In 2007, the City of Lyon recognized the transformative power of food and gastronomy as key drivers of urban development, cultural identity, and quality of life. To harness this potential, Lyon initiated the creation of the Délice Network—a platform to unite cities that share a passion for food as a tool for sustainable urban transformation.
From its inception, the Network aimed to foster collaboration among cities, enabling them to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and co-create innovative solutions centered around food and gastronomy. Over the years, the network has grown into a global alliance, encompassing cities from around the world, each contributing its unique culinary heritage and perspectives.
In 2024, the Network underwent a rebranding process to better reflect its current global aspirations and impact, becoming The Food Capitals by Délice Network.
While each member city brings its distinct approach to food and gastronomy, all are united by a set of core values that guide our collective efforts:
“Gastronomy is an integral part of the cultural heritage of our cities. It defines an identity, expresses a way of living and is an undeniable component of health and well-being.
It is nothing short of essential! It represents a key tool for our elected representatives in terms of taste education, quality of living and promotion of tourism. When we created Délice in 2007, our goal was to join forces, talents and ideas within a network of exchange on the theme of food & gastronomy. With the experience we have accumulated since then and through our shared discussions, we are more than ever convinced that the future of our cities depends on the quality of our food. There is only one step from good eating to good living, and this step is called Délice!”
Jean Michel DACLIN
Founder of Délice Network
Former Deputy-Mayor of Lyon
President of the Lyon Tourism Board
