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Lyon › Lyon › Lion et Poisson
Lion et PoissonB+Worth Trying
14 Rue Palais Grillet, 69002 Lyon, France
· Chinese restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (875 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Authentic-leaning Chinese cooking with real heat and a deep menu; strong highs but uneven service and recent price/portion concerns mean careful ordering yields the best experience.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Lion et Poisson delivers authentic Sichuan flavors with genuine heat and standout dishes that earn respect among Lyon's Chinese dining options, yet inconsistent execution—smaller portions, saltier seasoning, and service pacing issues since recent menu changes—prevents a higher grade. Isolated but serious food safety reports and rising prices further temper what could otherwise be a stronger recommendation for this conveniently located, group-friendly neighborhood spot.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked near Cordeliers, Lion et Poisson feels warm and bustling when the room fills, yet can be pleasantly calm off-peak. Servers are often described as friendly and efficient, though several diners report waits and staggered courses. One guest summed it up as, "clean flavors with real heat," capturing both the draw and the occasional variability. The cooking leans classic Sichuan and broader Chinese staples rather than theatrics, with spice that pulls no punches, well-loved tofu and eggplant plates, and a signature Peking duck. It suits diners seeking straightforward, authentic-leaning dishes over fusion flourishes. Recent notes mention smaller portions and higher prices, so aim for the crowd favorites and share across the table for balance. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly standbys like lemon chicken, fried noodles, and mild tofu or veggie stir-fries. That said, some items are genuinely spicy; ask for gentler preparations. Desserts are simple and accessible (ice cream, coconut sweets), making an easy finish for younger palates.
At a Glance
- Real Sichuan heat and classic flavors with several standout dishes
- Central location by Cordeliers with easy metro access
- Portions and prices have trended smaller/higher since menu changes
- Service pacing can be slow with courses out of sync
- A few reports of undercooked or reheated items; inspect and speak up quickly
What Sets It Apart
- Authentic Sichuan spice levels
- Central Presqu'île location
- Signature Peking duck
What People Love
- Comforting, home-style flavors
- Authentic spice levels on request
- Silky tofu and well-cooked eggplant
- Clean, simple dining room in a prime location
- Quick service when timing aligns
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (€16-22 mains, duck €25/€46) which may surprise casual diners
- Course pacing inconsistencies; rice or sides can arrive late
- Portion size reductions reported after menu changes
- Occasional quality lapses (undercooked center, oily dishes) reported by a minority
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€32-46 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair one spicy main with one mild veg dish to balance heat and cost
- Choose noodles (€10.8-12.5) to stretch value alongside a pricier main
- Confirm availability of peppercorns for Sichuan dishes during ordering
Perfect For
- Group sharing dinners with spice lovers
- Casual pre- or post-shopping meals
- Travelers craving authentic-leaning Chinese flavors
- Solo weekday lunches near Cordeliers
Location Insights
Area: Central Presqu'île near Cordeliers; busy shopping streets with locals and visitors, lively day and evening footfall.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, busy thoroughfares; typical central-city pickpocket awareness advised.
Nearby: Steps from Cordeliers metro, retail corridors, offices, and cafes; easy access to Hôtel de Ville and shopping streets.
Presqu'îleThe Presqu'île neighborhood is a bustling urban area with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. It hosts a variety of dining options from traditional Lyonnaise bouchons to international cuisines, attracting both locals and visitors seeking quality food experiences in a lively atmosphere.
Rue Palais GrilletRue Palais Grillet is a small street within the Presqu'île known for its intimate dining venues and proximity to key shopping and cultural spots, offering a slightly quieter but still central dining experience.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday12:00–14:30, 07:00–22:30
Wednesday12:00–14:30, 07:00–22:30
Thursday12:00–14:30, 07:00–22:30
Friday12:00–14:30, 07:00–22:30
Saturday12:00–14:30, 07:00–22:30
Sunday12:00–14:30, 07:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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