15 Best Cheap Restaurants in Paris for Good Eats on A Budget

Wondering where to find the best cheap restaurants in Paris and affordable dining options?

I’ve got you covered.

As a student in this beautiful-yet-oh-so-expensive city, I am constantly on the lookout for cheap eats and restaurants where I can enjoy a good meal without emptying my wallet.

And luckily for you, I have compiled a list of the best affordable restaurants in Paris that will surely make your taste buds sing and your wallet happy!

Whether you’re looking for a cheap restaurant near the Eiffel Tower or a trendy spot in the heart of the Marais, I’ve got you covered with my list of favorite spots. 

TL;DR

• Best cheap restaurants for students: Bouillon Pigalle

• Best cheap breakfast restaurant: Frenchie To Go

• Best cheap French restaurant: Le Comptoir du Relais

• Best cheap restaurant for takeaway: Miznon

• Best cheap restaurant in Paris for dessert: Breizh Café

• Most popular cheap restaurant in Paris: L’as du Falafel

The Top 15 Best Cheap Restaurants in Paris

1. Bouillon Pigalle

Ah, Bouillon Pigalle, where great food meets affordable prices! Located on the bustling Boulevard de Clichy, this popular choice is a magnet for Parisians and tourists alike.

As you step inside this lively and spacious eatery, you’ll be greeted by a sea of globe lights, vintage mirrors, and wooden accents, all contributing to the warm and inviting ambiance reminiscent of a classic Parisian brasserie.

The tantalizing aroma of traditional French food wafts through the air, awakening your senses and setting the stage for a delightful culinary experience.

Hungry yet?

Expect generous portions of classic French dishes, each bursting with rich, authentic flavors that showcase the essence of French cuisine. Indulge in the velvety and decadent foie gras or the succulent and tender confit de canard. This place is also well-known for having some of the best steak frites in Paris – which is a staple dish to try while visiting France.

Or, my personal favorite, the soul-warming French onion soup – topped with gooey, melted cheese.

So. Good.

And for a sweet finale, don’t leave without trying their heavenly crème brûlée, which features a silky custard base and a perfectly caramelized sugar crust that shatters delightfully with each bite.

A full three-course meal at Bouillon Pigalle won’t break the bank, making it one of the best budget restaurants in the City of Love. You can easily spend less than 20 euros here and leave feeling full and satisfied.

With its convivial atmosphere, exceptional food, and affordable prices, Bouillon Pigalle has quickly become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable and wallet-friendly dining experience in Paris. 

And it’s my top choice for the best cheap restaurants in Paris for students especially, due to its extremely affordable prices. It’s also conveniently located to some of the best cheap bars in Paris, so you can have a cheap nightcap after your meal!

P.S. You can find all my Paris travel articles & resources on this page 👈

2. L’As du Falafel

Tucked away in the vibrant Le Marais district, L’As du Falafel is the go-to spot for the best falafels in town.

The secret’s out: this little gem on Rue des Rosiers offers the main course of falafel pita for a reasonable price, attracting locals and tourists alike who are eager to savor this beloved street food.

Stepping into L’As du Fallafel, you’ll find yourself in a colorful and bustling eatery with walls adorned with photos of celebrity visitors and an atmosphere that hums with energy. The friendly staff serves up delicious, generously-filled falafel pitas that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

It’s bursting with flavor and topped with an array of fresh vegetables, creamy tahini sauce, and a dollop of spicy schug for an extra kick.

Each bite is an explosion of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for more!

Good food, good vibes, and good company; what more could you ask for?

Oh, and if you’re strolling around on a sunny day, grab a falafel to go and find a picturesque spot to enjoy your meal al fresco. Nothing beats savoring this mouthwatering street food while taking in the charming sights and sounds of the City of Lights!

Head to L’As du Falafel and treat yourself to an unforgettable and budget-friendly culinary experience that is quintessentially Parisian.

⚡ Related read: The Top 25 Best Bars in Paris

3. Breizh Café

Craving some savory crepes? Look no further than Breizh Café, nestled in the heart of the bustling Latin Quarter.

This charming and cozy café, with its warm wooden interiors and welcoming atmosphere, transports you to the picturesque region of Brittany with every bite of their delightful selection of sweet and savory crepes.

