Cercle Rouge

Incredible time - best dinner of 2024. (American tourist, but yes it was that good!). We speak some French, but it was nice having a waiter that could speak English to help with allergies. Food was incredible, unique flavors that are rich in depth. Caramel pork main was absolutely delicious in particular, but all courses were top knotch

We are a gourmet bunch & we loved it! All plates were wiped clean 😁 Nothing over the top, the food is delicious & nicely decorated - the restaurant is small & cozy. When you look for the restaurant as you walk in the street, do not look for a written sign "Cercle Rouge" but just a red circle lit up 😉

This was one of the most memorable meals in my recent gastronomic history!!!! The dishes were beautifully presented (see pictures), the flavors were creative and inspirational, and the ingredients were fresh and high quality. We thoroughly enjoyed our entire experience!!! I'm inspired to go home and try to recreate some of the dishes we had... they were amazing!!!!

We had the pleasure of dining at Cercle Rouge in the charming city of Lyon, often hailed as the gastronomic capital of France. Cercle Rouge, nestled in the heart of this culinary mecca, truly lived up to its reputation as a French dinner spectacular. From start to finish, every aspect of the evening was exceptional. Lyon's rich culinary heritage was brilliantly showcased in the four-course meal, with each dish expertly crafted and bursting with deliciousness. The presentation was elegant, and the culinary creativity was truly intriguing, a testament to Lyon's gastronomic traditions. To complement the meal, the wine selection at Cercle Rouge was impeccable, featuring a range of choices that perfectly paired with each course and added an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience. The restaurant's atmosphere was nothing short of romantic, with its cozy ambiance making it the perfect place for a special evening with a loved one. Cercle Rouge in Lyon exceeded my expectations and allowed me to savor the essence of this culinary city. If you're looking to indulge in the best of Lyon's gastronomy, this restaurant is the place to go. Bon appétit!

Great food and even better value. Probably my favorite meal in Lyon. We went here for lunch and was blown away by taste and quality given the very affordable price. From crab cake, sword fish, dorade and fried chicken to chocolate sundae, everything was super tasty. I only saw two people in the kitchen, very impressive. I highly recommend it.

Unassuming and very cute space, lively kind service and out of this world food. My fish was perfectly cooked and the sauce and my favorite flavors in it. Not too heavy. We loved it and will return next time we’re in Lyon!

Our best meal in Lyon on this trip. We had lunch. My wife and daughter ordered three course meals, and the owner was very surprised but tolerant ("usually it's the Italians who order strangely") that I just had both cheese course options as my main dish. (They were both excellent: a Saint-Felicien with truffle and a gorgonzola with a caramelized coffee-sugar topping. Together with the natural-process red wine he recommended: 🤯!) Everything was stunning in both presentation AND flavors, from the appetizers to main dishes to desserts. I apologize I don't have more photos, but beautiful food is everywhere in France, then the flavor often disappoints. I have to admit that French food is often too subtle for my American taste buds, and Cercle Rouge raised the flavors to meet me. Wow. Wow! Go. Make sure you have reservations well in advance.

Great little restaurant right next to culina hortus and les flaconeurs. I would say in line with these restaurants: great appetizers and desserts, main dishes have room for improvement. But overall it was a really satisfying meal with good portions. One thing I was surprised with though, is the main dish with chicken breast (why use breast!) and fake grill lines (I always get some averse reaction to these burger king-style painted grill lines :D)

Loved just about everything about this place. The menu is not complex and what we ate showed us they are serious about the dishes they serve. Forgive my ignorance but I'm certain this must be a Michelin star or two, without the typical pricing you would find in such. Even the wine by the glass menu is thoughtful. We 'should' be checking out a few other restaurants on our short trip to Lyon but I'm fairly certain we will just come back here again for a second night in a row. Wow! Service was great. Ambiance was great. Menu great. Just great all around.

Exceptional food served by a very nice staff and a small funky space makes for a winning combination. Lyon has many good restaurants, but this one we will return to without question.