Paris, the City of Lights, is known for its world-class cuisine, luxurious patisseries, and gourmet restaurants. However, dining in Paris doesn’t have to break the bank. As a travel blogger passionate about exploring the culinary delights of this beautiful city, I’ve discovered that some of the best food experiences in Paris can be found in small, unassuming spots that offer delicious meals at affordable prices. Whether you’re a budget traveler or simply looking to save a few euros, here’s your guide to the best cheap food in Paris.
Why Paris is a Foodie’s Paradise
Before we dive into the best cheap eats in Paris, it’s important to understand why Paris is such a haven for food lovers. The city’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, influenced by both traditional French cuisine and the diverse cultures that make up its population. From freshly baked baguettes to savory crêpes, and from rich cheese to decadent pastries, Paris offers a gastronomic experience that caters to all tastes and budgets.
Where to Find the Best Cheap Food in Paris
Finding cheap food in Paris is easier than you might think. The city is dotted with small eateries, street vendors, and markets where you can enjoy authentic Parisian cuisine without spending a fortune. Here are some of the best places to find delicious and affordable food in Paris.
1. Crêpes: A Parisian Staple
No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in a crêpe. These thin pancakes can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making them a versatile and satisfying meal or snack.
Where to Go: Head to the Latin Quarter, especially around Rue Mouffetard, where you’ll find numerous crêperies offering both savory and sweet crêpes. For an authentic experience, try Chez Alain Miam Miam in the Marais, known for its massive and delicious crêpes.
What to Order: For a savory option, go for a crêpe filled with ham, cheese, and egg (known as a “crêpe complète”). If you’re in the mood for something sweet, a classic sugar and lemon crêpe or Nutella-filled crêpe will hit the spot.
Price: Expect to pay around €3-€6 for a crêpe, depending on the filling.
2. Baguette Sandwiches: A Quick and Affordable Meal
The baguette is a symbol of French culture, and it’s also the foundation of one of the most budget-friendly meals you can find in Paris: the baguette sandwich.
Where to Go: Look for local bakeries (boulangeries) or small sandwich shops. Le Petit Vendôme near Place Vendôme is a popular spot for hearty baguette sandwiches. Another great option is La Parisienne, which was awarded the title of the best baguette in Paris in 2016.
What to Order: A jambon-beurre (ham and butter) sandwich is a classic choice. For something more substantial, try a sandwich filled with roast beef, chicken, or tuna with fresh vegetables.
Price: Sandwiches typically range from €4 to €7, making them an affordable and filling option for lunch.
3. Falafel: A Taste of the Middle East in Paris
The Marais district in Paris is famous for its falafel shops, offering some of the best and cheapest Middle Eastern food in the city.
Where to Go: The most famous falafel spot is L’As du Fallafel on Rue des Rosiers. This legendary eatery often has a line out the door, but the wait is worth it for their flavorful falafel.
What to Order: The classic falafel sandwich is filled with crispy falafel balls, fresh vegetables, and tahini sauce, all wrapped in a warm pita.
Price: A falafel sandwich will set you back around €6-€7, making it a tasty and affordable meal option.
4. Street Food: Savor the Local Flavors
Paris is home to a growing street food scene, where you can find a variety of cuisines at affordable prices.
Where to Go: Street food markets like Marché des Enfants Rouges in the Marais and Le Marché Saint-Honoré are great places to explore different flavors. You’ll find everything from gourmet burgers to Vietnamese bánh mì sandwiches.
What to Order: Depending on your cravings, try a Moroccan tagine, a Vietnamese bánh mì, or a classic French tartiflette.
Price: Street food prices vary, but you can typically find meals for around €5-€10.
5. Croque-Monsieur: A French Classic
The croque-monsieur is a quintessential French sandwich made with ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce, grilled to perfection.
Where to Go: Most Parisian cafés offer croque-monsieur on their menu. For a particularly good version, try Le Comptoir du Relais in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area or Café de Flore for a classic Parisian experience.
