A personal guide to meals that mattered, moments that lingered, and places that made Paris feel like home!

One of the best things about living in Paris, even temporarily, is that meals aren’t just meals—they’re memories in the making. They’re slow and layered and often happen at places you stumble into rather than plan for. During my stay in the 2nd arrondissement, I let the city guide me: through winding streets, buzzing cafés, tiny boulangeries, and glowing bistros that beckon you in at golden hour. This guide isn’t exhaustive—it’s personal. These are the places that fed me well, made me feel welcome, and added a little extra magic to my days in the city. Some are timeless institutions, others unexpected gems. All of them are worth bookmarking!

Le Mistral 

Classic, cozy, and the perfect start to a day in the city 

Tucked just steps from Saint-Chapelle and Notre-Dame, this long-standing spot delivers traditional Parisian fare with zero pretension. I had a simple, satisfying breakfast—fresh eggs, croissant, café crème—and some of the friendliest service I encountered during my stay. Affordable, local, and quietly iconic. 

La Tour Monthléry - Chez Denise 

My first dinner in Paris, and the kind of meal that makes you fall in love with the city 

This is old-world Paris in every sense—dimly lit, slow-paced, filled with conversation and wine and charm. I arrived solo without a reservation on a Friday night, was tucked in at a shared table, and felt instantly part of the scene. Order anything. Sip slowly. Soak in the artwork, the quiet bustle, the feeling of stepping into a timeless Parisian moment. 

Le Deauville 

When you’re in the heart of the tourist flow but still want a good meal 

Big, bustling café with plenty of seating and reliable classics. My go-to orders: the roast chicken or spaghetti bolognese. Sometimes, it’s exactly what you want—comfort food, good wine, and the Paris street scene unfolding in front of you. 

Chicky Parisian Roasted Chicken

The rotisserie chicken you didn’t know you needed 

It may look like fast food, but this place serves some of the best roast chicken I’ve had in Paris. Juicy, flavorful, and affordable (€14 for a half chicken, side, and drink). They do takeout and UberEats, but eating it fresh at the counter has its own charm. 

The Little Miches 

Small, woman-owned, and full of warmth 

A pastry shop that feels like a hidden treasure. Fresh baguettes, beautiful pastries, bright salads, espresso drinks—and the best chocolate beignets I’ve ever had. It’s the kind of spot you want to visit every morning, just to see what’s new in the case. 

Café Leonard 

Sunlit, stylish, and made for people-watching 

Located on a buzzing corner with that perfect Paris energy. Grab a table outside, order the burger, and enjoy the rhythm of the city. They do every meal well—breakfast through dinner—and the vibe is exactly what you want it to be: laid-back but full of life. 

La Mie Câline St Denis 

A warm little spot for the baguette you didn’t know you needed 

This place pulls you in with the smell alone. I loved swinging by for a fresh baguette or a pastry (traditional and wildly colorful options both). It’s casual and quick but still charming—and the kind of stop that becomes part of your daily rhythm. 

Sebastopol Market 

A tiny gem of a grocery store with a big personality (and a friendly shop cat!) 

For those who want to cook at home or just keep a fridge stocked with the essentials: this market has everything—fresh fruit, cheeses, prepared items, and fantastic wines starting at €6. And yes, there’s a friendly shop cat who makes the place feel even more local and inviting.
 

Barbarc Paris – Sandwicherie Fine 

The kind of sandwich that stops you in your tracks 

Picture fresh baguette, thinly sliced cured meats, soft cheeses, and the most flavor-packed house-made sauces—all assembled to order at a tiny counter. It’s rustic but refined, and exactly the kind of grab-and-go meal you wish you could get on every corner. 

Baldoria 

Square-cut pizza and spritzes in a space that feels like Milan meets Paris 

Crispy slices, both sweet and savory, served in a modern, minimalist setting with a side of Aperol and people-watching. It’s the perfect stop when you want a break from traditional fare but still want something stylish and satisfying. 

Cocorico 

Rustic-chic comfort with timeless French classics 

Dimly lit and full of character, Cocorico is the kind of place where you settle in and lose track of time. Think French onion soup, escargot, beef bourguignon, steak frites—done beautifully. The space is cozy and contemporary, with just enough old-world energy to make it feel grounded. It’s always buzzing, always delicious. 

Royal Vendôme 

Modern elegance just steps from Place Vendôme 

A perfect blend of polished and playful. This sleek, art deco-inspired space is home to a young, warm staff and elevated French staples—foie gras, frog legs, excellent wine. Whether you’re catching up with friends or lingering over a date night dinner, it feels stylish without being stuffy.
 

What I love most about Paris is how easily you can fall into little rituals—your favorite café table, the perfect pain au chocolat, a street corner where the light always hits just right. This city has a way of turning everyday moments into something cinematic. Whether you’re here for a few days or a few months, these spots added depth, warmth, and flavor to my time here—and I hope they do the same for you. 

More recommendations to come (there’s no such thing as too many croissants!)