Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour

If you’re craving more than just sightseeing in Paris, Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour offers an authentic taste of the neighborhood’s culinary soul. Priced at around $166, this 5-hour experience takes you through the winding streets of Montmartre, exploring lively markets, historic spots, and ending with a feast you’ll remember long after your trip. Led by a local chef and passionate storyteller, PJ, this tour is beloved for its intimate atmosphere and genuine connections to Parisian culture.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are its deep dive into local ingredients and shopping tips—learn how to read French labels and shop like a seasoned chef—and the delicious culmination with a hearty meal and wine, making it feel less like a tour and more like a memorable dinner with friends.

A potential drawback is that the tour size is small—max 10 travelers—which is perfect for personalized attention but requires booking well in advance, especially since it’s often booked 61 days ahead. If you’re looking for a relaxed, immersive food experience with a touch of history in a neighborhood that feels like a small village within Paris, this tour suits food lovers, curious travelers, and those eager for authentic local encounters.

Key Points

• Authentic Montmartre Experience: Get to know the neighborhood through a local guide with stories and history.
• Culinary Shopping: Visit shops beyond the tourist trail, learn how to read labels, and discover French gastronomy secrets.
• Comprehensive Tastings: Enjoy pastries, cheese, wine, and a full meal with traditional French dishes.
• Inclusive Food & Drinks: All tastings, meals, and wine are included, making planning simpler.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Up to 10 travelers ensure personalized attention and lively conversation.
• End with a Feast: Cap off the tour with a hearty meal paired with bubbles and desserts, leaving you full and satisfied.

Exploring Montmartre with Chef PJ: The Itinerary

Starting at Place de Clichy

Your adventure begins outside the Blanche metro station at 11:00 am. The meeting spot is easy to find, and PJ kicks things off with a quick map of Paris, sharing stories of how Montmartre evolved into the artistic and bohemian hub we love today. You’ll get your first glimpse of the famous Moulin Rouge, which is a perfect photo op from this vantage point.

Reviewers highlight PJ’s engaging storytelling and his knack for blending history with personal anecdotes. It sets the tone for a tour that’s as much about culture as it is about food.

Shopping on Rue Lepic

Next, you’ll stroll down Rue Lepic, a street famous for its local shops that make cooking in France so special. Here, PJ shows you how to shop like a chef, including how to read French labels and what to look for in quality products. We loved the way this part of the tour turns shopping into an art—no more wandering aimlessly past stores, now you’ll know what matters.

You’ll visit a shop that only sells French-made gastronomy products, and PJ’s insights help you understand their significance. It’s a chance to see the ingredients that make French cuisine so distinctive.

The Cheese, Wine, and Butcher Stops

Walking further down Rue des Abbesses, the heart of Montmartre’s food scene comes alive. You’ll visit a wine shop, a notable Parisian butcher, and a cheese seller who’s well-versed in French cheese regions and laws. You’ll learn how French cheese production is regulated and how to distinguish a good camembert from an average one.

Reviewers note that PJ’s expertise makes this part both educational and fun, with plenty of tasting opportunities. We particularly enjoyed the chance to learn about regional differences and the perfect wine pairings.

Windmill and Scenic Views

Next, you’ll see the iconic Windmill of Montmartre on Rue Tholozé, which offers a picturesque backdrop. PJ takes this opportunity to share stories about Montmartre’s artistic history, giving you context about the neighborhood’s vibrant past.

This is a short stop but one that adds a romantic vibe to the tour, with plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.

The Feast at Le Petit Moulin

Now, the highlight—the meal at Le Petit Moulin. This is where the tour’s culinary magic really kicks in. Expect classic French dishes like Coq au Vin or Beef Bourguignon, served with generous sides, and accompanied by wine or sparkling bubbles. The three-hour meal feels like a relaxed dinner with friends, with PJ sharing stories and insights about French cuisine.

One reviewer loved how PJ’s stories over wine made the experience memorable, saying it’s a “must-do in Paris.” We appreciated how the food was hearty, authentic, and beautifully presented, making this a true highlight.

Sweet Ending on Rue Lepic

After the main course, it’s time for dessert and bubbles. You’ll sample a Chouquette (French pastry) and finish with chocolates, pairing each bite with sparkling wine. The dessert tour is a perfect way to end, leaving everyone happily full and with a sweet smile.

Final Notes

The entire experience is designed to be relaxed and unhurried, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and chat. Being a small group, it’s easy to get personal attention, which many reviews highlight as a key benefit.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Local Flavors and Knowledge

PJ’s passion for Montmartre and French cuisine shines through every stop. His stories aren’t canned; they reflect a lifetime of love for the neighborhood and its culinary traditions. Guests frequently mention his humor, warmth, and deep knowledge.

