Lyon
Dining And Drinking

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France is undoubtedly a country of gastronomic delights, perhaps unmatched among world cuisines. Among the world's major culinary capitals, Lyon is certainly one of the most important with contributions including traditional beaujolais and the famous quenelles.

Thanks to its geographical position, the kitchens of Lyon have served as meeting points for many different culinary influences over the years. It benefits from a climate which supports bountiful vineyards nearby, providing just the right accompaniment to every dish. Côtes du Rhône and Beaujolais wines feature prominently in the restaurants of Lyon. It is affectionately nicknamed the city of three rivers: the Rhône, the Saône and the Beaujolais! Even if the city's restaurants give local specialties more than their fair share of attention, particularly when it comes to poultry and cooked meats, the fact that Lyon is a large regional capital means it can offer a wide selection of exotic restaurants, reflecting the diversity of contemporary France.

As for cafés and bistros, Lyon boasts numerous establishments ranging from the simple, traditional bistro to the local, trendy bar. France - particularly in the Lyon region - has the highest rate of cafés per capita in all of Europe! But let us begin our tour with the most eminent of Lyon's restaurants.

The most famous restaurants
It would be irresponsible to overlook the celebrated Paul Bocuse restaurant in a discussion of Lyon's cuisine. This restaurant is famous the world over and belongs to a league of its own, and offers equally exquisite dishes whether inspired by local traditions or world cuisine. Although it is not centrally located, and the meals are as expensive as the restaurant's reputation warrants, it is well worth the trek. Meanwhile, the Pierre Orsi is establishing a growing reputation and deserves the attention of all refined epicureans. They will not be disappointed: the place is ideal.

The bouchons
A gastronomical tour of Lyon would not be complete without the famous bouchons. These are generally small restaurants where diners can order a plate of meats anytime after ten in the morning, or a Saint-Marcellin cheese with a glass of beaujolais. These cozy establishments are an essential part of traditional cuisine of Lyon and are nestled all over the city. Chez Mounier and La Mère Jean are among the guardians of this tradition, representing the simple values which delight visitors to Lyon.

Foreign cuisines
For those with a taste for travel, the range of non-French restaurants is vast and virtually guaranteed to include your preferred destination. Even the most educated travelers will be bewildered by the choice. Of course, an exhaustive list of these possibilities is impossible, but a few restaurants deserve mention for offering unusual cuisine in a particularly interesting setting. The Samba atmosphere of O'Brasil whisks patrons away for an evening of energetic rhythms, while the Confort Impérial tempts the palate with Chinese dishes. Buddy Burd looks westward to take its inspiration the sun-kissed dishes of Mexico, and Mamounia evokes the warmth of Marrakesh with its superb decor and delicious couscous.

The brasseries
The brasseries of Lyon are worth a visit for their traditional menus and their often striking settings. In fact, many date back to the beginning of the 20th century and the Art Nouveau decoration can be opulent and highly impressive. A case in point is the venerable Brasserie Georges, worth a visit for its decoration alone (the ceilings are spectacular). The Brasserie la Martinière offers the attractive charm of a cozy and comfortable brasserie.

Lyon is clearly an ideal place to explore local and international cuisine. But the city also brims with inviting little bistros and cafés spilling onto their attractive terraces. The most famous is the Grand Café des Négociants; its cultured ambience is ideal for a tea on the terrace. Many others deserve mention, but every traveler deserves the experience of wandering casually off the street for a coffee and discovering their own home away from home - we'll leave you to the adventure.