Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour

A Taste of Montmartre: An Honest Review of Chef PJ’s Food Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Paris and looking for a way to experience the city’s culinary soul beyond the typical restaurant scene, Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour offers a compelling option. This five-hour excursion is designed for food lovers eager to explore Paris’s most charming neighborhood with a local guide who’s as passionate about food as he is about sharing Montmartre’s stories.

What we love about this tour is how it combines tasty bites with cultural insights. You won’t just sample delicious pastries and cheeses—you’ll also learn how and where the real Parisian ingredients are sourced. Plus, the relaxed small-group setting makes the experience personal and friendly.

One potential drawback is that this tour is quite full of food and activities, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness who can comfortably walk for a few hours. Also, since the tour ends with a generous feast, travelers should avoid heavy meals beforehand.

This experience is perfect for culinary enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting an authentic taste of Montmartre’s lively community. If you’re after a fun, educational, and deeply flavorful day, this tour could become one of your trip’s highlights.

Key Points

• Authentic Montmartre Experience: Guided by a local chef who knows the neighborhood inside out.
• Comprehensive Food & Drink Tasting: From pastries and cheese to wines and hearty French dishes.
• Educational & Entertaining: Learn how to shop like a Parisian chef, read food labels, and appreciate French wines.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Intimate enough for personalized attention and new friends.
• All-Inclusive: Food, drinks, and lessons included—no extra spending needed.
• Cultural Insights: Discover Montmartre’s history and how its famous landmarks tie into the local food scene.

Exploring the Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

Meeting Point: Place De Clichy

The tour kicks off at a straightforward spot outside the metro station, which is great for travelers arriving via public transit. Our hosts provide a map of Paris and begin with a lively overview of how Montmartre grew into the artistic and culinary hub it is today. The iconic Moulin Rouge is visible from the starting point—perfect for snapping a photo to remember your day.

What’s special? This initial stop isn’t just about photos—it’s about setting the scene for the neighborhood’s charm. Plus, the proximity to public transportation makes it easy to join the tour without stress.

Rue Lepic: Shopping Like a Chef

From there, we walk down Rue Lepic, where you’ll see a variety of shops that help local chefs prepare their dishes. One highlight is a store that sells only French-made gastronomy products, which is a treasure trove for culinary nerds. Here, Chef PJ shows how to read food labels, giving you practical knowledge you can use in your own kitchen.

Reviewers praise this part for its educational value; “we learned how to shop like a chef” was a common comment. It adds a depth of understanding to your trip, transforming a typical shopping stroll into a culinary lesson.

Rue des Abbesses: The Heart of Montmartre’s Food Scene

This lively shopping street is where the tour truly shines. You’ll visit a wine store, the most famous butcher in Paris, and a cheese seller where you can learn about the different French cheese regions and laws. Expect to sample a variety of cheeses, and perhaps pick up some tips on what makes each region unique.

Authentic shopping experience is the key here. According to reviews, PJ’s storytelling about cheese regions and French laws makes this more than just a tasting—it’s a mini course in French gastronomy.

Rue Tholozé: Windmills and Culinary Traditions

Next, we see the famous Montmartre windmill, a picturesque spot that’s instantly recognizable. Following this, the tour moves to Chef PJ’s restaurant, where the feast begins.

What makes this part memorable? It’s the transition from sightseeing to tasting, with the anticipation building as you head into the restaurant for a full meal.

The Feast at Le Petit Moulin

This is the heart of the tour, where you settle in for a multi-course meal featuring some of Paris’s classic dishes like beef bourguignon or coq au vin. The food is all-inclusive, and Chef PJ’s approach is warm and personable—he often shares stories about the dishes and their significance.

Guests rave about the quality and authenticity of the food. “You won’t leave hungry,” one reviewer cheers, and many note how the meal is an excellent value considering it includes a substantial lunch, wine, and dessert. It’s more than just a tasting; it’s a genuine meal that feels like dining with friends.

