Bistrot des Cinéastes: Wine and Cinema in Paris

At the foot of Montmartre Hill, just a stone’s throw from Place de Clichy, the Bistrot des Cinéastes is a favorite haunt for movie buffs and wine lovers alike. Let’s face it, the combination of “wine, food, and movies” is often a surefire recipe for a great evening.

Do you know where the Bistrot des Cinéastes comes from?

At Father Lathuille's, Edouard Manet

It has quite a history! In the 19th century, the Lathuille cabaret and guingette was in full swing. This inspiring venue welcomed some of the greatest artists, including the painter Manet, who painted a canvas there.

In 1906, the Cabaret became a café-concert where great singers like Maurice Chevallier performed. It wasn’t until 1996 that Le Cinéma de Cinéastes opened its doors, inaugurated by its patron, Fanny Ardant!

Le Cinéma des Cinéastes, a favorite spot for movie lovers

Behind its hipster, trendy facade, Le Cinéma des Cinéastes serves as a showcase for world cinema. It’s a place for gatherings, preview screenings, and other special events attended by the filmmakers themselves!

The Cinéma des Cinéastes features an art-house film lineup. No, these aren’t slow-paced, Chinese films with Polish subtitles. They’re lesser-known films that deserve attention because they deliver the biggest cinematic thrills!

For one evening, forget about American blockbusters and Coke, and discover this cultural gem that will have you wanting to chat over a drink after the show.

The “Wine, Dinner, and Movies” Package

This movie theater has a unique twist: no popcorn at the entrance, but wine on the way out! Just imagine: you step out of the theater, settle in at a bistro with your friends, and discuss the movie over a delicious charcuterie board and a nice bottle of wine!

What's on the menu at the Bistrot des Cinéastes?

The real twist lies in the names of the dishes! Each dish is paired with a movie, and the menu changes with the seasons. Pair Marcel Pagnol’s *The Baker’s Wife* with a platter of mountain sausages. Pair Yves Robert’s *Alexandre the Blessed* with duck foie gras seasoned with four spices… Here’s a delicious way to brush up on your film knowledge!

What do people drink at the Bistrot des cinéastes?

Le Bistrot des Cinéastes offers an extensive wine list, featuring fine selections from a wine merchant on Boulevard Beaumarchais. Several independent winemakers are highlighted, such as Château Ricardelel with its 2012 Alancade, a Mediterranean red wine with lovely notes of spice, menthol, and licorice.

Our favorite is the 2012 Sancerre Blanc from Domaine Jean Paul Picard—a fresh, very mineral-driven wine that pairs perfectly with goat cheese!

We asked Jérôme, the bartender, what his favorite wine was:

Jérôme, the bartender, and Charlotte

Jérôme: “This is the Viognier Vérité! A local white wine from Laurent Miquel.”

Fruits qu’on fit: Why do you like it so much? To have a nice evening and discuss a movie?

Jérôme: Yes, but mostly because it’s a wine full of freshness that goes down a treat after a long shift! (laughs)

Now that you know all that, what are you waiting for? Come fill your belly and your mind! 🙂

To be grouped:

Le Bistrot des Cinéastes
7 Avenue de Clichy, 75017 Paris
Monday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to midnight; dinner service from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Sundays: Brunch des Cinéastes from 12 PM to 6 PM. Service at 12 PM, 2 PM, and 4:30 PM.
Reservations recommended: 01 53 42 40 34