35 Best Affordable Eats in Paris on a Budget

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We’ve all dreamt of Parisian culinary delights, but the price tags leave us saying “oui oui oui” to instant ramen back home. Right?

However, the good news is that enjoying Parisian cuisine doesn’t have to be expensive. From delightful street food to budget-friendly gourmet options, you can experience the city’s culinary scene without overspending. 

For instance, you can start your day with a croissant and coffee at a local bakery. For lunch, you can opt for an affordable sandwich or a set menu at a bistro. 

Dinner choices include reasonably priced plats or tasting menus at upscale restaurants. Even Michelin-starred venues offer accessible luxury for lunch. With careful planning, you can definitely enjoy delicious Parisian food on a modest budget.

So, prepare to be surprised, delighted, and maybe even a little bit obsessed with French food, along with some Asian and North African cuisines.

Key Takeaways:
➜ Explore the world of Parisian street food for affordable yet delicious options like croissants, crêpes, falafel, and more.
➜ Paris offers a wide variety of budget-friendly culinary delights, from French classics like quiche and baguette to international flavors like Vietnamese banh mi and Japanese ramen.
➜ Experience Michelin-starred and gourmet food without the high price tag by opting for lunch menus, Bib Gourmand restaurants, off-peak dining, pre-theatre specials, and sharing-tasting menus.

30+ Affordable Foods & Dishes to Eat in Paris

Paris conjures up images of romantic strolls down cobblestone streets, adding world-renowned museums and, of course, exquisite (and often expensive) French cuisine. However, with a bit of strategy, you don’t have to break the bank when it comes to eating in Paris.

Croissant/Pain au Chocolat

Type: Classic French Pastries

Where to eat: Boulangeries, Pâtisseries, Cafés

A buttery, flaky croissant can be filled with ham and melted Gruyère or Emmental for a satisfying meal, or with sautéed spinach and creamy feta for a savory twist. 

Sweet options include Nutella and banana for creamy, nutty flavors, almond paste, slivered almonds for a sweet nutty treat, or rich dark chocolate in a Pain au Chocolat for perfect indulgence. 

You can also pair it with hot beverages like coffee or hot chocolate, or cold beverages like orange juice or iced tea for a delightful affordable meal.

Crêpes

Type: Classic French Pastries

Where to eat: Crêperies, Street Food Stalls, Cafés

Crêpes can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert depending on the fillings used. They are an affordable treat in Paris, with savory options like ham and cheese for a budget-friendly meal or spinach and feta for a tangy twist. 

Sweet crêpes with Nutella and banana offer creamy, nutty flavors, or try sugar and lemon for a classic taste. Pair with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cider, or fresh juice for a delightful, inexpensive meal

Falafel

Type: Traditional Street Food 

Where to eat: Food Trucks, Middle Eastern Restaurants, Street Food Stalls

Falafel is a popular and affordable street food option in Paris, perfect for any meal of the day. Enjoy crispy falafel balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, served on pita bread or a platter with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. 

Pair with mint tea or Turkish coffee for a warm beverage, or lemonade and iced tea for a refreshing choice.

Tip –
If you’re with friends or family, consider sharing a large falafel platter. Sharing not only reduces costs but also allows you to sample a variety of flavors and toppings.

Baguette

Type: Classic French Bread

Where to eat: Bakeries, Sandwich Shops, Markets

The baguette is an iconic symbol of French cuisine, found in bakeries, sandwich shops, and markets throughout Paris. This crusty bread has a light inside and crispy outside, made using traditional baking methods. It’s perfect for sandwiches with cheese, ham, or fresh vegetables, representing classic French flavors and textures.

Jambon-beurre/Baguette Sandwich

Type: Classic French Sandwich

Where to eat: Bakeries, Sandwich Shops, Cafés

The Jambon-beurre sandwich, a staple of Parisian street food, is a simple and budget-friendly option available throughout the day. It features a baguette filled with butter and slices of ham, offering a satisfying and straightforward flavor. 

Pair it with coffee or espresso for a warm beverage, or opt for soda or iced tea for a refreshing choice alongside this classic French sandwich.