Rue Lepic: Sweet Endings and Bubbles

The tour wraps up with more sweets and champagne, including chouquettes and chocolates. It’s a perfect way to finish, providing a sweet contrast to the savory meal and a chance to unwind and chat. The relaxed atmosphere and the shared experience make this part especially enjoyable—“the group became friends,” according to many reviews.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

A Guide Who Knows Montmartre Inside Out

Chef PJ is praised repeatedly for his knowledgeable storytelling, warmth, and ability to connect with his guests. One review calls him “incredibly knowledgeable, funny, and full of great stories,” which elevates a simple food tour into a memorable cultural experience. His background as a chef and local makes him a credible, passionate guide who genuinely cares about showcasing the neighborhood.

A Well-Rounded Food Journey

Unlike some tours that focus narrowly on just one type of cuisine, this experience offers a full spectrum of Parisian flavors—pastries, cheeses, wines, hearty mains, and desserts. That variety keeps the tour lively and satisfying.

Authenticity and Community

Many reviews mention how PJ’s deep connection with Montmartre’s community shines through. “Everyone in the neighborhood knows PJ,” one guest writes, which adds a layer of authenticity that’s hard to find in larger, more commercial tours.

The All-Inclusive Price

At $166.15 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. Food, wine, instruction, and a substantial meal are included—no hidden costs. For travelers wanting a hassle-free experience that covers a full meal and drinks, this is an excellent investment.

Ideal for Food and Culture Enthusiasts

This tour isn’t just about eating; it’s about understanding what makes French cuisine unique and how Montmartre’s culture influences its food. If you’re curious about French ingredients, wine laws, or local shopping customs, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Considering the Experience: Who Will Love It?

This tour targets food lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers who enjoy engaging stories along with their meals. It’s perfect for those who want to see Montmartre beyond the tourist spots and feel part of the community.

Families or groups of friends looking for a shared experience will appreciate the small-group setting—many reviews mention making new friends.

Because the tour ends with a full feast, it’s ideal for those with a moderate appetite. Travelers with food allergies or vegetarians can request options, but it’s wise to communicate in advance.

If you’re after a quick snack or a quick overview of Paris’s food scene, this isn’t the right choice; it’s a full, immersive experience that takes time and a sense of adventure.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For those eager to understand Montmartre’s culinary traditions while enjoying delicious, authentic food in a friendly atmosphere, Chef PJ’s Food Tour hits the mark. It’s clear from reviews that PJ’s warmth and knowledge turn a simple tasting into a memorable cultural adventure. The convenience of all-inclusive pricing and the variety of experiences—shopping, tasting, and storytelling—make it a compelling option for anyone wanting to dive deeper into Parisian life.

This tour really shines for foodies seeking a hands-on, genuine taste of local ingredients and dishes. If you’re traveling with a flexible schedule, enjoy walking, and love learning about local customs through food, this experience will not disappoint.

However, those with limited mobility or strict dietary restrictions should communicate in advance. Also, keep in mind the tour is popular, often booked 61 days ahead, so planning early is wise.

In the end, it offers a blend of education, culture, and outstanding cuisine—all within a cozy, intimate setting. For an authentic slice of Montmartre life, this tour delivers more than just a meal; it offers a story you’ll want to remember long after you leave Paris.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Vegetarian options are available upon request, but it’s best to contact the provider beforehand to ensure your dietary needs are met.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately five hours, but many guests find it closer to seven hours because of the extensive food and drink included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Blanche, outside the metro station, and finishes back at the same meeting point, making transportation simple.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, and minors of 16+ can participate with parental permission for alcohol. Non-alcoholic beverages can be requested.

What’s included in the price?
All snacks, lunch, alcoholic beverages, wine lessons, tastings, and a dessert tour are covered. Tips are not included but appreciated.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if your travel plans shift.

Do I need to book in advance?
Absolutely. The tour is popular, booked on average 61 days in advance, so booking early ensures you secure a spot in this memorable culinary adventure.