Mapped: Michelin Lunches Under €50 in Paris; Dinner Under €100

In just two months, Paris will take center stage globally as it hosts the 30th edition of the Summer Olympics. Sixteen million people are expected to visit the French capital during the Olympics. Besides cheering for their favorite teams and athletes, everyone will want to sample some divine French food.

There’s plenty of amazing food to be had in Paris, but if you want to experience something truly special, try one of its Michelin-starred restaurants. After all, France is the birthplace of the famous Michelin Guide, and Paris, next to Tokyo, has the highest number of Michelin stars in the world.

However, fine dining in Paris is far from cheap. The average cost to dine at one of its Michelin-starred restaurants is €210, making Paris the 18th most expensive city in the world. Despite this, there are a few Michelin restaurants in the city that are quite affordable, at least compared to what you’d typically expect to pay for a Michelin-starred meal.

So we’ve put our research team to work and identified the most affordable Michelin restaurants in Paris.

Michelin-starred Lunches in Paris for Under 50 Euros

Lunch is generally more affordable than dinner, so if you’re looking for a Michelin-starred meal without breaking the bank, this is your safest bet. Paris is no exception; in fact, French Michelin-starred restaurants are well known for offering lunch set menus, dubbed ‘menu déjeuner,’ priced more reasonably.

1. Benoit: €32

Address: 20 Rue Saint-Martin, 75004 Paris (near Tour Saint-Jacques)

More than 100 years old, Benoit is a traditional bistro that is part of the Alain Ducasse family of restaurants. Located at 20 Rue Saint-Martin, just a stone’s throw from the Town Hall, this historic bistro brings you a quintessential Parisian dining experience, complete with classic French dishes prepared with the utmost care. Chef Fabienne Eymard leads the kitchen, offering traditional favorites such as escargot, coq au vin, and crème brûlée​.

The warm atmosphere of Benoit, combined with its excellent service, makes it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Parisian bistro experience. The lunch menu, priced at just €32, offers an affordable way to taste high-quality French cuisine in a cosy setting. Three options are available for lunch: starter/main course, main course/dessert, and starter/main course/dessert.

2. Le Sergent Recruteur: €42

Address: 20 Rue Saint-Martin, 75004 Paris (Ile Saint-Louis)

With a modern twist on classic French cuisine, Le Sergent Recruteur emphasises sustainability and local sourcing under the leadership of Chef Antonin Bonnet. The menu showcases a variety of fresh produce, meats, and fish, all prepared with simplicity and flavour in mind​. Chef Bonnet’s commitment to sustainability makes Le Sergent Recruteur a standout choice for conscientious diners​.

Priced at €42, the lunch menu provides an affordable way to experience the best of seasonal French cuisine. Available from Wednesday to Friday, this menu consists of either a starter and a main course, or a main course and a dessert. 

The restaurant has a rustic charm with chic décor, offering a cosy ambiance. Its glassed-off kitchen lets diners observe the chefs, adding an engaging atmosphere.

3. Ze Kitchen Galerie: €43

Address: 4 Rue des Grands Augustins, 75006 Paris (near Sainte-Chapelle)

Ze Kitchen Galerie, found at 4 Rue des Grands Augustins, is the creation of Chef William Ledeuil. This restaurant stands out for its innovative blend of French and Asian influences, using hints of ginger, galangal, or wasabi, to create a unique culinary experience.  

The lunch menu at Ze Kitchen Galerie is a reflection of Ledeuil’s inventive approach, featuring dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious​. The menu, priced at €43, gives you the opportunity to try Ledeuil’s cutting-edge culinary creations. The modern and artistic ambiance of the restaurant complements the vibrant cuisine, making it a favourite among food enthusiasts. 