At Breizh Café, you’ll be spoiled for choice with their extensive menu that features a variety of mouthwatering crepe creations. Each crepe is expertly crafted using high-quality ingredients, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Savor the deliciously tender and nutty taste of their buckwheat galettes, filled with an array of scrumptious ingredients like savory ham, gooey cheese, and farm-fresh eggs.

And for dessert, don’t miss out on their sweet crepes, adorned with luscious chocolate, fruit, or caramel.

Pair your meal with a refreshing glass of cider, imported directly from Brittany, to enhance the authentic experience. Or, indulge in a dollop of their house-made creamy crème fraîche, adding an extra touch of richness to your crepe!

A short walk from the iconic Notre Dame, this café is a must-visit for first-timers visiting Paris and a great way to satisfy your taste buds (without emptying your wallet).

And after, stroll around Le Marais and check out some of the nearby hidden bars and speakeasies in Paris!

4. Chez Gladines

Chez Gladines is the perfect spot for a hearty meal with friends. Located in the lively Latin Quarter, this Basque eatery, with its warm and rustic ambiance, transports you to the cozy heart of the French countryside.

Exposed brick walls, vintage posters, and eclectic décor create an inviting atmosphere where laughter and conversation flow as easily as the wine.

Chez Gladines offers generous portions at affordable prices, making it a go-to destination for those seeking a satisfying and budget-friendly dining experience.

Feast on their famous steak frites, featuring a juicy and tender cut of meat cooked to perfection, accompanied by a heaping pile of crispy, golden fries. Pair your meal with a glass of rich, velvety red wine that beautifully complements the robust flavors of your dish.

As a favorite among locals, Chez Gladines is always bustling with activity, and it’s not uncommon to see tables filled with groups of friends sharing plates, stories, and laughter.

In addition to their signature dishes, don’t forget to check out their daily specials, which showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients and regional Basque flavors.

Chez Gladines is the epitome of good value, good meal, and good times.

5. Deux Fois Plus de Piment

Spice up your life at Deux Fois Plus de Piment, a Chinese restaurant with a kick!

Located near Saint Michel, this Sichuan eatery boasts an intimate and vibrant atmosphere, with its red lanterns and traditional Chinese décor, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.

I remember my first visit to Deux Fois Plus de Piment fondly, as the tantalizing aroma of Sichuan spices greeted me at the door. The menu offers a variety of main dishes that will set your taste buds on fire, from the succulent mapo tofu to the mouthwatering kung pao chicken.

I particularly enjoyed their Dan Dan noodles, which had the perfect balance of spice and savory flavors that left me craving more.

Vegetarian options? Check. Deux Fois Plus de Piment caters to all dietary preferences with a wide array of delicious vegetarian dishes, ensuring that no one leaves hungry.

Set menu? Check. Choose from a selection of set menus that offer a fantastic way to explore a variety of flavors and textures at an affordable price.

Speaking of affordable prices, you bet this place won’t empty your wallet. And after you’ve enjoyed your fiery meal, be sure to cool down with some ice cream – a sweet and soothing antidote to the spice that will leave your palate refreshed and satisfied.

Deux Fois Plus de Piment offers a great experience that combines mouthwatering Sichuan cuisine, friendly service, and an inviting atmosphere.

6. Le Café du Coin

Le Café du Coin, a cozy nook tucked away near Gare du Nord, is the ideal spot for a casual meal with friends. This charming bistro, with its warm lighting and vintage-inspired décor, exudes a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

I have a fond personal connection with Café du Coin, as it has become my favorite place to have dinner with friends on Sundays.

Known for its delectable roast chicken, which is succulent and flavorful with a crispy, golden skin, and hearty traditional French bistro classics, it’s a favorite budget-friendly restaurant for locals and travelers alike.

One of the best parts of dining at Café du Coin is grabbing a table in their quaint dining room and sharing a bottle of crisp, refreshing white wine with friends. I’ve made countless memories laughing and sharing stories with friends over plates of food here! 

The combination of good food, good price, and good company has turned Café du Coin into a cherished spot in my heart.

If you’re looking for a warm and inviting spot to enjoy some cheap eats in Paris, Le Café du Coin is an absolute must-visit. 

7. Miznon

Welcome to Miznon, where the best part is… everything!