Quiche

Type: Classic French Dish/Savory Item

Where to eat: Bakeries, Cafés, Brasseries, Pâtisseries

Quiche, a cherished classic in Parisian dining, features a delicate pastry crust filled with a rich blend of eggs, cream, cheese, and flavorful ingredients like bacon, spinach, or mushrooms. 

Baked until golden and set, it’s served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for breakfast, lunch, or a simple dinner. Often enjoyed alongside a fresh green salad, quiche is a popular choice in neighborhood bakeries and cafés throughout Paris, celebrated for its versatility and affordability.

Fromage (Cheese)

Type: Classic French Cheese

Where to eat: Fromageries, Cheese Shops, Markets

Renowned for its diversity and quality, fromage (French cheese) ranges from soft, creamy Brie to tangy Roquefort and nutty Comté. 

Enjoyed on its own or paired with bread and wine, each cheese offers a unique taste experience reflecting centuries of artisanal craftsmanship and regional heritage. Sampling fromage is not just a culinary delight but a journey through the rich flavors of France’s cheese-making traditions.

Ratatouille

Type: Traditional French Dish

Where to eat: Brasseries, Bistros, Home-cooked meals

Ratatouille is a traditional French dish in Paris celebrated for its hearty and rustic flavors and enjoyed as a homemade meal throughout Paris. It combines tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, onions, and bell peppers, seasoned with garlic, thyme, basil, and olive oil. 

Known for its vibrant colors and wholesome flavors, ratatouille is a satisfying choice for vegetarians and vegans, showcasing the essence of Provencal cuisine and French culinary traditions.

French Onion Soup (Soupe à L’oignon)

Type: Classic French Soup 

Where to eat: Brasseries, Bistros, Traditional French Restaurants

French onion soup is a cherished classic in Parisian culinary culture, featuring caramelized onions simmered in savory beef broth, delicately seasoned with thyme and bay leaf. 

This soup is distinguished by its rich depth of flavor, enhanced by a generous topping of melted cheese that elevates it into a decadent delight. 

Served with crusty bread or croutons, it offers a comforting and satisfying taste of French tradition and hospitality.

French Onion Tart (Tarte à l’Oignon)

Type: Classic French Pastry

Where to eat: Traditional Restaurants, Cafes & Bistros, Bakeries and Patisseries

The French Onion Tart is a delicious pastry featuring a buttery, flaky crust filled with caramelized onions, often combined with cheese like Gruyère and a creamy custard base.

The slow-cooked onions lend a sweet and rich flavor, making this tart a comforting and satisfying meal. Besides, enjoying a slice of French Onion Tart provides a taste of traditional French cuisine without straining your budget.

Escargot

Type: Traditional French Delicacy

Where to eat: Fine Dining Restaurants, Brasseries, Traditional French Eateries

Escargot, a renowned French delicacy, holds a special place in Parisian cuisine. What makes escargot special is its preparation- land snails are cooked with garlic butter, parsley, and sometimes wine, creating a flavorful and buttery dish.

Served hot from the shells with a side of crusty bread for dipping, escargot offers a luxurious taste experience that just shows the finesse and sophistication of French gastronomy without spending much.

A Must-Know Fact:
The taste of escargot is often described as earthy, buttery, and garlicky. The texture can be slightly chewy. So it’s best to start with a few bites to see if you like it.

Tarte Aux Fruits

Type: Traditional French Fruit Tart

Where to eat: Patisseries, Bakeries, Cafés

Tarte Aux Fruits, a delightful French fruit tart, is a special Parisian treat. What makes them extra special is their simplicity and elegance – a buttery pastry crust filled with rich pastry cream or custard and topped with an array of fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries, raspberries, kiwi, and blueberries. This special tart also offers a taste of French pastry art without breaking the bank, ideal for a good time in Paris on a budget.

Macarons

Type: Traditional French Pastry

Where to eat: Patisseries, Bakeries, Specialty Macaron Shops

Macarons are beloved French pastries found throughout Paris. What makes them special is their delicate almond meringue shells filled with creamy ganache or buttercream in flavors like raspberry, pistachio, and salted caramel. 

