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- Munch on a traditional mâchon in Lyon!
Munch on a traditional mâchon in Lyon!
Lyon's very own cuisine for early risers
Bons plans
Last updated date : 05/10/2026
A novel experience for those who tend to skip breakfast, and a firm favourite among gourmets, a mâchon is Lyon's equivalent to a good English breakfast, and very much part of life in Lyon – part of its gastronomic heritage in fact! Let us explain.
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What exactly is a mâchon?
In the early hours of the morning, and after several hours of intense labour, the Canuts, or silk workers who once lived and worked in the Croix-Rousse area in Lyon, gathered in bouchon restaurants around tables covered in check tablecloths to enjoy a hearty morning meal.
The menu included Cervelle de Canut (curd cheese seasoned with herbs and shallots), tablier de sapeur (breaded beef tripe), grattons (pork scratchings), andouillettes (sausages made of calf’s ruffle) washed down with wines produced in the Beaujolais and Mâcon areas. The menu varies from one brasserie to another and from one day to the next, but you'll always find pork specialities and Lyonnais salads. You might not always choose exactly what you’re going to eat, but one thing’s for sure: you’re in for a convivial time!
Enjoy a truly authentic Lyon experience with family, friends or colleagues in the bouchons of Lyon that serve the 'mâchon'. Please note that advance booking is required for all, so remember to make arrangements in good time!
Where enjoying this unusual experience?
- At Bouchon Palais Grillet, each Saturday and Sunday, from 9 to 11 am (book in advance by phone or on the website)
- La Meunière, Wednesday to Saturday from 9 am. Reservation required by phone.
- Daniel et Denise Créqui, Monday to Friday from 8 am (book at least 24 hours in advance)
- Daniel et Denise Saint-Jean, Wednesday to Saturday from 8 am (book at least 24 hours in advance)
- Daniel et Denise Croix-Rousse, Wednesday to Saturday from 8 am (book at least 24 hours in advance)
- At L'Auberge des Canuts, two days a month (Saturday or Sunday) from 9 to 11 am (book in advance).
- Café du Jura, Wednesday to Saturday, for group of 8 person minimum. Book at least a week before.
- Au Bistrot d'Abel, Mâchons are organised on request, with group bookings and a personalised offer.
Label Bouchons Lyonnais
This label created by the Lyon Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with Lyon’s "bouchons" (traditional restaurant/taverns) guarantees you an authentic, high-quality culinary experience!