The Mediterranean Insider

Lyon, France

Lyon’s 5 best restaurants (and must-try dishes)

The Mediterranean • Eat & drink • Lyon’s 5 best restaurants (and must-try dishes)

The guide to Lyon’s best restaurants

Lyon is often called the culinary capital of France – and for good reason. Set in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, where farmlands, world-class vineyards and mountain traditions come together, Lyon has a culinary identity like no other. It’s the rich, melt-in-your-mouth comfort of a quenelle de brochet (pike dumplings), the satisfying crunch of a perfectly baked saucisson brioché and the bold, no-nonsense punch of a tablier de sapeur (yes, that’s breaded tripe – trust us, it’s worth trying). And let’s not forget the wine – because in Lyon, a meal without a glass of Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône is practically unheard of. So, where do you go to experience the best of the best? We’ve rounded up Lyon’s top restaurants and the dishes that are not to be missed.

Top photography courtesy of Les Terrasses de Lyon

Les Terrasses de Lyon

Situated at the top of a historic building that once served as a Renaissance convent, this restaurant is now part of the luxurious Villa Florentine Hotel. The dining room is defined by its expansive glass walls, offering a panoramic view of centuries-old rooftops and even hints of a nearby cathedral. Executive Chef David Delsart, who has secured a Michelin star for the restaurant, leans into regional ingredients and precise technique. Menu highlights include pigeon smoked over Beaujolais vine shoots – a dish that captures the essence of the region – and freshwater fish sourced from Lake Geneva, paired with delicate vegetables. Desserts here aren’t an afterthought – classics like warm soufflés and an airy charlotte make a strong finish.

Les Terrasses de Lyon
La Villa Florentine
25 Mnt Saint-Barthélémy
Lyon
France

Photography courtesy of Les Terrasses de Lyon

L’Établi

While L’Établi may be small in size, it certainly packs a big punch when it comes to flavour. L’Établi is led by chef Louis Fargeton and Marie Garbiès, former protégés of Christian Têtedoie, a name well-respected in French gastronomy. The menu changes frequently, depending on the season and market availability, but you can expect refined French classics. One dish that consistently impresses is the hake, paired with asparagus and fennel for a light yet flavourful combination. The desserts are playful – smoked raspberry creations and deconstructed tarts make an appearance. Presentation is a big part of the experience here, with plates designed to surprise, like radishes served in a miniature flower pot with dried olives resembling soil.

L’Établi
22 Rue des Remparts d'Ainay
Lyon
France

Photography courtesy of L’Établi

La Maison Cobalte

At La Maison Cobalte the dining experience is just as important as the food served. This restaurant focuses on precision, from the selection of ingredients to the artistic plating. The interior is sleek and minimalist, with deep blue accents that reflect the restaurant’s name, creating an intimate and stylish atmosphere. But the real magic happens on the plate. Every dish at La Maison Cobalte is a work of art, balancing textures, colours and unexpected flavour pairings. A standout is the goat mousse, roasted nuts and spring onions accompanied by bread from the Bonamia bakery. Another must-try is the tiramisu with lemon and black sesame. They also have an impressive wine list, featuring some truly unique wines and rare vintages.

La Maison Cobalte
23 Rue René Leynaud
Lyon
France

Photography courtesy of La Maison Cobalte

Söma

Söma is a lively, down-to-earth eatery that brings a youthful energy to the table. The blue-tiled interior gives a nod to Mediterranean aesthetics with striking sky-blue tiling and quirky touches (like a framed photo of football legend Zinedine Zidane), the restaurant exudes energy and creativity. Chef Sarah Hamza, who trained under Mory Sacko, brings a Mediterranean influence to her ever-changing, market-driven menu. Some dishes that you should give a try include the cod roe taramasalata enhanced with black lime and crispy-cheesy tapioca and the orzo, made with a smoky broth enriched with homemade harissa, clams, sea beans and trout roe.

Söma
9 Pl. Saint-Paul
Lyon
France

Photography courtesy of Söma

L’Atelier des Augustins

L’Atelier des Augustins is a unique Michelin-starred restaurant located in Lyon’s 1st arrondissement, helmed by chef Nicolas Guilloton. Chef Guilloton, originally trained as a musician, brings an exciting artistic sensibility to his culinary creations, resulting in dishes that are both original and technically refined. Instead of a fixed menu, you are treated to a surprise tasting journey that evolves with the seasons. The restaurant’s interior, redesigned by architect Paul Erhet, features curvilinear wooden claustra – a series of custom-cut vertical wood elements – that unifies the space and offers both privacy and a sense of openness. This design pays homage to the building’s historical context while introducing futuristic aesthetics.