Montmartre, the heart of Parisian bohemianism, offers a glimpse into the past. Wander along its cobblestone streets, expecting the unexpected around every corner. Imagine street musicians serenading you, dancers captivating your attention, and artists showcasing their talent. This is where the cabaret-loving, “starving artists” of the Belle Époque, like Toulouse-Lautrec, Paul Verlaine, and even Van Gogh for a brief time, found their artistic inspiration. The cheap cafés of this bohemian quarter served as their haven.
A Culinary Journey Through Montmartre
Even though tourism has undoubtedly left its mark on the neighborhood, quirky little restaurants and unique boutiques still add to Montmartre’s charming appeal. Let’s delve into its gastronomic delights.
Dive into Fondue Fun at Le Refuge des Fondus
If you’re searching for a truly unique dining experience in Paris, head straight to Le Refuge des Fondus. The eccentric exterior mirrors the quirky charm of the street, while the tiny interior, with just two long tables, invites a communal dining experience. Don’t be intimidated by the sassy owner; his playful spirit adds to the fun! This restaurant specializes in fondue, offering both meat and cheese options, each accompanied by a delicious appetizer of olives, cheeses, and charcuterie. The only choices for beverages are red or white wine, served in baby bottles, a playful twist on the city’s alcohol tax. The delicious fondue, endless bread, and flowing wine create a festive atmosphere you won’t want to miss.
Potato Paradise at Le Comptoir Général
Indulge in the crispy goodness of fried garlic potatoes at Le Comptoir Général. Their “giant salads,” piled high with these divine spuds, are a must-try. Don’t let the mountain of potatoes fool you; a delicious salad awaits underneath. The warm goat’s cheese, bacon, and vegetables add a delightful touch. This restaurant offers unbeatable value but remembers to bring cash, as they don’t accept credit cards.
Vegetarian Haven: Le Potager du Marais
France, known for its rich creams and meats, doesn’t always cater to vegetarian palates. But Le Potager du Marais, nestled up the hill, provides a welcoming oasis for vegetarian diners. Its vibrant purple and pink exterior hints at the cozy and charming interior. On quieter days, the owner doubles as both waitress and cook, creating a personal and intimate experience. The freshly prepared vegetarian dishes, made just a few feet from your table, showcase simple and hearty lentils, grains, vegetables, and hummus.
A Bread Lover’s Paradise
No guide to Montmartre would be complete without exploring its bakeries. While baguettes are abundant throughout Paris, Montmartre stands out with its exceptional bread. The city’s bread ranking system has awarded Montmartre the title of “best baguette” more than any other neighborhood since 2008. Here are a few top-rated boulangeries:
Coquelicot des Abbesses
This bakery, located at 24 rue des Abbesses, offers a two-level dining room for enjoying a delicious brunch.
Boulangerie Alexine
At 40 rue Lepic, Boulangerie Alexine has been consistently ranked among the top ten Parisian baguettes in both 2007 and 2008.
Shop ’til You Drop in Montmartre
Now that we’ve whetted your appetite, let’s explore the shopping opportunities that Montmartre has to offer.
Oh My Cream!: A Beauty Lover’s Dream
For those seeking unique beauty products, Oh My Cream! is a must-visit. This baby-pink boutique boasts a curated selection of small, specialty beauty brands. Discover revolutionary ingredients and all-natural products that surpass the ordinary. Whether your skin is normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive, dull, red, or hyper-pigmented, there’s a star product waiting for you.
A Ceramic Lover’s Paradise
Nestled into the slope of rue des Saules, this ceramic shop is a visual delight. Step inside and be surrounded by ceramic cups, bowls, plates, pots, and ornaments in a variety of colors. The modernist shapes and motifs combined with a rough texture create a distinctive style. These pieces make perfect gifts for loved ones back home.
Flea Market Fun at Place des Abbesses
On Sunday mornings, Place des Abbesses transforms into a vibrant flea market. Discover knick-knacks and treasures like old doorknobs, spoons, books, vintage postcards, and more. Modern Parisian jewelry artists also showcase their creations here.
Artistic Haven at Halle Saint-Pierre
Located beneath the Sacré-Coeur and Butte Montmartre gardens, Halle Saint-Pierre provides a haven for modern art exhibits. Its round building houses a wonderful library filled with books about Montmartre’s magical years, perfect for souvenirs. The ultra-modern café offers the classic Parisian treats you’ve come to expect. Check out their website for current exhibits: www.hallesaintpierre.org.
Montmartre, with its historical charm, culinary delights, and shopping treasures, offers an unforgettable experience. So, step back in time and discover the magic of this iconic Parisian neighborhood.
