La Mère Catherine

Nestled in the heart of Montmartre, the charming village within Paris, you'll find the venerable French restaurant, "La Mère Catherine." With a history dating back to the 18th century, this restaurant offers a taste of true French tradition, boasting an authentic atmosphere, and a delectable menu that includes classic dishes such as Gros Escargots de Bourgogne, Soupe à l’Oignon Gratinée au Cantal, Confit de Canard et Son Gratin Dauphinois, and much more.

A Glimpse into History

La Mère Catherine's story is steeped in history, much like the cobblestone streets of Montmartre itself. Founded in 1793 during the French Revolution, this restaurant was a meeting place for artists, poets, and revolutionaries of the time. The restaurant's unique name, "La Mère Catherine," comes from its original owner, Catherine Lemoine, who was affectionately known as "Mother Catherine" by the locals.

Throughout its long history, La Mère Catherine has remained a symbol of Montmartre's artistic and cultural heritage. It is said that renowned artists like Toulouse-Lautrec, Van Gogh, and Utrillo found inspiration within its cozy walls. The ambiance of this restaurant echoes with stories of creativity, making it a must-visit for anyone with a love for art and history.

A Charming Atmosphere

Stepping into La Mère Catherine is like entering a time capsule, and you can feel there the Boheme and artistic spirit of Montmartre.

Indoor Comfort

As you step inside the restaurant, you're enveloped in the warmth of rustic décor, with exposed wooden beams, checkered tablecloths, and vintage artwork adorning the walls.

The inviting glow of antique lamps adds to the cozy ambiance.

Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner for two, a family gathering, or a special celebration, the indoor seating area ensures a comfortable and authentic dining experience. The classic French table settings exude a timeless elegance, making every meal a memorable occasion.

The Outdoor Spaces

The charm of La Mère Catherine doesn't end with its indoor spaces. If the weather is good and if you want to feel the vibrant atmosphere of Place du Tertre, you can enjoy your lunch time on the restaurant's terrace.

The restaurant also boasts an extensive secret outdoor area at the back, a delightful surprise that sets it apart from the crowd. This hidden gem is the perfect setting for gatherings, work events, or simply enjoying the fresh Parisian air. Tucked away from the bustling streets of Montmartre, this secluded spot provides a serene retreat where you can dine, socialize, or work in a unique and picturesque environment. Whether under the daytime sun or the twinkling stars of the night, the outdoor space at La Mère Catherine adds an enchanting dimension to your dining experience.

A Culinary Journey

La Mère Catherine's menu is a testament to the enduring appeal of French cuisine. The restaurant's chef has masterfully crafted a selection of dishes that pay homage to traditional French recipes. Here's a glimpse of some of the exquisite offerings:

Gros Escargots de Bourgogne

Begin your culinary journey with plump Burgundy snails, a true delicacy. These escargots are gently sautéed in garlic and parsley butter, offering a delicate, earthy flavor that's both rich and tender, a French classic to tantalize your taste buds.

Soupe à l’Oignon Gratinée au Cantal

Dive into a bowl of comfort with the Soupe à l’Oignon. Sweet caramelized onions simmered in hearty beef broth, crowned with a melted Cantal cheese crust, providing a warm and savory embrace for your senses.

Salade d'Endives - Noix, Bleu d'Auvergne

This endive salad is a delightful mix of crisp and tender. It pairs the slight bitterness of endive with the crunch of walnuts and the creamy, tangy flavor of Blue d'Auvergne cheese, creating a harmonious, palate-pleasing salad.

Tartare de Bœuf Mère Catherine, Frites

Savor the simplicity and elegance of a classic beef tartare. Hand-chopped, seasoned, and served with crispy French fries, it's a true showcase of the French culinary art, combining freshness and bold flavors.

Confit de Canard et Son Gratin Dauphinois

Duck confit, prepared to tender perfection, accompanied by a creamy Dauphinois potato gratin, offering a delicious juxtaposition of crispy skin and succulent, flavorful meat.

Bavette à l’Échalote, Frites

A bavette steak, cooked to your preference, is enriched with a savory shallot sauce and paired with golden, thin-cut French fries, making for a dish that's a treat for both your palate and your senses.

Pavé de Saumon Confit Basse Température, Sauce Tartare et Son Gratin Dauphinois

Enjoy a carefully slow-cooked salmon fillet, accompanied by a zesty tartare sauce, and served with the delectable Dauphinois potato gratin, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Poulet Fermier Rôti Mère Catherine, Pommes Frites

A perfectly roasted farm chicken, golden and succulent, is complemented by a generous serving of crisp, golden French fries, making for a classic and satisfying French meal.

Decadent Desserts

A French lunch or dinner cannot end without a sweet touch. Conclude your dining experience at la Mère Catherine with a choice of sumptuous desserts. 

The Crème Brûlée à la Fleur d’Oranger offers a creamy, caramelized indulgence, while the Mousse au Chocolat promises a velvety, chocolatey delight. The Profiteroles Maison are an irresistible treat, featuring choux pastry filled with ice cream and drizzled with old-fashioned chocolate sauce.

Discovering Montmartre: A Village of Artistic Heritage

Before embarking on your journey to La Mère Catherine, it's worth taking a moment to appreciate the unique neighborhood of Montmartre. Nestled atop a hill in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, Montmartre is renowned for its artistic heritage, historic charm, and breathtaking views of the city. It was once home to luminaries like Picasso, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Van Gogh, who found inspiration in its quaint streets and iconic landmarks like the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur.

Just a short stroll from the Basilica lies Place du Tertre, a bustling square that has been a haven for artists for generations. Here, you can watch local artists at work, peruse their creations, and even commission your own portrait. The square's charming outdoor cafés provide an ideal spot to enjoy a coffee while immersing yourself in the creative atmosphere.

How to get to La Mère Catherine?

Getting to La Mère Catherine is made easy by the efficient Parisian Metro system.

Metro line 2：By taking line 2, often referred to as the "blue line", which connects several key areas of Paris. Exit the metro at the "Anvers station", you'll find yourself at the foot of the iconic hill.

From Anvers, the walk up the hill is an integral part of the Montmartre experience, providing flimpses of art, culture and history along the way. Of course, if you have any difficulty climbing up the stairs, there's an alternative way - the funicular. 

Metro line 12：If you prefer to access Montmartre via line 12, which is also convenient. Take line 12, known as the "green line", alight at the "Abbesses station", which is nestled in the heart of Montmartre, when you exit the station, the famous "Wall of Love" is just a stone's throw away.

La Mère Catherine's culinary offerings promise an authentic taste of France, prepared with love and attention to detail.

In summary, La Mère Catherine stands as a symbol of Montmartre's artistic legacy and a guardian of French culinary traditions. With a rich history, a charming ambiance, and a menu that embodies the essence of French cuisine, a visit to this iconic restaurant is an opportunity to savor the past and present of France in the heart of Montmartre.

Photos & Author : O'bon Paris Team