BEST SANDWICHES IN PARIS
Looking for the best sandwiches in Paris? Well you’re in luck! While many think France isn’t big on sandwiches, think again. You not only have delectable Anglo sandwiches served in specialty sandwich shops but there are also French classics like the famous Croque Monsieur (ham and cheese sandwich melt) and ‘Jambon Beurre’ (Parisian ham with butter) served in bakeries, open markets and gourmet shops.
While many boulangeries (bakeries) offer some kind of sandwich, supply can vary as bakeries don’t tend to offer consistently nor do they tend to prepare a large quantities or selection. And we both know that sandwiches at supermarkets are gross, so don’t even stoop to this level when in Paris! Instead go to a proper sandwich shop. There are a handful of sandwicheries around Paris exclusively dedicated to sandwiches and we’ve gobbled down hundreds of delicious sandwiches in order to arrive at the following shortlist of where you can eat the best sandwiches in Paris:
1) BOULETTES CHEF SANDWICH
With two locations in Paris, Boulettes has become famous for their tasty, gourmet pita sandwiches. They only use quality and natural ingredients so there sandwiches are as gourmet as they come. While prices have increased from 10 to 15 euros, you get a fully loaded large sandwich. For instance, they do a lovely Aubrac beef sandwich with a bernaise sauce, carmelised onions and tasty seasonings like fresh parsley. They also have an amazingly tender lamb sandwich with onions and thyme sauce. Vegan options as well.
In addition to sandwiches, they serve bowls of delicious like meatballs (hence the name boulettes), which they are also famous for. You can order in advance and pick up or have them delivery via Deliveroo.
2) FRIC-FRAC
Fric-Frac is a croque-monsieur (cheese-melt sandwiches) focused sandwich shop, with one location in Republique and another in Monmartre. If you don’t know what a croque monsieur is, it’s basically a classic French sandwich that is made with ham and melted cheese (and sometimes bechamel sauce).
They have all kinds of cheese sandwiches whatever your preference so you are bound to find something you’ll like. Sandwiches alone are from 9-14 euros and they have ‘formules’ that allow you to economise and add a drink, side and desert for just 4 euros extra.
3) CARCATERE DE COCHON
Caractere de Cochon is an institution in Paris. This old school, ham-focused butcher/sandwicherie is famous for its traditional French Jambon-Beurre (Parisian ham and butter) sandwiches. If you haven’t tried a Jambon-Beurre then we highly recommend you try one here since they are famous for them.
The sandwiches are simple but made with quality ingredients so don’t write this off just yet. The ham they use for many of their sandwiches is jambon de Paris (Paris ham), which is buttery and tasty ham with a subtle flavour. And if you haven’t tried fresh French butter than you are in for a real treat! They offer different renditions of jambon-beurre classic as well as offer a ton of delicious pates and hams from all over France like Rosette de Lyon, a saucisson (salami) from Lyon, France.
Caractere de cochon facebook page
4) CHEZ ALAIN MIAM MIAM
Chez Alain Miam Miam are famous for delicious sandwiches but only offer take away (takeout). They are located within an indoor shopping alley and we particularly love their American style Pastrami sandwich. They offer an insanely large variety of options which always factors high on our ranking. Prices are also great as most are under 10 euros . Chez Alain is close to Caractere de Cochon in the Republique area, so why not get one sandwich at each and see which one you prefer?
Chez Alain Miam Miam Tripadvisor Page
5) CHEZ ALINE
Along with Caractere de Cochon, Chez Aline’s does one of the best Jambon-Beurre (ham and butter) sandwich in Paris. If you’re not up for a Jambon-Beurre with their signature Prince of Paris ham then you can order something else like roasted chicken sandwich or or banh mi Vietnamese style sandwich. There are tons of options! It’s a very informal place with limited seating and a dated/retro look and feel. One of those places you would surely walk by and never notice. But then looking carefully at the details. The big Z, the horse sign hanging up high…a recipe for word of mouth success! Note they are closed on weekends.
6) PETIT VENDOME
Petit Vendome in Paris is a hidden treasure for sandwich lovers. This charming bistro, located in the 2nd arrondissement, offers an exquisite selection of artisanal sandwiches, filled with top-notch meats and cheeses from all over France. While they have a single location, it’s a bustling spot, especially popular among the local crowd.
What sets Petit Vendome apart is their value for money. Priced at about 7 euros, their sandwiches are both affordable and generously portioned, served on fresh, crispy baguettes. They offer a range of options, from seasonal specialties like smoked salmon and dill to timeless French classics like ham and butter with homemade mustard. These sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely picnic in one of Paris’s many parks. Note that Petit Vendome is closed on Sundays but offers convenient delivery through Uber Eats and Deliveroo.
7) ARISTOTTE
Aristotte is an American inspired bakery/deli/sandwich shop with delectable sandwiches served mainly on bagels. You can order a variety of tasty sandwiches combos such as a pastrami sandwich with roquette, cream cheese, pickles, carmelised onions and honey mustard. They bake their own bread so you can have it on a crunchy bagel, baguette or bread of your choice. Yum! Last but not least you have to try their hot dogs! We don’t know what it is but the French seem to do the best hot dogs. If you’re extra hungry, try their XXL hot dog!
8) CUL DE COCHON
With four locations across Paris, Cul de Cuchon is a gourmet shop that serves some delicious sandwiches. As a seller of meets and cheese and other ‘epicerie’ products, they have a good supply of quality ingredients: cheese, meats, pates, and produce from all over France.
Sandwiches are reasonably priced: you can have a Deux Soeurs with ham, comte cheese, butter and cornichon for just 6.90 euros! Also, their hot dogs (hot dog moutardier) are incredible and are not like any you’ve ever had before- theirs is full of flavor (a bit spicy) and all natural. Vegan options as well as salads.
Cul de Cochon website (in French)
9) BUVETTE
Buvette Paris stands out in the bustling Parisian sandwich scene with its unique charm and culinary finesse. Located in the picturesque neighborhood of South Pigalle, this cozy eatery offers a delightful range of artisanal sandwiches that are both creative and satisfying. At Buvette, sandwiches are crafted with a focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring each bite is a fusion of fresh flavors and textures.
Their menu boasts a variety of options, from classic French inspirations to more contemporary creations, catering to a wide range of tastes. One of the highlights of Buvette is its ambience. The setting is intimate and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a casual lunch or a relaxed afternoon bite. While they are primarily known for their exceptional sandwiches, Buvette also offers a selection of beverages, including fine wines and artisanal coffee, to perfectly complement your meal.
For the best vegetarian food in Paris including the tastiest falafel sandwich, you might want to take a peak at our shortlist.
And after gobbling up hundreds of crepes and burgers, you might want to have a look at our best burgers in Paris list or our best crepes. Many people know sweet crepes but the savoury kind called galettes are delicious and filling- not to be missed!
And as for burgers, surprisingly Paris has some of the best in the world thanks to the abundance of excellent quality meat and all kinds delicious toppings like raclette cheese and carmelised onions. Yum!
Finally, if you’re looking for a good deal, you can purchase the Paris City Card which includes a cruise along the seine via Bateaux Parisiens, Louvre museum access plus access to the Eiffel Tower and an audio guide (app). And if you have a kids or just looking for something a bit more relaxed, the Paris Family Fun Pass, which includes access to the Paris Zoo (world class and not to be missed!), Gallerie D’Evolution at the Natural History Museum (skip the line) and the Grevin Wax museum. Click below for more details!