13 Top Brunch Locations and Spots in Lyon
Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France, so it’s no surprise that brunches here are an art form. While a leisurely weekend breakfast is enjoyed all over France, Lyon takes brunch to the next level with imaginative menus and a cozy ambiance. Here are some of the best places to enjoy brunch in this food-loving city.
1. Le Desjeuneur
Location: 3 rue des Pierres Plantees, 69001 Lyon France
Le Desjeuneur is a cozy cafe located in the lively neighborhood of Vieux Lyon. This casual eatery offers a great selection for breakfast and lunch in a charming atmosphere.
The menu focuses on classic French fare with daily specials. Popular items include croissants, pastries, quiches, salads, crepes, and more. The food is prepared fresh daily using quality ingredients. I enjoyed a nutella crepe which was stuffed to the brim with the creamy chocolate-hazelnut spread. The flavors were rich and authentic.
Customers rave about the excellent service. The staff is friendly, speaks English, and is always happy to provide recommendations. They clearly take pride in the customer experience. The prices are also very reasonable given the high quality of ingredients and preparations.
The warm interior feels inviting with its wood details and cozy seating. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or light lunch. Outside dining is available in nice weather as well. The central location near many sites makes it very convenient to visit during a day of exploring Vieux Lyon.
Overall, Le Desjeuneur delivers outstanding French classics in a charming bistro setting. The reasonably priced, seasonal menu and friendly staff make it a top pick for a casual meal in Lyon. I would highly recommend stopping by while in the neighborhood.
2. Ô Passage
Location: 27 Rue du Bœuf, 69005 Lyon France
Tucked away down a charming arcade in Lyon’s Old Town is Ô Passage, one of the best bistros in the city. This cozy restaurant has a warm and inviting ambiance with exposed stone walls and wood furnishings. Our large party enjoyed comfortable seating around a long communal table, perfect for people watching others stroll by on the busy street.
The French cuisine here is simply delicious. We started with an assortment of charcuterie and local cheeses that were expertly paired with regional wines. For our mains, highlights included the crispy potatoes and tender beef stew, butter-soft duck confit, and homemade gnocchi in a decadent gorgonzola cream sauce. The presentation was elegant yet casual.
Service from our bubbly waitress was outstanding – very knowledgeable about the seasonal menu and happy to offer recommendations. Prices are definitely steep compared to other local restaurants, but the quality of ingredients and artistry of preparations are worth every euro.
The lively atmosphere, old-world charm, and exceptional cuisine make Ô Passage simply not to be missed in Lyon. It’s easy to see why this charming bistro sustains a Michelin star designation year after year. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely meal or a special occasion, Ô Passage delivers an unforgettable culinary experience.
3. Restaurant le Parloir
Location: 23 Quai du Général Sarrail, 69006 Lyon France
Nestled in a picturesque townhouse in Vieux Lyon, Restaurant le Parloir is a lovely place for a special meal. The cozy but elegant dining room features high ceilings, marble floors, and decorative detailing true to the building’s history. Soft lighting and live jazz music flowing through the air create an immediately relaxing atmosphere.
Our group was warmly welcomed by friendly staff who recommended indigenous wines to complement the prix fixe menu. We began with amuse-bouches of seasonal delights like oyster tartare and foie gras that tantalized the palette. For the starter course, I enjoyed a velvety pumpkin soup accompanied by crispy lardons.
Mains did not disappoint with choices like sea bream filet atop fregola and saffron sauce or tender beef in a rich red wine jus. The presentation and flavors were sublime. For dessert, the house-made chocolate ganache stole the show.
While not inexpensive, the exquisite 3-4 course menu using locally sourced ingredients is one of the best values in Lyon’s fine dining scene. Impeccable service only enhanced our experience. The award-winning sommelier offered spot-on wine pairings.
Restaurant le Parloir’s outstanding cuisine, ambiance, and service make it absolutely worthy of its glowing reputation. I highly recommend making reservations for a truly memorable culinary experience in a historic setting. Bon appétit!
4. L’Origo
Location: 2 Rue Jeanne-marie Celu 2 Rue Celu, 69004 Lyon France
Tucked away on a quiet street in Lyon’s historic Saint-Jean neighborhood lies L’Origo, an absolute gem of a restaurant. Upon stepping through the heavy wooden doors, guests are transported to the ambiance of an authentic Italian trattoria.
The cozy, rustic-chic interior includes terra cotta tiled floors, arched ceilings, and a lively open kitchen. We enjoyed a festive meal surrounded by local patrons who clearly adore this place. The extensive wine list highlights various Italian varietals at very fair prices.
