Where to Eat in Paris: Restaurants and Typical Food

Where to Eat in Paris

Paris is a food lover's paradise. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming bistros and street crêpes, eating well is an essential part of the Parisian experience.

Typical dishes to try

• Croissant: A perfectly flaky, buttery croissant from a proper boulangerie is a life-changing breakfast experience.
• Croque-monsieur: A classic French grilled ham and cheese sandwich with béchamel sauce.
• Duck confit (confit de canard): Slow-cooked duck leg — rich, tender, and a bistro staple.
• Crêpes: Both sweet (Nutella, sugar, lemon) and savory (galettes with ham, cheese, egg).

Recommended restaurants

• Le Bouillon Chartier — A historic Parisian restaurant since 1896, serving classic French dishes at incredibly low prices. Three-course meals for under €20. Always busy — expect a queue but it moves fast. Budget.
• L'As du Fallafel — The most famous falafel in Paris, in the heart of Le Marais. Huge portions for €8-10. Always a line but worth it. Budget.
• Chez Janou — A charming bistro in Le Marais known for its 80+ varieties of pastis and an incredible chocolate mousse. Provençal cuisine. Mid-range.
• Le Comptoir du Panthéon — A lovely café-bistro facing the Panthéon in the Latin Quarter. Great croque-monsieur and French onion soup. Perfect for people-watching. Mid-range.
• Pink Mamma — A massive, vibrant Italian restaurant in Pigalle with incredible pizza and pasta. Five floors of fun. Expect a wait but no reservations. Mid-range.
• Du Pain et des Idées — One of Paris's best bakeries near Canal Saint-Martin. Their pain des amis and escargot pastries are legendary. Budget.

Tips

1. Set menus (formule or menu du jour) at lunch are the best value — often €15-20 for entrée + plat or plat + dessert.

2. Standing at the bar (au comptoir) for coffee is much cheaper than sitting at a table (en terrasse).

3. Tipping is not mandatory in France (service is included), but leaving €1-2 for good service is appreciated.