+1 703-741-7636
Nestled in the heart of Arlington, VA, Lyon Hall offers an exceptional French dining experience that artfully combines classic bistro charm with modern culinary flair. This inviting restaurant is a vibrant destination for lovers of French cuisine, serving up a thoughtfully curated menu full of rich, comforting, and elegantly prepared dishes that celebrate the best of Parisian tradition with a contemporary twist.
At Lyon Hall, the menu is a delightful journey through French flavors, punctuated by standout selections such as the Mussels Vin Blanc—a fragrant pot of mussels bathed in garlic, crème fraîche, shallot, and parsley that perfectly captures the essence of coastal France. For those who appreciate a bold, savory bite, the Hanger Steak Frites delivers tender, flavorful cuts paired with crispy pommes frites, embodying the spirit of a genuine French brasserie. Notably, the Escargot and Oysters on the Half Shell bring an indulgent start to the meal, each brimming with freshness and delicately balanced seasonings.
The brunch offerings are equally irresistible, with delicacies like the Smoked Salmon Benedict and Croque Madame creating the perfect harmony of smoky, creamy, and savory notes. End your meal with the house made Warm Hazelnut Cake or a luscious slice of Cheesecake, enriched with textures and flavors that linger long after the last bite.
Lyon Hall’s beverage program is thoughtfully crafted to complement the menu, with an enticing array of beer flights and expertly mixed cocktails that invite guests to savor the moment. The beer flights, in particular, offer an engaging way to explore a variety of brews, while the selection of bourbons adds a robust warmth to any visit.
The atmosphere here is lively yet welcoming. The warmly lit, spacious interior hums with the pleasant buzz of conversation—a genuine neighborhood spot where locals gather to share good food and great company. On bustling evenings, the energy elevates with a vibrant crowd, yet attentive service ensures a seamless dining experience. Several diners have noted the charm of the outdoor seating, especially when the weather allows, creating a relaxed ambiance to savor every plate.
Frequent guests praise Lyon Hall’s consistency and quality, with comments highlighting everything from the fresh, warm bread served with salty butter to the thoughtfully composed dishes like the grilled octopus paired with citrus and arugula. Even after years away, returning visitors find the cuisine as satisfying and flavorful as ever, particularly the expertly prepared mussel pots that remain the signature attraction.
In summary, Lyon Hall is more than just a French restaurant; it is a destination that transports you to the heart of France through thoughtfully prepared dishes, an inviting atmosphere, and a passionate commitment to flavor. Whether you’re drawn to its memorable brunches, standout mussel pots, or comforting steak frites, every visit promises a deeply satisfying and authentic culinary experience that leaves you eager to return.
I have been to Lyon hall twice before, both times for restaurant week, and their menu can’t be beat. Not only was it a deal, but the food was unbeatable. The bread is served fresh and warm with spreadable, salty butter. I started with the grilled octopus which was paired with arugula and a citrus. My boyfriend started with the tuna tartar and I tried it, which had crispy wontons chips seasoned and served with avocado and seaweed salad. The lobster roll bun was buttery, crispy, panini pressed with poppy seeds, and the lobster was fresh and juicy. My boyfriend got the NY strip, which was heavily seasoned (how we like it) and cooked medium rare to perfection. (It was a little fatty but for 12 oz of meat that can be expected) We ate inside and enjoyed the ambiance, the service, and the overall vibes. I always forget about this gem and need to remember to come more often!! (First 4 pictures are from my dinner last night, next 4 are from my dinner last year)
Met a group of friends for dinner. The space was quite loud at peak dinner time. My friends said it’s best to sit outdoors, weather permitting. Our server was very helpful and fully knowledgeable. My linguine was slightly overcooked. My friend, who ordered the chicken, said he would have appreciated more veg on his plate. The restroom is downstairs. Not sure if it is wheelchair-accessible.
Great, convivial neighborhood spot! Loved the atmosphere, food was delicious, wonderfully unique menu, servers all friendly. Friday night was super hoppin' w locals having fun. Def will be back! (Deducted one star from service only bc it see-sawed between good then quite slow, I believe bc so many patrons packed the place.)
I absolutely loved this dinner. It had been about eight years since I last ate at Lyon Hall after moving out of the area, and I’m happy to say it’s just as good, if not better, than I remembered. The mussel pots are still the standout. The menu keeps it simple with three options, but they’re exactly the right combinations: classic white wine, rich marinara, and a flavorful Thai red curry. You really can’t go wrong ordering the mussels as your main dish, generous portions, excellent flavors, and very fair pricing. Add in a fun, lively atmosphere and consistently great food, and Lyon Hall remains a place worth coming back to. Highly recommended if you’re in Arlington and want a great meal without any fuss.
I was so excited to go to this restaurant for my best-friend's birthday brunch. We had reservations for 9 and they were able to accommodate us on the top floor. The ambiance was beautiful and the food was AMAZING! I would go back in a heart beat. EVERYTHING was delicious. Beignets Shrimp Cocktail Short Rib Benedict Quiche French Dip
Girls’ Brunch Goals at Lyon Hall We had an all-girls get-together during brunch, and it was amazing — as you can see by the spread! From flaky croissants, fresh donuts to perfectly poached eggs and bottomless mimosas, every dish looked and tasted like something straight out of a Parisian café. The vibe was lively yet comfortable — the kind of place where laughter fills the air without ever feeling too loud. Lyon Hall nails that perfect mix of chic and cozy — sunlight pouring through the windows, clinking glasses, and the unmistakable Clarendon buzz. Service was friendly, the food was flawless, and the energy made the whole morning feel like a mini escape to Europe. And let’s not forget their Happy Hour — one of the best in Arlington! The menu is full of gems, but my absolute favorite is the Thai mussels — spicy, aromatic, and totally addictive. Whether it’s brunch with the girls or Happy Hour cocktails after work, Lyon Hall always hits the right note.
Great spot. The Happy Hour Specials make an early dinner worth it. The French Onion Soup (not on the Happy Hour menu) was delicious. Plenty of cheese and full of onions. The oysters were very fresh and a deal at $18.00. Next time I’ll pass on the Smoked Brisket Dumplings. The dumplings themselves were good but the barbecue sauce they were covered in was just too sweet. We also had the Sticky Asian Pork Ribs (not pictured). They had a ton of flavor and fell off the bone. Will definitely return next time for the oysters and soup!!!
The hostess was very gracious and welcoming. They ensured we had a comfortable space to sit with our guests. The menu was well rounded, both for food and beverages. Their cocktails were creative and good quality. The steamed muscles tasted off compared to other places, but it may have been a one off issue. Paid street parking. Nice location.