The aroma of freshly baked pastries now mingles with the historic charm of Lyon’s 5th arrondissement, as Marcel Café, a name synonymous with culinary artistry, opens its doors at 2 rue des Aqueducs. What began as a local sensation in the 6th arrondissement has quickly blossomed into a beloved institution, and its expansion to Point du Jour has been met with an overwhelming welcome.
A Sweet Sensation Takes Root in Point du Jour
It was just a few hours after opening on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, that the success became undeniable. Mathieu Jullien, the visionary behind Marcel Café, found himself pleasantly surprised by the sheer volume of customers. Even the lingering signage of the former tenant, Paul, hadn’t been fully erased, a testament to the swift and enthusiastic embrace of the new establishment by the local community.
Jullien’s decision to expand was driven by a desire to reach new horizons, transforming the original ‘Boulangerie Marcel’ into ‘Marcel Café’ at both its 6th arrondissement location and this new venture. The move into the 5th arrondissement, despite its competitive culinary landscape, was a strategic one. “There’s room for everyone,” Jullien confidently stated, reflecting on the immediate buzz surrounding the opening.
The Allure of ‘Trompe-l’œil’ and More
Marcel Café’s fame largely rests on its captivating ‘trompe-l’œil’ pastries – edible illusions that are as delightful to behold as they are to taste. These artistic creations have already garnered a loyal following, but the new Point du Jour location introduces exclusive tartes, adding another layer of temptation to the menu. And for those with a particular fondness for a classic, the unmissable ‘flan bar’ opens every Sunday, showcasing fifteen different varieties of this beloved dessert.
“We bought the premises a month ago and completely renovated everything,” Jullien shared with a smile, acknowledging the local excitement. “It created quite a stir in the neighborhood and on Lyon 5th community networks.” He credits his partner, Marie, with the pivotal role in securing this prime location. Initially, Jullien had considered Limonest, but Marie’s familiarity with the Point du Jour area, being from Chaponost, steered them towards this promising opportunity.
A New Culinary Hub for the 5th Arrondissement
The new Marcel Café is poised to become a cherished fixture for residents. Its offerings extend beyond just pastries, with viennoiseries perfectly complemented by matcha drinks, lattes, and a tempting snacking menu. It’s a comprehensive culinary experience designed to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. The immediate success suggests that Marcel Café has already found its place in the hearts of the 5th arrondissement.
Marcel Café
2, rue des Aqueducs – Lyon 5
Open Monday to Saturday from 7 am to 7 pm
and Sunday from 7 am to 1 pm
