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Lyon › Lyon › l'Alchimiste
l'AlchimisteB+Worth Trying
2 Rue Saint-Georges, 69005 Lyon, France
· Hamburger restaurant, American restaurant, Beer hall
· 4.6/5 Google (1265 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Old Lyon burger-and-beer spot with French-leaning burgers and poutine; great for casual groups but expect occasional waits and rare service misfires.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
L'Alchimiste delivers excellent burger and fry execution with creative French cheese twists, supported by appealing Old Town location and distinctive downstairs vibe. However, inconsistent food quality and service reliability during peak hours, combined with isolated but notable food safety concerns, prevent a higher grade. It's a solid neighborhood favorite worth visiting for casual dining and beers, though not a destination establishment.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling, with beers flowing, sports on screens, and a downstairs nook that diners call cool and different. Staff often switch to English and help translate, and one guest summed it up: "We lingered for hours with burgers and beers." Occasional reviews mention long waits at peak times and rare mishaps like a cold plate. The cooking leans pub-comfort with French cheese twists—think St Marcellin, bleu d’Auvergne, and reblochon folded into generous burgers and poutines. Fries draw raves, and there are reliable vegetarian and vegan options. It suits casual nights, groups, and anyone craving a hearty plate over haute flourishes. Families do fine here thanks to the €8.50 kids menu (nuggets or simple burger with fries) and familiar sides. Portions are ample, and there is plenty kids will recognize. If you need lighter fare, salads like César or Chèvre keep it easy.
At a Glance
- Generous, well-priced burgers and excellent fries
- Friendly staff often translate and guide choices
- Service can slow for large groups and at peak hours
- Isolated reports of rodents and billing discrepancies
- Strong veggie and vegan options for a burger bar
What Sets It Apart
- French-cheese burger riffs
- Robust poutine lineup
- Lively Old Lyon pub vibe
What People Love
- Satisfying burgers with French-cheese richness
- Crispy fries and cheesy fry add-ons
- Relaxed pub vibe in Vieux Lyon
- Helpful staff who translate and recommend
- Good price-to-portion balance
Points of Concern
- Peak-time waits can hit 45-60 minutes; groups report slower coordination
- A few reviews allege mice sightings; frequency is low but notable
- Occasional complaints about cold dishes or kitchen closing earlier than signage
- Billing discrepancy reports are rare but worth double-checking
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€26-33 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians, choose Végétarien burger or Végétarienne poutine (€15)
- Kids menu at €8.50 offers simple comfort
- Budget €26-33 per person for a full meal excluding drinks
Perfect For
- Casual burger-and-beer nights
- Pre-bar hopping meals in Old Lyon
- Travelers seeking non-bouchon comfort food
- Mixed-diet groups needing veg options
Location Insights
Area: Historic Vieux Lyon with cobblestones, tourist footfall, and lively bars; mixes locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, busy evenings; typical old-town urban nuisances possible.
Nearby: Near Saône river, bouchons, pubs, and sights; convenient for strolling and casual meals.
Vieux LyonThe dining scene in Vieux Lyon is diverse, ranging from traditional bouchons serving Lyonnaise cuisine to casual eateries and bars. The atmosphere is lively and convivial, with many establishments catering to visitors exploring the historic district as well as locals enjoying a relaxed social environment.
Saint-GeorgesSaint-Georges is a sub-area within Vieux Lyon known for its charming streets and a mix of casual dining spots, bars, and small shops. It has a youthful and vibrant vibe, popular for casual meals and social gatherings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–14:30, 17:00–00:00
Tuesday12:00–14:30, 17:00–00:00
Wednesday12:00–14:30, 17:00–00:00
Thursday12:00–14:30, 17:00–01:00
Friday12:00–14:30, 17:00–00:00
Saturday12:00–15:00, 17:00–01:00
Sunday12:00–14:30, 17:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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