Savoy Mountains
Culinary Heritage of the Alps

The Art of Living at the Summit

In 2026, Savoyard gastronomy is no longer just a tradition; it is a philosophy of the land, time, and sharing. Welcome to the authentic world of Alpine flavors.

A centuries-old tradition geared towards excellence

Savoy, a land of contrasts and summits, has forged a culinary identity unique in the world. Born from the necessity of surviving harsh winters, this "subsistence" cuisine has become, over the centuries, one of the gems of French gastronomic heritage. Today, in 2026, we celebrate this legacy that combines generosity, technical skill, and respect for raw products.

From the Tarentaise Valley to the shores of Lake Geneva, each region brings its own nuance. Whether it's the green alpine pastures where Tarine cows graze or the steep hillsides of the Combe de Savoie, quality is the watchword.

18 PDO & PGI
200+ Local Producers
1000m+ Average Altitude
Savoy Cheese Traditional cuisine

The Universe of Gourmet Savoy

More than just cuisine, a resilience

Savoyard gastronomy is intrinsically linked to the topography of the territory. At high altitudes, the seasons dictate the menu. For centuries, self-sufficiency was the rule. Each family cultivated their vegetable garden, raised a few animals, and produced their own cheese. It is this need for self-sufficiency that gave birth to treasures like Beaufort or Reblochon.

Drying and smoking meats were the only possible preservation methods to face the months of snow. Today, these techniques have become gastronomic signatures sought after by the finest tables. To learn more about this evolution, visit our page dedicated to the History of Savoyard Dishes.

In 2026, Savoyard cuisine is reinventing itself without losing its soul. The region's Michelin-starred chefs, like those you will find in our guide to Dining in Savoy, now work with mountain herbs (wild thyme, meadowsweet, wild garlic) to bring contemporary lightness to traditional dishes.

This "foraging cuisine" pairs perfectly with Savoy Wines, whose freshness and minerality perfectly cut through the richness of melted cheeses. It is a perfect balance, born from the land itself.

Perfect Fondue Simulator

How much cheese for your guests? Which wine to choose? Our simulator calculates the ideal proportions according to the rules of Savoyard art.

4 people

Your Shopping List

  • Beaufort (PDO) 333g
  • Abondance (PDO) 333g
  • Savoy Emmental (PGI) 333g
  • White Wine (Apremont) 0.4L
  • * Don't forget the garlic clove and the stale bread!
View the preparation method
Savoy forests

The Treasures of our Forests and Alpine Pastures

Beyond cheese, Savoy is full of exceptional products. Mountain honey, harvested at over 1000 meters above sea level, offers rare notes of rhododendron and fir of unique complexity. Cured meats, such as smoked Savoy raw ham or Diots (local sausages), are the result of ancestral curing expertise.

Lake fish (Geneva, Annecy, Bourget) also hold a special place. Fera and arctic char are served in the best gourmet addresses in the region. To discover where to buy these gems directly, consult our guide Where to find regional products.

The Crozet

Small square pasta made with buckwheat or soft wheat, the crozet is the emblem of Tarentaise. Ideal in a gratin (croziflette).

Discover the recipe →

The Savoy Cake

Created in 1358 for Count Amédée VI, this airy sponge cake contains no added fat. A cloud of sweetness.

Learn how to make it →

Génépi

An emblematic liqueur macerated from a rare plant growing on moraines, it traditionally ends festive meals.

Learn more →

What enthusiasts are saying

"Savoyard cuisine is not just about melted cheese. It's the poetry of the alpine pastures on a plate. On this site, I found my grandmother's exact steps for tartiflette."

M

Marc-André V.

Inn Chef in Haute-Savoie

"Thanks to the interactive map, we were able to organize a perfect gastronomic weekend between Annecy and Chambéry. The producers' addresses are a goldmine."

S

Sophie G.

Culinary Tourist

Frequently Asked Questions about Savoyard Cuisine

What is the difference between a Savoyard fondue and a Swiss fondue?
Savoyard fondue primarily uses three local cheeses: Beaufort, Abondance, and Savoy Emmental. It is traditionally made with Savoy white wine (Apremont or Abymes). The Swiss version often favors Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois.
Can you make a tartiflette without Reblochon?
Technically, no. The name "Tartiflette" is protected by the use of PDO Reblochon. If you use another cheese, it becomes a "Péla" or a simple potato gratin with cheese. Reblochon brings that irreplaceable creaminess and nutty taste.
What are the best wines to accompany these dishes?
For cheese dishes, dry whites like Apremont, Roussette, or Chignin-Bergeron are ideal. For cured meats or meats, a Mondeuse (local red wine with notes of pepper) is a perfect pairing. See our guide to Savoy Wines.
Is Savoyard cuisine suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! Although cured meats are present, many dishes are centered on cheese and starches (fondue, polenta, crozet gratins). Often, you just need to omit the bacon bits to transform a classic into a gourmet vegetarian dish.
What is "Génépi" exactly?
Génépi is a high-mountain plant belonging to the mugwort family. It grows between 2000 and 3000 meters above sea level. The liqueur is obtained by macerating its sprigs in alcohol. It is recognized for its digestive properties.
How to succeed with a fondue without it separating?
The trick is to maintain a constant temperature without ever reaching a hard boil, and to stir in a "figure 8" pattern with your wooden spoon. A pinch of cornstarch diluted in wine can also help stabilize the emulsion. Find all our advice on Tips and Techniques.
Where to find the best cheeses in 2026?
Prioritize direct sales in cheese dairies or on the farm. Many cooperatives (Beaufortain, Val d'Arly) offer 24/7 vending machines or home delivery to ensure maximum freshness. Our Regional Products page lists the best addresses.
Which bread to choose for fondue?
24-hour-old stale bread is ideal. It must have a thick crust to stay on the skewer and not get lost at the bottom of the pot. A country baguette or a sourdough loaf is perfect.
What are the gastronomic festivals not to be missed?
The Cheese Festival in July, the Mountain Gastronomy Fair, and the Démontagnée (return of the herds) in autumn are must-sees. More info on News and Events.
Are there reference books on the subject?
Yes, several books deal with the ethno-cuisine of the Alps. We have selected about ten for you on our Books and Guides page.
Culinary preparation

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