Our Story: From El Chivito Lyon to BACANO, a Journey Through Latin America

The story of BACANO is, above all, a story of passion, culture, and sharing.

Everything began in 2021 when the restaurant first opened its doors in Lyon under the name El Chivito Lyon. At that time, I was the manager, driven by a clear mission: to introduce the richness of Latin American culture to Lyon and create a place where people could connect through what unites us most naturally—food, music, and hospitality.

From the very beginning, our ambition went far beyond being just another restaurant. We wanted to offer a true Latin American experience. Every detail mattered: the flavors on the plate, the warmth of the welcome, the energy of the service, and the atmosphere surrounding every meal. The rhythms of salsa, bachata, merengue, and traditional Latin American music quickly became the soul of the restaurant.

As the years passed, we continuously evolved our menu to better represent the diversity of Latin American cuisine. We experimented, created, and refined our recipes to offer authentic dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of many countries across Latin America. Our goal remained the same: to allow every guest to travel through flavors without ever leaving Lyon.

Then came 2023, a defining year in our journey.

After years of dedication and growth, I acquired the restaurant. For me, it was much more than a business opportunity—it was the chance to bring to life a vision that had been with me for many years.

Having worked as a chef since the age of sixteen, cooking has always been my language. It is my way of expressing creativity, connecting cultures, and honoring the traditions that shaped who I am. Becoming the owner finally allowed me to fully unleash my creativity and build a project that truly reflected my values and passion.

That is how BACANO was born.

More than a name change, BACANO represents a new chapter and a stronger commitment to our identity and mission. We wanted to go even deeper into authenticity, highlighting the traditions, recipes, products, and stories that make Latin America so unique and vibrant.

The word “Bacano,” commonly used in several Latin American countries, describes something wonderful, enjoyable, authentic, and genuinely special. It perfectly embodies the spirit we strive to share every day with our guests.

We redesigned the restaurant, enriched our culinary offerings, and strengthened our commitment to authentic Latin American cuisine in Lyon. Every dish tells a story. Every recipe carries the heritage of a family, a region, or a country. Every ingredient is selected with respect for the traditions that inspire us.

Today, BACANO is much more than a Latin American restaurant in Lyon. It is a place of discovery, connection, and emotion. A place where the diversity of Latin American culture is celebrated through gastronomy, music, and a unique way of life.

We are proud to share this culture that has inspired us from the very beginning. Proud to offer authentic flavors, generous recipes, and unforgettable moments of togetherness. Proud to introduce Lyon and its visitors to the richness of Latin America's culinary heritage.

At BACANO, every meal is an invitation to travel.

A journey that takes you from the colorful streets of Colombia to the flavors of Peru, from Argentine traditions to Central American specialties, all while embracing the vibrant Caribbean influences that bring our cuisine and atmosphere to life.

Whether you are passionate about world cuisine, a lover of Latin American gastronomy, curious to discover new flavors, or simply looking for an authentic restaurant in Lyon, we invite you to step through our doors.

Let yourself be carried away by the aromas, colors, rhythms, and emotions of Latin America.

Join us on a unique journey across an entire continent—without ever leaving Lyon.

Welcome to BACANO.

Welcome to Latin America.