Bouchons of the Month

Bouchon Bât d’Argent in Lyon: no bad argument

Concocté par Valentin

Usually accustomed to the sacred halls of Lyonnaise tradition, La Compagnie du Rognon changes its tune today and steps into a neo-bouchon: Le Bât d’Argent.

Le Bât d’Argent, a néo-bouchon

Behind Le Bât d’Argent, there’s more than one bouchon. There are three, in fact. The same team is also behind the sparkling Bouchon Tupin and the impeccable Bouchon des Cordeliers. Opened in 2020, this neo-bouchon takes its name from the street where it’s located in Lyon’s 1st arrondissement. Bât d’Argent refers to the old silver shop sign that once hung over a store specializing in the production of bâts, the saddle-like harnesses that let pack animals carry heavy loads.

About Loïc Garcia

Today, it’s Loïc Garcia’s job to make us carry heavy loads, of fat and sauce, that is. Like his colleague Cédric Garin of Le Bouchon des Cordeliers, he spent several years at Victoria Hall in Lyon’s 7th arrondissement. At Le Bât d’Argent, Garcia delivers a neo-bouchon cuisine — grounded in the fundamentals of Lyonnaise gastronomy while venturing into more contemporary, even exotic, territory. (Photo credit: Le Bât d’Argent)

Spotless in the dining room

One glance around the dining room and you’ll understand what a neo-bouchon looks like. Red-and-white checkered napkins, wooden chairs, and a few vintage photos set the traditional tone. Old advertising posters are present, but stylized and modernized. The rest of the space is much more open, plant-filled, and bright than the dim taverns we’re used to dragging our clogs into. In short, it’s convivial, though maybe not the kind of place for wild, wine-soaked banter and belly-stuffing fits of gluttony.

Starters : between tradition and modernity

Le Bât d’Argent offers a single menu at €32, with traditional dishes prepared using modern techniques and sometimes surprising ingredients. On the starter side, there’s the classic homemade pâté en croûte, low-temperature poached œufs meurette, or pig’s ear roulade with pistachio sauce. The frog confit in cream with puffed rice and fried nori leaf makes a bold leap across culinary borders.

An international bouchon

The main courses confirm the breadth of inspiration. The chicken quenelle with lobster sauce and pilaf rice stands squarely in tradition. The pork shoulder, confited for 10 hours and served with mashed potatoes and cervelle de canut, is bold but still close to home. However, the filet mignon and cod loin go globe-trotting: the former is served with red bean cream and jalapeño sauce; the latter with stracciatella risotto, hazelnut cream, and avocado.

A sweet final

Même son de cloche pour les desserts du bouchon Le Bât d’Argent. La carte fait bien sûr de la place pour la tarte aux pralines, le plus fameux des marqueurs sucrés de la cuisine lyonnaise. Et enchaîne avec des propositions plus étonnantes pour les palais sucrés du coin. Qu’il s’agisse de l’éclair vanille et fraise, du cheesecake au fromage de chèvre et hibiscus ou encore du gâteau au yahourt, accompagné de sa glace maison au miel et de sa crème anglaise au parfum de lavande. Pour la Compagnie du Rognon, un repas forcément plus déconcertant qu’à l’accoutumée. Mais marqué d’agréables surprises et d’un bon rapport qualité-prix.

Frequently Asked Questions about Le Bouchon Bât-d’Argent in Lyon

📍 Where is Le Bouchon Bât-d’Argent located in Lyon?

Le Bouchon Bât-d’Argent is located at 23 Rue du Bât-d’Argent, in the heart of Lyon’s 1st arrondissement, between Hôtel de Ville and Place des Terreaux. Situated in the vibrant Presqu’île, this bouchon lyonnais offers easy access to nearby landmarks and cultural highlights. A great spot for anyone looking to explore authentic local flavors.

🍽️ What is the menu like at Le Bouchon Bât-d’Argent?

The restaurant offers a seasonal and concise menu, built on traditional Lyonnaise cuisine with a creative twist. Everything is homemade, with a focus on local and fresh ingredients. Expect generous and beautifully crafted dishes such as:

  • Quenelle de volaille with sauce homardine
  • Œufs meurette (slow-cooked eggs with red wine sauce, bacon, mushrooms, and croutons)
  • 48-hour slow-cooked pork belly with mustard potato salad
  • Chef’s pâté en croûte with pickles and fruit chutney
  • Traditional tarte à la praline for dessert

    You’ll also find a daily special, and seasonal desserts often feature fresh fruit and inventive flavors.

🕰️ What are the opening hours?