For appetizers, the crispy chickpea fritters and warm olives were decadent. Homemade pasta like tagliatelle Bolognese and saffron risotto were richly flavored and perfectly al dente. Thin-crust pizzas emerged from the brick oven bubbling hot. My grilled lamb chops were fall-off-the-bone tender.
Friendly, knowledgeable staff provided spot-on recommendations and promptly refilled champagne flutes. Prices are very reasonable given the quality and portion sizes. No wonder L’Origo was fully booked on this Saturday night!
With its charming ambiance, outstanding authentic Italian fare, and fair prices, L’Origo is a true gem hidden in the historic streets of Lyon. I highly recommend making a reservation to experience the delights of Italy without leaving France.
5. Mama Restaurant Lyon
Location: 13 Rue Domer, 69007 Lyon France
MAMA Restaurant Lyon is bringing a breath of fresh air to the traditional Lyonnais cuisine. Housed in a beautiful post-industrial space located in the trendy Presqu’île neighborhood, MAMA offers a playful approach to local dishes.
The eclectic and artfully presented menu utilizes seasonal ingredients in innovative preparations. On a recent visit, we indulged in starters like smoked beetroot salad and cheese soufflé paired with natural wines.
Mains such as roast pigeon, pappardelle pasta, and pan-seared bream perfectly balanced unique flavors. We also sampled small plates like truffle pizza and vegetable tempura that were crowd-pleasing.
The welcoming and energetic staff provided excellent recommendations to customize our experience. Best of all, the reasonable prices make this one of Lyon’s top deals for interesting modern French cuisine.
Whether you dine at the large shared tables or high tops overlooking the lively street scene, MAMA’s upbeat vibe and feel-good dishes are sure to delight. It’s no wonder this popular bistro has developed a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. Highly recommended!
6. Zucca
Location: 70 Quai Charles De Gaulle, 69463 Lyon France
Tucked away in a picturesque traboule (secret passageway), Zucca is a real treasure hidden in plain sight. This petite Italian eatery feels like stepping into someone’s home in Venice or Rome.
The intimate space is warm and welcoming with stone walls, arched doorways, and colorful art. Candles on each tin tray-topped table provide ambiance. We dined family-style on sharing plates of local delights.
Homemade pasta like pumpkin tortelloni and saffron risotto burst with flavor. Pizzas emerged piping hot from the wood-fired oven with tantalizing toppings. Main dishes like osso bucco and fresh fish were simple yet sublime.
Our friendly server was happy to guide us through the changing menu and affordable Italian wine list. It was easy to while away the hours here enjoying lively conversation and people-watching in the passage.
Specializing in seasonal Ligurian fare, Zucca captures the essence of Italy with its cozy ambiance and market-driven dishes. No wonder this family-run osteria has become so popular yet maintains its hidden treasure status. Highly recommended!
7. Les Papas Sucrés
Location: rue Sala, 69002 Lyon France
Les Papas Sucrés (Sweet Dads) is a delightful patisserie hidden along one of Vieux Lyon’s charming traboules. Upon entering, patrons are transported to the cozy atmosphere of an artist’s atelier, filled with artwork for sale.
But the real stars here are the works of art behind the glass displays – whimsically decorated cakes, tarts and confections too beautiful to eat. Together with coffee, tea or natural wines, they make the perfect sweet indulgence.
For a real treat, try the light-as-air cinnamon rolls or creative “pops of happiness” lollipops. Savories like quiches and sandwiches make Les Papas Sucrés ideal for a leisurely breakfast or lunch.
Flavors are bright, intriguing, and skillfully blended. The passion project of a talented pastry chef really shines through. While prices are slightly higher than other local pâtisseries, the exceptional quality and presentation are worth every cent.
With its charm, artisanal creations, and serene oasis in the city center, Les Papas Sucrés provides unparalleled joie de vivre. Not to be missed on any trip to Lyon’s historic Old Town!
8. Lyon’s Gastro Pub
Location: 7 rue Neuve, 69001 Lyon France
The extensive menu plays on classic pub fare but with an artisanal French twist. We started with standouts like fried green tomatoes or duck confit salad. Pizzas with inventive toppings emerged hot from the brick oven.
For something more substantial, the steak frites and pulled pork sandwiches hit the spot. Vegetarian and vegan options were also plentiful and creative. A wide selection of cider, beers, and natural wines round out the beverage program.
The friendly, knowledgeable staff made it easy to comfortably sample tastes in the lively, upbeat environment. Music plays at conversable volumes to encourage socializing. Prices are very reasonable given the quality and portion sizes.
Lyon’s Gastro Pub provides a refreshing alternative to traditional Lyonnaise dining that feels approachable yet sophisticated. I’d highly recommend stopping by for this reimagined international pub experience.