This lively Israeli eatery on Rue Vieille du Temple has become a personal addiction of mine, and I’m proud to say that I’ve converted all my coworkers into Miznon fans. It’s now our go-to spot for our lunch break!

What makes Miznon so special is its mouth-watering roasted vegetables, which are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Paired with their scrumptious pita bread, which is warm and pillowy, it creates the perfect combination of savory and satisfying goodness.

And for vegetarians, Miznon offers a variety of options that are just as delicious as their meat counterparts.

But the magic of Miznon doesn’t stop with its food.

The warm, bustling atmosphere is simply infectious, with a staff that greets you like an old friend and an energy that makes you feel like you’re a part of something special.

Located just a short walk from the heart of Le Marais, Miznon is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious meal at a reasonable price. There are also a few other locations around the city, so you’re never too far from one no matter where you are in the city.

And if you’re lucky, you might even spot me and my coworkers there indulging in some roasted veggie pita goodness!

8. Le Comptoir du Relais

Le Comptoir du Relais is a classic Parisian bistro located in the 1st arrondissement. They offer a well-priced set menu during lunch, which is a great option if you want to try some traditional French cuisine without spending too much.

You can enjoy dishes like foie gras, steak frites, and crème brûlée on their terrace, which overlooks the Boulevard du Montparnasse.

It’s a cozy and inviting spot, with a vintage charm that will transport you back in time. The staff are friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is relaxed and laid-back.

Plus, the terrace is a great place to people-watch while enjoying your meal.

I’ve been to Le Comptoir du Relais a few times with friends, and we always leave happy and satisfied. The set menu is a good deal, and the food is consistently delicious. I especially love the foie gras and the crème brûlée – they’re both incredibly flavorful and indulgent.

If you’re looking for a classic Parisian bistro experience without breaking the bank, Le Comptoir du Relais is definitely worth checking out. The set menu is a great option for lunch, and the terrace is a lovely spot to enjoy some good food and good company!

9. Frenchie To Go

If you’re an American living in Paris and feeling a little homesick, Frenchie To Go is a great spot to satisfy your cravings.

Located on Rue du Nil, this casual eatery offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and other quick bites that’ll transport you straight back to the States.

Their menu is packed with delicious options, including hot dogs, pulled pork, and burgers, all made with high-quality ingredients and served with a side of crispy fries.

And if you’re looking for something on the lighter side, their salads are fresh, tasty, and packed with flavor.

I’ve been to Frenchie To Go a few times, and I always leave happy and satisfied. The food is consistently delicious, and the portions are just right – not too big, not too small.

Plus, the staff are friendly and welcoming, making it a great spot to grab a quick bite and chat with locals.

It’s also one of my favorite places for brunch in Paris!

So, if you’re craving a taste of home while exploring the City of Lights, Frenchie To Go is definitely worth checking out. They offer a little slice of Americana right in the heart of Paris, and their delicious food will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

10. Pizzeria Popolare

When in Paris, do as the… Romans do? 

If you’re in the mood for some delicious pizza in Paris, you’ve got to check out Pizzeria Popolare. This spot is located near the Grands Boulevards metro station and brings the best of Italian cuisine to the City of Love.

With its extensive menu and wallet-friendly prices, it’s a hit with students and budget travelers in Paris!

Their pizzas are absolutely delicious, with a variety of classic and creative toppings to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Margherita or you like to mix it up with something a little more unique, they’ve got you covered.

And the prices are very reasonable, so you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy a tasty pie.

My favorite thing about Pizzeria Popolare? Hands down, the ambiance. It’s always buzzing with energy and the staff are friendly and welcoming.

And of course, you can’t forget to pair your pizza with a glass of wine! They have a great selection of reds and whites to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect pairing for your pie.

11. Afaria

Afaria, a cozy Basque restaurant in the 15th arrondissement, is the perfect place to unwind with friends over a delicious meal. This cozy restaurant is the perfect spot to unwind with friends over a delicious meal and try some traditional French food.

The atmosphere at Afaria is warm and inviting, with friendly service that will make you feel right at home. It’s a great place to share plates of classic Basque cuisine, like pintxos and duck confit, all at affordable prices.

One of the things I love about Afaria is the sense of community that permeates the restaurant. It’s a place where friends gather to share good food, good wine, and good conversation.

And speaking of wine, they have a great selection of reds and whites to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect pairing for your meal.

