You’ve lived in Lyon since 2002 and have built a good part of your life in our city. Could you tell us a bit more about your relationship with Lyon?
Yes, I left Brazil to study at the Institut Bocuse in Lyon, 16 years ago already! Since then, I’ve adopted Lyon and Lyon has adopted me! I live here with my husband Ludovic (who is from Chambéry, so he’s almost a local), my mother, my son, and our second and third babies: our restaurant Les Apothicaires and Food Traboule at La Tour Rose! I’m so proud of my city! I feel very positive about all the changes that have happened here. In 2002, Lyon was more focussed on the past; today, it cares for its heritage, but is really forward-looking, and that’s great to see!
Could you describe “your Lyon” to us?
I have lived in the Presqu’île district pretty much ever since I arrived here, and I go almost everywhere on foot or by bike. I love cycling in Lyon when the sun is out, which is something I used to do when I lived in Denmark. The landscapes in Lyon are absolutely amazing! I love crossing the Rhône river and looking up at Fourvière Basilica… We’re lucky to live here! We have everything: water, sun and Tête d’Or Park, which I love!
What are your “Collector” addresses and neighbourhoods?
My neighbourhood is really the Presqu’île. I’ve lived here for 15 years and there are so many shops I love around where I live. It’s dangerously tempting! Among my favourites is By Johanne (Collector #8). It’s fantastic: everything is high quality and I really love all their products. Just around the corner, there’s Sébastien Bouillet (Collector #6). I love it and so does my son: he asks for the marshmallow teddy-bears every time we walk past!
A little bit further away, I love Johanna’s shop, Les Poupées (Collector #8). I should go more often, it’s so great. It’s very Lyonnais and she really has her own signature style. The prices are very reasonable too.
Also on the slopes of Croix-Rousse hill, I’m addicted to the ice creams at Único (Collector #11). I follow them on Instagram and every time I see a new flavour I want to try, I go there right away! Tiago and Anna work with excellent local suppliers, and they even give them recommendations about the best way to pick their fruit! Their ice creams are also very low in sugar.
Where would you go for a cosy coffee or lunch break in winter?
Ludo and I have really eclectic tastes, but one of our favourites has to be Diploid, run by Camille and Robin. For me it’s the number one coffee shop in Lyon, with a cosy atmosphere and a great selection of sweets and savouries. It’s beautiful and the focus is on quality. Also, they’re not afraid to take risks and I like that!
How about a restaurant that deserves more attention?
Piquin (Collector #8) ! It’s a delicious Mexican restaurant run by Hugo and Sandra. Absolutely everything is home-made, even the tortillas!
An attractive little spot in Lyon?
Place Sathonay! It’s beautiful and a little bit hidden away. This square has a spirit of its own. There’s also Les Puces du Canal (Collector #1), which also has a unique spirit. Almost everything in our home comes from Les Puces! I love browsing the stalls and grabbing a bite to eat, or a huge paella. Ludo likes the tripe sandwiches, but I can’t stand them!
If you had to pick one, what would your favourite local speciality be?
The saucisson pistaché (sausage with pistachio) and steamed potatoes. It’s simple and delicious!
Do you prefer the markets or Les Halles de Lyon?
The markets! I love the market at Saint-Antoine. The pressed fruit juices, the organic food stalls… I have my favourite addresses and the stallholders even recognise my son and give him little snacks!
Do you have a favourite local project?
The opening of Food Traboule, of course! (Laughs) I can’t wait for the opening. We have found people we like, who share the same values, and who want to keep things fresh and interesting! It’s the project of my life, and Ludovic’s too. It’s a great idea, with collective values, and I think it’s going to make a contribution to Lyon. What I really love about it is that it’s going to make the building accessible to the people of Lyon. The standard entrance will be 18 euros per person. Everyone in Lyon will be able to experience the Tour Rose, whereas so many people haven’t had a chance to enter the building. With the Fête des Lumières around the same time, and the Sirha food event in January, Lyon becomes even more outward-looking!