....of chocolates, macarons, brioches aux pralines, terrines, scallop mousse, andouille sausages, quenelles, charcuterie, sauces, truffles, sweets, cheeses and breads – of every shape, size and variety – elevated into perfection, sophistication and the world’s most delicious and satisfying of art forms. Lyon is certainly the city to indulge in all of your French foodie fantasies, decadent dreams and love of adventurous cuisine.

This UNESCO-designated historic city is the gastronomic capital of France – and the French would probably argue (and possibly be right), the entire world. The best known chefs all encourage gourmands-in-the-making to make the pilgrimage to beautiful Lyon, nestled in between the Burgundy and Provence regions of France. Many top chefs train here, attending culinary schools or gaining prestigious work under any of the city’s renowned rockstar chefs. There are nearly 2,000 restaurants here, including 11 with Michelin stars, to cater to half a million residents and hungry visitors.

Lyon is known for its variety of fresh market food, signature dishes and bouchons. A bouchon is a very Lyonnaise type of restaurant with a fun, convivial setting that offers traditional, almost homey fare -- which are usually meat-centric. Think a boisterous family gathering with pork and organ meats – andouille sausages, blood sausages, and even intestines. (Yes, you read that right). Because to fully taste and embrace all of Lyon’s magic, you’re invited to bring your most adventurous palate. This is a city that enjoys artful cuisine with a twist and plenty of surprises. Forget meat and potatoes or chain restaurants with standard fare menus. Perhaps even forget haute cuisine, (which Lyon also offers) -- because traditional Lyon food fare is often a hearty and adventurous experience. Specialties include intestines, brains, andouille, old-fashioned pig-snout salad, beef muzzle, calf’s foot and quenelles (airy, breaded fish dumplings bathed in a creamy sauce).