This century-old abandoned station in Paris hides a secret restaurant on the Petite Ceinture.

Imagine dining in an old abandoned train station, where time seems to stand still. In Paris, this dream becomes reality thanks to an unusual venue. The Petite Ceinture, that forgotten railroad line, is brought back to life in an unexpected form.

Le Poinçon, a restaurant like no other

Le Poinçon is located in the former Charonne station on the Petite Ceinture. This historic building dates back to 1852 and closed its doors to passenger traffic in 1934. Since then, it has been waiting for a second life.

Chef Pierre Music has transformed the place into a unique gastronomic address. His career took him to some of the world’s top restaurants before he settled here. He offers creative, accessible French cuisine.

The ambience blends industrial charm with convivial warmth. The old railroad tracks are still visible from the terrace. And the original bricks stand side by side with a modern, well-appointed decor.

“Eating here is like traveling back in time while savoring the present.”

A menu that celebrates the terroir

The menu changes with the seasons to respect fresh produce. So you can enjoy a fragrant beet tart or a fillet of pollack cooked to perfection. Each dish tells a simple, gourmet story.

Desserts are no exception. Chocolate mousse is a must. On the other hand, prices remain affordable for this quality of cuisine.

• Historic setting in a 19th-century railway station
• Terrace overlooking the old tracks
• Seasonal French cuisine
• A warm, relaxed atmosphere
• Ideal address for a romantic dinner

The Little Belt, a little-known Parisian heritage

The Petite Ceinture forms a 32-kilometer loop around Paris. This former railway line served the outlying districts of the capital. At its peak, it carried up to 39 million passengers a year.

This infrastructure now attracts the curious and history-lovers alike. Some sections are accessible to the public in the form of planted promenades. As a result, nature has reclaimed its rightful place on the abandoned tracks.

Several railway stations have been converted into living spaces. Bars, restaurants and cultural spaces occupy these preserved buildings. This transformation illustrates the capital’s urban renewal.

Le Poinçon is part of this wave of rehabilitation. It offers a unique experience for locals and visitors alike. It also helps to raise awareness of this forgotten railway heritage.

How to get to Le Poinçon

The restaurant is located at 102 rue de Bagnolet, in the 20th arrondissement of Paris. The nearest metro station is Alexandre Dumas on line 2. A few minutes’ walk will take you to this hidden address.

Reservations are recommended, especially at weekends. The terrace is very popular in fine weather. The venue is also available for private events.

A memorable experience

Dining at Le Poinçon is much more than just a meal. The unique atmosphere transports diners to a secret, authentic Paris. Walls steeped in history add an emotional dimension to every bite.

Customer reviews emphasize the quality of the service and the originality of the setting. Many return to experience this very special atmosphere. So word-of-mouth is working like a charm.

This type of venue embodies a strong trend in the capital. Transforming heritage into a living space creates social ties. At the same time, it preserves collective memory and brings it to life.

Le Poinçon proves that Paris knows how to reinvent its past with elegance. This former train station has found a new vocation. It’s a reminder that the best surprises are often hidden where you least expect them.

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