Le Casse Museau: an amusing case
Concocté par Valentin
Le Casse Museau was recently awarded the Bouchon Lyonnais label. For the Compagnie du Rognon, it was the perfect excuse to explore a place steeped in history, where a cheerful team and cozy ambiance make all the difference.
Aunt Paulette’s Poulette
Le Casse Museau is one of those establishments that carries the weight of its past. This Lyon bouchon stands in the lineage not of one, but two Mères Lyonnaises. First, Mère Pompom until 1947, well-known in the 1st arrondissement for her famous Duck à l’Orange. Then Tante Paulette until 1998, who made her mark with her gratin dauphinois and garlic chicken (no less than 40 cloves, mind you!). (Photo credit: Bibliothèque Municipale de Lyon)
Service with flair
Chef Christophe Buisson and owner Eric Cano are determined to honor this legacy. And yes, in Lyon we say a Canal, but some Cano*. To do so, they recreate the full stagecraft and ritual of a traditional bouchon. We were warmly welcomed by Fred and Eric. Throughout the service, the latter proved to be in turn jovial, mischievous, and delightfully boisterous—a trademark of true Lyon bouchons.
(*Olivier Canal and David Cano are respectively chefs at La Meunière and Les Culottes Longues.)
A bouchon in a jewel box
Tucked into the curve of Rue Chavanne, Le Casse Museau is one of those bouchons where cozy size invites closeness. As soon as you walk through the door, the counter opens up onto a bustling open kitchen. There’s a small dining room on the ground floor and two more upstairs. With wooden paneling on the walls, vintage decor, and retro tableware, the atmosphere is more refined than kitschy—warm and understated.The starters menu
Le Casse Museau offers two menus at lunch and dinner: starter, main, and dessert for €34. We opted for the version with cheese at €38. To start, some chose the herring with potatoes in oil. Flavorful and tender, it clearly took the lead. The œufs meurette, however, arrived overcooked and fell flat. Thankfully, the front-of-house team looked as dismayed as we were—and they quickly brought a fresh batch of eggs in their wine sauce, hot off the line.
The mains
Unsurprisingly, Tante Paulette’s garlic farm chicken and her famous gratin dauphinois are featured on the menu. Also available: a pork cheek stew with steamed potatoes, a handmade pike quenelle with langoustine sauce, and a flank steak with shallot sauce. Gluttonous yet discerning, the Compagnie du Rognon wasn’t quite stuffed nor stunned by the meal. That said, we still wiped our plates clean to the very last drop. And rightly so: the most enthusiastic among us was awarded the title of Maître Sauceur—and earned a free aperitif for his next visit.
The desserts
As tradition requires, we sampled a cervelle de canut before diving into the dessert menu. On offer: crème caramel, chocolate mousse, and Tante Paulette’s ice cream sundaes. We went for the praline tart and the tarte tatin. While neither reinvented the wheel, both were excellent renditions of classic favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions about Le Casse Museau in Lyon
What is Le Casse Museau known for?
Where is Le Casse Museau located?
This historic restaurant is nestled at 2 Rue Chavanne, in the heart of Lyon’s Presqu’île, just steps from the Saône River. Whether you’re on a gourmet tour of the city or exploring local attractions, its location makes it easy to enjoy a memorable Lyonnaise meal.
What are the menu options at Le Casse Museau?
The menu features both lunch and dinner options, with set menus including a starter, main, and dessert. Choices include a pork cheek stew, quenelle with langoustine sauce, and, of course, Tante Paulette’s celebrated garlic chicken and creamy gratin dauphinois. Cheese lovers can opt for cervelle de canut before dessert. While there’s no dedicated kids’ menu, the generous and flavorful meals cater well to families.
How is the service at Le Casse Museau?
Guests consistently praise the friendly, warm and slightly theatrical service at Le Casse Museau. The experience is enriched by a jovial front-of-house team, who ensure each table feels like part of the family. The atmosphere is both lively and intimate, perfectly echoing the spirit of a true bouchon.
What do reviews say about Le Casse Museau?
Restaurant reviews on TripAdvisor and Google are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the quality of the food, the authenticity of the setting, and the cheerful service. Diners often comment on the balance between tradition and comfort, with many calling it one of the best restaurants in Lyon for a true bouchon experience. It’s consistently rated highly by both locals and visitors.
What is the history of Le Casse Museau?
Founded in 1947, the restaurant first operated under Mère Pompom, followed by Tante Paulette, whose influence is still felt in the menu today. The historical space continues to honor the legacy of the Mères Lyonnaises, with vintage decor and a commitment to preserving the secrets of traditional cuisine lyonnaise.
How to make a reservation at Le Casse Museau?
Given its popularity and limited seating, reservations are highly recommended for both lunch and dinner. You can check availability directly through their website or by calling the restaurant. Booking ahead ensures a smooth and relaxed experience.
Is Le Casse Museau suitable for groups or private dining?
Yes, the restaurant has multiple dining rooms, including upstairs areas ideal for business lunches, family gatherings, or celebratory dinners. While there is no outdoor terrace, the cozy interior more than makes up for it.
Does Le Casse Museau offer a good wine selection?
Absolutely. The wine list is focused on Rhône Valley and Beaujolais labels, carefully selected to complement each dish—from quiche starters to hearty mains. The food and wine pairing elevates the entire dining experience.
Are there hotels near Le Casse Museau?
Yes, being in the center of Lyon, there are several hotels nearby to suit all preferences and budgets. Whether you’re planning to stay for a night or a week, the area around Rue Chavanne offers convenient and comfortable options.
What makes Le Casse Museau a must-visit bouchon in Lyon?
More than just a restaurant, Le Casse Museau embodies the heart of Lyon’s culinary tradition. From its historic setting and dishes passed down from Tante Paulette, to its heartfelt service, every element contributes to an authentic, gourmet journey through the flavors of France.
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