Known for their vibrant colors and exquisite taste, macarons offer a luxurious treat on a budget, combining French pastry craftsmanship with affordability.

Chocolat Chaud

Type: French Hot Chocolate

Where to eat: Cafés, Patisseries, Chocolate Shops

French hot chocolate, referred to as Chocolat Chaud, is a delightful indulgence. Its rich, velvety texture, is crafted by melting high-quality dark chocolate into warm milk. 

This decadent beverage offers a luxurious and comforting experience without straining your budget, ideal for warming up on chilly days or enjoying as a dessert. With the essence of Parisian culinary craftsmanship, it’s a must-try for chocolate enthusiasts visiting the city.

Bonus Tips:
Whether you enjoy it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream, it’s the perfect pick-me-up or budget-friendly afternoon treat.

Duck Confit

Type: French Main Dish

Where to eat: Bistros, Brasseries, Traditional French Restaurants

Duck Confit is a quintessential French dish found in traditional restaurants across Paris. Its specialty lies in the slow-cooked duck legs in their own fat with salt, creating tender meat and crispy skin. Often available at reasonable prices, Duck Confit offers a rich and indulgent taste experience, making it accessible for those exploring French cuisine on a budget.

Bœuf Bourguignon

Type: Traditional French Stew

Where to eat: Bistros, Brasseries, Traditional French Restaurants

Bœuf Bourguignon is a classic French stew found across Paris. What makes them special is their slow-cooked preparation: beef stewed with red wine, onions, carrots, and mushrooms, infused with herbs and garlic. 

This hearty dish offers tender, flavorful meat in a rich, savory sauce. Affordable yet rich in flavor, Bœuf Bourguignon provides a satisfying taste of traditional French cuisine, highlighting the culinary expertise of Parisian kitchens.

Panini

Type: Italian Grilled Sandwich

Where to eat: Cafés, Sandwich Shops, Food Trucks

Panini is a popular Italian grilled sandwich rich in its simplicity and versatility- crusty bread filled with a variety of ingredients like ham, cheese, vegetables, and spreads, pressed and grilled to perfection. 

This handheld delight offers a quick and budget-friendly meal option in Paris, providing a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. 

Ideal for a quick bite on the go or a casual meal, Panini represents a delicious intersection of Italian tradition and Parisian street food culture.

Vietnamese Banh Mi

Type: Vietnamese Sandwich

Where to eat: Vietnamese Sandwich Shops, Street Food Stalls, Cafés

Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich, has become a staple in Parisian street food, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures. This crusty French baguette is filled with grilled pork, pâté, pickled carrots and daikon, fresh cilantro, and spicy chili peppers. 

Also, mixing French and Vietnamese influences, it provides a satisfying and affordable meal option in Paris. No wonder it is so much popular among locals and visitors alike.

Pro Tip –
Banh Mi can be quite messy to eat, so have some napkins handy!

Vietnamese Pho

Type: Vietnamese Soup/Noodles

Where to eat: Vietnamese Restaurants, Asian Eateries

Vietnamese Pho is a popular dish in Paris, featuring a flavorful broth made from simmered beef or chicken bones, infused with aromatic herbs and spices. 

This broth is served with thin rice noodles and tender slices of beef or chicken, generously garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro and Thai basil, along with bean sprouts and lime. 

Pho also offers a hearty and affordable taste of Vietnam in Paris, celebrated for its authentic flavors and satisfying portions.

Chocolate Éclair

Type: Traditional French Pastry

Where to eat: Patisseries, Bakeries, Cafés

The Chocolate Éclair is a beloved French pastry featuring delicate choux pastry filled with creamy vanilla custard and topped with rich chocolate icing. 

This indulgent treat offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a favorite dessert or snack option in Paris. Despite its luxurious appearance and taste, the Chocolate Éclair remains surprisingly affordable, allowing anyone to enjoy a taste of Parisian pastry craftsmanship without overspending.

