Concocté par Valentin
If you stop by Le Vivarais in Lyon, time will pause with you. A discreet yet bourgeois table that hasn’t forgotten its indulgent bouchon roots.
A Century-Old Lyonnais Bouchon
Le Vivarais, located on the beautiful Place Gailleton, is an iconic Lyonnais restaurant in the city’s 2nd arrondissement. It takes its name from the origins of its founder — one of the legendary Mères lyonnaises — who opened the establishment in 1917. While Le Vivarais is firmly rooted in the bourgeois dining tradition, its authentic cuisine and the spirit of a true bouchon are still very much alive.
(Photo credit: Le Vivarais)
Williams Jacquier: A Meilleur Ouvrier de France behind the stove
Though he never misses a chance to greet guests in the dining room, Chef Williams Jacquier remains a discreet and humble presence — despite the prestige of his career. Trained by culinary masters such as Orsi, Gervais, and Pignol, he earned the title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) in 1996. He even took up the mantle from another MOF, Roger Duffaud, and has since made Le Vivarais in Lyon a truly distinctive destination.
His daughter Audrey, whom he personally trained, now works alongside him — ensuring the continuity of a cuisine that is both refined and generous.
(Photo credit: Le Vivarais)
The Charm of a Bourgeois House
Far from the raucous energy of some bouchons, Le Vivarais leans more toward the bourgeois side of Lyonnaise cuisine. Though elegant and comfortably appointed, the restaurant’s three dining rooms haven’t forgotten their roots — with a Guignol puppet here and there, and a few subtle nods to the city’s bouchon heritage.
The décor reflects the spirit of the service: impeccable. The staff is warm and attentive, offering detailed explanations of each dish without ever coming across as pretentious. A special mention for the dashing Nathanaël, whose friendly presence instantly put our entire table at ease.
(Photo credit: Le Vivarais)
The Menu at Le Vivarais in Lyon
At lunchtime, the restaurant offers a Menu du Marché for €23, and in the evening, two set menus priced at €31 and €41. The à la carte menu blends classic Lyonnais bouchon specialties — like artichoke hearts with foie gras — with the restaurant’s own signature creations.
One standout: the house-made Richelieu pâté en croûte, which completely won us over. And not just us, it seems — this creation by Chef Audrey Jacquier placed 4th at the 2013 World Pâté en Croûte Championship.
Dishes with Depth and Drama
The pike quenelle with Nantua sauce and the tête de veau Belle Époque with mustard seed proudly uphold the tradition of Lyonnais specialties. They’re joined by more daring creations, such as zander fillet cooked in thyme butter, a red wine matelote of hake, and veal steak slow-cooked in hay.
But it’s the stuffed suckling pig, roasted on a spit, that steals the show — making a dramatic entrance as it circles the dining room, catching every eye. And then, it wins over every palate, thanks to its precise composition and earthy, woodland flavors.
The Best for lust
La Compagnie du Rognon recovered from its emotions with a cervelle de canut — as refreshing as it was necessary. Then we set our sights on the dessert menu, swaying gently between timeless traditions and more original creations.
On one side, Lyonnais classics like pink praline tart, vanilla crème brûlée, and a baba au rhum. On the other, house specialties such as Le Vivarais’s rice pudding with candied orange, and the Griottin — a chocolate biscuit and ganache served with a sour cherry compote.
Elegant, understated sweets — just like the meal itself: unpretentious, and yet beautifully executed.
(Photo credit: Le Vivarais)
FAQ about Le Vivarais – Traditional Bouchon Lyonnais
What is Le Vivarais restaurant?
Le Vivarais is a traditional bouchon lyonnais situated at 1 Place Gailleton, in the heart of Lyon, just a few miles from key attractions like Casino Le Lyon Vert and the Musée des Confluences. Rooted in the culinary heritage of the Rhône-Alpes region, this historic establishment offers a warm and inviting setting with air conditioning for comfort. The chef, awarded for his dedication to tradition and flavor, prepares multi-course meals using high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re a traveler discovering the region or a local on a day trip, Le Vivarais is an ideal choice for an authentic gastronomic experience.
How to book a table at Le Vivarais?
To book a table, guests can call the restaurant directly or visit their official website (site internet), where current horaires (opening hours) and availability are displayed. It’s best to make a reservation in advance, especially for Friday or Saturday evenings, as the restaurant tends to be busy. Le Vivarais is also listed on TheFork, allowing for easy online booking in both English and French.
What reviews say about Le Vivarais?
Rated at Le Vivarais as one of the top restaurants in Lyon, guests often leave glowing reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor and TheFork. Travelers frequently highlight the attentive service, the rich ambiance, and the private yet cozy setting. One popular review even calls it “a gem near the Rhône.” If you’re curious about what others think, take the time to read recent comments, many guests are genuinely happy with their experience.
What is the menu like?
The menu features traditional Lyonnais courses like quenelles, andouillette, and poached eggs in wine sauce, paired with regional sides and beverages (including alcohol and non-alcoholic options). The chef’s creativity also shines through in seasonal specials. Prices are reflective of the quality and care in preparation, offering good value for both locals and tourists. Every main dish is carefully crafted, and there are options for both adults and younger guests.
Where exactly is Le Vivarais?
You’ll find Le Vivarais at 1 Place Gailleton, just steps from Victor Hugo Avenue and close to Saint-Jean, Lyon’s historic district. It’s easily accessible by train or public transport. This central situation makes it a perfect stop during a trip through the city or before visiting nearby landmarks. If you’re staying in a hotel nearby, many recommend Le Vivarais as a must-try restaurant for an evening out.
What are the opening hours?
Le Vivarais is generally open from Tuesday (mardi) to Saturday (samedi) for both lunch and dinner. The restaurant is closed on Sundays and Mondays. For up-to-date horaires, it’s best to consult the site internet or call ahead. This ensures you’ll have a table when you arrive and helps accommodate any special requests.
What is the atmosphere like?
The atmosphere at Le Vivarais is distinctly warm, familial, and relaxed. The dining room is stylishly traditional with air-conditioning, and the outdoor terrace offers a lovely spot on warmer days. Whether you’re planning a private meal, a business lunch, or a get-together with friends, the setting is designed to make everyone feel at home.
Does Le Vivarais serve local specialities?
Absolutely. Le Vivarais proudly serves main dishes inspired by the Rhône-Alpes region, highlighting seasonal ingredients and regional recipes. Whether it’s a hearty steak, a refined fish plate, or a decadent dessert, each offering celebrates the legacy of Lyonnais cuisine.
Additional Information
Le Vivarais is a restaurant, not a hotel, but it’s conveniently close to many central accommodations. Guests can view courses, prices, drink lists, and allergen data on the restaurant’s site internet. Cookies and privacy rights are managed according to French legal standards. Le Vivarais partners with local producers. Operated with care and passion, it remains a standout among restaurants Lyon has to offer.
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