Lyon. Wine, dine and buy
It is not enough to take one trip, or even two or three to visit all the places in Lyon. It takes time to know the hills and the two rivers, walking on the long promenades just next to them. It takes a strong heart to climb up the hill’s hundreds of stairs, thousands of steps, to see the most spectacular views.
Food and all. La Commune
Although in a neighborhood that is not at all on your way, this place is still worth visiting – just for lunch or dinner or some entertainment, like a concert or exhibition they host. A place where local, small street food stalls meet, ranging from Asian inspired burgers to éclairs, where, let me tell you, the chorizo éclair is king. This is a great project bringing together local community, producers, and good food. Look up their business hours before going. Address: 3 rue Pré-Gaudry, Lyon. www.acommune.co
Pastry and light lunch. Jeannine & Suzanne
A mixture of American and French, they serve some American inspired drinks and foods, but the pastries - they are, oh so French! A very nice, cozy place if you want to have some couscous or other world inspired food and have great cake at the end. Beautifully served and tasty food that changes every month. Address: 34 Rue Sainte-Hélène, Lyon. www.jeannine-suzanne.com
Wine and apperitif. Muraato
The greatest wine bar in the city, I’ve been visiting it for three years. Romain, the owner, is king of finding rare and exceptional wines, and a good selection form Corsica, too. The wine is always a surprise there, as are the snacks, including some rare produce form Corsica and that region. It’s a place where local wine lovers stock up their wine cellar and come for an aperitif before dinner or theatre or any other event, most probably including wine, but not as good as here. Address: Lyon, 7 Rue Charles Dullin, Lyon. Www.muraato.com
Local food at its best. Cafe Terroir
It is so hidden in the deepest corner of the smallest street that you have to know the place, but once you know, you never forget. Very local, typical Lyonnais food – tartar with French fries, lentils with sausage, snails, eggs with Beaufort cheese, whole baked chicken (serves 2-4, depending on the eaters’ appetites), pâté, and so much more. It is always packed, always reserved, and always excellent. Address: 14 Rue Amboise, Lyon. www.cafeterroir.fr
Food and shopping. Las Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
Paradise of food, one might say. Others – a trap. Introduced to Lyon by the chef and master Paul Bocuse himself, this place is all you ever wanted, if looking for traditional French cuisine, if looking for lots of laughter with oyster in your mouth and a wine glass in your hand. If you're searching for classics in everything. For a light (or not so light) meal with friends, who each want something different or for dinner appetizers for your party. Address: 102 Cours Lafayette, Lyon. www.halles-de-lyon-paulbocuse.com
More places to visit
Le Kitchen Café – reliable sources say their food is amazing as well as their pastries. Breakfast needs no reservations, dinner – always. Address: 34 Rue Chevreul, Lyon. www.lekitchencafe.com
Le café du Peintre - very local, very special, and traditional bouchon Lyonnais. One of the best in town, and not at all in the centre. But do go there.
Reynon – chic, golden and shiny, classic as classic can be with all kind of pâté, puff pasty in meat and meat in puff pasty, appetizers, cheese, and so much more. Locals come here to find something for their champagne and everyone already knows everyone. A truly beautiful place. Address: 13 Rue des Archers, Lyon.
L'Estanco – fresh, slow press juices, smoothies, Buddha bowls, and healthy food. It’s small, it’s cozy and it’s tasty. Organic. Address: 4 Rue Pierre Corneille, Lyon. www.estancodumarche.fr
Story and pictures: Signe Meirane
Camera: Sony Alpha 7s
