Welcome to part one of our three-part series exploring the best of Paris’s food scene, one neighbourhood at a time. In this edition, we’re heading north to discover the bohemian streets of Montmartre, the buzzing energy of Pigalle, and the waterside charm of Canal St Martin. Whether you’re in the mood for classic French fare or reinvented comfort food, this area offers rich, hearty dishes in memorable settings. Let’s dig in.
1. La Maison Rose: Iconic Montmartre Eatery
About La Maison Rose
Set atop Montmartre’s picturesque hills, La Maison Rose is as famous for its history as its beautiful pink façade. Opened in 1905, this charming café and restaurant has captivated generations of artists, writers, and dreamers. The interior, intimate and vintage-inspired, creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for leisurely lunches or romantic dinners. Its quaint terrace offers an ideal spot to soak in the neighbourhood’s artistic vibes.
What It Is Known For
La Maison Rose is celebrated for its fresh, seasonal French dishes and an iconic setting featured in countless paintings and photographs. It provides visitors with both culinary delights and a true Parisian ambiance.
Menu
The restaurant offers a small yet thoughtfully curated menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Expect dishes like seasonal vegetable tartines, roast chicken with herbs, fresh fish specials, and traditional desserts such as apple tart and crème brûlée.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
We came here as a table of four and sat downstairs by a window – the perfect little spot to watch the world go by. Everything about La Maison Rose felt relaxed and quietly elegant, from the soft lighting to the buzz of conversation. Between us, we tried a mix of dishes – one of us went for a flaky puff pastry filled with greens and radish, which was light but full of flavour, while another had the tender meatballs in tomato sauce with crispy roasted potatoes that tasted like pure comfort.
One friend ordered their roast chicken, perfectly seasoned and unbelievably tender – definitely a standout. And for dessert, don’t miss the apple tart – it’s deliciously sweet with a delicate, flaky crust that felt like a love letter to French patisserie. Sooo good!
We simply loved our meal here. It’s quite a small space inside, so we’d recommend booking ahead – especially if you want a good table. Pop in early on a weekday to beat the crowds, or book well in advance if you’re only in Paris for a short trip. It’s popular with both locals and tourists for good reason, and definitely worth making time for.
Cost
Pricing is reasonable, making it ideal for the Fair Fellow. Starters range from €8 – €12, main dishes from €15 – €25, and desserts around €8. Expect to pay approximately €30 – €40 per person for a satisfying, memorable meal.
Website/Instagram URL
lamaisonrose-montmartre.com | @lamaisonroseofficial
Opening Times
Open Wednesday to Sunday:
Lunch: 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM
Teatime: 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Dinner: 6:00 PM to 9:45 PM
How to Get There
La Maison Rose is located a short 5-minute scenic walk from Lamarck-Caulaincourt metro station (Line 12). Enjoy the charming stroll through Montmartre’s historic streets and landmarks.
Address: 2 Rue de l’Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris
View on Google Maps
2. Le Poulbot: A Cozy Montmartre Retreat
About Le Poulbot
Le Poulbot is a small, intimate restaurant located in the artistic district of Montmartre. With only about ten tables, it offers a cozy dining experience that feels personal and exclusive. The décor is rustic yet elegant, reflecting the bohemian spirit of the area.
What It Is Known For
The restaurant is known for its modern take on classic French dishes, utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring a unique experience with each visit.
Menu
Le Poulbot offers a prix fixe menu that includes options like French onion soup, duck confit, and a selection of seasonal desserts. The wine list is carefully curated to complement the dishes, featuring both local and regional selections.
Check out the menu here
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
Le Poulbot is seriously cute – just a handful of tables tucked into a quiet Montmartre street, and the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a proper local gem.
We kicked things off with the French onion soup, bubbling with melted cheese and packed with flavour. For mains, we went classic with the duck confit, which was beautifully crisp on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tender. We also tried the beef bourguignon, which came with the kind of rich, red wine sauce that makes you want to mop up every drop. Service was really chilled – friendly without being too formal – and the vibe was just right for a slow, cosy dinner. We shared the panna cotta with seasonal fruits for dessert, and it was the perfect finish!
Cost
Dining at Le Poulbot is moderately priced, with prix fixe menus starting at €35. This includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert, making it a great value for the quality of food and service provided.
Website/Instagram URL
www.lepoulbot.com | @lepoulbot
Opening Times
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
How to Get There
Le Poulbot is situated in Montmartre, just a short walk from the Abbesses metro station (Line 12). The restaurant is nestled on a quiet side street, providing a peaceful dining environment away from the bustling tourist areas
Address: 3 Rue Poulbot, 75018 Paris
View on Google Maps
3. Bouillon Pigalle: Classic French Dining in a Lively Setting
About Bouillon Pigalle
Bouillon Pigalle captures the spirit of classic Parisian dining with a bustling atmosphere and timeless charm. Located in the vibrant Pigalle district, this spacious brasserie evokes Paris of yesteryear, with traditional décor, high ceilings, vintage details, and lively crowds that add to its energetic ambiance. Ideal for friends, couples, or solo diners, it’s an essential Paris experience.
What It Is Known For
Bouillon Pigalle is celebrated for serving classic French dishes at remarkably affordable prices, making authentic Parisian cuisine accessible to everyone. Its consistent quality and lively environment have earned it widespread acclaim among locals and visitors alike.
Menu
The extensive menu covers iconic French dishes including steak-frites, onion soup, escargots, boeuf bourguignon, and a variety of classic desserts such as crème caramel and profiteroles. A diverse wine list complements the hearty fare perfectly.
