This weekend, Lyon transformed into a pastry custard temple with the 4th edition of the best flan contest in France. Located just a stone's throw from place Bellecour, the event attracted an impressive crowd of curious onlookers and food lovers. Over 10,000 visitors came out to taste, compare, and (of course) indulge.
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A Lyon chef on the highest step
It’s Julien Koren, the pastry chef at Léon de Lyon, who snags the coveted title. This victory rewards an almost surgical precision. His secret? A meticulously timed bake, with a flan pulled from the oven at exactly 78 degrees, and an obsessive attention to vanilla. So, behind a “simple” dessert lies a true science.
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Facing off against 74 competing pastry chefs, the level of talent was particularly high. While some leaned into pure tradition, others boldly shook things up with more daring versions. Result: a competition where flan becomes a gastronomic playground, swinging between heritage and innovation. Beyond just the competition, the event also shone with its commitment. The proceeds will be donated to the Hôpital Femme Mère Enfants to support new projects. A wonderful way to blend sweet pleasure with meaningful action, leaving no bitter aftertaste.
The complete winners list for this 2026 edition
Creative Flan Category
Professional: Stéphanie Tisserand (establishment M...
Amateur: Mikael Robelin
Apprentices: Bastien Enria
Category of traditional flan
Professional: Julien Koren (establishment Léon de Lyon)
Amateur: Alexandre Pluchot
Apprentices: Luigi Duarte
Out of category
Jury Award: Virgil Larippe
Exceptional recipe: Virgil Mercier