Lyonnais Bouchons

Explore the charming streets of Lyon and you'll discover the hidden gems known as "bouchons" – cosy eateries with small tables draped in classic red-chequered tablecloths. These authentic establishments are nestled in the pedestrian centre, featuring low ceilings adorned with ancient wooden beams. Lyon is renowned for offering a true taste of French cuisine, with locals considering it the epitome of culinary authenticity, surpassing even Paris. It's a compelling reason to plan a visit to Lyon and experience the local gastronomic delights firsthand. During our initial visit, seeking shelter from the rain, we stumbled upon a bouchon and secured the last table for two. At that time, it was just the two of us – something which is now hard to believe! We opened the menu and there it was – the most wonderful onion soup (soupe à l'oignon) you can dream of, as well as the perfect side dish – potato gratin (gratin dauphinois). For the main course, I chose tender pink veal kidneys (rognons de veau) with succulent green beans – simple, but unforgettable. My husband bravely went for the andouillette. If you are unfamiliar with this robust dish but are adventurous and open to new experiences, make your decision wisely: it's a coarse-grained sausage made from pork intestines. It has a charm of its own, but it's not for the fainthearted. The friendly atmosphere and lively banter in Lyon's bouchons add to the overall charm of the dining experience. You can engage in conversation with the welcoming staff and neighbouring diners, creating a convivial ambiance that will leave you in high spirits for the rest of the evening. Each visit to Lyon's bouchons is a joyful memory that beckons you back for more delectable moments.