Eat like the French do.
I had heard that eating in Paris was expensive, but I had no idea until I saw it for myself. Almost 3 euros for a soda? Yes. Now you really know why French women don't get fat, it's because they can't afford any food. Learn eat cheap in Paris using these simple tips.
Instructions
1. Find some "street food".
There are many local street vendors offering tasty and fairly inexpensive meals in and around Paris. The key is to stay away from the tourist areas, like the Eiffel tower, Notre Dame, the Sacre Coeur, and Montmartre. Working class areas of the city offer a wide variety of foods including sandwiches, pizza, sausages on a bun, and other easy to handle grab and go foods. Some vendors even have tables and chairs to sit at while you eat, but remember the prices may be higher if you don't take the food to go.
2. Go to the market.
There are several area ethnic markets around Paris, we tried the one at Belleville, that offer freshly baked baguettes, fruit, vegetables, and other locally produced foods. It's amazing to see the variety of products that are available and the smells and colors are almost overwhelming. You'll enjoy a trip to one of these markets, even if you don't buy anything to eat.
3. Use grocery stores.
Paris, like any other major city, has it's own supply of supermarkets offering anything a hungry traveller could want. It's easy to throw a quick picnic meal together with some bread, ham, cheese and a bottle of wine. Add some fresh fruit or a small torte and head down to the banks of the Seine to bask in the Parisian sun and enjoy a picnic with the one you love.
4. Share a meal.
Some restaurants in Paris, especially the smaller cafes, will allow you to share an entree. We did this at a local pizza place. There's usually an extra plate upcharge and you may get a few funny looks when you ask, but it's a good way to stretch your food budget.
Tags: around Paris