Munch on a traditional mâchon in Lyon!

What exactly is a mâchon?

In the early hours of the morning, and after a long night 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 (fromage blanc 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 ideal opportunity to enjoy a laugh with friends and colleagues

Lyon's famous writer Frédéric Dard had this to say about the experience: "homemade cuisine, fruity wines, and the sort of friendship that endures any amount of exhaustion (…) This is the time of day when the sun rises on the radiant faces of all enthusiastic mâchon munchers, and fills their hearts through their mouths."

A great tradition that's still very much alive, and which the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and ONLYLYON Tourism have decided to turn into an institution by organising frequent gatherings, the main topics of which are good food, great thirsts, business and various tomfooleries. Why not jump on the bandwagon.

Where enjoying this unusual experience?

• Au Bistrot d'Abel, Mâchons are organised on request, with group bookings and a personalised offer. 
• Chez Daniel et Denise Créqui, Monday to Saturday from 9 am (book 24 hours in advance)
• Chez Daniel et Denise Saint-Jean, Wednesday to Sunday from 9 am (book 24 hours in advance)
• Chez Daniel et Denise Croix-Rousse, Monday to Sunday (book 24 hours in advance)
• À La Meunière, Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am. Reservation required by phone or on their website.
• Au Café du Jura, reservation required (for group of 8 person minimum) 
• A L'Auberge des Canuts, one Saturday or Sunday per month (book in advance)