Lyon's Vibrant Nightlife: Top 9 Local Bars, Pubs, and Clubs

The Smoking Dog is a beloved pub in Lyon with a welcoming atmosphere. It offers a great selection of Belgian beers and cocktails at reasonable prices. The vintage-style decor, complete with a library of English books, adds charm. Patrons enjoy the high energy, sports viewing, and outdoor seating. The friendly staff speaks English, making it accessible for tourists.

Negative aspects were minimal in the reviews. One visitor mentioned a slight mood issue with the manager covering a shift, but emphasized it wasn't a significant problem. Some might find the pub crowded or noisy due to its popularity and high energy atmosphere. The limited food options, mainly crisps, could be a drawback for those seeking a full meal.

Patrons praise the authentic pub atmosphere, friendly staff, and good selection of beers. Many appreciate the quality of traditional British dishes, particularly the fish and chips. The location in the old town is often mentioned as a plus. Visitors enjoy the mix of locals and tourists, creating a lively and welcoming ambiance.

Some reviewers find the prices a bit high for pub fare. Occasional complaints mention slow service during busy periods. A few customers note that the food, while good, isn't exceptional. Some visitors expecting a more French experience express disappointment with the English-style menu and atmosphere.

Speakeasy vibe with muted wood tones and 1950s Parisian jazz. Excellent cocktails made with high-quality alcohol. Responsive staff provides great service. Cool ambiance with cozy decor. Some drinks come with a performance. Unique light system for calling waitstaff. World-class prize-winning cocktail available. Fair prices for strong, clear drinks.

Cocktails can be overly sweet, even the sour ones. Drink sizes are smaller than expected, especially considering the large glassware. No food options available except olives. Slightly pricey for the drink sizes. Dark atmosphere may not appeal to everyone. Can get crowded with colleagues and frequent guests.

The bar offers good cocktails and superb white wine. Its nicely designed interior could make it a potential local favorite. The outdoor seating area provides a pleasant option for patrons. Some reviewers appreciate the speakeasy-style ambiance, though opinions on this vary.

Drinks are overpriced, with small portions and excessive ice. Service is frequently described as negligent or rude. Menu changes aren't communicated well, leading to confusion in orders. Some feel the speakeasy concept is contrived and poorly executed. Cocktail quality is inconsistent, and there's a lack of transparency in pricing.

Patrons rave about the expertly crafted cocktails, praising the bartenders' skill and creativity. The speakeasy-like ambiance receives high marks, with many appreciating the cozy, vintage setting. Customers frequently mention the attentive and friendly service, noting staff's willingness to customize drinks to individual tastes.

Some visitors find the prices high compared to other Lyon bars. A few reviews mention long wait times during peak hours due to the bar's popularity and small size. Occasional complaints arise about the limited seating and standing room, which can make the space feel cramped on busy nights.

Kelly's Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere with rock/metal music, sports games, and quiz nights. Dog-friendly and staffed by charismatic employees, it feels like home to regulars. The Irish-themed decor, English-speaking bartenders, and extensive whiskey and beer selection impress visitors. Fast food service and great vibes enhance the experience.

Some patrons find Kelly's Pub overcrowded and noisy, especially during quiz nights. The limited food options, mainly pizzas from a nearby restaurant, disappoint those expecting a full menu. Small toilets and unconventional pizza toppings irk some customers. Sports fans complain about limited screens for matches, while others dislike the heavy metal music and quiz master's constant chatter.

The pub offers a warm and friendly atmosphere with good ambiance. It features a variety of beers on tap and occasional live music on weekends. Some patrons enjoy the overall experience and find it a pleasant spot to watch sports events and have a few drinks.

Customers report issues with staff attitude, describing them as rude and judgmental. There are complaints about inconsistent service, including refusal to run tabs and early closing times for some patrons. The quality of certain beers, particularly Kilkenny, has been criticized as poor. Some visitors feel the establishment lacks proper customer service skills.

Patrons praise the authentic Irish atmosphere, friendly staff, and extensive drink menu. Many enjoy the live music nights and the opportunity to watch sports events. The fusion of Irish and French cuisines receives positive comments, with dishes like Irish stew and French onion soup being particular favorites. The pub's location in the historic Vieux Lyon adds to its charm.

Some visitors find the prices slightly high for a pub setting. During peak hours, the venue can get crowded, leading to slow service. A few patrons mention that the food, while good, doesn't always meet expectations of authentic Irish cuisine. Noise levels during live music or sports events can be too loud for some, especially those seeking a quieter dining experience.

