ULIP recs

CRÊPERIE GENIA (snacks or light lunch)
7 Rue de la Harpe, 5th Arrondissement

Genia has been a firm favourite among Ulippers for years! Grab a delicious crêpe from it's street-side window or head inside for paninis that are only 2 or 3 euros. This is a gem of Saint Michel, an area which is perfect for a cheap bite to eat.

LA PETITE HOSTELLERIE (lunch & dinner)

On the same street is a myriad of restaurants ranging from classic French to Greek and Italian, most offering 3 course meals for €10 or €12! My favourite is La Petite Hostellerie at number 35 on Rue de la Harpe. Grab a table upstairs for a cosy meal or outside on the street to be fully immersed in the bustling Paris action! At this price, don't miss the chance to try the classics such as onion soup or escargot.

BIG LOVE (all-day dining)
30 Rue Debelleyme, 3rd arrondissement

The 'Big Mamma' Group own a chain of restaurants all over the city named for their speciality or location (Obermamma near Oberkampf, and Pizzeria Popolare offering a superb pizza menu). These restaurants get pretty busy and don't take reservations so you might have to queue to get in, but their prices are very reasonable and you're guaranteed an incredible meal! Pop into the branch closest to you for lunch, dinner or brunch (at specific branches, BigLove is my favourite, try the crumpets!) or even just an artisan cocktail. An ideal place to go with visiting friends and family.

More info at; https://www.bigmammagroup.com/en/accueil

GOOD NEWS COFFEE SHOP (coffee, snacks & brunch)
27 bis Rue Mademoiselle, 15th Arrondissement

Down in the South of the city is a family-friendly arrondissement that operates at a slightly slower pace. Here you'll find a light-filled, independently owned coffee shop that bakes cakes and patisseries daily, and brews delicious coffees. On their Instagram (@good_news_coffeeshop) you can keep track of the changing lunch options they offer, ranging from Buddha bowls to exotic salads. Expect to pay about €4 for a flat white, but know you're supporting an excellent local business.

LE CARDINAL SAINT-GERMAIN (Coffee & food)
11 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 5th Arrondissement

Slightly more central but avoiding the overpriced cappuccinos of the centre is this gem in Saint-Germain. Grab an espresso for just €1.20 and enjoy it while sat on the outdoor tables like a true Parisian. They also serve great French classics, so try the food too!

BOULANGERIE UTOPIE (Bakery)
20 Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, 11th Arrondissement

It's hard for me to recommend a bakery because I would usually just say go to your closest one! All Paris bakeries are a testament to the heritage of the capital, all will offer freshly made croissants and baguettes alongside other baked goods and viennoiseries. However this one is special; this artisan boulangerie is known for it's charcoal infused 'black baguettes', unique approaches to famous desserts and all-butter croissants made with a French countryside butter that no other bakery uses! If you're looking for a really special treat, or just a baguette that can guarantee an incredible sandwich, this is the place to go.

New places are opening all the time and I encourage you to explore your area and find your own hidden gems! Paris has so much to offer, and I hope this list gives you a good headstart, Gastro-soc approved!