Iconic Lyon Bar Reopens as Nightclub After Safety Transformation
Lyon, June 24, 2026 – An iconic bar in Lyon, known to many students, particularly those in dentistry, has undergone a significant transformation. The former “Since The Cavern” in the 5th arrondissement, which closed its doors after a fatal fire in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, has been reborn as “L’Arène,” a new nightclub set to open on July 1st.
The venue, located in a basement under vaulted ceilings, was acquired by Garik Grigoryan in August 2025 with the intention of creating a dance bar. However, new safety regulations implemented in January, following the Crans-Montana tragedy, forced a change in plans. Authorities deemed the establishment, with its lower-level dance floor, to be operating as a nightclub, thus requiring it to meet stricter safety standards.
Extensive Renovations to Meet New Safety Standards
Garik Grigoryan, the 30-year-old entrepreneur, explained the challenges faced. “We remained open until the Crans-Montana tragedy. A decree issued in January forced us to close. They considered that with the downstairs room where people were dancing, it was a nightclub.”
The necessary renovations were extensive, involving the installation of an alarm system, smoke extraction, and adaptation of electrical cabling. This lengthy process required the submission of a comprehensive dossier to ensure compliance with all safety regulations. “It took many months of work,” Grigoryan stated. Now, L’Arène is fully compliant and officially ready to operate as a nightclub.
“L’Arène”: A New Nightlife Destination in Vieux-Lyon
The new club boasts a capacity of 100 people and features a reception/cloakroom area, a smoking room, and emergency exits in the basement. “We even have Wi-Fi for customers and air conditioning,” Garik proudly added, highlighting the modern amenities.
L’Arène will cater to a diverse musical taste, offering techno, hip-hop, rap, and afro beats. Mindful of potential noise complaints, a concern that led to the closure of Grigoryan’s previous venture, Shootbar, he emphasized the club’s soundproofing. “We are very well insulated, we are in the basement, we don’t disturb anyone. On the street, we try to avoid any noise. A security guard will be present at all times.”
L’Arène is now one of the few establishments in Vieux-Lyon that will remain open late, until 6:30 AM. “In the nightlife world, we have even more rules and standards, it’s complicated… But once we have all the authorizations, we are happy. Now, we need to make ourselves known to the Lyon public,” said Grigoryan, a law graduate who has invested significantly in this new venture.
This opening marks a new chapter for the formerly iconic student bar, transforming it into a modern nightclub that meets stringent safety requirements while aiming to become a vibrant part of Lyon’s nightlife scene.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/lyon_69123/ferme-apres-l-incendie-mortel-de-crans-montana-ce-bar-iconique-de-lyon-transforme-en-boite-de-nuit_64442464.html