4. Qui Plume la Lune: €45

Address: 50 Rue Amelot, 75011 Paris (near Place des Vosges)

Qui Plume la Lune is a hidden gem in the Parisian dining scene, known for its inventive cuisine. Chef Jacky Ribault brings his passion for quality ingredients and creative presentations to life in every dish. The intimate and elegant setting of Qui Plume la Lune, located at 50 Rue Amelot, enhances the overall dining experience, making it a must-visit for all food enthusiasts.

The restaurant’s menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest seasonal produce available in Paris, ensuring a great exploration of flavours and textures with each visit​. The lunch menu, priced at €45, offers a taste of high-end dining. Diners can expect a meal that is both refined and adventurous, showcasing Chef Ribault’s skillful blend of traditional and modern techniques.

5. Auguste: €45

Address: 54 Rue de Bourgogne, 75007 Paris (near Musée Rodin)

Chef Gaël Orieux’s Auguste is an acclaimed establishment known for its inventive approach to traditional French cuisine. Auguste offers a dining experience that is both refined and adventurous, thanks to its focus on showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients in innovative ways, backed by Orieux’s background working alongside greats like Paul Bocuse and Alain Ducasse.

Opened in 2004, Auguste draws inspiration from the iconic Auguste Escoffier’s Culinary Guide. Situated in a neighborhood steeped in history, just a stone’s throw away from the Rodin Museum and the dome of the Invalides, the restaurant represents the timeless elegance of old Paris.

The restaurant’s popular lunch menu, starting at €45, highlights seasonal ingredients and a blend of classic and contemporary techniques. The atmosphere at Auguste is intimate and stylish, perfect for enjoying a relaxed yet refined meal.

6. Gaya par Pierre Gagnaire: €48

Address: 6 Rue de Saint-Simon, 75007 Paris (near Musée Maillol)

Gaya par Pierre Gagnaire is a seafood-focused restaurant helmed by the legendary Pierre Gagnaire. Located at 6 Rue Saint-Simon, diners can expect a menu that reflects Gagnaire’s philosophy of creativity and excellence in every dish. The menu includes dishes such as scallops and langoustines, prepared with a creative twist. Chef Philippe Daverio leads the kitchen, ensuring every dish reflects Gagnaire’s philosophy.

The restaurant’s ambiance is sophisticated yet welcoming, with contemporary décor that complements the inventive menu. Gaya is open for lunch and dinner, with the two-course lunch menu priced at an affordable €49, featuring a main dish and a dessert.

7. La Scène Thélème: €49

Address: 18 Rue Troyon, 75017 Paris (near Arc de Triomphe)

La Scène Thélème, located at 18 Rue Troyon in Paris, elegantly combines a Michelin-starred restaurant with an intimate theatre. Head Chef Yoshitaka Takayanagi, a native of the Mount Fuji region, masterfully blends French and Japanese culinary traditions to create a menu that highlights the natural form of ingredients. Signature dishes feature delicate flavors and artistic presentations, using seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, and meats.

The restaurant focuses on seasonality and local produce, ensuring that each dish is a tribute to nature and the changing seasons. Diners can enjoy a theatrical dining experience where the meal is as much a sensory performance as it is a culinary delight. The theatre attached to the restaurant hosts performances by renowned artists, making each visit memorable.

La Scène Thélème offers both lunch and dinner menus. The most affordable option is the two-course lunch menu at 49€, consisting of a main dish and a dessert. This offers the perfect chance to experience Chef Takayanagi’s refined yet accessible culinary artistry in a warm, inviting setting.

8. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Étoile: €49

Address: 133 Av. des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Étoile is one of the renowned establishments of the late Joël Robuchon, a celebrated chef with numerous Michelin stars to his name. Here, the legacy of Robuchon lives on through the skilled hands of Chef Éric Bouchenoire, elected “Meilleur Ouvrier de France” in 2000. This restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on French haute cuisine made with seasonal, market-fresh ingredients.

