If you want to have lunch after a visit to Sacre-Coeur or simply want an oasis from crowds in the 18th arrondissement, La Maison Rose offers authentic French food in a beautiful setting.
La Maison Rose (“The Pink House”) has carved out its own space in the 18th arrondissement. Located at the corner of rue des Saules & rue de l’Abreuvoir, its pink exterior set against a block of white buildings is hard to miss. You can sit outside, on both sides of the street — just look for the pink tables — or inside: either way, you’ll enjoy an authentic French meal in relative quiet.
If you sit inside and enjoy the stucco walls with vintage artwork and lighting, don’t be surprised if you hear voices of the past whisper in your ear: the restaurant has been frequented by many artists over the years such as Pablo Picasso, Gertrude Stein, and Maurice Utrillo, who painted La Maison Rose before the second story was added.
La Maison Rose in Montmartre, painted by Maurice Utrillo before the second story was added.
There is something for everyone at La Maison Rose. Their offerings to savor include: Magret de canard (Duck breast), Escargot, Pork Tenderloin, Salmon, Roast Chicken with Rice, French Onion Soup, Spaghetti Bolognese, Nicoise Salad and Caesar Salad. Remember that Les Entrees are the American version of appetizers, so expect small portions. (Les Plats are Main Courses.) The restaurant also offers options suitable for children, such as a Cheeseburger with Frites (French Fries). Finish your meal with a sweet crepe, such as Creme Caramel, Mousse au Chocolat (Chocolate Mousse), au Nutella (Nutella), or avec Fraises (with Strawberries). If you want only a glass of wine with your meal, ask for un verre de vin (a glass of wine). Otherwise, you might get a pichet (pitcher) of wine.
One oddity: La Maison Rose does not take credit cards of any kind, only cash. There is an ATM not too far away.
Paris is pricey, and La Maison Rose is a respite from the crowds in the middle of a very touristy area. You’re paying not only for authentic French food, but for the haven of quiet. After walking all day, La Maison Rose is just the place to recharge before going on your next adventure — perhaps taking in a cabaret show at the nearby Lapin Agile.
La Maison Rose
2 rue de l’Abreuvoir
75018 Paris
01 42 57 66 75
Closest metros: Lamarck-Caulaincourt or Abbesses
Bon Appetit!
Photograph of La Maison Rose by CanStockPhoto. Image of Maurice Utrillo’s La Maison Rose painting found on Pinterest, CCBY 2.0.