Best Cheap Eats Paris, France Under €15 – itoparis 2025
Today’s Best Cheap Eats Paris Under €15
Best Cheap Eats in Paris Under €15
Finding good food in Paris without spending a fortune can be tough. As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring the city looking for great meals that won’t empty my wallet, I’m excited to share my favorite budget-friendly spots with you.
Whether you’re visiting Paris on vacation or you live here and want to find new places for lunch, this guide will help you eat well without breaking the bank. I’ve personally tried all these places recently and can confirm they’re worth your time and money.
French Food That Won’t Break the Bank
Bouillon Chartier
Paris is a food lover’s paradise, but dining on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or quality. Whether you’re craving French classics, Asian street food, or trendy bites, this guide covers 14 handpicked spots where you can enjoy unforgettable meals for under €15. Let’s dive into the best cheap eats in Paris right now!
Walking into Bouillon Chartier feels like stepping back in time. This place has been serving affordable French food since 1896, and they’re still going strong today. The waiters write your order directly on the paper tablecloth, and you might end up sharing a table with strangers – all part of the experience!
Last time I went, I had the duck confit with baby potatoes (€13.90). The duck skin was perfectly crispy, and the meat was so tender it fell right off the bone. The potatoes were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Their roast sea bass with sauce vierge (€12.80) is a good-sized piece of fish with crispy skin and flavorful sauce made with olive oil, lemon juice, tomatoes, and herbs.
Don’t skip dessert! Their Mini Madeleine Citron (5 for €3.00) and Cookie Chocolat Noir Amande (€2.50) are both fantastic and super cheap.
Bouillon Pigalle
Bouillon Pigalle is a newer place that follows the same idea as Chartier – traditional French food at reasonable prices. The space is bright and always buzzing with energy.
Their beef bourguignon with pasta shells (€12.20) is one of the best budget meals in the city. The beef is super tender, and the sauce is rich and flavorful with bits of bacon adding a smoky taste.
The steak & fries with herb butter (€12.40) is another winner. While it’s not a fancy cut of meat, it’s cooked well and topped with herb butter that melts all over it.
If you want something lighter, try the chicken thigh with “Poulette” sauce & fries (€9.80).
| Feature | Bouillon Pigalle | Bouillon Chartier |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Retro-modern, upbeat | Old-world, chaotic charm |
| Portions | Slightly smaller, refined | Hearty, family-style |
| Innovation | Modern twists on classics | Strictly traditional |
| Wait Time | 20–40 mins (no reservations) | 1+ hours (always packed) |
International Street Food & Quick Bites
Banh Mi Vietnam (Belleville)
This small shop in Belleville makes what I think are the best Vietnamese sandwiches in Paris. The owner moved here from Vietnam about 20 years ago and really knows what she’s doing.
The banh mi porc confit (€12.50) is amazing. The bread has that perfect crunch on the outside but stays soft inside. It’s filled with tasty confit pork, crunchy pickled carrots, cucumber slices, lots of fresh coriander, and homemade mayo that brings it all together.
They also make a great banh mi poulet grillé (€12.00) with Thai-spiced grilled chicken that’s juicy and slightly charred. It’s halal too, which is a nice option.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re looking for authentic Vietnamese banh mi in Paris, this spot is a must-visit. The combination of fresh ingredients and traditional flavors will transport you straight to Vietnam. With perfectly toasted baguettes and mouthwatering fillings, you’ll be craving it long after you leave.
Afro Caribbean Box
Their Afro Caribbean Box for 2 people (€15.00) includes:
- A vegan pastel with spicy tomato sauce
- Sweet, caramelized plantain slices
- Flavorful Jollof Rice
- A soy protein skewer with pickled onions
- Callaloo made with spinach and okra
- Peanut niébé bean stew
- Refreshing cucumber and lime tomato salad
- Homemade Bissap juice and ginger juice
Why You’ll Love It: Afro Caribbean Box brings the vibrant flavors of the Afro-Caribbean world straight to Paris. With a delicious mix of vegan, spicy, and hearty dishes, this box is perfect for sharing and provides a culinary journey that will awaken all your senses.
Awesome Sandwiches & Burgers
Dumbo Burger
Dumbo stands out from other burger places by focusing on quality ingredients rather than crazy toppings.
The Cheeseburger (€10.00) uses dry-aged beef for deeper flavor.
Vegetarians should try the Earth Burger (€13.00).
Dumbo Burger stands out in Paris’s busy burger scene by focusing on quality instead of gimmicks. While other spots overload burgers with wild toppings, Dumbo keeps things simple but delicious. Their €10 Cheeseburger uses dry-aged beef for a rich, meaty flavor.
The patty is crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and topped with melted cheese, tangy pickles, and fresh onions on a soft bun. Vegetarians aren’t left out—the €13 Earth Burger features a hearty lentil-and-mushroom patty with cheddar, crisp lettuce, and a special sauce that rivals the meat options.
