by Garry Keown

Created on: August 09, 2009   Last Updated: August 11, 2009

Food & Drink

I think that a lot of people are apprehensive about eating in Paris. There is a firm belief that you will need to bring a blank check book with you, but this really is not true. The French love there food. They believe that you cannot function without a good meal, and a lot of places will provide cheap food, that is very good indeed. Take a look about, and keep your eyes open. Most of the cafe's and bistros offer a Plat de Jour. This is their dish of the day, and usually represents great value.

Now, depending on which area of the capital you are in, prices vary greatly. However I found that one of the best places to eats cheaply in Paris is the Latin quarter. This is one of the oldest areas of Paris, and represents the student element of the city. The area is crammed full of little bistros, all of which will offer great value due to the intense competition for custom.

You will find, that cafe's in Paris are not very good for families. Due to the high rents that they have to pay, the cafe owners have to cram as many tables in as they can. So you may feel a little cramped. However, we were able to eat out in this area several times, never spending too much. One example would be a little Italian we went to, where we had a really nice meal, a dessert, and an alcoholic drink each (the two of us.), and spent 28 Euros. Now, even at the poor rates that are on offer for Euros now, that still represents real value. Also the Latin quarter is good to eat in, because it is so close to so many of the attractions, like Notre Dame, the Louvre, the Jardins de Tuilieres, the Seine and many more.

Another good region to eat in, is Montmartre. This was up near our hotel, and is a good spot to eat when visiting the Sacre Couer or the Moulin Rouge in Pigalle. We found a lovely little french cafe called Chez Clement. Traditional in its styling, it was quite romantic. We ordered, the food arrived quickly, was delicious and the service was great. Again we managed to have a main course, a dessert and a drink (wine, beer, water or fruit juice) for 13.95 Euro each. So you are talking a little over 10 a head.

One thing I would say, is be very careful when ordering drinks. If you go to the bar, you will get the drinks at normal price. If you order from you table the can charge more. If you order from a little table outside, they can charge up to 8 times the normal amount! Anyway, we found the best way to enjoy a drink, was to go to a little supermarket. Wine in

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>