Cheap Eats in Paris: Uncovering Hidden Culinary Gems

Paris offers countless culinary gems, from world-famous bakeries to unique fusion spots. During our latest trip in 2024, we discovered some fantastic eats and revisited some long-time favorites. Here’s our roundup of top recommendations, complete with ratings and tips for your next Parisian adventure! All spots are less than $25 per person, and most are under $15.

The iconic Falafel at L'as du Falafel

L'as du Falafel - 9/10

No trip to Paris is complete without a stop at L'as du Falafel. Although it’s not French cuisine, this Middle Eastern falafel spot has become a staple for us whenever we're in town. The kebab or falafel pita sandwich, paired with delicious fries, never disappoints. Just be sure to arrive early, as there’s usually a line—though it moves quickly!

Japanese style sandwich at Sando Club

Sando Club - 8/10

Tucked away about a 10-minute walk from Bastille, Sando Club is an unassuming Japanese sandwich shop that’s easy to overlook but worth finding! Their pork katsu sandwich was a standout for us. They frequently update their menu, so make sure to check out their latest creations.

Breizh Café - 8/10

A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without crêpes, and Breizh Café delivers on both savory and sweet varieties. This spot is a popular choice for lunch, where you can enjoy a savory crêpe and finish with a dessert crêpe. While Breizh Café is a chain with locations in France and Japan, it still feels authentically Parisian.

Wraps at Urfa Durum - 10/10

A new find from our 2024 trip, Urfa Durum blew us away with their fresh, made-to-order Kurdish sandwiches. Everything is prepared on-site, from the pitas baked in-house to the fresh meats grilled over hot coals. We tried both the meat and lamb options, and they were fantastic. Be prepared to wait a little, as each order is crafted with care.

Mamiche - 9/10

Mamiche was a pleasant surprise and became a favorite during our 2024 trip. Located just a 15-minute walk from Gare du Nord, this bakery offers an incredible selection of sweet and savory items. Even though there’s usually a line, it moves quickly. Some of our top picks include:

• Jambon Comté Chaufe (Ham and Comté cheese sandwich, heated up)

• Club Sandwich

• Le Chou Vanille

• Chocolate Chip Cookie

• Baguette

Shoyu Sardine Ramen at Kodawari Ramen (Tsukiji)

Kodawari Ramen (Tsukiji) - 8.5/10

Getting ramen in Paris wasn’t on our radar, but Kodawari Ramen impressed us! Known for its fish broth (a rarity for ramen shops), this place has a distinctive Japanese fish market theme that adds to the experience. The broth was flavorful, and the noodles were cooked to perfection. As a fun bonus, the bathroom features a Japanese-style Toto bidet!

Canard Street - 7.5/10

Imagine Shake Shack with a French twist—serving duck! Canard Street combines fast-casual dining with a slightly upscale feel, offering a unique and affordable way to try something distinctively French. This spot is perfect for a quick, memorable meal when you’re on the go.

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Final Thoughts

Paris is full of surprises, from traditional French bakeries to international fusion spots. Whether you're craving classic crêpes, Kurdish wraps, or Japanese ramen, the City of Lights has something for every palate. We hope this guide helps you navigate some of the city’s best spots!