The fries cost €4.50 extra, but they’re worth it: thick-cut, skin-on, and fried until golden, with a sprinkle of smoky paprika. They’re perfectly salty and addictive. Even the ketchup is homemade, spiced up to taste better than anything from a bottle. Dumbo isn’t trying to be fancy—it’s just great burgers done right, with fresh ingredients that actually satisfy.
Why You’ll Love It: Dumbo Burger isn’t about gimmicks; it’s all about the flavor. The dry-aged beef gives the burgers a richer, more satisfying taste, while the hand-cut fries are the perfect accompaniment. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, this place will deliver a fantastic burger experience.
Fric-Frac (Canal Saint-Martin)
Located along the Canal Saint-Martin, perfect for waterside dining.
Try the Le Mamzille (€12.50) with its seasonal ingredients.
Set along Paris’s trendy Canal Saint-Martin, Fric-Frac is the go-to spot for creative sandwiches with a relaxed, waterside vibe. Perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner by the water.
The Le Mamzille (€12.50) shines with seasonal ingredients—think roasted veggies, melted goat cheese, and herb mayo on crusty bread. Their L’Aztèque (€13.50) packs bold Latin flavors like pulled pork, guacamole, and pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
The L’Aztèque (€13.50) offers Latin American-inspired flavors.
Don’t miss the daily special—often their most inventive (and budget-friendly) option. Grab a sandwich to go and enjoy it on the canal’s edge. No frills, just fresh ingredients and big flavors in a laid-back setting.
Why You’ll Love It: The relaxed vibe and waterside location of Fric-Frac make it a great spot to enjoy delicious, creative sandwiches. From seasonal ingredients to Latin-inspired options, there’s always something new to try. It’s perfect for a leisurely lunch or a snack after a stroll by the canal.
Galbar (Le Marais)
Galbar elevates the classic French grilled cheese sandwich in the trendy Marais district.
The Complètement Galbar (€13.50) uses Prince de Paris ham and high-quality French cheeses.
Try the Tonton Saucisse (€13.90) with smoky Montbéliard sausage.
In Paris’s hip Le Marais neighborhood, Galbar takes the humble grilled cheese and turns it into something special. This cozy spot focuses on gourmet croque-monsieurs made with top-notch ingredients.The Complètement Galbar (€13.50) stacks Prince de Paris ham with gooey French cheeses like Cantal and Emmental, all pressed between buttery bread until golden. For meat lovers, the Tonton Saucisse (€13.90) delivers smoky Montbéliard sausage, caramelized onions, and melted cheese—a hearty twist on the classic.
Bonus Tip:Grab a seat by the window to people-watch while you eat. Pair your sandwich with their house-made lemonade or a crisp cider for the full Parisian experience. No fancy tricks here—just quality ingredients done right.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re a fan of grilled cheese, Galbar takes it to the next level. The quality of the ingredients, from the ham to the cheeses, make each bite indulgent and rich. Add in the warm atmosphere of the Marais, and it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a comforting, elevated sandwich.
Boulangerie Utopie (South Pigalle)
Cuisine: French Bakery
Must-Try: Jambon-Beurre (€4.50) – This classic French sandwich features silky ham, creamy butter, and Utopie’s award-winning sourdough baguette. For a sweet treat, don’t miss their Pain au Chocolat (€2.50).
Why You’ll Love It: Boulangerie Utopie offers one of the most iconic French bakery sandwiches in Paris, and its pastries are a perfect addition. Simple, yet undeniably delicious, this bakery will show you why Parisian bakeries are loved around the world.
Location: 20 Rue Jean-Baptiste Pigalle, 9th Arr.
La Taverne De ZHAO (Canal Saint-Martin)
Cuisine: Spicy Chinese
Must-Try: Bœuf au Piment (€7.80) – Tender beef slices drenched in chili oil, leeks, and cilantro. This dish is fiery, spicy, and absolutely addictive.
Noodle Fix: Liang Pi XO (€12.80) – Cold wheat noodles paired with chicken, sprouts, and a Sichuan peppercorn kick.
Tucked away near Paris’s picturesque Canal Saint-Martin, La Taverne De ZHAO brings the fiery, numbing flavors of China’s Shaanxi province to the heart of Paris. This no-frills eatery specializes in bold, chili-forward dishes that cater to spice lovers and adventurous eaters. Must-Try Dish: 🔥 Bœuf au Piment (€7.80) Thinly sliced beef marinated in soy and ginger, then drenched in a mouth-tingling chili oil infused with Sichuan peppercorns. Served cold with leeks and fresh cilantro, it’s a fiery appetizer that balances heat with bright, herbal notes.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re in the mood for bold flavors that pack a punch, La Taverne De Zhao delivers the perfect spicy experience. The combination of fresh ingredients and powerful heat will wake up your taste buds like never before.
Noodle Star: 🍜 Liang Pi XO (€12.80) Chewy, hand-pulled wheat noodles served cold and tossed in a pungent XO sauce (dried seafood and chili), topped with shredded chicken, bean sprouts, and a liberal sprinkle of Sichuan peppercorns. The dish walks a fine line between spicy and numbing—a signature of Shaanxi street food. Why It Stands Out: Authentic Techniques: Noodles are made fresh daily using traditional methods. Heat Customization: Ask for spice levels adjusted to your tolerance (but purists go full heat!). Local Love: Popular with Paris’s Chinese community—a stamp of authenticity.
