Le Moulin de la Galette: A Living Legend
Of the 14 windmills that once graced the hill of Montmartre until the 19th century, only the Moulin de la Galette remains in working order. This historic site comprises two windmills: Moulin Radet (1717) and Moulin Blutte-fin (1625). While Moulin Blutte-fin is no longer operational, Moulin Radet was entirely rebuilt in 1760 and transformed into an open-air café in 1834.
The place has been immortalized by many renowned artists, including Renoir, Picasso, Toulouse Lautrec, and Van Gogh. Recently, under new ownership and with a new chef, the venerable old place has undergone extensive refurbishment and now boasts a phenomenal new lease of life, blending traditional and contemporary styles in a chic bistro ambiance.
Culinary Excellence at Moulin de la Galette
Anthony Detemmermann, the new chef at Moulin de la Galette, emphasizes the importance of quality produce and seasonal sourcing. Having worked under Nicolas Beaumann at the Michel Rostang (2 Michelin stars), Anthony sources his products locally from artisan producers, ensuring the cuisine is both authentic and environmentally sustainable. The restaurant offers:
Daily specials:
- Main course: €16
- Two courses: €23
- Three-course menu: €29
À la carte menu:
- Entrées: €11 to €17
- Mains: €22 to €30
- Desserts: €9 to €12
One standout dish is the poached Marans hen’s egg with cream of onion and pan-fried horn of plenty mushrooms (€12). For mains, the cœur d’entrecôte d’argentine steak, cooked over natural charcoal in a Josper oven, delivers a smoky flavor and melt-in-the-mouth texture. The dessert menu includes a delightful meringue tarte au citron (€11).
The restaurant also boasts a well-stocked cellar with 150 different wines, ranging from €25 to €150 per bottle, and wines by the glass from €5.
Dining Experience and Atmosphere
Dining at Le Moulin de la Galette is a memorable experience, especially if you book in advance to enjoy one of the two charming terraces, one situated around the base of the windmill, giving a countryside feel. The restaurant, just a few minutes’ walk from the Relais Montmartre, offers top-class cuisine at very reasonable prices. Open daily from 12:00 to 2:30 and 7:30 to 10:30, it’s a legendary place in a pleasant location. Key details include:
- Address: 83 Rue Lepic, 75018 Paris
- Telephone: +33(0)146068477
- Opening hours: Daily from 12:00 to 2:30 and 7:30 to 10:30
Overall, Le Moulin de la Galette stands as a testament to the rich history of Montmartre, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern culinary excellence.
