Paris is known for its world-class cuisine, elegant restaurants, and culinary sophistication. However, beyond the refined dining rooms and Michelin-starred establishments, the streets of Paris offer a different kind of culinary experience—one that is vibrant, accessible, and full of character. As a travel blogger with a passion for exploring the world’s most delicious eats, I’ve wandered the charming streets of Paris, savoring the city’s best street food. From crepes to falafel, and everything in between, here’s my guide to the best street food in Paris.
When one thinks of Paris, images of croissants, baguettes, and fine dining often come to mind. However, the city’s street food scene is equally impressive, offering a diverse array of flavors that reflect Paris’s multicultural makeup. Street food in Paris is not just about grabbing a quick bite—it’s about enjoying high-quality, fresh ingredients prepared with the same care and attention to detail as you’d find in any Parisian restaurant.
1.Crepes: The Quintessential Parisian Street Food
Crepes are perhaps the most iconic of all Parisian street foods. Originating from the region of Brittany, crepes have become a beloved part of Paris’s culinary culture. Available in both sweet and savory varieties, these thin pancakes are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Where to Find the Best Crepes in Paris:
Breizh Café: Located in the Marais district, Breizh Café is renowned for its authentic Breton crepes, or galettes. Made with buckwheat flour, the savory galettes are gluten-free and packed with ingredients like ham, cheese, eggs, and mushrooms. For a sweet treat, try the classic crepe with butter and sugar or the indulgent caramel beurre salé.
La Droguerie du Marais: A favorite among locals and tourists alike, this tiny creperie in the Marais serves up delicious, freshly made crepes to go. The lines can get long, but the wait is worth it for their perfectly cooked crepes, filled with everything from Nutella to bananas.
Le Comptoir du Relais: For a more upscale crepe experience, head to Le Comptoir du Relais in the 6th arrondissement. Their crepes are light, delicate, and come with gourmet fillings like smoked salmon, crème fraîche, and caviar.
Insider Tip: When ordering a crepe, don’t be afraid to ask for a custom combination of fillings. The crepe makers are usually happy to accommodate your preferences, and you can create your own perfect Parisian crepe.
2.Falafel: A Taste of the Middle East in the Heart of Paris
Falafel is another street food staple in Paris, particularly in the historic Marais district. This Middle Eastern dish, made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, is deep-fried to crispy perfection and typically served in a pita with a variety of toppings.
Where to Find the Best Falafel in Paris:
L’As du Fallafel: Arguably the most famous falafel spot in Paris, L’As du Fallafel is a must-visit for any street food lover. Located on Rue des Rosiers, this legendary establishment draws crowds with its generously stuffed falafel sandwiches. Expect a flavorful mix of crispy falafel, fresh vegetables, tangy pickles, and a drizzle of tahini sauce, all wrapped in a warm pita.
Mi-Va-Mi: Just a few doors down from L’As du Fallafel, Mi-Va-Mi offers a slightly different take on the falafel sandwich. The falafel here is equally delicious, but what sets Mi-Va-Mi apart is their variety of toppings and the option to add grilled eggplant or spicy harissa for an extra kick.
Chez Hanna: Another popular falafel spot in the Marais, Chez Hanna serves up large, satisfying falafel sandwiches with a variety of toppings. The portions are generous, and the falafel is perfectly seasoned, making it a great choice for a hearty street food meal.
Insider Tip: While L’As du Fallafel is the most famous, the Marais district is home to several excellent falafel joints. If you see a long line at one, it’s worth checking out one of the neighboring spots—you might discover a new favorite.
3.Baguette Sandwiches: A Parisian Classic on the Go
No trip to Paris would be complete without indulging in a baguette sandwich. These simple yet satisfying sandwiches are a staple of Parisian street food, offering a quick and delicious meal that you can enjoy on the go.
Where to Find the Best Baguette Sandwiches in Paris:
La Parisienne: Awarded the title of “Best Baguette in Paris” in 2016, La Parisienne in the 7th arrondissement is a top spot for a classic baguette sandwich. Their baguettes are baked to perfection, with a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior. Fillings range from the traditional ham and butter to more gourmet options like smoked salmon and dill.
Chez Alain Miam Miam: Located in the Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market, Chez Alain Miam Miam is known for its hearty, generously filled sandwiches. The baguettes are freshly baked, and the ingredients are of the highest quality. Try the roast beef with mustard and pickles or the vegetarian option with grilled vegetables and cheese.
Maison Landemaine: This artisanal bakery has several locations throughout Paris and is known for its high-quality bread and pastries. Their baguette sandwiches are a great option for a quick and tasty lunch, with fillings like goat cheese, honey, and walnuts or ham, cheese, and butter.
Insider Tip: Baguette sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, so look for a bakery that bakes their bread throughout the day. You’ll be able to taste the difference in the crispiness of the crust and the softness of the interior.
See also: 6 Best Foods Tours in Paris France
4.Croque-Monsieur and Croque-Madame: A French Twist on Grilled Cheese
The Croque-Monsieur and its egg-topped cousin, the Croque-Madame, are quintessential French comfort foods that make for a satisfying street food snack. These toasted sandwiches are made with ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce, then grilled to golden perfection.
Where to Find the Best Croque-Monsieur and Croque-Madame in Paris:
Le Petit Cler: Located on Rue Cler, a charming market street in the 7th arrondissement, Le Petit Cler serves up one of the best Croque-Monsieur sandwiches in Paris. The bread is perfectly toasted, the cheese is melted just right, and the ham is of excellent quality. Add a fried egg on top, and you’ve got a Croque-Madame that’s hard to beat.