Location: 49 Rue des Vinaigriers, 10th Arr.
Chez les Deux Amis Gourmet (Oberkampf)
Cuisine: Turkish-French Fusion
Must-Try: Karışık Meze (€15) – A mezze platter that features hummus, cacık (yogurt with garlic/cucumber), and a smoky eggplant dip.
Nestled in Paris’s lively Oberkampf district, this cozy bistro bridges the gap between Anatolian warmth and Parisian flair. The Karışık Meze platter (€15) is a standout—a clever Turkish-French hybrid perfect for sharing.
What’s on the Plate:
Hummus: Silky-smooth, with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of French fleur de sel.
Cacık: Creamy yogurt mixed with grated cucumber, garlic, and a hint of mint—lighter than traditional tzatziki.
Smoky Eggplant Dip: Charred eggplant blended with tahini and lemon, finished with herbes de Provence for a French twist.
Why It Works:
Sharing Culture: Designed for 2–3 people, ideal for pairing with their fluffy, oven-blistered pide bread (free refills!).
Drink Pairing: Swap rosé for a crisp Anatolian white wine (€6/glass) or a pastis spritzer (€7) for a Provençal touch.
Lunch Deal: Add €3 to upgrade to a formule with mint tea and baklava.
Pro Tip: Visit at lunch to avoid dinner crowds. Pairs perfectly with their merguez-feta flatbread (€12).
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for sharing, the Karışık Meze is a delightful combination of Turkish and French flavors. Pair it with their fluffy pide bread and a refreshing glass of rosé for a satisfying meal.
Location: 71 Rue Oberkampf, 11th Arr.
Asian Fusion
Little Baobei
Little Baobei specializes in bao – steamed buns that have become super popular street food. They make their own fluffy buns and fill them with creative combinations.
The Bao chicken crousti (€12.50) has the perfect contrast between the super soft steamed bun and crunchy fried chicken inside.
Little Baobei
Price Range: €9.90–€14.50
Specializing in modern takes on traditional bao, this spot has mastered the art of steamed buns with Parisian flair. Their pillowy-soft, house-made dough serves as the canvas for creative flavor fusions.
Must-Try Baos:
Bao Chicken Crousti (€12.50): A textural masterpiece – crispy fried chicken coated in spicy mayo contrasts with the cloud-like steamed bun, finished with pickled veggies for brightness.
Bao Thé Vert Matcha (€12.50): Insta-worthy green-tinted bun infused with earthy matcha, stuffed with tender chicken, coconut-peanut sauce, and crunchy rainbow slaw.
Why It Stands Out:
– Dough steamed fresh to order for ultimate fluffiness
– Vegan options available upon request
– Compact size makes them perfect for street food snacking
Their Bao thé vert matcha (€12.50) shows how creative they get – they mix matcha green tea powder into the dough to give the bun a light green color and subtle flavor.
Sweet Treats
Xing Fu Tang
Their Brown Sugar Boba Milk (€6.50) stands out because they make their tapioca pearls fresh every day right in the shop.
Middle Eastern Favorites
Agneau Meshwé – Cuisine: Middle Eastern/North African Fusion
The Dish: Succulent grilled lamb marinated in aromatic spices, served atop a vibrant bed of fresh parsley, caramelized onions, and tangy sumac. Crowned with crispy grilled onions and drizzled with fiery green harissa sauce for a smoky, herbaceous kick.
Why It’s Special: 🥩 Tender Lamb: Slow-grilled to perfection, retaining juicy tenderness. (€15.00)🌿 Flavor Bomb: The zesty sumac and fresh parsley cut through the richness. 🔥 Heat Factor: Green harissa adds a fresh, spicy complexity (ask for it on the side if you’re heat-averse).
Pro Tip: Pair it with a chilled glass of mint lemonade (€3) to balance the spices. Perfect for sharing as a mezze or enjoying as a hearty solo meal.Why We Love It: At €10.50, this dish delivers bold Levantine flavors without the Parisian markup. The contrast of smoky lamb and bright herbs makes it a standout budget-friendly option. (€7.00) or Cacik (€6.00).
Tips for Eating Cheap in Paris
Smart Ways to Save Money While Eating Well
- Look for lunch deals (“formule midi”)
- Visit food markets (Marché d’Aligre or Marché des Enfants Rouges)
- Stand at the bar for coffee to cut prices in half
- Explore neighborhoods like Belleville, the 11th district, and the southern 13th district
Other Great Places to Try
- Chez Gladines (Latin Quarter): Big portions of Basque food, most under €15.
- Krishna Bhavan (La Chapelle): Great South Indian vegetarian food, with dosas and thalis under €12.
- Higuma (near Opéra): Tasty Japanese ramen and gyoza for about €11-€13.
