Le Bouchon des Cordeliers — Restaurant in Lyon

One word to describe Bouchon des Cordeliers? Unprofessional. Prioritized coming to this place based on the stellar Google reviews. Thoroughly disappointed. Awful. Awful service and awful food. Complete waste of time and stomach space.

Incorrect listed business hours for lunch on Google. 12-1:15pm rather than 12-3pm. Hustled and arrived at 1:30, thinking I had plenty of time for lunch. But no. Already closed, and directed to Bouchon Bât-d'Argent (which was also already closed for seating).

Confirmed dinner hours with the waiter, and was told I wouldn't need a reservation (was a Tuesday). Hustled and arrived at 8pm for dinner later that day, and ta daaaaa! No tables available. "Do you have a reservation?" The waiter I talked to at lunchtime hid in the back in embarrassment. "I'm sorry, we can't seat you. Nothing is available for dinner." (Even though there were some tables freeing up in only 15 minutes!) Initially, told no tables available. And then, after some groveling by me, directed to a miserable table next to the door to the restaurant (a door that doesn't naturally close!). Would've been perfectly fine, and so much better to say "if you can wait 15 minutes, we can seat you at a table that will free up soon." Several tables freed up in 15-20 minutes, by the time my main had arrived. Even Parisian restos happily do this! Can't imagine any French FOH being unable to manage such simple logistics! Never even occurred to the staff here for whatever reason. Geeez. None of this would matter if the food was great...

But, no. 31 EUR for the standard Lyon prix fixe. Ordered the pig trotters and snails tatin for the app, and the ubiquitous quenelle for the main. Have eaten aspics in Frankfurt beer halls with more nuance than the tatin. No acid on the plate to cut through the fat. Monotone would be the word to describe the flavor. Which is the same word to describe the quenelle. The "lobster" bisque had zero hint of lobster or any shellfish to it - and it was thickened to the point of being a paste. The quenelle was one big lumpy, flavorless fish ball. Butter was the only note. I love butter, but please, some more herbs? Maybe some textural contrast? Nope. The dessert was the best part of the meal. Dessert should never be the best part of a meal.

Slow, inattentive service - as courses were finished, plates left uncleared for minutes. Also, if you have an open kitchen that guests can look into, best if your cooks can behave themselves... Cook handling the appetizers kept mouthing leaves of salad as he assembled throughout service. The 4-5 leaves of salad on my app plate were pretty much halved by this guy. Don't eat from guests' plates. That's basic, no? Wow… The pastry cook was on her game, though. Only professional in the place.

A thoroughly disappointing meal. Lyon is a beautiful city to walk around and explore. Fun for a day or two. The food here, however, is not for me.

And also, horrible Google reviewers for this spot! Anyone who thinks the fish options in any restaurant in Lyon is amazing - amazes me!! Like do you live in Kansas City?? Or some other landlocked hinterland hole that only has Gorton’s fish sticks for seafood?! Seriously, serves me right for believing...

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I recently had the pleasure of dining at this charming Lyonnais bouchon, and I must say it was an absolutely delightful experience! 😊🍽️

The staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we walked in. They were attentive and always ready to answer any questions we had about the menu or provide recommendations. Their warm and hospitable nature truly added to the overall dining experience. 👥😄

Now, let's talk about the food! The cooking here is truly excellent, with each dish bursting with authentic flavors and exquisite presentation. From the traditional Lyonnais specialties to the mouthwatering desserts, every bite was a sheer delight to the taste buds. The chef's attention to detail and skill in the kitchen were evident in every dish that was served. It was a culinary journey that left me craving for more. 👨‍🍳👌🍴

The atmosphere in the restaurant was convivial and lively. It had a cozy and authentic charm that transported us straight to the heart of Lyon. The decor, the soft lighting, and the cheerful chatter of other diners created a welcoming ambiance that made the evening even more enjoyable. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends, this place ticks all the right boxes. 🏠❤️

Overall, I highly recommend anyone to book a dinner at this Lyonnais bouchon. The staff's friendliness, the excellent cooking, and the convivial atmosphere combine to create a memorable dining experience. So, if you want to savor the true flavors of Lyon, make a reservation and prepare to be blown...

I dined at a bistro close to hotel where I stayed during my first night in Lyon, and left wanting for a more authentic experience. After watching several videos highlighting the local specialties, I was eager to try traditional escargot and a Lyonnaise salad.

Upon arriving at the restaurant, the warm, red-toned decor created an inviting atmosphere, and I was immediately welcomed by a friendly and enthusiastic host. We were seated promptly at a comfortable table, and within moments, a young waiter provided us with menus and water, setting the tone for attentive and efficient service throughout the meal.

The escargot and Lyonnaise salad arrived quickly and did not disappoint. The salad was fresh and well-balanced, though I must admit that living in California has made me partial to the exceptional greens we enjoy there. The highlight of the meal, however, was the confit duck served in a rich cream sauce with pumpkin. The duck was perfectly cooked, tender, and seasoned beautifully, and the cream sauce was so delicious that I found myself repeatedly reaching for the bread to soak up every last bit.

For dessert, I indulged in a freshly made lemon meringue tart, which exceeded my expectations. As a fan of citrus-based desserts, I can confidently say it was one of the best I’ve ever had.

Le Bouchon des Cordeliers with its vibrant atmosphere and team provided not only wonderful hospitality but also a memorable dining experience that perfectly captured the essence of Lyonnaise cuisine. I look forward...