Paris for foodies on a budget

Let’s face it. Paris isn’t exactly known as a cheap destination. In fact, the French capital ranks as one of the most expensive cities to live in, with the kind of upscale foodie scene you’d expect from the birthplace of Michelin stars. The good news is though, eating out in Paris doesn’t have to mean bye-bye, budget. Bypass the tourist faves and you’ll find plenty of not-so spenny spots where you can fill up for less, whether it’s a still-warm baguette from a local boulangerie or a bag of salty frites at an out-of-town street market. Our guide to Paris for foodies on a budget is your go-to for tips on chowing down for less. Elasticated waistbands at the ready, people. 

Tip 1: Eat out at lunchtime 

Feeling fancy? Consider swapping your dinnertime plans for a lunch time spread. Lots of fine dining places in Paris run special lunchtime-only deals, so you can still tick off that must-visit restaurant – you’ll just pay less than if you visited later in the day. Plump for the plat du jour – the ‘plate of the day’ – or the fixed menu, usually called the menu du jour or formule du jour. 

Try: Agape Paris on Rue Jouffroy d’Abbans. This swish spot may have a Michelin star, but the seasonal lunchtime set menu is relatively affordable – for Paris – at around €69 for three courses. 

Tip 2: Go where the locals go 

There’s nothing wrong with tourist favourites – they’re popular for good reason. But if you’re trying to save money it’s worth scoping out local haunts, too, as the prices are likely to be a bit lower. Turn off the main streets in central Paris and take your pick from a line-up of lesser-known bistrots, crêperies and cafés. If the place is packed and everyone around you is speaking French, you’re probably onto a winner. 

Try: Ground Control on Rue du Charolais. This super-cool space near Gare de Lyon is proof that you can find cheap food in central Paris. It’s got a big food hall, so you can take your pick of cuisines, plus loads of shops and creative spaces. 

Tip 3: Find a neighbourhood bakery 

Freshly baked bread is a French staple, and you’ll have no problem finding a fancy boulangerie serving up artisanal, organic, fermented fare on any of Paris’ main boulevards. Seek out a side-street bakery, though, and you’ll get the same dough-based delights at a lower price. So you can tuck into a filled baguette on the premises, or get one to go – via a stop-off at the closest fromagerie.   

Try: Mamiche, on Rue Condorcet. Out in the 10th, this traditional bakery serves up slabs of glutinous goodness including fluffy brioche and marbled chocolate babka. 

Tip 4: Sniff out a market 

Whichever Parisian neighbourhood you’re exploring, you’re likely to find a market of some sort. And where there’s a French market there’s food, so it’s basically a case of following your nose. If you’re with a group of friends and everyone fancies something different, try one of the big covered markets. Le Marché des Enfants Rouges and Saint-Germain Market both have eats from around the world, are open most days of the week, and will keep you warm, dry and fed if it’s raining. 

Try: Marché Mouffetard on Rue Mouffetard. If it’s dry out, graze your way around stalls selling fresh veggies, cuts of meat, wedges of cheese and fresh oysters – finished off with a sticky pastry or three. 

Tip 5: Get out of town 

…Or rather, the city centre. In general, the neighbourhoods – or arrondissements – closest to the Eiffel Tower and the city’s other big-name sights are the most expensive places to eat in, while prices tend to drop the further out you go. Places like Belleville and the outskirts of Montmartre are a good shout for wallet-friendly food, while the 7th arrondissement is considered one of the most expensive. 

Try: Chez Gladines Butte aux Cailles on Rue des cinq Diamants. This unassuming place is in the 13th arrondissement, so it’s not a million miles from the centre. But it’s just far out enough to serve hearty French farmhouse dishes at affordable prices. No wonder it’s always busy. 

Hungry for more? 

Take a look at all our holidays to France. And for more ideas, read Paris after dark: the ultimate guide to nightlife. 

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Author: Katie Gregory
Last updated: 22/12/2023