Le Bon Bock: Montmartre’s oldest restaurant, between absinthe, frescoes and artists’ memories

In the 18th arrondissement, a historic address brings the Belle Époque back to life. Founded in 1879, Le Bon Bock has seen the likes of Manet, Picasso and Van Gogh.

Perched on the hilltop of Montmartre, Le Bon Bock is the oldest restaurant still in operation in the neighborhood. Open since 1879, this confidential spot has stood the test of time without losing its soul. And if the name still doesn’t ring a bell, you should know that it was once the secret haunt of the most illustrious artists: Édouard Manet, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso and Guillaume Apollinaire came here to drink, chat and remake the world… over a glass of absinthe, of course.

A plunge into the Belle Époque

Behind its unassuming façade at 2 rue Dancourt, you’ll find a wealth of Montmartre history. As soon as you step inside, you’re transported to a period setting: weathered woodwork, frescoed murals, old paintings, dimmed chandeliers and a thousand vintage objects that tell the story of the place. The charm is immediate.

Today, Benjamin Moréel and Christopher Prêchez have taken over the institution, after their acclaimed stint at Petit Bouillon Pharamond. Their mission: to preserve the authenticity of the place while delighting palates. And they’ve succeeded.

A classic, generous menu

The cuisine remains faithful to French tradition. Don’t miss the duck with Suzette sauce, melt-in-your-mouth tasty, or the Normandy prime rib to share, a true moment of conviviality. For dessert, creamy cabbage sprinkled with caramelized hazelnuts will win you over.

Piano-voice evenings and legendary absinthe

When night falls, the Bon Bock reveals another facet: the piano at the back of the room becomes the beating heart of intimate evenings. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, piano-vocal concerts are organized here – sometimes planned, sometimes improvised by guests. The soft, hushed ambience evokes the bohemian evenings of Montmartre’s past.

And of course, it’s impossible to leave without tasting the absinthe, which is always served according to the rules of the art.

Practical info – Le Bon Bock

📍 2 rue Dancourt, 75018 Paris
🕓 Wednesday to Sunday 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
🕛 Saturday & Sunday continuous service 12 noon to 11:30 p.m.

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