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P.Aris: the city of light, love and good meal. The restaurant scene in Paris it's many things: dynamic, creative and often synonymous with an attractive bill – this is the house of Michelin, after all. But today, the capital is experiencing a renaissance of the original working-class restaurant: Le Bouillon.
For those looking to profit Paris on a limited budget, It's a great way to experience the more traditional side of French cuisine without leaving a huge dent in your savings.
The original concept for Broth was simple: an elegant, no-frills establishment offering a single menu item consisting of a hot bowl of flavorful broth accompanied by a piece of crusty bread and a generous portion of meat. The goal was to make things quick and affordable for ParisThis is a busy working class.
Broth is a must for Parisian restaurant culture, although until recently it had gone out of fashion. At one point, the city had more than 200, but one by one, each one closed its doors until only a handful remained. They understood Bouillon Chartier, created in 1896, which today has three sites in the capital. One of the last bastions of the old-fashioned broth experience, Chartier retains the original charm of Art Nouveau. You'll find high ceilings, ornate moldings, and red and white checkerboard floors adorning the floors of the grand restaurants. Today, restaurants are bustling, efficient and organized: Waiters in crisp black and white uniforms direct diners to tables that are quickly cleaned and rearranged, writing orders directly on white paper tablecloths.
These restaurants offer a much more complete menu than in the 19th century, but with the same economic spirit: good food at a good price. Three dishes for less than €20? Possible; the most expensive dish on the menu is €13.90. Dishes arrive quickly and unceremoniously—think tender leek swimming in a tangy vinaigrette, curls of pike dumplings with shellfish sauce, and a rum baba dipped in enough rum to warm your body even on hot days. winter's coldest and wettest – all accompanied by a cloud of fresh whipped cream.
The cost of living crisis and a resurgence of nostalgia are leading to a resurgence of broths across the city. Even the famous Michelin-starred chef Thierry Marx – known mainly for his molecular gastronomy – is turning to it and opening his own restaurant in the Paris suburbs in June 2024. Julian And Root – the latter would be one of Edith Piaf’s favorites – also perpetuate the tradition, with broths Republic And Pigalle the two most recent additions to the scene.
Refined cuisine at a lower cost
While the broths and contemporary restaurants are well worth a visit, it can be difficult to resist the siren call of French haute cuisine.
The good news is that there are ways to treat yourself without breaking the bank. The key is to aim for lunch. Many Michelin-starred establishments offer lunch formula, or lunch special, including two or three courses at a significantly reduced price compared to the à la carte or dinner offerings. Reservations are often essential, so plan ahead.
Learn more about the The Best Vegan Places to Eat in Paris
Likewise, a number of restaurants offer special menus designed specifically for diners attending theatrical performances, often called Fixed price menus. These menus generally consist of two or three pre-selected dishes at a reduced price. They focus on speed and are often lighter options. Again, be sure to book in advance; this is usually only an evening offer and in a specific time slot.
The best inexpensive restaurants in Paris
Broths, of course, aren't the only option when it comes to tasty, affordable meals; they're just a reflection of a broader trend toward affordable dining. Restaurants all over the city are paying attention. If you are in Paris and I'm looking for good food on a budgetthere are a range of options and cuisines offering two and three course meals for €20 or less.
Nonette
Nonette is a Parisian cult classic. Freshly stuffed banh mi – traditional Vietnamese sandwiches – are accompanied by pretty donuts with Southeast Asian flavors. A more traditional lemon or cinnamon glaze sits alongside whipped cream and chili oil, kaya jam (coconut milk and pandan cream), sweet and sour pork floss and a floral jasmine and apple tea . For 14€ you can have a banh mi of your choice – the roast chicken is even served with a tasty broth – a side and a drink.
Bing Sut
Another newcomer, Bing Sutt, is a taste of Hong Kong in Paris. Run by Davina Chang, a Hong Konger now based in the French capital, the café serves traditional flavors with a twist, including a pineapple bun (bo lo bao) stuffed with ham and cheese. Enjoy a light lunch for €11 accompanied by an egg tart, a roll and a drink.
Malro
Very neo-bistro, Malro made headlines upon opening for its chic interiors and artful Mediterranean-inspired menu. Located in the heart of the Marais, guests can enjoy a lunch package (starter + main course) for €22, changing every day.
Okra Yaya
Pairing Paris with fried chicken isn't an obvious choice, but Gumbo Yaya might change that. The queue may be around the corner but the wait is worth it for their legendary fried chicken and waffles (€11).
Galerne
For a French twist with Basque and northern Spanish flavors, stop at Galerne. A striking tavern space, the menu offers simple and tasty dishes; think about roast chicken with pico de gallo, piquillos and corn, or roasted eggplant with feta and flame-roasted yellow peppers. Two dishes cost €21; either a starter and a main course, or a main course and a dessert.
Mandoobar
Located in the 8th arrondissement, Mandoobar is a Korean dumpling bar. Mandoos can be steamed, boiled, fried or fried and are served with a variety of toppings. While Mandoobar doesn't just offer ravioli, they're the star of the show: grab a plate of 10 and a dessert of fresh homemade ice cream for €18 maximum.
Read our Paris guide to the best places to eat, drink, shop and stay
