Lyon has long been celebrated for its gastronomy and wine, but in recent years a vibrant craft beer scene has quietly emerged. From rustic microbreweries to sleek taprooms, the city now offers an impressive range of artisanal brews. Whether you’re a hophead seeking a hazy IPA or a newcomer wanting to explore local flavors, Lyon’s craft beer bars deliver quality and character. This guide highlights the very best spots, with practical tips to make your beer journey memorable.
Table des matières:
Why Lyon’s Craft Beer Scene Deserves Your Attention
While Paris and Brussels often steal the spotlight, Lyon has cultivated a distinct beer culture rooted in local ingredients and brewing innovation. The city’s craft beer movement gained momentum around 2010, with pioneers like Ninkasi leading the charge. Today, dozens of independent breweries and beer bars thrive, offering everything from classic Belgian-style ales to experimental sour beers. Lyon’s beer bars also emphasize food pairings, reflecting the city’s culinary heritage.
The Best Bars in Lyon for Craft Beer: Our Top Picks
1. Ninkasi – The Pioneer of Lyon’s Craft Beer Revolution
No list of Lyon’s best beer bars is complete without Ninkasi. Founded in 1997, this brewery and bar chain helped ignite the craft beer scene in France. The Ninkasi Guillotière location is a favorite: a spacious, industrial-chic space with a huge terrace. They brew a wide range of beers, from the classic Ninkasi Blonde to seasonal IPAs and stouts. The food menu is equally impressive, with burgers, salads, and local specialties. It’s an ideal spot for groups or for trying a flight of house-brewed beers.
2. Les Berthom – A Hidden Gem for Belgian and Local Brews
Tucked away in the Croix-Rousse district, Les Berthom is a cozy bar with a focus on Belgian trappist beers and Lyon’s own microbreweries. The knowledgeable staff guide you through a rotating selection of 20 taps and over 50 bottles. The interior is warm, with wooden furnishings and a relaxed vibe. Don’t miss their cheese board paired with a strong Belgian dubbel. It’s a perfect stop after exploring the traboules (hidden passageways) of the area.
3. La Capsule – A Tiny Taproom with a Big Selection
If you prefer a minimalist, beer-focused experience, La Capsule in the 1st arrondissement is a must-visit. This narrow bar features 12 constantly rotating taps, mostly from French independent breweries. The chalkboard menu lists each beer with its style, ABV, and origin. Seating is limited, so it’s more of a standing-room spot for serious beer drinkers. The atmosphere is unpretentious, and the staff are passionate about their offerings. Try a sour from Brasserie du Mont Salève or a fresh IPA from Brasserie de la Goutte d’Or.
4. Beer O’Clock – A Craft Beer Lover’s Paradise
True to its name, Beer O’Clock is all about timing and quality. Located near Place Bellecour, this bar boasts over 200 references, with 16 draft beers and a massive bottle selection. The decor is modern and cheerful, with beer posters and neon signs. They host regular tasting events and brewery takeovers. Their IPA flight is a great way to compare different hop profiles. The staff speak English and are happy to help you choose.
5. L’Antre Autre – A Cozy Den for Belgian and Abbey Beers
Specializing in Belgian and French abbey-style beers, L’Antre Autre feels like a secret hideout. The stone walls and candlelit tables create a medieval atmosphere. They have an extensive menu of Chimay, Orval, and Rochefort, plus local collaborations. The owner, a beer enthusiast, often shares stories behind each brew. Pair your beer with a plate of cured meats or a hearty stew. It’s an excellent choice for a romantic evening or a quiet conversation.
6. Bieristan – A Modern Taproom with Global Influences
For those who love exploring international styles, Bieristan in the 6th arrondissement offers a curated selection from around the world. The tap list features American IPAs, German hefeweizens, and Japanese rice lagers, alongside French craft brews. The interior is sleek and contemporary, with communal tables. They also serve creative bar snacks like pretzels with beer cheese and spicy nuts. This bar is ideal for a lively night out with friends.
How to Choose the Right Craft Beer Bar in Lyon: A Quick Checklist
Use this checklist to match your preferences with the best venue:
- Looking for a brewery experience? Ninkasi or Brasserie du Vieux Lyon (brewery tours available)
- Prefer a quiet, intimate setting? L’Antre Autre or Les Berthom
- Want to taste a wide variety? La Capsule or Beer O’Clock
- Interested in food pairings? Ninkasi or Bieristan
- Traveling with a group? Ninkasi (large terrace) or Le Bar du Marché (craft beer and wine)
- On a budget? Happy hour at Beer O’Clock (weekdays 5-7 PM)
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Lyon’s Craft Beer Bars
To make the most of your craft beer tour, steer clear of these pitfalls:
- Sticking only to well-known brands: Don’t ignore local microbreweries like Brasserie des Cimes or Brasserie Artisanale du Lyonnais.
- Skipping food pairings: Lyon’s culinary tradition complements beer beautifully. Ask for recommendations.
- Not asking about tap rotation: Many bars change their taps frequently. Inquire about fresh arrivals.
- Forgetting to check opening hours: Some smaller bars close early or are closed on Mondays. Always verify ahead.
- Overlooking non-alcoholic options: Several bars now offer craft non-alcoholic beers or kombucha.
