Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour

Explore Montmartre with Chef PJ on a 5-Hour Food and Wine Tour

Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour offers an in-depth look into one of Paris’s most beloved neighborhoods. Priced at $166.15 per person, this 5-hour experience takes groups through the charming streets of Montmartre, guided by a local chef with a wealth of knowledge and lively storytelling. The tour is designed for those eager to learn about Parisian cuisine, culture, and history while indulging in authentic foods and wines.

This tour is perfect for food lovers who want more than just tasting; it’s a curated journey that combines culinary delights with cultural insights. The small-group setting, limited to 10 travelers, ensures personalized attention from Chef PJ, making it a flexible and engaging experience. Expect a lively pace, with plenty of opportunities to sample French cheeses, wines, pastries, hearty dishes, and desserts, all included in the price.

A key highlight is the tour’s emphasis on local food shops that visitors might otherwise overlook, offering a genuine taste of Montmartre’s vibrant food scene. It starts at 11:00 am from a convenient meeting point near the Blanche metro station, making it easy to access via public transportation. Though the tour lasts approximately 5 hours, some guests note it can extend up to almost 7 hours, especially with the generous feast at the end.

Key Points

• Authentic Montmartre experience led by Chef PJ, a passionate local guide.
• Includes all food and drinks, covering pastries, cheese, wine, and a substantial meal like beef bourguignon.
• Visit key neighborhood spots: Rue des Abbesses, Rue Lepic, and the Windmill of Montmartre.
• Learn about French wine and cheese laws during tastings and lessons.
• End with a feast and dessert stroll featuring bubbles, chocolates, and pastries.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and interaction.

Starting Point and Practical Details

The tour departs from Blanche, close to Paris public transportation options, at 11:00 am. It begins with a brief introduction at the Place de Clichy, where the group can photograph the Moulin Rouge and review a map of Montmartre’s history. The easy-to-find meeting point makes the start straightforward, and the tour concludes back at the original location.

Group size is capped at 10 travelers, fostering an intimate and lively atmosphere. The mobile ticket simplifies access, and the tour operates rain or shine, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. Vegetarian options are available upon request, and travelers with food allergies should message the provider in advance.

Visiting Montmartre’s Food Shops and Landmarks

The tour’s first stops include Rue Lepic, where visitors learn how to shop like a chef, and a store dedicated exclusively to French gastronomy products. The guide explains how to read food labels and understand the importance of French culinary laws.

Next, on Rue Des Abbesses, guests visit a renowned wine store, the most famous butcher in Paris, and a cheese seller. This part offers insights into French cheese regions and regulations, adding depth to tasting sessions. The tour highlights local culinary craftsmanship that is often missed by travelers exploring independently.

The Windmill of Montmartre on Rue Tholozé serves as a scenic backdrop before the group heads to Le Petit Moulin for the main feast. This is where Chef PJ showcases dishes such as Coq au Vin or Beef Bourguignon, paired with French wines, and shares stories about the dishes’ significance.

Later, on Rue Lepic, the journey continues with a dessert stroll featuring chouquettes, chocolates, and bubbly, culminating in a sweet finale to the culinary adventure. The focus here is on pairing sweets with sparkling wine, elevating the tasting experience.

Chef PJ’s Expertise and Engaging Style

Chef PJ is praised repeatedly for his knowledgeable, funny, and warm personality. His ability to weave stories about French culture, food, and Montmartre into the tour makes the experience more memorable. Guests mention his passion for local ingredients and his willingness to share insights into French wine and cheese laws, turning tasting sessions into mini-lectures that are both educational and entertaining.

He also shows genuine care for dietary needs, with vegetarian options available and food allergies accommodated upon message. His local reputation is evident, as many reviews highlight how well-connected he is within the Montmartre community, often recognized and loved by locals.

The Food and Wine Experience

Throughout the tour, guests indulge in a variety of authentic foods. From pastries and cheeses to a hearty beef bourguignon or Coq au Vin, the meals reflect traditional French cooking. All food and alcoholic beverages are included, so there’s no need to pay separately at each stop.

The wine lesson and tastings stand out as a highlight. Visitors learn how to savor French wines correctly and understand French wine laws, adding a layer of appreciation to the tasting. The dessert tour with sparkling bubbles and chocolates provides a sweet finishing touch, with many noting that they leave full and happy.

Pacing, Duration, and Overall Value

While the listed 5-hour duration sets expectations, some guests mention that the tour extends to nearly 7 hours, especially when taking time for the substantial feast at Le Petit Moulin. The generous portions ensure guests leave satisfied and well-fed, often feeling like they have experienced two full meals plus desserts.

The value for money stands out, given that all snacks, lunch, drinks, and dessert are included. Guests consistently rate the tour 5 out of 5 for the personalized attention, quality of food, and knowledgeable guide. The small-group size enhances the experience, fostering relaxed conversations and a sense of camaraderie.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies eager to explore Montmartre’s culinary scene with a passionate local guide. It suits those willing to walk and stand for several hours, with moderate physical fitness recommended. The tour’s inclusive approach makes it accessible for vegetarians and those with food allergies.

Guests who enjoy learning about wine, cheese, and local culture will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s not suited for those looking for a quick sightseeing trip—this is a deep dive into food and culture, with plenty of tasting and storytelling.

Final Thoughts on Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour

This tour offers a delicious and authentic taste of Montmartre, guided by a chef who genuinely loves sharing his neighborhood. Its combination of culinary education, local history, and hearty feasts makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking a comprehensive, fun, and tasty experience in Paris.

While the price reflects the all-inclusive nature and small-group intimacy, the length of the experience and the quality of food and wine deliver considerable value. Chef PJ’s warmth and expertise elevate the tour beyond simple tasting, creating a memorable journey through Montmartre’s culinary heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, and guests should message in advance to accommodate specific food allergies.

What is included in the price?
All snacks, lunch, alcoholic beverages, wine tastings, and desserts are included. Tips for guides are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The official duration is 5 hours, but some guests find it extends to nearly 7 hours due to the generous feast at Le Petit Moulin and relaxed pace.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Blanche near Paris’s public transport and concludes back at the same location, with easy access to transportation options.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The small-group setting, local chef guide, all-inclusive tasting, and focus on Montmartre’s hidden culinary gems set this experience apart, praised repeatedly for its authenticity and warm atmosphere.