The restaurant has over 60 exquisite offerings that showcase both Bouchenoire and Robuchon’s dedication to perfection and innovation. The lunch menu is carefully crafted to offer a taste of the restaurant’s exceptional culinary artistry at an accessible €49. The open kitchen design also allows diners to watch the chefs at work, creating an engaging dining experience.  

9. Hémicycle: €49

Address: Address: 5 Rue de Bourgogne, 75007 Paris (in-between Hôtel des Invalides and Musée de l’Orangerie)

Hémicycle, situated in a historical location near the French National Assembly, offers a refined dining experience under the guidance of Chef François Dinot. The restaurant’s menu emphasises contemporary French cuisine with subtle Italian influences, thanks to acidic, bitter notes that add depth and complexity to each dish.

On the ground floor of Hémicycle you’ll find the bustling kitchen and elegant décor, while the first floor hosts a dessert bar where you can indulge in a variety of unique sweet treats prepared by Chef Aurora Storari. Upstairs, the Wine Room offers a secluded space with a round table and an impressive wine cellar, perfect for business meetings or private celebrations.

The lunch menu, priced at €49, is designed to provide an elegant yet affordable taste of fine dining. This menu is available Tuesday to Friday, and includes a starter, main course, and dessert. 

Michelin-Starred Dinner Below 100 Euros

Expect to pay quite a bit more for dinner, but it’s a perfect way to celebrate the end of a fun and thrilling Olympic day. Plus, this is when you can taste the best dishes and tasting menus that Michelin-starred restaurants have to offer.

So what are the most affordable Michelin dining options in Paris?

1. Fleur de Pavé
_{Prices starting at €75}

Address: 5 Rue Paul Lelong, 75002 Paris (near Jardin du Palais Royal)

In the heart of Paris, Fleur de Pavé offers a delightful dining experience under the expertise of Chef Sylvain Sendra. This restaurant focuses on an inventive blend of French, Mediterranean, Asian, and South American influences, using the finest seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets. Chef Sendra combines his passion for travel and food, drawing inspiration from his visits to specifically Peru and Japan to create dishes that beautifully balance textures and flavors.

The restaurant’s intimate setting, combined with an open kitchen, allows for an immersive experience where diners can see the culinary magic unfold. The €75 dinner menu provides great value, featuring a curated selection of courses that highlight the best of modern fine dining.

2. Tomy & Co
_{Prices starting at €80}

Address: 22 Rue Surcouf, 75007 Paris (near Hôtel des Invalides)

Tomy & Co, helmed by Chef Tomy Gousset, is a modern Michelin-starred restaurant situated near Les Invalides. Chef Gousset, celebrated for his vibrant approach to French cuisine, blends traditional techniques with contemporary creativity. Diners can look forward to distinctive dishes like the lobster, gnocchi with black truffle and chanterelles, and roasted apricots with verbena.

The restaurant offers a very affordable Summer Olympics special menu with the three-course meal priced at 80 euros. Travelling with kids? No problem, there’s even an affordable children’s menu for 28 euros.

3. Jacques Faussat
^{Prices starting at €80}

Address: 54 Rue Cardinet, 75017 Paris

Jacques Faussat, situated in a charming corner of Paris, is where Chef Jacques Faussat showcases his mastery of traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. Each dish is fresh with the seasons and flavoured with spices Chef Faussat collected during his travels. From the succulent meats to the delicate desserts, every course is a celebration of French culinary excellence.

Chef Faussat’s dedication to quality and authenticity shines through in the €80 dinner menu. This menu consists of three courses and guests can expect authentic, specialty dishes such as Mackerel combined with peas, and Stuffed Ballotine of Chard.

4. Hémicycle
^{Prices starting at €85}

Address: 5 Rue de Bourgogne, 75007 Paris (in-between Hôtel des Invalides and Musée de l’Orangerie)

Located near the French National Assembly, Hémicycle is a refined dining destination where Chef François Dinot crafts dishes that reflect contemporary French cuisine. Chef Dinot’s philosophy emphasises balance and harmony, with each course thoughtfully composed to highlight the natural flavours of the ingredients.

