Best Places To Eat In Lyon: Melting Into The Culinary Traditions

1. Local markets

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Local food markets such as the popular Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse are an important way of interacting with the regional foods that are indicative of Lyon and its surroundings. Bearing the name of the world-renowned French chef, Les Halles is the place where seafood merchants, butchers, wine connoisseurs, pastry chefs, and gurus of all sorts come together to showcase their most unforgettable specialties. This includes such precious gems as flavorful charcuterie, fresh, hand-baked breads and pastries, and fine wines and cheeses that are local to the area. Other outstanding options include the Saint-Antoine and Croix-Rousse food markets.

Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Address: 102 Cours Lafayette, 69003 Lyon, France

Website: Les Halles Paul Bocuse (in French)

2. L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges

Emblematic of its time, L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges is a critically acclaimed Lyonnais restaurant comfortably situated in the upper echelon of traditional French cuisine. Having been awarded three Michelin stars during his reign, it is sometimes referred to simply as “Bocuse.” However, this iconic French restaurant is built on more than just prestige alone. Mouthwatering selections like their herb-roasted lamb, sea bass-stuffed puff pastry, and signature truffle soup keep people coming back every time.

L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges

Address: 50 Rue de la Plage, 69660 Lyon, France

Website: L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges

3. La Mère Brazier

Although Bocuse may possess a somewhat loftier image, Eugenie Brazier was an important local culinary pioneer in her own right, with some referring to her as the mother of French gastronomy. It is a well-known fact that the infamous Bocuse actually served as a student to Brazier before placing his own contemporary spin on the French fare of old. Eugenie’s legacy lives on today in La Mère Brazier restaurant on Rue Royale, where mousseline de brochet and poularde demi-deuil are top picks.

La Mère Brazier

Address: 12 Rue Royale, 69001 Lyon, France

Website: La Mère Brazier

4. Le Nord

Another cherished local gem, Le Nord belongs to a set of three other Bocuse-sponsored restaurants named after the four cardinal directions. It is an affordable brasserie that provides a humbling sort of refuge where guests can go to become lost in the nostalgia of old France. Herb-seasoned leg of lamb, savory pot au feu, and pike dumplings in creamy lobster sauce are among the most delectable dishes offered.

Le Nord

Address: 1 Rue Neuve, 69002 Lyon, France

Website: Le Nord (in French)

5. Terre Adélice

This trendy ice cream shop is one of dozens of other great eateries all around the city where gluttony is not merely tolerated, but a welcomed part of the allure. Throughout the year more than 150 artisanal flavors can be sampled within, including organic ice creams and sorbets made from such regional fruits as fresh blueberries, raspberries, and white peach.

Terre Adélice

Address: 1, Place de la Baleine, Lyon, France

Website: Terre Adélice (in French)

6. Mademoiselle Rêve

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Dreamy doesn’t even begin to describe this charming wine bar nestled to the east of the Rhône in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement. An excellent selection of regional wines and cheeses make it a great place to grab an afternoon apéro, as delicious tapas-inspired food selections beckon you to extend your evening.

Mademoiselle Rêve

Address: 215 Rue Vendome, Lyon, France

Website: Mademoiselle Rêve

7. Gourmix

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Everyone is wondering what kind of sorcery is it that has allowed the French to make even simple fast food a gourmet delight for the senses. This is exactly what the staff over at Gourmix have managed to do with their sandwiches made with fresh bread and produce, smoked fish, flavorful meats, and one-of-a-kind pizzazz. The food here is appealing in both price and flavor, and with two locations in town, it’s never been easier to pop by for a quick lunchtime fix.

Gourmix

Address: 22 Rue de la Platiere, 69001 Lyon, France

Website: Gourmix

8. Au Petit Bouchon Chez Georges

Bouchons like Chez Georges are classic brasseries known for serving traditional Lyonnais grub. This one has a decidedly authentic feel - from its rustic, throwback decor to the sauerkraut and sausage andouilettes its patrons scarf down so eagerly. During the weekdays, the restaurant offers a special menu for opera-goers, complete with an entree, cheese pairing, coffee, and wine, for only 25 euros (27 USD).

Au Petit Bouchon Chez Georges

Address: 8 Rue du Garet, Lyon, France

Website: Chez Georges

9. Bouchon Le Jura

An authentic family owned restaurant where great taste and impeccable service reign, Bouchon Le Jura opened its doors for the first time in 1867 and is a well-known crowd-pleaser among Lyon natives. Their pistachio-encrusted duck pate and dried sausage platters are the stuff that dreams are made of, while the popular andouillette is prepared with your choice of white or red wine. Pop over to the chic Presqu’île City center to check out the dedicated mother-son duo at work.

Bouchon Le Jura

Address: 25 Rue Tupin, 69002 Lyon, France

Website: Bouchon Le Jura (in French)

10. Le Grand Café des Négociants

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Concerned with the economic affairs of some of Lyon’s most qualified working professionals, the aptly named Café des Négociants is a place to strike important business deals and rub elbows with the city’s elite. Politicos and artists of all kinds are likely to be found within, having a drink, enjoying a quick meal, or taking advantage of their specialized conference rooms. Not to mention that while it is a well-known place to see and be seen, regional specialities and fragrant desserts are just as sumptuous and magnificent as the decor itself.

Grand Café des Négociants

Address: 1 Place Francisque Regaud, 69002 Lyon, France

Website: Grand Café des Négociants (in French)

Eat your Lyon share

Casually known as the birthplace of la gastronomie française, Lyon is the pride and glory of French foodies, offering delectable eateries for just about every travel budget. Plus, fixed-price menus make it even easier to sample the unforgettable tastes of old France. With endless options to choose from, it sure would be a shame not to take part in Lyon’s rich and flavorful cuisine for yourself!