Lyon’s Brasserie 33 Cité Closes After 18 Years, New Era Dawns
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A beloved Lyon institution, Brasserie 33 Cité, shuttered its doors on December 24th following an unexpectedly swift change in ownership. The closure marks the end of an era for the restaurant, a fixture in the city’s 6th arrondissement for nearly two decades, but signals a promising new beginning with a planned reopening under new management next week.
The abrupt end to 33 Cité’s run took many by surprise. According to reports from Lyon People, the sale of the establishment, while years in the making, was expedited in recent weeks, preventing longtime owner Frédéric Berthod from hosting a farewell event.
A Landmark Restaurant in the Cité Internationale
For 18 years, Brasserie 33 Cité served as a central gathering place within the Cité Internationale in Lyon’s 6th arrondissement. The restaurant quickly established itself as an essential part of the neighborhood’s culinary landscape, benefiting from the support of founders Frédéric Berthod, Christophe Marguin, and Mathieu Viannay. The building itself, designed by renowned architects Renzo Piano and Pier Luigi Copat, contributed to the brasserie’s distinctive appeal.
“The news took everyone by surprise,” one local resident commented, reflecting the sentiment of many in the community.
Ownership Transition and Future Plans
On December 31st, the brasserie was officially acquired by Ludovic Hernandez, who also owns the Italian restaurant Giuseppe. The change in ownership promises a fresh perspective while maintaining the core team that made 33 Cité a success.
Importantly, the existing staff will be transitioning to a new venture: the Grande brasserie Tête d’Or. The opening of this new establishment is currently slated for January 6th or 7th, following minor renovations.
This transition highlights a commitment to preserving the culinary talent that defined Brasserie 33 Cité, ensuring continuity and expertise in Lyon’s vibrant restaurant scene. The swiftness of the sale and subsequent reopening demonstrates a dynamic shift in the city’s hospitality sector, and signals a continued appetite for innovative dining experiences.
