Le Maquis

Tucked away in the winding streets of Montmartre, Le Maquis is a delightfully traditional Parisian bistro that somehow manages to feel both timeless and surprising. With its classic zinc bar, tiled floors, and warmly lit dining room, this neighborhood gem transports you to the Paris of your imagination—the kind of place where locals linger over wine and conversation seems to flow as freely as the Côtes du Rhône.

During lunch hours, the kitchen stays true to its roots, turning out impeccably executed French classics. Think silky leek vinaigrette, perfectly burnished roast chicken, and all the comforting dishes that have made bistro cuisine an enduring art form. But come evening, Le Maquis reveals its more adventurous side with a seven-course chef’s tasting menu that draws inspiration from culinary traditions around the world. One night might bring delicate steamed langoustines with a kick of habanero mayo, followed by a communal tureen of rustic bean and cabbage soup. The next course could surprise you with veal sweetbreads dressed in tonnato sauce or expertly crafted mackerel sushi.

This is the kind of restaurant that rewards the curious eater—particularly those who aren’t squeamish about offal or unfamiliar preparations. Gather a few open-minded friends, spring for the wine pairing, and settle in for an evening that unfolds at a leisurely pace. The atmosphere is convivial without being rowdy, intimate without feeling cramped.

For those seeking something beyond the typical tourist-trap brasseries, Le Maquis offers a genuinely memorable dining experience in one of Paris’s most storied neighborhoods. Whether you pop in for a quick weekday lunch or commit to the full evening adventure, you’ll leave understanding why this unassuming spot has earned such devoted regulars.