Lyon, August 23 – Brasserie Georges, a true institution in Lyon, is preparing to celebrate its 190th anniversary on Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, 2026. This significant milestone coincides with the European Heritage Days, offering a unique opportunity for both locals and tourists to explore the rich history and culinary traditions of this emblematic establishment.
A Legacy of “Good Beer and Good Food Since 1836”
Founded in Lyon in 1836 by Alsatian Georges Hoffherr, Brasserie Georges has upheld its motto, “Bonne bière et bonne chère depuis 1836,” for nearly two centuries. Located just steps from the Lyon-Perrache train station, the brasserie has become a cherished landmark, serving approximately 500,000 meals annually with a dedicated team of 125 employees.
Over the decades, Brasserie Georges has welcomed generations of Lyonnais and numerous notable personalities, including culinary legend Paul Bocuse, singer Jacques Brel, politician Édouard Herriot, Holocaust survivor and politician Simone Veil, and the pioneering Lumière brothers. The establishment recently partnered with the Lyonnaise app Oorion to enhance accessibility for visually impaired individuals, further demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity.
An Architectural Gem and Culinary Landmark
The brasserie’s imposing 677 square meter Art Deco dining hall, inaugurated in the 1920s, is a testament to its enduring grandeur. It boasts exceptional decor, including stained-glass windows by Lucien Bégule, monumental frescoes, 250-kilogram chandeliers, red moleskin banquettes, and a ceiling supported by impressive 25-meter fir beams. This architectural splendor makes Brasserie Georges one of the last great examples of historic French brasseries.
A Festive Program Blending Alsatian and Lyonnaise Flavors
To mark this special anniversary, Brasserie Georges has curated an unprecedented program of events. Saturday, September 19, will pay homage to its Alsatian origins, featuring traditional dishes such as sauerkraut, beer-braised pork knuckle, pretzels, and smoked trout.
Sunday, September 20, will celebrate Lyon’s rich culinary heritage with local specialties like pike quenelles, frog legs, brioche sausage with pistachios, and the house’s iconic Norwegian omelette, a spectacular dessert that promises to delight visitors.
Behind-the-Scenes Access and Unique Experiences
Visitors will have the opportunity to delve into the brasserie’s inner workings through morning tours, gaining insight into its daily operations and historical significance. Guided tastings led by the master brewer will offer a chance to sample the “190th,” a special artisanal amber beer crafted exclusively for the anniversary celebration.
A highlight of the festivities will be the spectacular flambéed Norwegian omelette ballet, scheduled for 2:00 PM and 9:30 PM on both days. This beloved tradition promises to revive one of the most cherished aspects of this address, which has evolved into a true monument of Lyonnaise gastronomic heritage over generations.
Practical Information
Reservations for the anniversary events can be made online via the Brasserie Georges website. This celebration during the European Heritage Days underscores the brasserie’s role not only as a culinary destination but also as a significant cultural and historical landmark in Lyon.
Source: mesinfos.fr
