Bouchons of the Month

Bouchon Comptoir Brunet: Gentleman prefer Brunettes

Concocté par Valentin

This summer midday, it was the only bouchon that seemed open in Lyon. By sitting down at Comptoir Brunet, the Compagnie made a pleasant discovery: a gourmet table and a true emblem of Lyon’s gastronomic history.

The story of the bouchon Comptoir Brunet

The history of this restaurant is closely tied to that of the Halles de Lyon. Before settling on Cours Lafayette, they were established in 1857 in the Cordeliers district, next to the Palais de la Bourse.

It was the “belly of Lyon,” supplying nearby bouchons and satisfying hungry passers-by. The success was such that legend has it “some fishmongers bought themselves an apartment at the end of each season.” That may well have been the case for André Brunet, who ran a stall selling snails, mussels, and charcuterie, before opening his restaurant just next door, on rue Claudia: the bouchon Comptoir Brunet. (Photo credit: Comptoir Brunet, Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse)

A legacy of tradition

The Halles of Cordeliers were demolished in 1971 to make way for a parking lot. In the face of this blow, the bouchon Comptoir Brunet continued to carry the torch of Lyon’s culinary history. After André Brunet, chef Gilles Maysonnave ran the restaurant and cooked there for 43 years. Upon his retirement, Franck Baldassini—previously at the helm of Le Bon Bourgeois in the 2000s—took over, until his passing in 2018. Since then, his son Benjamin has kept the flame alive.

Benjamin Baldassini in the kitchen

Benjamin Baldassini is committed to honoring the recipes of his predecessors. The bouchon Comptoir Brunet offers a generous menu focused on tradition and high-quality ingredients. The venue itself remains untouched, with its 1930s-style wall tiles, marble tables, and charmingly old-fashioned decor.

Yet, the chef adds his personal touch and injects fresh energy into the cuisine. He enriches the traditional menu with original and welcome daily specials. More unusually, it’s the only bouchon in Lyon where you can pay… in Bitcoin! (Photo credit: mesinfos.fr)

Gourmet tributes

Through his menu, Benjamin Baldassini doesn’t just pay homage to Lyonnais cuisine. He also honors those who came before him. The harengs Matjes à l’huile recall the ties André Brunet and Gilles Maysonnave had to fish. The fillets are meltingly tender, served with mashed potatoes and a few steamed vegetables.

With the caquelon du Bon Bourgeois, the chef pays tribute to his father and the restaurant he once ran on rue des Marronniers. Andouillette, slices of pork belly and hot sausage, steamed potatoes, poached egg, garlic toast, and sauce meurette—this fusion dish is the quintessence of Lyonnais kitchens.

Arriving safe and round

Benjamin Baldassini’s plates have nothing to envy of his elders’. The salade lyonnaise is the first eloquent proof. The seasoning hits the mark, the poached egg is perfectly cooked, and the size of the bacon pieces signals the feast to come. Indeed, the bouchon Comptoir Brunet delivers plenty of reasons to indulge. Let’s be bold: the pork belly is perfectly rolled. Alternately melting and crispy, it’s a moment of grace and fat.

Dessert is GRAS

With its freshness, the cervelle de canut reminds us that a Lyonnais bouchon in the height of summer isn’t such a bad idea. A perfect segue to the desserts at Comptoir Brunet. Between the chocolate moelleux and the tarte aux pralines, the house specialty makes its mark: the gâteau Brunet, a reinterpretation of the traditional gâteau lyonnais—a rich pound cake with apples and pralines. A fitting end to this generous meal in a restaurant worthy of its history.

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FAQ – Bouchon Comptoir Brunet, Lyon

What is Bouchon Comptoir Brunet?

Bouchon Comptoir Brunet, located on rue Claudia 69002 Lyon France, is a historical location that embodies the true spirit of a real bouchon. Tucked near the former Cordeliers market and close to landmarks like Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Cathédrale Saint-Jean, this charming café comptoir is known for its traditional cuisine, heritage décor, and friendly service. Whether you’re visiting from a nearby hotel or planning your first bouchon experience, it’s a place that delivers authenticity and soul.

How to make a reservation?

