A prison that never was one
In Montagny, south of Lyon, Aux Prisons fully embraces a prison theme - but the first thing worth knowing is precisely what many visitors might misunderstand: the building was never a real prison. The concept was created from scratch as an unusual venue, and the owner salvaged genuine doors from former prisons to incorporate into the architecture.
That distinction changes everything: this is not a converted historic site but a deliberately staged setting. The restaurant nevertheless develops the theme thoroughly, with a central courtyard, large fireplace, spaces named as prison “wings” and, for those extending the experience, cell-themed guest rooms in the accommodation area.
On the plate: French cooking rather than a gimmick menu
Fortunately, the theme stops short of turning the menu into a novelty attraction. The restaurant emphasises carefully prepared traditional French dishes: homemade foie gras, sea bream with beurre blanc, roasted king prawns, frogs' legs, meat and fish, with a focus on regional produce. Its website notably suggests a glass of Coteaux du Lyonnais with the meal.
Packages vary by day and event. As a guide, in 2026 the website lists a €22 lunch package among its group and event offers, alongside several more comprehensive menus. As the detailed menu changes, check the day's offerings rather than relying on one fixed price.
The unexpected detail: the doors are the only real prison elements
This is probably the best story to tell about the place. The prison-style décor is convincing enough to suggest a former jail, whereas the authentic elements are the doors themselves. Salvaged from former prisons, they were integrated into a place built around a paradox: creating a sense of confinement to offer, in the owner's words, a space for freedom and conviviality.
This also avoids overstating the venue: Aux Prisons is interesting precisely because it embraces its theatrical nature, not because it claims a prison history it does not have.
What to know before booking
- Address: 5 rue de la Mairie, 69700 Montagny, near Brignais, Givors and Mornant.
- The restaurant advertises services from Tuesday through Sunday lunchtime, with daytime and evening openings according to the published slots.
- Online booking uses the official Zenchef system.
- The restaurant has a terrace, central courtyard and large indoor fireplace, so the experience varies considerably by table.
- Guests can also stay overnight in cell-themed rooms.
Who will particularly enjoy it?
Aux Prisons works best for visitors seeking an unusual restaurant near Lyon, with detailed themed décor and classic French cooking, rather than a museum or historical reconstruction. It also suits group meals, birthdays and evenings where the setting immediately provides a conversation starter.
Part of the fun is examining the décor and wondering which details are genuinely old. The answer: appearances can be deceptive - the doors are real; the prison is not.
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