Discover the Abbesses district off the beaten track
The Abbesses district as you've never seen it before
Every morning, the same show is offered to Parisians and visitors passing through the Place du Tertre : many painters and caricaturists set up their easels there at sunrise to devote themselves to their art. It is one of the places worth a visit in The Abbesses district, the eponymous square housing the deepest metro station in Paris, materialized by one of the most photographed metro stations of Hector Guimard in the capital!
When going out, look for a look Saint-Jean Church in Montmartre, built at the beginning of the 20th century and recognizable by its red bricks and its mosaics, sculptures and stained glass in the Art Deco style.
The Emile Goudeau Square offers a shaded area to walkers thanks to its chestnut trees. They can sometimes discover the mythical Bateau-Lavoir, a city of artists that has seen Gauguin, Renoir or Picasso parade in the past, sometimes sit on a bench and enjoy the cultural excitement of the place.
As we wander around the neighborhood, we discover some of its secrets: Place Marcel Aymé, be sure to say hello Le Passe-Muraille, one of the most atypical statues in Paris. Representing a character from the short story collection of the same name, born under the pen of Marcel Aymé, it will not leave you indifferent!
A mystery also surrounds the “witch's rock”, that can be observed from the bottom of number 65 Rue Lepic, through the wire fence, or from 23bis Avenue Junot. This imposing rock mass covered in foliage has been the subject of theories, each more far-fetched than the next, for years, which go so far as to question its meteorite origin. It is in fact an ancient fountain (“dowel”), which is also considered to be the last place of the Montmartre scrub during the Second World War.
Not far away, we take a look at the Exotic Villa Léandre, a paradisiacal and bucolic cul-de-sac where charming houses with charming gardens follow one another. Not far away is one of the last video clubs in Paris, where you can rent DVDs for a quiet evening (Video Club de la Butte). We finally climb up to the Bust of Dalida, sculpted by Alain Aslan: this must-see in Montmartre is a victim of its success, as evidenced by the singer's worn chest, rubbed for some unknown purpose by passers-by.
Did all these discoveries whet your appetite? Good news: the neighborhood is full of addresses, each more gourmet than the next, and here are our favorites!
Quartier des Abbesses: our favorite spots
An epicurean break out of sight? Direction it Montmartre Museum, located in one of the oldest buildings in the Butte, built in the 17th century: before or after the visit, you can sit at the Renoir Café, for a charming moment in the gardens. Just as confidential is the terrace of the Studio 28 cinema, ideal for sipping a drink at aperitif time, or biting into a quiche for a quick meal.
When we are in the Quartier des Abbesses And if we want a traditional lunch that's worth it, head to Chez Eugène, Place du Tertre. Far from the tourist trap bistros, this very traditional spot offers classic French gastronomy according to the rules of the art, with a nice wine list! From early morning until late at night, you can also order small platters, terrines and other omelettes there to fill your belly on the go.
Another option: Le Chantoiseau, Rue Lepic, who sends beautiful, well-crafted plates, cooked with fresh, quality products, and served with a smile.
At any time of the day, the coffee shop “The beans on fire” Find your way Rue des Trois Frères at its red front: you can enjoy your coffee roasted by the house on the spot or to take away, with or without pastry.
Speaking of sweets, sweet tooths will be delighted at Gilles Marchal, Rue Ravignan : you inevitably order madeleines, the emblem of the man who was elected pastry chef of the year in 2004, or you succumb to the charm of small butter shortbreads in the shape of Sacré Coeur.
Finally, even if you don't sleep there, head over to the Monsieur Aristide Hotel, which houses an elegant à la carte restaurant with market cuisine: the perfect place for a one-on-one dinner, with a tasty cocktail at the bar to start with. For the rest of the hostilities, you can sit comfortably inside, on the flowery benches, or you opt for a table in the outdoor garden on sunny days, to enjoy your plates in the light of the Moon... The same one sung in “La Complainte de la Mound”, from the movie Moulin-Rouge.
Conclusion
The Abbesses district, although very touristy, can also be discovered off the beaten track. Take the time to discover it in a different way, you will appreciate it even more! Is this your favorite neighborhood? Kyka can help to find your happiness 😍