Living in Lyon also means discovering a vibrant Asian food scene, far from tourist clichés. As a local, I favor places where quality goes hand in hand with affordability, especially when you are a student or young professional. Korean cuisine has found fertile ground here, offering spicy, comforting flavors that make a change from Lyon classics. Here is my practical selection, based on real experience and local reviews, to help you navigate this delicious scene.

Gang Nam

Gang Nam Address: 6 Rue Thomassin, 69002 Lyon Google rating: 4.7/5 (2582 reviews) Price: Moderate prices Maps link Website: https://gang-nam.fr/ Hours: Monday 19:00–22:00 ; Tuesday-Wednesday 12:00–14:00, 19:00–22:00... This is an institution in the 2nd arrondissement. The atmosphere is lively, perfect for dinner with friends after class. Portions are generous, and the bibimbap remains a safe bet for first-timers. Be careful: it is better to book, as it is consistently busy, especially in the evening.

Matzip

Matzip Address: 12 Rue Longue, 69001 Lyon Google rating: 4.9/5 (1226 reviews) Price: Moderate prices Maps link Website: https://matziplyon.com/ Hours: Monday 12:00–14:00, 19:00–22:00 ; Tuesday 19:00–22:00 ; Wednesday Closed... Located in Vieux Lyon, this small restaurant is more impressive than it first appears. Its exceptional 4.9/5 rating is no accident: the freshness of the ingredients and the warm welcome make all the difference. It is the ideal place for a quick but flavorful lunch before exploring the traboules. The kimchi is served generously and with just the right balance.

Sinabro

Sinabro Address: 126 Rue de Sèze, 69006 Lyon Google rating: 4.8/5 (1276 reviews) Price: Moderate prices Maps link Website: https://www.sinabro.fr/ Hours: Monday Closed ; Tuesday-Wednesday 12:00–14:00, 19:00–22:00... In the 6th arrondissement, Sinabro attracts a mixed crowd, with both students and residents of the upscale neighborhood. The menu offers well-executed traditional dishes, such as tender bulgogi marinated just right. The space is comfortable, making it easy to talk without being too disturbed by background noise.

Monsieur Kim Restaurant

Monsieur Kim Restaurant Address: 56 Rue Tramassac, 69005 Lyon Google rating: 4.8/5 (549 reviews) Price: Moderate prices Maps link Website: https://instagram.com/monsieur_kim.lyon Hours: Monday Closed ; Tuesday-Wednesday 19:00–21:30... Tucked away in the historic Saint-Jean district, this restaurant offers a more intimate experience. It is less well known than the big names in the city center, making it a gem for those in the know. The setting is simple but polished, and the dishes are served with particular care. Ideal for a quiet, authentic dinner.

Chikin Bang - Korean Street Food - Part-Dieu

Chikin Bang - Korean Street Food - Part-Dieu Address: 17 Rue Dr Bouchut, 69003 Lyon Google rating: 4.6/5 (14579 reviews) Price: Moderate prices Maps link Website: http://www.chikinbang.com/ Hours: Monday 11:00–22:30 ; Tuesday 11:00–22:30 ; Wednesday 11:00–22:30... If you love fried chicken, this is the place to go. With more than 14,000 reviews, Chikin Bang's popularity shows no sign of fading. Located near Part-Dieu, it is a favorite spot for students and office workers. Service is fast, perfect for a rushed lunch or a late dinner after an evening out.

Quai de Séoul - Restaurant Coréen

Quai de Séoul - Restaurant Coréen Address: 258 Rue Duguesclin, 69003 Lyon Google rating: 5/5 (32 reviews) Maps link Hours: Monday Closed ; Tuesday 12:00–14:30 ; Wednesday 12:00–14:30... This recent address has a perfect 5/5 rating, a sign of immediate customer satisfaction. Located on rue Duguesclin, it offers a quality alternative in the 3rd arrondissement. Although the number of reviews is still low, the consistency of positive comments about the freshness of the dishes makes it worth trying.

Marue

Marue Address: 8 Pl. Gailleton, 69002 Lyon Google rating: 4.8/5 (28 reviews) Maps link Website: https://www.instagram.com/marue.lyon Hours: Monday 09:00–16:00 ; Tuesday 09:00–16:00 ; Wednesday Closed... More than a restaurant, Marue is a concept store-café showcasing imported Korean products. Located on place Gailleton, it is the ideal spot for a light brunch or for buying snacks to take away. The atmosphere is modern and minimalist, attracting an urban crowd in search of new flavors.

Restaurant Le goût de kyun

Restaurant Le goût de kyun Address: 3 Rue Constantine, 69001 Lyon Google rating: 4.7/5 (677 reviews) Price: Moderate prices Maps link Website: https://legoutdekyun.fr/fr Hours: Monday Closed ; Tuesday-Wednesday 12:00–14:15, 19:00–22:15... In the heart of the 1st arrondissement, this restaurant serves home-style, comforting food. Reviews praise the generous plates and the value for money. It is a good option if you are looking for something substantial after a day walking around the slopes of Croix-Rousse.

Practical tips

To visit these places, the metro is your best ally. Line A serves Gang Nam (Cordeliers) and Matzip (Hôtel de Ville). Line B is ideal for Chikin Bang (Part-Dieu) and Quai de Séoul (Guillotière). For Monsieur Kim, get off at Vieux Lyon.

Local tip: avoid peak hours (12:30-13:30 and 19:30-20:30) in small places like Matzip or Monsieur Kim, as they have few tables. It is better to book or come at the beginning of service. Always carry a little cash, even though most places accept cards, because some small businesses prefer cash for small amounts.