Café de Flore: One of Paris’s most famous cafés, Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a classic spot to enjoy a Croque-Monsieur or Croque-Madame. While it’s a bit more upscale than your average street food joint, the ambiance and history of this iconic café make it worth the visit.
Les Deux Magots: Another legendary café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Les Deux Magots is known for its historic clientele, including writers and artists like Hemingway and Picasso. Their Croque-Monsieur and Croque-Madame are made with the finest ingredients and are a must-try for anyone looking to experience a piece of Parisian history.
Insider Tip: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, many boulangeries (bakeries) and brasseries (casual eateries) throughout Paris offer their own versions of the Croque-Monsieur and Croque-Madame. These are often just as delicious as the more famous versions but at a fraction of the price.
5.Kebabs: A Multicultural Street Food Favorite
Paris’s multicultural population has brought with it a wealth of international flavors, and kebabs are one of the most popular street foods in the city. Typically made with grilled meat, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces, kebabs are a filling and delicious option for a quick meal.
Where to Find the Best Kebabs in Paris:
Urfa Dürüm: Located in the bustling neighborhood of Belleville, Urfa Dürüm is a small, unassuming spot that serves some of the best kebabs in Paris. The meat is cooked on a charcoal grill, giving it a smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. Wrapped in a freshly baked flatbread and topped with vegetables and sauce, these kebabs are a must-try.
Grillé: For a more upscale kebab experience, head to Grillé in the 2nd arrondissement. This trendy spot offers a modern take on the traditional kebab, with high-quality meat, fresh herbs, and homemade sauces. The pita bread is made in-house, and the attention to detail is evident in every bite.
Chez le Libanais: Located near the bustling Rue de Rivoli, Chez le Libanais offers delicious Lebanese-style kebabs, known as shawarma. The meat is marinated and slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then sliced thin and served in a pita with fresh vegetables, pickles, and a tangy garlic sauce.
Insider Tip: Kebabs are especially popular in Paris’s immigrant neighborhoods, such as Belleville and the 10th arrondissement. These areas are home to many small, family-run kebab shops where you can find some of the best and most authentic kebabs in the city.
6.Street Markets: A Feast for the Senses
Paris’s street markets are a treasure trove of culinary delights, offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and, of course, delicious street food. Exploring these markets is not just about finding a meal—it’s about experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and diverse flavors that make Paris so special.
Must-Visit Street Markets in Paris:
Marché Bastille: One of the largest and most popular markets in Paris, Marché Bastille is held every Thursday and Sunday on Boulevard Richard-Lenoir. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of street food vendors offering everything from rotisserie chicken to fresh oysters. Be sure to try the socca, a savory chickpea pancake from Nice, and the tartiflette, a cheesy potato dish from the Alps.
Marché des Enfants Rouges: Located in the Marais, this historic covered market is a foodie’s paradise. In addition to fresh produce and specialty foods, the market is home to several street food stalls offering dishes from around the world. Try the Moroccan couscous, the Japanese bento boxes, or the Italian pasta dishes.
Marché d’Aligre: Situated in the 12th arrondissement, Marché d’Aligre is a bustling market that’s beloved by locals. The market is split into two sections—one for fresh produce and the other for flea market goods. In between shopping for fruits and vegetables, stop by one of the many food stalls for a freshly made sandwich, a slice of quiche, or a sweet pastry.
Insider Tip: Paris’s street markets are busiest in the mornings, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and get the freshest food. Bring cash, as many vendors do not accept credit cards, and be prepared to practice your French—a little effort goes a long way in Paris.
7.Sweet Treats: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
No article about Parisian street food would be complete without mentioning the city’s delectable sweet treats. From crepes to pastries to ice cream, Paris offers a variety of desserts that are perfect for enjoying on the go.
Where to Find the Best Sweet Street Treats in Paris:
Berthillon: Located on the Île Saint-Louis, Berthillon is famous for its artisanal ice cream and sorbet. Made with natural ingredients and bursting with flavor, Berthillon’s ice cream is a must-try on a warm day in Paris. The flavors change seasonally, but some favorites include salted butter caramel, raspberry sorbet, and chocolate noir.
La Maison de Chou: If you’re a fan of cream puffs, La Maison de Chou in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is the place to go. These delicate choux pastries are filled with light, airy cream and are made to order, ensuring maximum freshness. The classic vanilla and chocolate flavors are always a hit, but don’t miss the seasonal specials like chestnut or raspberry.
Odette: For a taste of Paris’s famous macarons, head to Odette, a charming pâtisserie near Notre-Dame. Odette specializes in choux à la crème (cream puffs) and offers a wide variety of flavors, from classic vanilla to exotic passion fruit. The macarons here are also top-notch, with flavors ranging from rose to pistachio.
Insider Tip: Paris’s sweet treats are best enjoyed while strolling through the city’s beautiful streets and parks. Grab a pastry, find a bench in the Jardin des Tuileries or along the Seine, and savor the flavors of Paris.
Conclusion
Paris’s street food scene is a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage and its embrace of diverse flavors from around the world. Whether you’re indulging in a buttery crepe, biting into a crispy falafel, or savoring a freshly baked baguette sandwich, Paris offers a street food experience that’s as memorable as its fine dining. So next time you’re in the City of Light, skip the fancy restaurants and head to the streets—you’ll discover some of the best food Paris has to offer.
Related topics:
8 Best American Foods in Paris
