Here’s a street that speaks volumes about the culinary preferences of urbanites, especially the young folks of Lyon. As the main pedestrian artery of the Presqu’île in Lyon, Rue de la République attracts thousands of visitors every day. Whether it’s for shopping, window-shopping, or just taking a leisurely stroll, there are plenty of reasons to cross this 1.5 km long street. Among the many shops, there are also quite a few dining spots sprinkled throughout. And among these food venues, there's an overwhelming majority of junk food (burgers, pizzas, ...) that stands out just as much as the lack of real restaurants.
KFC Joins the Fast-Food Party
And this is just the beginning (which is exactly why I’m writing this article). Because in the midst of McDonald’s, Five Guys, Quick, Burgers de Papa, as well as Pizza Capri, Paul, Starbucks, Brioche Dorée, and other Pomme de Pain, a new fast-food chain has just set up shop along the artery that crosses the 1st and 2nd arrondissements of Lyon: KFC.
An American fried chicken joint has opened in place of EXKI, whose healthy concept unfortunately couldn't compete for long with the giants of junk food.View this post on Instagram
Shopping streets doomed to junk food?
This opening, like the last straw that breaks the camel's back, has stirred up anger among merchants and eco-friendly elected officials from the Lyon city hall. Especially since the location is right across from the Quick that just opened...A few months ago, a problem arose. Then, because the town hall, although opposed to the project, admitted its powerlessness regarding this installation. It is indeed a transaction between private actors over which the City cannot intervene. On the side of the merchant association My Presqu’île, there is also indignation, explaining that this installation does not align with the image and reputation of the gastronomic capital. They emphasize that they have nothing against junk food; it’s often very tasty and brings joy from time to time, but a bit more diversity would be welcome...
An Insult to the Gastronomic Reputation of Lyon
In short, the outcry is widespread, but the hands seem tied. From now on, we’ll need to keep a sharp eye to spot something other than fast food in the streets. Fortunately, a few places are resisting the invaders by offering fresh and somewhat crafted cuisine (not to say that one eats well everywhere, far from it). It’s the...cas de L’Institution, Le Midi Minuit, Le Paradis du Fruit, L’Entrecôte, Pignol, or even IT Trattoria. For the rest, it’s fast food galore! So our advice: if you’re looking for fresh and authentic spots, head towards the side streets like rue Tupin, rue Palais Grillet, rue des Quatre Chapeaux, rue Thomassin, or the lovely place de l’Hôpital next to the Grand Hôtel-Dieu (where you can also find something to enjoy).