Hémicycle spans three floors: the ground floor features an elegant dining area designed by Michel Amar; the first floor hosts a dedicated dessert bar; and the Wine Room above offers an intimate space with a large round table and exceptional wine collection. The desserts, crafted by pastry chef Aurora Storari, redefine the entire dining experience with creations that turn the end of a meal into a highlight.

The €85 dinner menu is designed to offer a sophisticated yet accessible gastronomic experience, featuring a carefully curated selection of seasonal dishes. The elegant décor and attentive service at Hémicycle create an inviting atmosphere that keeps guests coming back.

5. FIEF
^{Prices starting at €95}

Address: 44 Rue de la Folie Méricourt, 75011 Paris (near Bataclan)

FIEF, an acronym for “Fait Ici En France” (Made Here in France), is the brainchild of Chef Damien Laforce. The restaurant’s philosophy is to showcase the best of French ingredients, with a focus on sustainability and local sourcing. Chef Laforce, who has trained under some of France’s top chefs, brings a dedication to quality and innovation to every dish.

The €95 dinner menu showcases the finest locally sourced ingredients, expertly prepared to highlight their natural flavours. This menu includes five courses and a curated selection of French wines to complement each dish.

FIEF’s commitment to using only French ingredients and its inventive menu make it a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary French cuisine.

6. Baieta
^{Prices starting at €95}

Address: 7-5 Rue de Pontoise, 75005 Paris

Situated in a bustling area of Paris at 5 Rue de Pontoise, Baieta, meaning “little kiss” in the Nice dialect, is a charming restaurant where Chef Julia Sedefdjian brings the colors and flavors of the Mediterranean to Paris. Chef Sedefdjian’s passion for fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite, from the starters to the desserts.

The €95 dinner menu is an exploration of Southern French cuisine, featuring dishes that are both vibrant and comforting. This menu consists of four courses and a mignardise. The cosy atmosphere of Baieta makes it a perfect choice for a romantic dinner.

7. Restaurant H
^{Prices starting at €95}

Address: 13 Rue Jean Beausire, 75004 Paris (near Place de la Bastille )

In the Marais district, you’ll find Restaurant H, led by Chef Hubert Duchenne, a rising star in Parisian cuisine. Chef Duchenne’s background includes experience at prestigious restaurants such as Le Meurice and Le Carré des Feuillants. At Restaurant H, he brings his expertise to bear on a menu that combines traditional French techniques with modern flavors and presentations.

The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere, featuring retro-futuristic décor and natural, simplistic finishes. Here, you will find pop art against the walls, petrol blue couches, and intriguing Tom Dixon lighting.

The popular €95 dinner menu at Restaurant H is a gastronomic journey through contemporary French cuisine, featuring dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

8. Auguste
^{Prices starting at €96}

Address: 54 Rue de Bourgogne, 75007 Paris (near Musée Rodin)

At Auguste, Chef Gaël Orieux presents a sophisticated take on French cuisine, drawing inspiration from his experiences working with culinary legends like Paul Bocuse and Alain Ducasse. He creates innovative dishes that blend land and sea flavours, such as foie gras poached in shrimp consommé and pork belly with hulls and truffles, all while advocating for sustainable fishing.

Situated in the historic Palais Bourbon quarter, its décor exudes a blend of sophistication and modernity, reflecting the spirit of its London influences. Led by a dedicated team, including room director Carmen Shumacher and sommelier Mathias Duciel, Auguste continues to uphold its tradition while embracing innovation

The €96 dinner menu at Auguste offers a selection of dishes that showcase the finest seasonal ingredients. Guests can expect a range of appetizers, such as delicate seafood starters or vegetarian options, followed by main courses highlighting the harmonious blend of land and sea flavors.