Montmartre is a culinary wonderland and a dining destination for Parisians from every neighbourhood. That said, we do have our favourites. The Moulin Rouge is on the bucket list of many travellers, and they usually want a nice meal before the champagne show. We are here to narrow your list down to some of the best dining options in the area.
For Families Bouillan Pigalle. You must arrive early, but the large dining room is happy to accommodate you and your kids. The waiters are experts at dealing with large parties. They do not take reservations, and by 7:30, there is always a line, so I am not kidding when I say come early. However, the menu is filled with French Classics, the prices are low, and the wine is good, and after your meal, you will have time to take a walk and digest before the show.
For Seafood Lovers. La Mascotte: The finest mussels and frites in Paris can be found at this classic eatery. I can honestly say I have had some of the best meals of my life here. For the one family member who can’t stand fish, they do a beautiful lamb dish. The service tends to be exceptional and is always efficient. They do accept reservations, and we suggest you make one. If you want to dine on the terrace in front of the restaurant, request it as it fills up fast.
Le Petit Moulin has no website yet and is one of the tiniest restaurants in Paris; however, at the earlier hours, it is easy to get a table upstairs. 10 seats downstairs and 26 upstairs. This is not fast food, so order a bottle of wine and give it time. All dishes are made to order. They have an incredible Charcuterie and Cheese plate to share if you want to dine more quickly. It is highly recommended. 17 Rue Tholoze.
Chez Pitou is a beautiful restaurant just up the street from Le Petit Moulin. It is known for its slow-roasted leg of lamb. They also very kindly make pasta for children who may not be up to the grown-up fare. The chef keeps it fresh and adventurous, so choose any meal without hesitation. Moulin Rouge is a short walk down the hill. Online reservations are suggested as they do fill up fast.
La Cave des Abbesses Shh! Share this secret only with your closest friends. It is a wine store with a hidden back room where you can dine on an out-of-this-world cheese plate and any wine in the house. You can pick from the wine list in the back or purchase any bottle in the front of the store to enjoy. They do not have a proper kitchen, so the food selection is minimal yet exceptional. The wines are chosen with respect to the terroir. Excellent taste and value in all price ranges with many biodynamic wines available.
Where to eat before attending the Moulin Rouge…wherever you like, but these are our top choices.
And, of course, to truly know Montmartre, you must take one of Chef PJ’s tours. He has added an 8:30 wine tour, exclusive and upscale for the more discerning travellers.