A Lille Institution in Jeopardy
For the past three and a half years, the Bistrot Saint-So has become a must-visit spot for having a drink at Jean-Baptiste Lebas, relaxing on the terrace in the summer, or dancing at a techno night in the old train station. But behind the festive vibe, the team shares a day-to-day reality filled with challenges: limited capacity, outdated equipment, lack of cultural support, and fees that are considered unsustainable… They even speak of a true disengagement
from the City and Lille3000.
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An unsustainable economic model
Without subsidies, the Bistrot claims it has shouldered all its costs, even financing over 210 events in 2025, sometimes "to the detriment of the health" of the team. The last straw? An administrative charge from the City this summer, which drained its finances. The result: a symbolic closure starting Friday night, the final closure announced on September 24 if nothing changes.
The response from the City of Lille
Following the post on Friday, the City immediately reacted, expressing its surprise at this accusation. It reminds everyone that it retroactively reduced the fixed fee by 30%, adjusted the operating conditions (removing some lunchtime services, allowing private events), and held "numerous meetings" with the Bistrot team. In short: for the municipality, the rules were known and negotiated from the start.
A story to follow closely
Between a beloved spot for the people of Lille and a public institution that is fiercely defending itself, this matter is far from settled. The commercial court has even summoned the Mayor and his team to explain this presumed disengagement. In the meantime, the looming threat of a permanent closure hangs over us, along with the potential loss of a festive place that has become iconic.
Bistrot Saint-So, Gare Saint-Sauveur, Lille
Permanent closure announced on September 24, 2025 (unless there’s a turnaround)