Culina Hortus to Close Lyon Restaurant After Eight Years

The plant-based restaurant Culina Hortus, located rue de l’Arbre Sec in Lyon’s 1st arrondissement, will permanently close its doors on August 29. After eight years of operation, the establishment—known for its vegetarian menus—is ceasing operations to allow Thomas Bouanich to focus on new professional ventures.

Reasons Behind the Closure

The decision to shutter the restaurant, which has served nearly 90,000 menus, is not the consequence of an “essoufflement”. According to an official statement released by the restaurant via Instagram, Thomas Bouanich is choosing to conclude the project to dedicate his efforts to “Dialogues,” his new gastronomic restaurant opened in Biarritz in 2025.

The transition also follows the departure of brothers Nathan and Robin Clairon, who had taken over the kitchens and management of the restaurant in 2025. The team characterized the closure as the end of a cycle, stating they preferred to end the venture while they could do so with pride rather than risk the project losing its soul.

Legacy of a Gastronomic Pioneer

Culina Hortus established a reputation in the culinary world by elevating plant-based dining. Over its eight-year tenure, the restaurant earned several prizes, most notably being named the “best vegetarian restaurant in the world”. Its commitment to vegetable-forward menus helped shift perceptions of plant-based fine dining in France.

What This Means for Patrons

Despite the upcoming closure, the restaurant will continue to operate throughout the remainder of the summer. Customers can visit the Lyon location until the final service on August 29. The closure marks the end of a notable chapter for the local culinary scene, which saw the restaurant participate in major events like the Lyon Street Food Festival, where it featured plant-based barbecue offerings.

Key Takeaways

• Final Closing Date: August 29.
• Reason: Thomas Bouanich is pivoting to a new restaurant project in Biarritz.
• Operational Status: The restaurant remains open for service until the final date.
• Industry Impact: The restaurant was recognized for its vegetarian fine dining, including a “best vegetarian restaurant in the world” title.