Tartine

Type: Open-faced Sandwich

Where to eat: Cafés, Brasseries, Bistros

A Tartine is a classic open-faced sandwich featuring a slice of crusty French bread topped with various ingredients such as cheese, ham, smoked salmon, avocado, or tomatoes. 

It’s often drizzled with olive oil or garnished with fresh herbs for a customizable and flavorful meal option that suits different tastes and dietary preferences. 

Tartines are well-known for being budget-friendly in Paris, offering a light meal or snack, and providing a taste of French culinary tradition at an affordable price.

Tarte Tatin

Type: French Pastry (upside-down tart)

Where to eat: Patisseries, Bakeries, Traditional French Restaurants

Tarte Tatin is a beloved French dessert with its specialty in its signature preparation: caramelized apples baked under a buttery, flaky pastry crust, often served warm with a topping of crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream. 

With its sweet, caramelized flavors and contrasting textures, it’s a comforting and affordable indulgence in Paris. Perfect for those craving a taste of classic French pastry without breaking the bank, Tarte Tatin embodies the culinary essence and charm of Parisian desserts.

Ile Flottante (Floating Island)

Type: French Dessert

Where to eat: Patisseries, Traditional French Restaurants, Cafés

Île Flottante, known as Floating Island, is a delicate French dessert found throughout Paris. Its uniqueness lies in its light and airy composition: a fluffy meringue (egg whites, sugar, and vanilla extract) floating on a bed of crème anglaise (egg yolks, vanilla, milk, and sugar), topped with caramel or chocolate sauce and sometimes toasted almonds. 

This dessert offers a delightful blend of textures and sweetness, providing a luxurious yet affordable treat in Paris.

Niçoise Salad

Type: French Salad

Where to eat: Brasseries, Bistros, Cafés

Niçoise Salad is a classic French salad originating from Nice offering a taste of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in the heart of Paris. 

What makes it special is its vibrant medley of ingredients: fresh salad greens topped with tuna, hard-boiled eggs, green beans, cherry tomatoes, olives, and anchovies, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. 

With a refreshing and satisfying combination of flavors and textures, it’s perfect for a light, nutritious, and affordable meal option.

Bouillon

Type: Traditional French Soup/Broth

Where to eat: Bouillon Restaurants, Brasseries, Traditional French Eateries

Bouillon is a quintessential dish of French cuisine, Known for its mild thickness, they features a rich, savory flavor from a blend of meat, vegetables, and seasonings, simmered slowly to maximize taste, with a hearty, affordable broth containing meat, vegetables, and often noodles or rice. 

Beef bouillon offers a robust beefy taste, chicken bouillon has a poultry flavor, and vegetable bouillon derives its flavor from herbs and vegetables.

Steak Frites

Type: Classic French Dish

Where to eat: Brasseries, Bistros, Traditional French Restaurants

Steak Frites is a classic French dish offering simplicity and robust flavors—a tender steak, often served with a side of golden, crispy fries. 

This dish offers a satisfying and budget-friendly option for meat lovers seeking a taste of Parisian culinary tradition. It remains popular for its easy preparation and hearty appeal, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Moules Frites

Type: Classic Belgian Dish

Where to eat: Brasseries, Seafood Restaurants, Traditional French Eateries

Moules Frites, the national dish of Belgium, features fresh mussels steamed in white wine and herbs and served with crispy fries. 

This dish offers a satisfying and budget-friendly option for seafood enthusiasts seeking a taste of Belgian tradition, known for its fresh ingredients and simple preparation.

Moroccan Couscous

Type: Traditional Moroccan Dish

Where to eat: Moroccan & Italian Restaurants, North African Eateries

Moroccan Couscous is a staple dish featuring fluffy couscous grains steamed to perfection. It’s served with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and chickpeas, cooked in a flavorful broth infused with Moroccan spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. 

This dish offers a satisfying and budget-friendly taste of Morocco in Paris, known for its hearty portions and vibrant flavors.

Greek Gyros

Type: Traditional Greek Dish

Where to eat: Greek Restaurants & Street Food Stalls, Greek/Mediterranean Cafes and Bistros, General Fast Food

Greek Gyros is a popular dish featuring seasoned meat—commonly beef, lamb, pork, or chicken—cooked on a vertical rotisserie and sliced thinly. These tender slices are wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and a creamy tzatziki sauce.