12. Le Peloton Café

Le Peloton Café, a charming coffee shop and crêperie, is just the ticket for a quick bite or a leisurely afternoon treat. Conveniently located in the heart of Le Marais, this lovely spot offers sweet and savory crepes to satisfy every craving. 

As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the warm and inviting ambiance of the café, with its bicycle-themed décor and friendly staff.

It’s the kind of place that makes you feel right at home, whether you’re a local looking for a new hangout or a traveler in need of some respite from the busy city streets.

But of course, the real star of the show at Le Peloton Café is the crepes.

They offer a variety of sweet and savory options, all made fresh to order with high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like Nutella and banana, or you want to try something a little more unique, like goat cheese and honey, there’s a crepe for every palate.

And of course, no trip to Le Peloton Café is complete without a cup of their delicious coffee. They use high-quality beans and expert brewing techniques to create a perfect cup every time.

It’s the ideal pick-me-up after a long day of exploring the city.

So if you’re looking for a cozy and inviting spot to enjoy some delicious crepes and coffee in Paris, be sure to check out Le Peloton Café. 

13. L’Avant Comptoir

For a true taste of Parisian cuisine, L’Avant Comptoir is the perfect spot for you.

Located in the bustling Odeon area, this standing-room-only tapas bar is a must-visit for anyone seeking a culinary adventure in the City of Love.

The menu at L’Avant Comptoir is a smorgasbord of French delights, with an incredible selection of small plates that are perfect for sharing with friends. Whether you’re in the mood for melt-in-your-mouth foie gras or succulent roast pork, there’s something here for everyone.

And the best part? The prices are incredibly reasonable, so you can indulge in all your favorite dishes without going broke.

Yay!

But it’s not just the food that makes L’Avant Comptoir such a great spot. The lively atmosphere is infectious, with locals and tourists alike gathering to share good food and good conversation.

And since it’s a standing-room-only establishment, you can rub elbows with your fellow diners and get a true taste of Parisian culture.

L’Avant Comptoir is a place where strangers become friends over shared plates of food and glasses of wine. The energy here is always high, which is hard to find in other places in Paris. 

14. Pho Belleville

Craving a steaming bowl of pho? You’ll want to head to Pho Belleville stat.

Located in the heart of the 19th arrondissement, this unassuming eatery has built up a reputation for serving some of the best Vietnamese cuisine in the city.

The star of the show at Pho Belleville is undoubtedly their pho, which is rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you opt for the classic beef broth or a vegetarian option, you’re guaranteed a steaming bowl of deliciousness that will warm you up from the inside out. 

I recommend their Pho Sauté au Boeuf – it’s a spicy pho broth with sliced beef and it’s so. freaking. good.

Seriously. I’m not ashamed to say I order this at least once per week!

But it’s not just the pho that’s worth raving about at Pho Belleville. The menu also features a variety of other Vietnamese classics, like bánh mì sandwiches and crispy spring rolls.

And with prices that won’t break the bank, it’s a great option for a delicious, budget-friendly meal.

Pho Belleville is the best place to enjoy a cheap meal in a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere. And with its prime location in the heart of the 19th arrondissement, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of exploring the city.

Slurp your way to happiness and let your taste buds be transported to the streets of Hanoi!

15. Le Baratin

Last but not least, Le Baratin is a neighborhood bistro that embodies the essence of Parisian dining. 

The daily specials at Le Baratin are a true standout, showcasing the chef’s talent for creating delicious dishes with fresh ingredients from the market. The menu is a feast for the senses, from succulent roast chicken to perfectly cooked steak.

But it’s not just the food that makes Le Baratin a beloved spot among both locals and visitors. The cozy, intimate atmosphere and friendly service create a welcoming ambiance that will make you feel right at home.

One of my favorite things about Le Baratin is the wine list, which comes as no surprise. It features a carefully curated selection of bottles that pair perfectly with the menu.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a good glass to accompany your meal, the knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect pick.

Le Baratin truly embodies the essence of Parisian dining – a celebration of good food, good wine, and good company. 

The best cheap restaurants in Paris; decoded

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And there you have it, my friend – a list of the best restaurants in Paris where you can enjoy a scrumptious meal without breaking the bank. Now, go forth and indulge your taste buds!

Bon appétit!