To book your spot at this beloved Lyonnais institution, we recommend making a réservation en ligne via their official website or contacting them directly. The restaurant is often busy, especially during lunch hours and weekends, so it’s best to plan ahead. It’s also listed on platforms like Uniiti, TripAdvisor, and Yelp, where you can read reviews and check availability.

What dishes are served?

The carte offers a generous selection of plating styles rooted in French gastronomy. You’ll find classic entrées such as snout salad and escargots régionaux, followed by hearty plats like quenelle de brochet, tablier de sapeur, and the unforgettable caquelon du Bon Bourgeois. For dessert, don’t miss the tarte aux pralines or the signature gâteau Brunet. The menu also features a curated list of wines including Beaujolais, carefully selected by the patron. Whether you’re enjoying a lunch or a full dinner, there’s something to suit every choice and appetite.

What is the ambiance like?

The ambiance is what sets this bouchon typique de Lyon apart. Think “style années 30”, vintage faïence, and an old-world charm that makes it one of those rare places with a soul.. The atmosphere is both cozy and full of character—ideal for business lunches, romantic dinners, or simply soaking in the beauty of Lyon’s culinary heritage.

What are the opening hours?

The restaurant is usually open for both lunch and dinner, but the opening hours can vary slightly. It is typically closed on Sundays and possibly other jours depending on the season. Check their contact page or official listings like Pudlowski and Le Fooding for the most up-to-date information.

What are customer reviews?

On platforms like TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Foursquare, clients often praise the high quality of the food, the warm hospitality, and the deep connection to Lyon’s gastronomy. Whether it’s your first visit in a bouchon or you’re revisiting a favorite, reviews consistently recommend this spot for its authenticity and depth of flavor. One customer wrote, “A beautiful little gem with the best pork belly and a friendly, attentive team—definitely not a paumé tourist trap.”

What is Lyonnaise cuisine?

Both rustic and refined, the “cuisine lyonnaise” is a cornerstone of French cooking. Celebrated by guides like Gault & Millau, it blends regional ingredients from the Rhône and countryside campagne. Dishes often include meats and wines that pair beautifully with rich flavors. At this address, chef Benjamin Baldassini, son of the late Franck Baldassini, honors this tradition with his culinary notes passed down from past masters like Gilles Maysonnave and André Brunet.

Is Bouchon Comptoir Brunet suitable for tourists?

Absolutely! Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Lyon or a French cuisine enthusiast, this is one of the most recommended stops for an authentic bouchon experience. It’s conveniently located close to many attractions, including Notre-Dame, the Rhône riverbanks, and the Cordeliers district. Many tourists write reviews praising the welcoming, friendly staff and high quality of the food—a perfect introduction to bouchons lyonnais.

What makes it different from other bouchons?

Unlike some more commercialized venues, Bouchon Comptoir Brunet retains its soul and simplicity. It’s not just a restaurant, but a place where the cooking still reflects family traditions. Many dishes, like the tablier de sapeur, are made according to old-school recipes. Chef Benjamin Baldassini adds subtle personal touches without ever compromising the authenticity. If you’re searching for a real bouchon, this is it.

Is it suitable for business lunches?

Yes, and it’s a choice that many local professionals make. The setting is intimate but elegant, ideal for those looking to mix work with a taste of traditional gastronomy. It’s quiet during weekday lunch hours, and the service is efficient and respectful of your time—perfect for a business lunch or a meal with colleagues.

What wines are available?

Wine lovers will appreciate the well-curated selection of regional wines, including bottles from the Beaujolais and Rhône valleys. The team is happy to recommend pairings based on your starter, dish, or dessert. The wine list is proudly Lyonnais, featuring labels respected by guides like Gault & Millau or Pudlowski. Don’t hesitate to ask the patron for suggestions—they’ll guide you with passion.

Can I read the menu online?

Yes, you can explore the full menu on their official website, available in both English and French. The online menu includes daily specials, classic Lyonnais dishes, and desserts. This allows you to plan ahead or simply dream about your next bouchon meal before your visit.

Are there vegetarian or lighter options?

While traditional bouchons focus heavily on meat, Comptoir Brunet offers a few lighter choices, especially in the starters section. Dishes like cervelle de canut, seasonal salads, or steamed vegetables with fish provide alternatives to heavier fare. Still, it’s best to contact the restaurant if you have specific dietary concerns.