The bouchon Les Fines Gueules : a fine goal!
Concocté par Valentin
During our last visit to the Saint-Jean district, the bouchon Les Lyonnais left us with a very bad impression. So we were understandably hesitant about giving this highly touristic part of Lyon another chance. Fortunately, Les Fines Gueules turned out to be a pleasant surprise.
Old Lyon, old concerns
When you’re lucky enough to be located right in the heart of the Saint-Jean district, it’s tempting to give in to the sirens of mass tourism—prioritizing the number of seats over the quality of the food. Yet a few die-hard defenders of the capital of Gaul still resist the easy way out. Les Fines Gueules is one of them.About Joël Salzi
Looking at Joël Salzi’s background helps explain the high standards maintained here. After training at the Chamalières hospitality school and the Institut Paul Bocuse, the chef worked alongside Bocuse himself as deputy director of the famed house in Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or. After opening La Cantine du Palais in Lyon in 2009, Joël Salzi has devoted himself exclusively to the bouchon Les Fines Gueules since 2012. (Photo credit: Arts & Gastronomie)
“The water’s drinkable, but the wine is better”
Stone walls, wood panelling, and red banquettes—this restaurant cultivates a warm atmosphere. It’s enhanced by the joyful jumble of Lyon-themed decorations that liven up both dining rooms. Antique objects, vintage ads, and menus from a bygone Lyon cover the walls of Les Fines Gueules. Witty chalkboard quotes set the tone, such as: “You can go farther, but it might not be as good.” (Photo credit: Les FInes Gueules)
The tourist and the glutton
Les Fines Gueules offers a single fixed menu: “Tradition Bouchons Lyonnais”—a no-nonsense medley of Lyon’s most iconic dishes. A smart way to ease in more novice palates. However, an à la carte selection complements the menu, allowing chef Joël Salzi to pour more heart—literally!—into a few signature dishes. A chance for more adventurous appetites to try something bolder and more authentic.Let’s get to the meat of it
Lyonnaise salad, Burgundy snails in house-made parsley butter, and a delicate terrine of chicken livers with old-style vinaigrette form part of the starters. The poached farm eggs in meurette sauce offer a strong homage to this cult Lyonnais dish. The Compagnie du Rognon had a particular soft spot for the oxtail terrine, served with a fresh mesclun salad.
Pig Feet first
Among the must-tries on the menu: handmade pike quenelle, veal andouillette with mustard sauce, and calf’s head and tongue with gribiche sauce. On one hand, we went for a comforting Lyon classic that has become too rare: pig’s feet, “patiently deboned and breaded.” On the other hand, we tried a dish as unique as it was rich: macaroni gratin with oxtail and foie gras. Some side portions could stand to grow from ramekin size to cocotte, but the flavors are confident and precise.
A fine farewell
Choosing the cheese was a delightful ordeal. Faced with our indecision, the server put together a full cheese board: cervelle de canuts, fresh goat cheese, Saint-Marcellin, and Abondance. While the desserts didn’t break new ground, they were solid. Perfect before the bill. Crème brûlée, chestnut tart, and baba au rhum closed out the evening—topped off with a generous rum offered by our server, who was decidedly munificent.
About the bouchon Les Fines Gueules in Lyon
Where is Les Fines Gueules located in Lyon?
In the heart of the Saint-Jean district, in Lyon’s 5th arrondissement, France, you’ll find the restaurant Les Fines Gueules. Located at 16 rue Lainerie, it’s an ideal spot to experience Lyonnaise cuisine.
How can I view the menu of this Lyon restaurant?
To get a first impression of what this bouchon offers, you can check out the menu of Les Fines Gueules on their website. However, nothing beats an in-person visit to discover the daily specials that enhance the restaurant’s traditional menu.
What kind of culinary offering does the bouchon Les Fines Gueules in Lyon provide?
Les Fines Gueules highlights Lyonnaise cuisine, with a menu that celebrates local specialties. Customer reviews often emphasize the quality of the dishes, which are typical of France’s culinary heritage.
Where can I find more information about this Lyon restaurant?
For more details and to get your own impression of this iconic Lyon establishment, visit their official website. There, you’ll discover the restaurant’s unique atmosphere, its menu, dishes, and attentive service.
What do customers say about Les Fines Gueules in Lyon?
Les Fines Gueules enjoys an excellent reputation in Lyon, with many positive reviews on platforms such as TripAdvisor and Google. It is often ranked among the best restaurants in the city.
Should you book in advance to enjoy the dishes at this restaurant?
As is often the case with popular restaurants in France, it is recommended to book a table at Les Fines Gueules, especially for lunch and dinner services.
What are the opening hours of the bouchon Les Fines Gueules in Lyon?
The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 12:00 to 14:00 and from 19:00 to 22:00. It’s the perfect opportunity to savor their Lyonnaise cuisine.
Does the restaurant also offer hotel services?
No, Les Fines Gueules in Lyon is not a hotel or a hotel-restaurant. It focuses solely on its culinary offering and does not provide lodging.
Can Les Fines Gueules in Lyon accommodate groups?
Yes, Les Fines Gueules can host groups. The upper dining room is well suited to large parties looking to explore iconic dishes from Lyonnaise cuisine.
What wines are available at this Lyon restaurant?
Les Fines Gueules offers a varied selection of French wines, including Beaujolais. Their wine list pairs nicely with the dishes from their Lyonnaise kitchen.
Does the bouchon Les Fines Gueules in Lyon have outdoor seating?
Yes, Les Fines Gueules has a pleasant terrace, open during warmer weather. It’s a great way to enjoy the Saint-Jean district while indulging in good food.
Are vegetarian or vegan options available at Les Fines Gueules in Lyon?
The menu at Les Fines Gueules is primarily centered around meat, as is typical of many bouchons and Lyonnaise restaurants.
Has the restaurant Les Fines Gueules in Lyon received any awards?
Yes, Les Fines Gueules has been awarded the “Les Bouchons Lyonnais” label, a mark of quality for their commitment to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine—one of the gems of French gastronomy.
What is the role of the association “Les Bouchons Lyonnais”?
The association aims to preserve Lyon’s culinary heritage by certifying restaurants like Les Fines Gueules that embody the excellence of traditional Lyonnaise cooking.
What makes a bouchon lyonnais unique?
A bouchon lyonnais, such as Les Fines Gueules, is defined by its warm atmosphere and a menu that honors the region’s homemade dishes, offering a truly authentic dining experience.
How do bouchons lyonnais differ from other restaurants in France?
Bouchons stand out for their convivial ambiance and their menu focused on traditional dishes, showcasing the authenticity of this branch of French cuisine.
Your Title What are some typical dishes from a bouchon lyonnais?Here
The menus of Lyonnaise bouchons, including Les Fines Gueules, feature specialties such as pike quenelle, creamy ravioles gratin, veal andouillette, and crème brûlée.
How do bouchons preserve Lyonnaise culinary traditions?
By highlighting traditional homemade dishes, Lyon’s restaurants—especially bouchons like Les Fines Gueules—play a key role in preserving the region’s culinary legacy.
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