Carefully Curated Food Tastings

From pastries and cheese to main dishes and desserts, the tour covers a broad spectrum of French food culture. The fact that all tastings are included means you can relax, knowing there are no hidden costs. This makes it a great value, especially considering the extensive meal at the end.

Educational yet Fun

Whether it’s learning how to read French labels, understanding wine laws, or hearing stories of Montmartre’s bohemian days, you’ll come away with more than just a full stomach. Reviews praise PJ’s ability to blend education and entertainment seamlessly.

An Intimate Experience

Limited to 10 travelers, the small-group setup creates a friendly, engaging atmosphere. Many guests report making new friends, sharing laughs, and feeling part of a local community rather than just travelers.

Potential Considerations

While the tour is praised for its rich content and personal touch, it requires advance booking—often booked 2 months ahead—so plan accordingly. Also, it’s a moderate walk, so travelers should be comfortable with some physical activity.

If you’re vegetarian or have food allergies, PJ offers special requests, but it’s best to mention these at booking. The tour ends back where it started, so transportation logistics are straightforward.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Neighborhood Walk

Starting outside the Blanche metro station, the tour begins with a friendly meet-and-greet. The initial 15-minute overview with a map sets the scene of Montmartre’s transformation from rustic village to artistic hub. Guests love the photo opportunity of the Moulin Rouge from the meeting point, a classic Parisian image.

Walking along Rue Lepic, you’ll see familiar sights and discover hidden gems—such as a store that only sells French-made products. Here, PJ explains how labels tell a story, helping you shop like a local for future visits or gifts.

Food Shop Visits

You’ll explore several shops, each with a focus on different ingredients. The wine store offers tastings, and PJ explains how French wines are made and tasted. The butcher is famous locally, and you’ll learn about French meat cuts and preparation. The cheese shop features a variety of regional cheeses, and PJ shares tips on distinguishing quality and regional specialties.

This part of the tour is especially loved by guests who want to understand French culinary culture beyond just eating, gaining skills to shop like a Parisian.

The Iconic Windmill

At the Rue Tholozé, the Montmartre Windmill provides a scenic backdrop and a sense of history. PJ shares stories about Montmartre’s bohemian past and its role in inspiring artists like Picasso and Dali. This is a short but meaningful stop that enriches the experience.

The Main Meal

Le Petit Moulin is where the tour’s culinary highlight unfolds. Expect French classics like Coq au Vin or Beef Bourguignon, prepared with fresh ingredients and served with rustic charm. Guests often comment on the generous portions and flavorful dishes.

With wines carefully paired to the meal, this portion feels like a casual dinner with friends rather than a formal tasting. PJ’s stories about French cooking techniques and regional specialties** add depth to the meal. Guests often mention how the experience feels authentic, with a chef who genuinely loves sharing his craft.

Sweet Endings

The dessert portion includes delicate pastries and chocolates, paired with sparkling wine. Many appreciate how this sweet finale leaves them satisfied but light enough to stroll around Montmartre afterward.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This food tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive culinary experience with local flavor, not just tastings but also learning how to shop and cook like a Parisian. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy small-group settings and appreciate stories and history woven into their food experiences.

While not a budget option, many guests find the value justifies the cost given the quality of food, wine, and the personalized attention from PJ.

Final Reflection

Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour offers an authentic, friendly, and delicious way to spend a day in Paris. You’ll not only taste incredible food but also gain insights into the neighborhood’s history, cuisine, and shopping secrets. It’s perfect for food lovers, curious explorers, and anyone wanting to connect more deeply with Montmartre’s character.

The tour’s small-group size, expert guide, and delicious variety of tastings make it a standout experience. Expect a warm, engaging atmosphere that turns a typical sightseeing day into a memorable culinary adventure.

If you’re ready to go beyond the usual tourist spots and truly savor Paris, this tour is a smart choice. Just remember to book early, come hungry, and prepare for a delightful day filled with stories, flavors, and new friends.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with some guests staying longer to enjoy the meal and desserts, making it a relaxing, leisurely experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Blanche metro station at 11:00 am and ends back at the same meeting point.

Are all food and drinks included?
Yes, all tastings, the main meal, and wine or sparkling beverages are included in the price, so you won’t need to pay extra during the tour.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Vegetarian options are available upon request. It’s best to inform PJ ahead of time to accommodate dietary needs.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves walking through Montmartre’s streets, but the pace is moderate. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a curious appetite, and a camera for the scenic views and photo opportunities.

Can I join if I have food allergies?
Yes, just message ahead with your allergies or dietary restrictions so PJ can accommodate you.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, travelers as young as 16 can join with parental permission for alcohol. Non-alcoholic beverages are available upon request.

To sum it up, Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour delivers a delightful mix of culinary education, authentic flavors, and local stories. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a deep dive into Parisian life through its food and history, all within a friendly small-group setting. Expect to leave not just full but also inspired and more connected to this magical neighborhood.