Check out the menu here
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
Bouillon Pigalle really feels like a large dining room, bustling with lots of movement and noise. The service was quick and friendly. Most drinks, including the delicious wines, come in various sizes from Quarter (25cl) to Half (50cl), Bottle (75cl), Quille (1L), and even Magnum (1.5L) and Jeroboam (3L)!
We started our meal with the escargots in rich garlic butter and the traditional French onion soup topped with a generous cheese crust. For our main course, we had the steak-frites, perfectly cooked, and the duck confit with new potatoes. Wow! We ended the meal the “lloating island” with pink sugar pralines.
Cost
Bouillon Pigalle is superbly affordable, perfect for the Modest Man seeking great quality without spending a fortune. Starters typically range from €3 – €6, mains from €10 – €15, and desserts around €4 – €6. Expect to pay around €20 – €30 per person for a satisfying three-course meal.
Website/Instagram URL
bouillonlesite.com | @bouillonlinsta
Opening Times
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
How to Get There
Bouillon Pigalle is conveniently located a 2-minute walk from Pigalle metro station (Lines 2 and 12). Easy access and central location make it a perfect dining stop after exploring Montmartre’s vibrant neighbourhood.
Address: 22 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris
View on Google Maps
4. Pink Mamma: Lively Italian Flair in Pigalle
About Pink Mamma
Located in the trendy Pigalle district, Pink Mamma is a vibrant, multi-level trattoria that brings a slice of Italy to the heart of Paris. Famous for its beautifully designed interiors featuring lush greenery, eclectic decor, and a stunning rooftop dining area under a glass ceiling, it’s a favorite spot for lively gatherings, romantic dinners, or casual weekend brunches.
What It Is Known For
Pink Mamma is celebrated for its authentic Italian dishes, particularly delicious Neapolitan pizzas, homemade pastas, and perfectly cooked Fiorentina steaks. It’s also known for its lively atmosphere and Instagram-worthy setting.
Menu
The menu highlights fresh pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas topped with quality ingredients, and juicy Fiorentina steaks. Seasonal specials showcase fresh produce, while decadent desserts such as classic tiramisu and panna cotta round out the meal.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
It’s wise to book ahead – this place gets busy fast. Pink Mamma is one of our favourite spots for a fun evening with friends. The truffle pasta and pizzas are genuinely next level – rich, indulgent, and absolutely worth the hype.
Last time, after dinner, we wandered downstairs into the hidden speakeasy bar in the basement. Low lighting, vintage decor, great cocktails – it was the perfect way to wrap up the night.
Cost
Pink Mamma offers excellent value for the Fair Fellow. Starters range €8 – €14, pizzas and pastas €14 – €22, and steaks around €25 – €35. Expect a satisfying meal with drinks for around €35 – €50 per person.
Website/Instagram URL
www.bigmammagroup.com | @bigmammagroup
Opening Times
Open daily:
Lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:15 PM
Dinner from 7:00 PM to 10:45 PM
How to Get There
Pink Mamma is easily accessible, located just a 3-minute walk from Blanche metro station (Line 2). Its central location makes it perfect for dining after exploring nearby Montmartre and Pigalle.
Address: 20bis Rue de Douai, 75009 Paris
View on Google Maps
5. Fric-Frac Canal St Martin: Gourmet Croque Monsieur Specialist
About Fric-Frac Canal St Martin
Set alongside the picturesque Canal St Martin, Fric-Frac is a lively, trendy eatery offering a creative spin on France’s beloved croque monsieur. The vibrant, casual atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed lunch or a fun evening meal. Bright, colourful decor and welcoming staff make this spot a favourite for locals and visitors alike who enjoy great food in a laid-back setting.
What It Is Known For
Fric-Frac has gained fame for reinventing the classic French croque monsieur with innovative, gourmet twists, using high-quality ingredients and imaginative flavour combinations that redefine this iconic sandwich.
Menu
The menu offers a variety of gourmet croques featuring unique fillings such as truffle ham, aged cheeses, grilled vegetables, and smoked salmon. Vegetarian and vegan options are abundant, ensuring there’s something delightful for every palate. Side dishes like fresh salads and crispy fries complement the sandwiches perfectly.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
We ended up here on a slow Sunday morning, slightly delicate from the night before – and it couldn’t have been a better choice. We both went for the Le Mam’zelle, their take on a croque madame, and it was exactly what we needed. Toasted five-grain bread, thick-cut ham, creamy béchamel, melted emmental, and a soft-boiled egg on top – total comfort food. Smiley service, a cosy vibe, and proper hangover food that made us feel human again!
Cost
Fric-Frac offers affordable gourmet comfort, perfect for the Modest Man or Fair Fellow. Sandwiches range from €8 – €14, and sides from €3 – €5. A satisfying meal with drink typically costs around €15 – €20 per person.
Website/Instagram URL
fricfrac.fr | @fricfrac_restaurant
Opening Times
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
How to Get There
Fric-Frac is conveniently located along Canal St Martin, just a 4-minute walk from Jacques Bonsergent metro station (Line 5). Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the canal to reach this inviting eatery.
Address: 79 Quai de Valmy, 75010 Paris
In Summary
That wraps up our first five favourites in the north of Paris. From croque monsieur done gourmet-style to historic dining rooms in Montmartre, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Next up in Part Two, we explore some of the best restaurants in central Paris – including stylish brasseries near the Louvre, standout spots around Opéra and Châtelet, and bold international flavours close to the Champs Elysees. It’s a curated mix of iconic locations and unforgettable dining experiences.
