How To Spend 24 Hours in Pigalle, Paris

Inspired by the burgeoning coffee scene, Nicolas Piégay opened KB Café Shop, formerly known as Kooka Burra, in 2010. One of Pigalle’s best-kept secrets, the café also serves up a selection of pastries, as well as a Sunday morning brunch. Order an AeroPress coffee and people-watch from your spot on the terrace.

While Pigalle might not have quite as many museums and galleries as its neighbour Montmartre, there are some museums that are well worth ticking off your bucket list. The Musée de la Vie Romantique specialises in Romanticism and, in particular, the works of George Sand.

For a unique museum experience, head over to the PHONO Museum. A clear labour of love from curator Jalal Aro, this museum displays a huge collection of restored vintage gramophones, some of which have made appearances in films like Inglorious Basterds, La Mome and Midnight in Paris.

With some beautiful, independent boutiques lining the streets of Pigalle, it’s well worth dodging the tourist traps and seeking out a souvenir from here instead. Vintage lovers will love Noblase, one of Pigalle’s best-kept secrets. Spend some time digging through the treasures on offer and find a one-of-a-kind keepsake to take home.

If your tastes lean towards more of a classic French style, the A.P.C. Surplus store is worth a visit as it offers 50% off past collections.

Finally, for an unusual memento of your day in Pigalle, browse the homewares and gifts at concept store Super Shop, featuring independent designers such as Léa Maupetit, Charly James and Pâquerettes.

After shopping, head to Brussels Beer Project for a refreshing brew. Tucked away down one of Pigalle’s side streets, the warm, spacious bar is perfect for beer snobs or anyone looking to try a brew with an authentic twist. The experienced “beeristas” are happy to help you find your perfect beer (which is also available for takeaway). Try the Baby Lone, the first beer brewed with recycled bread, or the Jungle Joy, created with notes of passionfruit and mango.

Before hitting the town, line your stomach with some wholesome, barbecue meats at Flesh. Californian-born chef Simon Lewis has been serving up his spin on American classics since 2014, a favourite being the smoked ribs that are cooked for seven hours. For dinner, you’re also able to get cocktails expertly matched to your meal.

A visit to Pigalle would be incomplete without visiting the infamous Moulin Rouge. The red windmill opened in 1889 as a cabaret and is the birthplace of the can-can. These days, the Moulin Rouge stays true to its cabaret roots, with amazing performances held nightly. Even if you don’t stop to see the showgirls, it’s still worth walking past to see the building lit up at night.

It’s no secret that Pigalle is well known for its nightlife, being host to some of the best cocktail bars in Paris. Head to Dirty Dick in the heart of Pigalle for a signature cocktail served by a barman in a Hawaiian shirt. There’s also a heavy emphasis on rum, with 55 different varieties on offer.

After Dirty Dick, visit Glass. The team at Quixotic Projects have created a cool space, and as one of the few bars in the area open until 5am, it’s a perfect place to end the night. Try a Boilermaker, a shot followed by a beer, or one of their signature cocktails like the Tattoo You, a mix of mezcal, ginger, grapefruit, lime and beer. Hotdogs and pickles are served up as beer snacks.