Gyros also offer a flavorful and budget-friendly taste of Greece in Paris, celebrated for their savory meat, fresh ingredients, and generous portions.

Italian Gelato

Type: Traditional Italian Dessert

Where to eat: Gelato Shops/Parlors & Gelateria Chains, Dessert Cafés & Tearooms

Italian Gelato is a beloved Italian dessert made with milk, cream, and various flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, fruit, and nut flavors. 

What sets Italian gelato apart is its dense and creamy texture, achieved by churning at a slower speed than ice cream. This results in a smoother consistency and intense flavor. Gelato is also served fresh and often in cones or cups, offering a delightful and affordable taste of Italy in Paris.

Bouillabaisse (Fish Stew)

Type: Traditional Provençal Fish Soup

Where to eat: Traditional Seafood Restaurants, Bistros and Brasseries

Bouillabaisse is a classic Provençal seafood stew, originally from Marseille. This hearty dish features a flavorful broth made with a variety of fish, such as Red Rascasse and Sea Robin, simmered with tomatoes, saffron, garlic, and herbs. 

It is traditionally served with croutons and rouille, a garlic-infused mayonnaise, offering a savory and aromatic taste of coastal France. It’s a delightful and authentic choice for seafood lovers in Paris seeking a memorable dining experience.

Italian Pizza

Type: Traditional Italian Cuisine

Where to eat: Pizzerias & Trattorias, Bistros & Brasseries, Food Courts & Cafes/Bars

It features a thin, crispy crust topped with flavorful tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Various toppings, such as pepperoni, mushrooms, or vegetables can be added according to one’s preference. 

Italian pizza is widely renowned for its quality ingredients and traditional preparation in wood-fired ovens, which impart a distinctive smoky flavor.

Ramen

Type: Japanese-Chinese Noodle Dish

Where to eat: Japanese Restaurants & Ramen Shops, Asian Restaurants, Bistros

Ramen is a popular dish in Paris. This hearty meal consists of rich, flavorful broth, typically made from simmering pork, chicken, or vegetables, combined with Chinese-style wheat noodles. 

It is topped with various ingredients such as sliced pork, soft-boiled eggs, seaweed, and green onions. Ramen’s deep, savory flavors and satisfying portions make it a beloved choice for those seeking an authentic taste of Japan and China on a budget in Paris.

How to Experience Michelin-Starred Restaurants and Gourmet Food Without the High Price Tag

Michelin Stars—the mere mention instantly brings up images of white tablecloths, perfectly dressed servers, and dishes like works of art. Not to mention—all at a price that could leave your wallet begging for mercy.

• Opt for Lunch Menus: Many Michelin-starred restaurants offer more affordable lunch menus.
• Prix-Fixe Menus: Fixed-price menus provide multi-course meals at set prices.
• Enjoy Dessert or Appetizers: Visit high-end restaurants for desserts or appetizers instead of full meals.
• Visit Gourmet Food Markets: Sample high-quality, artisanal products at Parisian markets.
• Dine at Bistrots and Brasseries: Experience gourmet dishes at more affordable bistrots and brasseries.
• Explore Gourmet Food Shops: Purchase high-quality items like cheese and pastries for a picnic.
• Attend Food Festivals and Events: Sample dishes from top chefs at food festivals and events.
• Take Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare gourmet dishes in cooking classes taught by expert chefs.
• Happy Hours and Early Bird Specials: Take advantage of discounted prices during happy hours or early bird specials.
• Online Deals and Reservations: Use apps and websites to find deals and discounts on restaurant reservations.

Remember, a fantastic culinary experience doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and exploration, you can discover the world of gourmet food at a price that suits your pocket.

End Notes

There you have it – 30+ delicious and budget-friendly ways to clear your confusion about what to eat in Paris on a budget.

So, for now, grab your baguette, wander the charming streets, and let your taste buds guide the adventure that won’t break the bank.

Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite budget-friendly bite and maybe even a hidden Parisian gem or two along the way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)