Authentic French wine bar with expertly curated regional wines. Knowledgeable, entertaining staff offer wine education. Delicious meat, cheese, and vegetable boards complement the drinks. Cozy atmosphere with outdoor seating. Consistently praised over years, it's a must-visit for wine enthusiasts in Lyon. Unique experience that stands out from typical bars.

Service quality can be inconsistent, potentially impacting the overall experience. Prices are above average. Accessibility issues for wheelchair users, with toilets located upstairs. Language barrier might be challenging for non-French speakers. The unpredictable nature of service might not appeal to those seeking a more conventional dining experience.

The establishment offers wine service, which could be appealing to those interested in local beverages. The place seems to have a local, authentic atmosphere that might attract travelers seeking genuine experiences. Its popularity among locals suggests it could be a spot for cultural immersion.

Language barriers pose significant challenges for non-French speakers. Staff's attitude towards foreign visitors is described as unwelcoming and dismissive. Lack of explanation or engagement from owners creates a feeling of exclusion. The overall service appears to cater primarily to locals, potentially making tourists feel unwanted or ignored.

Visitors praise the extensive wine selection, knowledgeable staff, and cozy atmosphere. Many highlight the quality of tapas and cheese platters. The intimate setting receives compliments for its romantic ambiance. Guests appreciate the personalized wine recommendations and the opportunity to discover new French wines. The value for money is frequently mentioned as a positive aspect.

Some reviewers mention limited seating and occasional waits for tables during peak hours. A few guests find the menu options somewhat limited for those seeking full meals. Occasional comments about higher prices, particularly for certain wine selections. Some international visitors note language barriers with staff, though this is not a widespread complaint.

Unique venue combining beer hall and event space. Huge servings of tasty food with creatively named dishes. Good craft beer selection. Friendly staff and convenient app payment. Well-organized for concerts with great sound. Lively atmosphere for watching football matches. Outdoor seating available, sometimes with DJ entertainment.

Not all beers on the menu always available. Paid wardrobe storage during events. Can get crowded on match days, requiring early arrival for seating. Service can be extremely slow at times. Limited information provided about reasons for beer unavailability.

Ninkasi in Lyon offers a great experience with helpful English-speaking staff, good vibes, and a diverse drink list. They brew their own beer and whiskey, adding to the appeal. The place features live music, mostly DJs on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere. The food is good, and you can order through their website. It's a must-visit spot for both families and friends.

No significant negative aspects were mentioned in the provided reviews. The only potential drawback implied is that English-speaking staff are rare in France, which could be a challenge for some visitors. However, this was not presented as a direct criticism of Ninkasi itself.

Visitors praise Ninkasi Gerland for its excellent craft beers, lively atmosphere, and regular live music events. The food, especially the burgers and pizzas, receives high marks for quality and value. Many appreciate the spacious interior and outdoor seating area. The friendly staff and efficient service are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Some reviewers note that the venue can get very crowded and noisy, particularly on weekends. A few customers find the food options limited for non-meat eaters. Occasional complaints mention slow service during peak hours. Some visitors feel the prices are slightly high compared to other local options.

Exceptional cocktails, possibly the best in Lyon and France. Hip atmosphere with amazing staff. Drinks are both delicious and visually stunning. Great value at €11-12. Cozy bar with unique offerings. Highly recommended for cocktail enthusiasts. Staff, especially Mary Lou, praised for attentiveness and quality focus.

Reservations recommended, especially on weekends, as it can be busy. One reviewer found their cocktail tasteless, missing the advertised cardamom flavor. Google Maps shows incorrect entrance location. Small space may limit walk-in availability. Some drinks might not meet flavor expectations, but this seems to be an isolated incident.

The bar offers a cozy and fun atmosphere with unique, tasty cocktails. Customers praise the friendly staff and beautiful presentation of drinks. It's described as a wonderful place to relax and take your time, perfect for finding a cozy corner to enjoy the experience. The cocktails are noted for their amazing flavors and creative preparation.

Long wait times for drinks are a common complaint, with some customers reporting 40-minute waits for cocktails and water. Service issues are mentioned, including unresponsive staff and lack of acknowledgment at the bar. Some guests felt awkward and left due to the extended wait. While the drinks taste good, the lengthy preparation time detracts from the overall experience.

Diners praise the restaurant's creative dishes, exceptional flavors, and beautiful presentation. Many highlight the romantic atmosphere and attentive service. The ever-changing menu receives compliments for its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Guests often mention the unique theatrical theme as a standout feature, creating a memorable dining experience.

