Few restaurants in Lyon carry as much history as Mère Brazier. Opened in 1921 by “la mère Brazier” herself, Eugénie Brazier, the restaurant was awarded three Michelin stars in 1933—making her one of the first (if not the first) women to receive such a high accolade. Brazier, who was noted for her “emphasis on simplicity and fresh ingredients,” according to The New York Times, later opened Col de la Luère, which also was awarded three stars. In an industry that continues to struggle with sexism, Brazier was a pioneer.
Today, chef Mathieu Viannay helms the storied kitchen, serving up a combination of dishes that pay homage to Brazier (like poularde de Bresse demi-deuil, or “Bresse chicken in half-mourning,” an entire chicken with black truffle tucked under the skin), as well as more modern fare.