9. Slake
Location: 9 Rue de l’Ancienne Prefecture, 69002 Lyon France
Located in the trendy Presqu’île neighborhood, Slake is an inviting oasis for caffeine, craft cocktails, and creative culinary creations. Stepping through the industrial doors into the minimalist interior feels like entering an upscale café hidden in plain sight.
High ceilings, floating shelves of curiosities, and plush banquettes provide a calm and contemporary backdrop. We enjoyed sitting at the marble communal table to preview the seasonal small plates menu.
Highlights included truffle gnocchi, honey pappardelle with seasonal mushrooms, and vegetable tempura. Dishes highlighted fresh market finds in non-traditional combinations that tantalized without pretension.
The extensive coffee list by award-winning Intelligentsia and seasonal cocktails crafted from artisanal spirits pair perfectly. Weekend brunch is also a big hit. Service by knowledgeable staff ensured all guests were well taken care of.
With its sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, outstanding fare, and beverages, Slake has quickly become a neighborhood gem. Whether for coffee meetings or relaxed multi-course meals, this café delivers a memorable experience.
10. NEWTREE Cafe
Location: 6 rue de la Charite, 69002 Lyon France
Tucked away along a pedestrian street in bustling Vieux Lyon, NEWTREE Cafe provides a calming oasis amid the Old Town’s lively energy. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow plenty of natural light to brighten the minimalist interior.
Reclaimed wood shelves, comfy grey banquettes, and concrete accents create a modern yet inviting atmosphere. We started our visit with crafted coffees from carefully sourced global roasters. A selection of freshly made teas and juices round out the beverage menu.
For something a bit more substantial, we sampled the drool-worthy baked goods – shortbread topped with salted almonds or gooey cinnamon rolls were standouts. The heartier fare included quiche, savory tarts, and generously stuffed panini.
The staff was welcoming and enthusiastic about their sustainably sourced menu items. Best of all, NEWTREE is passionate about zero-waste initiatives. Prices are very fair given the quality and eco-friendly values.
With its calm ambiance, health-conscious flair, and emphasis on sustainability, NEWTREE provides a refreshing experience in the city’s historic center. A true find!
11. Pimprenelle
Location: 13 rue des 4 Chapeaux, 69002 Lyon France
Our server gracefully guided us through the experience with thoughtful recommendations. Prices are remarkably fair given the quality and portion sizes. No wonder Pimprenelle has earned such devotion from locals.
With its sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance and commitment to local sourcing, Pimprenelle delivers a truly gratifying fine dining experience in the heart of historic Lyon. Not to be missed.
12. L’Épicerie de Ginette – Bistrot à Tartines – Lyon 2
Location: 2 Rue de la Monnaie, 69002 Lyon France
The generously sized and inventively composed tartines were more than satisfied. Standouts included smoked salmon, crispy quail egg, and lemon; brie, pear, and hazelnut; and roast beef, arugula, and parmesan. Soups and salads developed with seasonal ingredients were also highlights.
The friendly staff was eager to provide recommendations from the rotating menu of mostly organic, locally sourced items. Prices are very reasonable given the quality and portions. No wonder this neighborhood favorite is always bustling.
With its charming former grocery ambiance, freshly prepared fare, and community spirit, L’Épicerie de Ginette delivers a genuine bistro experience in the heart of urban Lyon. Not to be missed!
13. Bouchon Palais Grillet
Location: 8 Rue Palais Grillet Angle Rue Grenette / Metro Cordeliers, 69002 Lyon France
Tucked away in a small alleyway off Rue du Palais Grillet sits Bouchon Palais Grillet, one of Lyon’s top bouchon restaurants. Stepping through the wooden door transports guests to a cozy, quintessential bouchon setting with wooden beams, stone walls and antique furnishings.
The €42 culinary journey began with an amuse bouche of chicken liver cream on toast points and a glass of local Beaujolais. Traditional Lyonnaise dishes followed like pristine salade lyonnaise, quenelles in a creamy sauce Nantua andtender boudin noir.
For mains, classic boudin blanc with apples and calvados or beef steak with frites satisfied cuisine lovers. Charcuterie and from ages to finish made the experience complete. Kind owners and staff ensured all diners felt at home.
While not pretentious, Bouchon Palais Grillet’s refined yet relaxed ambiance and expertly executed home cooking with local products set an extremely high culinary bar downtown. No wonder chef Julien Loubet has garnered multiple accolades. Highly recommended for a truly authentic Lyonnais experience!
I hope this list of top brunch spots gives you some tasty places to try when craving something special in Lyon. The city truly knows how to do weekend meals right.
