Discovering French cuisine in Paris: Traditional, Affordable Dining

1. Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond
A place where you can eat classic Parisian bistronomy dishes, at mini prices, for maximum pleasure!Do you love the atmosphere of Parisian bouillons? The cheeky bosses, the cheap and tasty dishes that parade across the tables of large groups of friends? Then you’ve got to check out Petit Bouillon Pharamond, just off Les Halles!

If you’re familiar with the name Pharamond, you should be. Le Pharamond was opened in 1832 by Pierre Heutte, grandfather of Alexandre Pharamond, who wanted to introduce Parisians to Norman cuisine, and more specifically tripe à la mode de Caen. Clémenceau, Oscar Wilde, Hemingway and later Mitterrand were all regulars.

The “à la carte menu” features typical Parisian bouillon dishes, at mini-mini prices, for maximum pleasure and discovery.
Entrées: €1.9 – €7
Plats: €7.5 – €12
Desserts: €1.5 – €5
Sides: €2.8

2. Bouillon Paris
If you’re seeking an authentic Parisian dining experience without breaking the bank, look no further than the Bouillons. These historic restaurants date back to the 19th century, originally created to provide workers with hearty, affordable meals. Today, bouillons remain a beloved part of Parisian culture, offering classic French dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere at unbeatable prices.

What to Expect:
At a bouillon, you can enjoy traditional French comfort food like oeuf mayo (egg with mayonnaise), boeuf bourguignon, and saucisse purée (sausage with mashed potatoes) for just a few euros. Desserts like chocolate mousse and crème caramel also feature prominently on the menu, providing a sweet end to your meal.

Top Recommendations:

Bouillon Chartier: The most famous bouillon in Paris, this bustling, historic spot has been serving up affordable French cuisine since 1896. Located near the Grands Boulevards, Bouillon Chartier is a must-visit for those wanting a glimpse of old Paris at reasonable prices.
Bouillon Pigalle: Located in the trendy Pigalle neighborhood, this bouillon offers the same traditional dishes with a modern twist. It’s popular with both locals and tourists for its friendly ambiance and excellent value.
Bouillon République: A newer addition to the bouillon scene, Bouillon République maintains the same tradition of affordable, homemade meals in a lively setting, right by the Place de la République.

3. Comme un Bouillon
“Comme un Bouillon” is a hidden gem in the upscale Opéra Garnier neighborhood, where prices are often high. Here, the cuisine is traditional and homemade. You’ll find staples like the classic egg mayo for €2.90, Cantal knife-cut sausage with mashed potatoes for €9.50, and a chocolate cream dessert for €3.70, for example. Less well-known than its counterparts, this bouillon is also more discreet and not – yet – touristy.

address: 17 rue de Choiseul, 75002 Paris

4. La petite chaise
Step back in time and savor the charm of one of Paris’ oldest restaurants, La Petite Chaise. Established in 1680, this historic gem offers an authentic taste of traditional French cuisine, wrapped in centuries of history and Parisian elegance. Nestled in the heart of the 7th arrondissement, La Petite Chaise has stood the test of time, making it not only a restaurant but a living piece of Parisian heritage.

What to Expect:
La Petite Chaise is known for its classic French dishes, beautifully presented in an intimate and cozy setting. The menu features timeless favorites like foie gras, escargots, and duck confit, paired with a carefully curated selection of French wines. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, the experience feels distinctly Parisian, with impeccable service and a warm atmosphere.

Top Recommendations:

Escargots de Bourgogne: For a true French experience, start with these famous Burgundy snails, delicately prepared in a garlic and herb butter sauce.
Magret de Canard: The duck breast, cooked to perfection, is served with a rich sauce and seasonal vegetables, offering a hearty and flavorful main course.
Tarte Tatin: Finish your meal with this traditional French apple tart, a delightful dessert with caramelized apples and flaky pastry.
With its intimate setting, rich history, and dedication to serving classic French cuisine, La Petite Chaise is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience a taste of old-world Paris. Perfect for special occasions or a quiet dinner, this restaurant is an enduring symbol of French culinary tradition.