France: Zin Kyaw (Food in Lyon)
Food in Lyon, France
What does it mean for a place to be called the gastronomic capital of France?
For me, it means waking up to fresh pastries, savoring meals at bouchons, and ending the day with a sweet treat. Lyon’s diverse food scene, especially its desserts, makes it the place to be if you’re a foodie like me.
Food has always been my passion, and I’m truly grateful for the chance to experience the local restaurants and cuisine here. Lyon, as the culinary heart of France, brings together the flavors of both the north and the south, offering the best of both worlds. Traditional dishes like salade lyonnaise, saucisson de Lyon, and quenelle are just a few of the incredible meals I’ve encountered. You can’t go wrong with any of them, but my favorite so far has been the quenelle — a delicate mixture of creamed fish shaped like an egg. I was lucky enough to try it at one of Lyon’s Michelin-starred restaurants, and I’ve never been the same since.
While the savory dishes have been extraordinary, I’ve been especially drawn to the world of sweets. No matter where I am in Lyon, I’m never far from something to satisfy my sweet tooth. For baked goods like baguettes, croissants, or pain au chocolat, the city’s boulangeries have plenty to offer. If I’m craving something more decadent, like tarts or layered desserts, I head to the patisseries. Just be warned: you might end up like me, trying six different desserts in one sitting because they’re all too irresistible to choose just one!
Since my life revolves around food, Lyon has been the perfect place for me to push my culinary boundaries and explore new flavors. Being surrounded by incredible restaurants and Lyon’s rich gastronomic heritage has deepened my appreciation for the diversity of food. The city continues to surprise me with its incredible flavors, and I can’t wait to see what other culinary adventures await. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I must get back to my search for the best dessert in all of Lyon!
Zin Kyaw
Major: Human Resources & Management
Hometown: Madison, Wisconsin
Program: Centre d’Etudes Franco-Americain de Management (CEFAM) in France
Being a recipient of the Global Gateway Fellowship has given me the opportunity to discover more of my passions and have the chance to grow and learn in France. I will be able to connect with diverse backgrounds and bring a new perspective to my own personal and professional development.
My personal goal is to try as many restaurants and different foods as possible. Lyon is the gastronomy capital of France, and I am excited to try all the different desserts and pastries it has to offer. I’m most looking forward to interacting with people all over the world and learning more about the culture of France. I’m excited to make new friends and immerse myself in Lyon.