France, a country synonymous with gourmet dining and culinary finesse, isn’t just a destination for upscale cuisine. While it’s not the street food capital of the world, it still does offer some very good quality food for reasonable prices.
Breakfast on the Go
- Croissants: Starting your day with a buttery, flaky croissant from a street vendor will cost you about €0.75. The quality of bakeries and bread is so high in France due to laws protecting them and forbidding them to sell low-quality processed products.
- Crêpes: These thin pancakes, which can be savored with both sweet and savory fillings, are a breakfast staple and typically range from €2 to €10.
- Croque monsieur: This classic grilled ham and cheese sandwich, often drenched in béchamel sauce, is a popular street food, with prices typically around €3 to €5
Lunchtime:
- Jambon-beurre: The quintessential French sandwich, combining ham and butter on a crusty baguette, is a delicious bargain typically priced around €3 to €6.
- Falafel: Venture into the streets for a Middle Eastern twist with a French falafel sandwich, generally costing between €5 to €8.
- Escargot (Snails): The price of escargot in Paris can vary quite a bit depending on where you’re dining. On average, you can expect to pay about €12 for a dish of escargot, with some cheaper street food options available around €8.
Dinner:
- Merguez: A flavorful Moroccan lamb sausage served in a baguette, often accompanied by fries, offering a spicy end to your day, usually costing around €5 to €8.
- Poulet crudités: A simple yet satisfying chicken and vegetable sandwich that is perfect for dinner, priced between €5 to €10.
Desserts:
- Waffles: For something sweet, indulge in a French waffle for €3 to €5, a perfect treat to enjoy while meandering through the picturesque streets.
Compared to sitting down at a café or restaurant where a main dish like a sandwich can range from €10 to €18, street food in France offers a palatable experience at a fraction of the cost. Bon appétit!