What to Order: The traditional croque-monsieur is always a safe bet. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a croque-madame, which includes a fried egg on top.
Price: A croque-monsieur typically costs between €5 and €10, depending on the café.
6. Pâtisseries: Sweet Treats on a Budget
Paris is renowned for its pâtisseries, where you can indulge in a variety of pastries and desserts without breaking the bank.
Where to Go: Pierre Hermé and Ladurée are famous for their macarons, but if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, head to Maison Landemaine or Du Pain et des Idées.
What to Order: Treat yourself to a pain au chocolat, éclair, or a slice of tarte au citron. These sweet delights are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Price: Pastries usually range from €2 to €5, depending on the bakery and the item.
See also: 10 Best Lebanese Foods in Paris
7. Fromageries: A Cheese Lover’s Paradise
France is famous for its cheese, and in Paris, you can find delicious cheeses at affordable prices, especially if you shop at local fromageries or markets.
Where to Go: Visit Fromagerie Laurent Dubois or Androuet for a wide selection of French cheeses. You can also find great deals at the various open-air markets around the city.
What to Order: Pick up a selection of cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and Roquefort to enjoy with a fresh baguette.
Price: Prices vary depending on the type of cheese, but you can expect to pay around €2-€6 per 100 grams.
8. Ethnic Cuisine: Affordable and Flavorful Options
Paris is a multicultural city, and this diversity is reflected in its food scene. You can find a wide range of ethnic cuisines that are both delicious and budget-friendly.
Where to Go: For authentic Chinese food, head to the 13th arrondissement (Chinatown), where you’ll find many affordable restaurants like Le Président. For North African cuisine, Le Souk in the Latin Quarter offers delicious and reasonably priced couscous and tagines.
What to Order: Explore the diverse offerings by trying dishes like dim sum, couscous, or a hearty bowl of pho.
Price: Meals at ethnic restaurants typically cost between €8 and €15, making them a great option for budget-conscious foodies.
Tips for Eating Cheap in Paris
Finding cheap food in Paris doesn’t have to be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you eat well on a budget:
1. Explore Local Markets
Paris is home to numerous outdoor markets where you can find fresh produce, cheese, bread, and other ingredients to create your own meals. Some of the best markets include Marché d’Aligre and Marché Bastille.
2. Take Advantage of Prix Fixe Menus
Many restaurants in Paris offer prix fixe (fixed-price) menus, especially during lunch. These menus typically include a starter, main course, and dessert for a set price, often at a discount compared to ordering à la carte.
3. Enjoy a Picnic
One of the best ways to enjoy a meal in Paris without spending a lot is to have a picnic. Pick up a baguette, some cheese, fresh fruit, and a bottle of wine, and head to one of Paris’s many parks, such as Jardin des Tuileries or Parc du Champ de Mars.
4. Eat Like a Local
Avoid touristy areas where prices are often inflated. Instead, venture into neighborhoods like Belleville, Canal Saint-Martin, or the 11th arrondissement, where you’ll find more affordable and authentic dining options.
5. Visit Boulangeries for Breakfast
Skip the expensive hotel breakfasts and head to a local boulangerie for a croissant or pain au chocolat. Pair it with a coffee, and you’ve got a delicious and cheap breakfast.
6. Try Street Food
Paris’s street food scene is growing, offering a variety of affordable options from around the world. Food trucks and markets are great places to find tasty and budget-friendly meals.
7. Look for Happy Hour Deals
Many bars and bistros offer happy hour deals on drinks and snacks. Take advantage of these offers to enjoy a drink and some light bites without overspending.
Conclusion
Paris is a city of culinary delights, and the good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy them. From savory crêpes to hearty baguette sandwiches, and from ethnic cuisine to sweet pastries, the city offers a wealth of affordable dining options. By exploring local markets, taking advantage of prix fixe menus, and eating like a local, you can savor the best cheap food in Paris while staying within your budget. Whether you’re a traveler on a shoestring budget or simply looking to make the most of your euros, Paris has something delicious to offer everyone.
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