucky enough to have grabbed a ticket will be going on a type of culinary safari in a marketplace setting. This is slow food at its best!

Andreas Gartmann is the director of the Hotel Eden Roc Ascona. He states that the goal of Safari del Gusto is to expand the culinary heritage of local chefs, wine makers and food producers beyond the borders of Ticino. He has revealed to us that for the first time, the safari will offer a tasting station directly on Lago Maggiore!

How is the Safari del Gusto going to work?

The evening will start at the waterhole, a.k.a. the Eden Roc Bar, with a welcome drink. Then, a “ranger” will be taking you from one tasting area to another – as well as behind the scenes of the hotel! Along the way, you will be able to feast on the best dishes that Ticino has to offer. Each of the twelve restaurants will offer a matching vintage. I already cannot wait to find a locally produced white Merlot, which is typical for the region… And finally, the organizers promise an unforgettable dessert buffet inside the newly renovated Restaurant Eden Roc.

Needless to say, I am very excited about attending the Safari del Gusto at the Hotel Eden Roc! With a camera strapped around my neck and a smartphone in hand, I will be reporting about my discoveries on this safari of a different kind.

Purchase your ticket to this safari online (CHF 200, incl. food, beverages, coffee and nightcap “digestif”)