Notre Maison in Lyon: a bouchon that feels like home
Concocté par Valentin
Notre Maison is just about the best thing we could wish upon any visitor passing through Lyon. Authentic cooking, plates that are generous and reasonably priced. A warm, convivial place, tucked away in the emblematic Saint-Jean district. A cliché? No — a promise delivered.
Cheer Up!
Defending homemade cuisine in the heart of Saint-Jean might sound like arrogance to some. A miracle to others. Yet Notre Maison in Lyon has been doing just that for over 20 years. Families and friends gather here, taking the time to fill their bellies in a truly convivial atmosphere. A small sign even reminds us that “People in a hurry are not welcome in this establishment.”Maison sweet maison
This bouchon lyonnais stands out for its exuberant, overflowing décor. The exposed-beam ceiling contrasts with the walls splashed in bright yellows and reds — every square inch as full as the plates themselves: Lyonnais archives, souvenirs from long-gone feasts, and vintage kitchen utensils flood the eye. At Notre Maison, you leave with both your eyes and your stomach full.
All fry, no frills
Notre Maison prefers fry-ups to frills. Water comes in school canteen glasses, the pickle jar never leaves the table during starters, and dishes are served in cocottes meant for sharing. The menu here is short and straight to the point. If the names of the dishes are brief on paper, the portions are anything but. With its €35 menu, Notre Maison offers one of the best value-for-money experiences we’ve found.
A kick in the teeth
After nibbling on a few grattons, we get down to serious business with a chicken liver cake, a pork head pâté, and a “soyeux” platter — a classic mix of pork snout, cervelas sausage, and veal’s foot. Reinforcements come in the form of roasted pig’s trotters, landing a direct kick to the mouth. A near technical KO before even stepping into round two. It takes six of us to conquer both their fat-laced flesh and the sheer robustness of their flavors.
Sausage tanks
We press on through the assault as a procession of cocottes arrives, like so many armored tanks pounding away at our stomachs. We manage to take down generous pike quenelles and a comforting sabodet — Lyon’s traditional sausage — served with lentils. The rolled pork belly proves to be a far tougher opponent. Still, we manage to breach its thick armor of fat and overcome its bold, unfiltered flavors.
The fat-al blow
After a creamy cervelle de canuts overflowing both with generosity and from its bowl, comes the final blow. A delicate praline tart, topped right at the table with fresh cream, straight from an old-fashioned tin. At last, the warrior’s rest begins.
The establishment’s feline mascot makes an appearance — the owners like to joke that he’s the true proprietor of Notre Meow-son. The little fellow spends the entire service perched high above the tables, on a platform circling the room. As guests leave, he finally descends, graciously accepting a few pats from the Compagnie, full, satisfied, and utterly conquered.
About Notre Maison, an authentic Bouchon Lyonnais in Vieux Lyon
Where is Notre Maison located?
Notre Maison is tucked away on Rue de Gadagne, right in the heart of the Saint-Jean district of Vieux Lyon (69005). Just steps from traboules and museums, it offers a full immersion in the historic soul of the city and in the authentic spirit of Lyonnais cuisine.
Why choose this restaurant over other bouchons lyonnais?
If you’re looking for a genuine bouchon experience, Notre Maison is a top pick. The food is hearty and traditional, the atmosphere is warm and relaxed, and the service is full of good humor. Whether you’re with family or friends, it’s a place to slow down, share a meal, and enjoy the timeless charm of Lyon’s culinary heritage.
What are the opening hours of Notre Maison?
The restaurant is open every day from Monday to Sunday.
- Lunch: Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Dinner: Monday to Saturday from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends or in the evening.
What kind of dishes are on the menu?
The menu pays tribute to traditional Lyonnaise and French cuisine : pike quenelle, grilled andouillette, saucisson in red wine sauce, and the house praline tart, all prepared with care and served in generous portions. The €35 set menu offers excellent value for a full Lyonnais feast.
What specialties can you try at Notre Maison?
Lyonnais specialties are at the heart of the experience: quenelle, saucisson, cochonnaille, andouillette, and homemade desserts. Each dish stays true to the roots of bouchon cooking: rustic, flavorful, and served with love.
What do reviews say about Notre Maison?
Guests usually enjoy the cozy ambiance, friendly service, and the unforgettable flavors. Reviews often highlight the excellent price regarding to quality, the satisfying portions, and the sense of tradition that runs through every meal. It’s the kind of place you walk out of full, smiling, and already planning your next visit.
How do I book at Notre Maison?
Booking is easy: simply visit their website or call the restaurant directly. It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak dinner hours or tourist season.
What’s on the wine list at Notre Maison?
Notre Maison offers a fine selection of regional wines, including bottles from Beaujolais, the Rhône Valley, and other local gems. These wines pair beautifully with the rich, meaty dishes on the menu.
Is the restaurant certified by “Les Bouchons Lyonnais”?
Notre Maison is not officially labeled by “Les Bouchons Lyonnais”, but make no mistake: it ticks every box of a true bouchon. From the food to the service and the lively atmosphere, this is the real deal.
Is it family- and group-friendly?
Absolutely! Notre Maison is a welcoming spot for families and large parties alike. The dining room is full of character, the decor playful and nostalgic, it really does feel like home.
What can you eat for dessert at Notre Maison?
Don’t skip dessert there! The praline tart is a house favorite, and other homemade sweets are always on offer to end your meal on a high (and delicious) note.
Are there vegetarian options?
While the menu leans heavily into traditional meat-based dishes, some vegetarian options may be available. Just let the team know when booking, and they’ll do their best to accommodate.
What’s the overall vibe at Notre Maison?
Think cozy tables, vintage photos on the walls, family-style servings, and a warm welcome from the team. Notre Maison is all about generous food, good humor, and a touch of Lyonnais nostalgia, the kind of place where you instantly feel at home.
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