Nonsense: a hidden, cabaret-style cocktail bar tucked away on the Place du Tertre.

Every time you stroll through Montmartre and its iconic place du Tertre, you pass right by without noticing. Hidden beneath the Maison Bohème hotel, just beside the renowned restaurant from the early 20th century, is a charming cocktail bar with a boudoir-style ambiance. Inspired by the jazz clubs of the 1920s, it’s a place where you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails or savor delicious dishes by Julien Sebbag, all while listening to the performances of visiting musicians.

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Hidden behind a neon-lit facade that glows from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Wednesdays and Sundays, and until 4 a.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, guests descend a velvet staircase to uncover what was once an iconic cabaret in Montmartre. Until recently, it was only available for private events, but it has now undergone a vibrant renaissance. Far from forgetting its storied past, Nonsense blends a diverse crowd—adorning the glow of glamour and those simply looking for a drink in a lively, nostalgic setting.

In a spacious, low-ceilinged room with a rococo vibe, bathed in deep reds and gilded details, guests settle in near the stage area on round chairs—more suited to chatting over cocktails than enjoying a meal. Mesmerized, they watch the undulating glow of serpentine light fixtures, the fan-shaped mirrors, and the fringed velvet upholstery of the chairs, transported to another era filled with dreams.

Hidden from prying eyes, according to the schedule, an evening designed as a launchpad for young musicians awaits — spanning from 1920 to 2025, from rock to jazz, from soul to house, capturing the spirit of New Orleans and Paris alike. All you need to do is pick your night and your genre to immerse yourself in sounds that are rare elsewhere, gathered in Montmartre — unless you’d rather indulge in a late-night improvisation theatre session, with a cocktail in hand.

Among the selection, which ranges from 15 to 18 euros, Lethis stands out with its striking blue hue. Crafted with gin infused with rosemary, complemented by violet and cherry liqueurs, this cocktail offers a highly floral experience where the violet flavor truly takes center stage.

As for the Nerola Pimm's, with hints of kumquat and grapefruit, it's perfect if you're not a fan of a strong alcoholic taste. Light and bubbly, almost like a citrus soda, it's as delightful as the friendly service that keeps a smile on your face all evening.

While it's tempting to picture finger foods in such a setting, Chef Julien Sebbag has opted for a surprising approach with full dishes instead. The menu is intentionally curated with a small selection of refined, high-quality options, priced from 7 to 36 euros. You also have the choice to order dishes designed to be shared.

We chose the (€16), served very fresh with a briny kick. It’s complemented by fennel, which adds a subtle aniseed note, while pomegranate seeds burst with flavor in every bite. Noisettes provide a crunchy contrast to the dish’s richness.