Le Bouchon Bât-d’Argent is open Tuesday to Saturday, for lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, and dinner from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM. It’s an ideal schedule to enjoy a relaxed and flavorful dining experience rooted in Lyon’s culinary heritage.

🍷 What is the atmosphere like?

The setting is warm, laid-back, and welcoming — the kind of place where you feel right at home. While it honors the traditional décor of a bouchon with wooden chairs and vintage posters, the space is brighter and more open, with a modern touch. It’s perfect for a cozy lunch or a cheerful evening out with friends or family.

📝 How can I reserve a table at Le Bouchon Bât-d’Argent?

You can reserve a table online through the restaurant’s official website. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for dinner. For group bookings or special requests, feel free to contact the team by email. Reservations are subject to the restaurant’s general terms and conditions.

💬 What do reviews say about Le Bouchon Bât-d’Argent?

According to TripAdvisor and other platforms, diners regularly recommend the experience. Guests praise the excellent service, the high-quality food, and the cozy atmosphere. Many highlight the great value for money, making it one of Lyon’s top-rated spots for local cuisine.

💰 What are the prices like?

The restaurant offers a fixed-price menu at €32, which includes a starter, main course, and dessert. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a balanced combination of quality, generosity, and budget-friendly dining.

🍷 What wines are available?

The wine list features bottles from Beaujolais and the Rhône Valley, chosen to pair harmoniously with the rich, traditional dishes served. Staff are happy to guide you through the selection based on your meal.

👥 Can Le Bouchon Bât-d’Argent host group meals?

Yes, the restaurant is equipped to welcome small groups. Whether it’s a celebration, a business lunch, or simply a meal with friends, it offers a warm setting to share and enjoy local specialties together.

🌿 Does the restaurant have outdoor seating?

Yes, there’s a pleasant terrace available during warm weather — perfect for dining al fresco in the center of Lyon.

🌟 What makes the dining experience at Le Bât-d’Argent so special?

At Le Bât-d’Argent, you’ll enjoy more than just a meal — it’s a truly memorable moment. The warm service, the charming setting, and the carefully curated dishes combine to create an authentic culinary experience. Whether you’re seated indoors or on the terrace, the ambiance is always welcoming, with a friendly team eager to share their love of Lyon’s gastronomy.

🧀 What are some lesser-known specialties served here?

In addition to well-known dishes like quenelle and œufs meurette, Le Bât-d’Argent offers unique options such as Saint-Marcellin, faisselle, or poireaux with truffle vinaigrette. The goat cheese with fruit chutney, the truite fumée, or the slow-cooked meats with pommes de terre add depth to the creative and generous cuisine.

💡 Is Le Bât-d’Argent suitable for all types of guests?

Yes — whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a group outing, or visiting with family, the restaurant offers something for everyone. The setting is relaxed yet elegant, and the dishes are adapted to a variety of budgets. It’s also an excellent choice for those looking for regional flavors in a modern twist, all within proximity to Lyon’s major attractions.

🧾 Are there options for smaller appetites or lighter meals?

Absolutely. While the cuisine is known for being hearty and generous, the team also proposes a reduced selection of lighter dishes depending on the season. Starters, vegetable-forward plates, and fruit-based options are available for those who prefer a more balanced meal. You’ll still enjoy the full taste of the region — just in a more refined portion.

🗨️ What type of feedback do guests usually share?

According to numerous reviews, especially on TripAdvisor, many recommend this place for its high quality, excellent service, and pleasant atmosphere. Contributions often mention the welcoming staff, the unique flavors, and the value for money. A great number of reviews say it’s a place not to miss in the Presqu’île, near Vieux Lyon.

🚗 Is there parking near the restaurant?

Yes, several parking options are located nearby, including public lots within walking distance of 23 Rue du Bât-d’Argent. Its location in the 1er arrondissement, close to Hôtel de Ville, makes it convenient for those staying in central Lyon hotels.

🌿 What kind of ingredients are used in the kitchen?

The chef and kitchen team place a strong focus on seasonal, local, and fresh ingredients. From low-temperature cooking techniques to refined touches like fruit chutney, mushroom cream, or basil vinaigrette, the goal is to elevate traditional flavors with modern methods. Everything is made in-house to ensure both quality and authenticity.

📅 Can I plan a special evening or event at this restaurant?

Yes, Le Bât-d’Argent is perfect for marking special occasions. You can book online or reach out to our team directly to organize a meal together. Whether it’s a birthday, a reunion, or a professional dinner, we’ll make sure everything goes smoothly. Please consult our general legal conditions before confirming your reservation.