In May, my husband and I will be driving from Besancon (East of Dijon) to Lyon (via Beaune), where we will stay for 2 or 3 days. I'd appreciate some hotel and restaurant recommendations in Lyon. We're not looking for starred restaurants - just good bistro food that locals enjoy. Thanks!

Hôtel la Résidence.

Any bouchon will probably serve you food you will find memorable. Last meal I had there was at a place called Les Trois Cochons, where I had quenelles and pig's ears. Delicious.

I really liked the Mercure Hotel Beaux Arts in the center. it was a very convenient location, being in-between the Cordeliers and Bellecour metro stops, and within walking distance of that restaurant street (rue Merciere). I did have a good meal in a small bouchon on that street but I'm not sure of the name. It was probably either Bouchon Colette or La Traboulerie. There are lots of small restaurants along that street.

http://www.bouchon-colette.com

We stayed inthe Mecure Beaux Arts in June this year - excellent location. I would avoid most restaurants in Rue Merciere. We had a fabulous meal at L'Amboise on Rue Amboise

Hi Stricky!

Some two years ago, we were perfectly happy at Grand Hotel de la Paix, which changed name and ownership and is now hôtel Silky by Happy Culture. Good location at place Regaud.

Sometimes the excellent Carlton Lyon has very good offers.

We had a lovely lunch at brasserie Le Sud, managed by Paul Bocusse , riverside, just in front of the "Tree of Flowers" . Good food and good wines by the glass.

Enjoy this beautiful city!

Thank you all - I really appreciate your suggestions.

If you're looking for something a little more casual / homey, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the Hotel Vaubecour <i>(where we stayed 2 years ago)</i>, very conveniently located between Perrache station and Place Bellecour.

Thanks for the suggestion. Definitely looks nice and great location.