What Makes a Great Craft Beer Bar in Lyon?
Beyond the beer list, several factors elevate a bar from good to exceptional:
- Knowledgeable staff: They should be able to describe flavor profiles and suggest pairings.
- Proper glassware: A well-poured beer in the appropriate glass enhances aroma and taste.
- Temperature control: Beers served at the correct temperature (not too cold for stouts, not too warm for lagers) show care.
- Atmosphere: Whether lively or relaxed, the ambiance should match the beer experience.
- Local focus: Bars that champion Lyon’s own breweries contribute to the community.
Comparing Lyon’s Craft Beer Bars: A Quick Table
| Bar Name | Atmosphere | Tap Count | Food | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninkasi (Guillotière) | Spacious, industrial | 12+ | Full menu | Groups, brewery tours |
| Les Berthom | Cozy, rustic | 20 | Cheese boards | Belgian beer lovers |
| La Capsule | Tiny, standing-room | 12 | Snacks | Serious tasters |
| Beer O’Clock | Modern, lively | 16 | Bar snacks | Variety seekers |
| L’Antre Autre | Intimate, medieval | 10 | Charcuterie | Romantic dates |
| Bieristan | Sleek, communal | 14 | Creative snacks | International styles |
Frequently Asked Questions About Lyon’s Craft Beer Bars
What is the best area in Lyon for craft beer bars?
The Presqu’île (between the Rhône and Saône rivers) and Croix-Rousse are the most concentrated areas. You’ll find many bars within walking distance, especially around Rue de la République and Place des Terreaux.
Are Lyon’s craft beer bars expensive?
Prices vary, but a pint of craft beer typically costs between €6 and €9. Happy hours and flights offer better value. Compared to Paris, Lyon is slightly more affordable.
Do these bars serve food?
Most do, ranging from full meals (Ninkasi) to cheese boards and snacks. Les Berthom and L’Antre Autre specialize in charcuterie and cheese pairings.
Can I find non-alcoholic craft beer in Lyon?
Yes, especially at Ninkasi and Beer O’Clock, which offer alcohol-free options from French breweries like Brasserie du Mont Salève.
Which bars are best for trying local Lyon breweries?
La Capsule and Les Berthom feature a high proportion of local brews. Also, visit Brasserie du Vieux Lyon for a brewery tour with tasting.
Are the bars child-friendly?
Ninkasi and Bieristan welcome families during the day. Smaller bars like La Capsule are more adult-oriented due to limited space.
Final Recommendations for Your Lyon Craft Beer Journey
Lyon’s craft beer scene is a delightful surprise for any traveler. Start your exploration at Ninkasi to understand the city’s brewing heritage, then dive into the cozy ambiance of Les Berthom for a taste of Belgian classics. For a modern twist, Bieristan offers global styles, while La Capsule provides a pure, focused tasting experience. Remember to pair your beers with local cheeses or charcuterie to fully embrace Lyon’s gastronomic spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious novice, these bars promise authentic flavors and warm hospitality. Cheers to discovering the best bars in Lyon for craft beer!
Photo by Bertrand Borie on Unsplash
Are there any bars that also serve food? I’d love to pair some local cheese or charcuterie with my beer.
Definitely. Ninkasi has a full food menu including burgers and salads. Les Berthom offers cheese boards that pair beautifully with their Belgian beers. Beer O’Clock also has small plates like charcuterie and cheese platters.
I’m not a big beer drinker but my partner is. Do any of these bars have good wine or non-alcoholic options?
Absolutely. Ninkasi has a full bar with wine and cocktails, plus non-alcoholic beers. Les Berthom also offers wine and soft drinks. Beer O’Clock carries a few non-alcoholic craft beers as well.
Which bar is best for a quiet evening with just a couple of friends? I prefer places where you can actually talk.
Les Berthom in Croix-Rousse is cozy and relaxed, perfect for conversation. La Capsule is tiny and can get busy, but if you go early (around 6 PM), it’s usually calm. Ninkasi tends to be lively, especially on weekends.
Great list! I’m visiting Lyon next month and love IPAs. Which bar would you recommend for the best selection of hazy IPAs?
La Capsule and Beer O’Clock both typically have excellent IPA rotations. For hazy styles specifically, check La Capsule’s chalkboard – they often feature IPAs from Brasserie de la Goutte d’Or and other French breweries.
Are there any bars that offer flights or tasting paddles? I’d like to sample several local brews in one go.
Yes! Ninkasi offers flights of their house-brewed beers, and Beer O’Clock also has tasting boards. La Capsule is more à la carte but the staff can recommend small pours if you ask.
Thanks for the guide! Do you have any tips for finding the freshest beer? Sometimes bottles can sit on shelves for a while.
Great question. For freshness, La Capsule rotates taps frequently and their kegs are turned over quickly. Beer O’Clock has a high turnover too. Always check the bottling date if buying bottles – the staff at Les Berthom are happy to help.
I’m trying to avoid tourist traps. Are these bars popular with locals too?
Yes, all of these are genuine local spots. Ninkasi is a chain but the Guillotière location is a neighborhood favorite. Les Berthom and La Capsule are off the main tourist paths and attract a local crowd. Beer O’Clock is central but still authentic.