Some guests find the prices high for the portion sizes. A few reviewers mention long wait times, even with reservations. Occasionally, diners report that the theatrical theme feels overly dramatic or distracting. Some patrons note that the dim lighting can make it difficult to read the menu or fully appreciate the dish presentation.

Spacious pub with multiple themed rooms, including a large downstairs area with mirrors and comfy chairs. Friendly staff offer excellent service and helpful recommendations. Cocktails are highly praised. Great atmosphere for hanging out with friends. Non-alcoholic options available. Food, including shareable plancha, is worth trying. Not overly crowded, making it easy to get served even on weekends.

Bar can get busy and loud on weekend nights, with limited space for dancing. Small size means booking a table is recommended. Food ordering system may be confusing due to multiple themed rooms. Some visitors might find it challenging to locate specific areas or services within the pub. While atmosphere is enjoyable, it may not suit those seeking a quieter or more spacious venue.

This local bar is a hidden gem for drink enthusiasts. It offers a unique experience with mystery rum shots from colorful bottles behind the bar. The variety of drinks, including a selection of beers, adds to the appeal. Visitors highly recommend the spot for its fun and adventurous atmosphere.

No negative aspects were mentioned in the provided review.

Diners rave about the innovative yet approachable menu, praising the chef's ability to elevate simple ingredients. Many highlight the excellent wine pairings and knowledgeable staff. The intimate atmosphere and attention to detail receive consistent praise. Guests often mention feeling like they've discovered a hidden gem, appreciating the balance of casual comfort and gourmet quality.

Some diners find the portion sizes small for the price point. A few mention longer wait times during peak hours. Occasional complaints arise about limited seating and the need for reservations well in advance. Some international visitors note language barriers with staff, though most find this a minor issue.

The Loft Club offers a vibrant nightlife experience. Staff are friendly and attentive, particularly at the bar. The venue is spacious, making it suitable for large events. Music is hip and enjoyable for younger crowds. Bouncers are approachable. It's a recommended spot for those looking to have a great time, especially if staying nearby.

Entry requires a ticket purchase, and there's an additional fee for coat check. Drinks are weak, with little alcohol taste. The club can get overcrowded during large events. Wait times for drinks can be long due to understaffing at the bar. Some find the music generic and not ideal for dancing. Overall, it may not appeal to those seeking a unique clubbing experience.

The restaurant offers a nice view. One staff member, a trainee, was noted as being very personable in their interactions with guests.

Service was mediocre and confused, with multiple staff interactions feeling mechanical. Food quality was unremarkable, with a particularly disappointing soufflé. Despite the restaurant's name, some tables don't face the Domes. Overall, the experience felt overpriced and didn't meet expectations for a high-end establishment.

Patrons praise Le Loft Club's lively atmosphere, diverse music selection, and attentive staff. The spacious layout and multiple areas are appreciated, allowing guests to dance, socialize, or relax as they prefer. Many reviewers highlight the quality of cocktails and the rooftop terrace as standout features. The club's themed nights and special events receive particular commendation for their creativity and execution.

Some guests find Le Loft Club to be overcrowded on weekends, leading to long wait times at the bar and restrooms. A few reviewers mention that drink prices are on the higher side compared to other Lyon venues. Occasional complaints arise about the door policy being strict or inconsistent. Some patrons feel the music can be too loud in certain areas, making conversation difficult.

Le Bec de Jazz is a beloved Lyon institution with 40+ years of history. It offers excellent jazz music, dancing, and a warm atmosphere. The owner sometimes plays piano. Open weekends, it's a must-visit spot in Lyon. Patrons enjoy the retro music, bohemian vibe, and diverse crowd. No cover charge, just buy a drink. It's a place that warms hearts and creates lasting memories.

One reviewer found the place closed when Google stated it was open 24 hours a day. This discrepancy in operating hours could lead to disappointment for potential visitors. Some might find the dancing 'random', though this was viewed positively by the reviewer who mentioned it.

Visitors praise the intimate atmosphere and high-quality jazz performances. Many appreciate the friendly staff and the opportunity to be close to talented musicians. The wine selection receives compliments, and the overall ambiance is frequently described as perfect for a relaxed evening of great music and drinks.

Some guests mention the limited seating, which can make it difficult to find a spot during popular shows. A few reviewers note that the drink prices are on the higher side. Occasionally, patrons comment on the tight space, which can feel cramped when the venue is full.