Categories: French Food & Wine, Paris
Planning a trip to Paris but worried about finding great vegetarian food? You’re in luck! In Episode 574 of the Join Us in France Podcast, host Annie Sargent chats with Amber Haggerty, the expert behind The Vegetarian in Paris blog, to spill all the secrets about eating meat-free in the French capital.
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Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian, a curious foodie, or just looking to cut back on meat, this episode is packed with tips, recommendations, and insider knowledge to make your Parisian dining experience unforgettable. Let’s dive into the best ways to enjoy being Vegetarian in Paris—without missing out on the flavors that make French cuisine famous.
Being Vegetarian in Paris: Easier Than You Think
Paris isn’t just for steak frites and escargot anymore. Amber Haggerty, a long-time vegetarian and Paris resident, proves that the city is a paradise for plant-based eaters. She shares her journey of discovering vegetarian restaurants in Paris and explains how the city’s food scene has evolved to welcome vegetarians with open arms. From classic French dishes with a veggie twist to international flavors, Amber’s advice will change the way you think about dining in Paris. No more settling for sad side salads or plain pasta! Annie and Amber discuss how to navigate menus, avoid hidden meat (yes, even in onion soup!), and find restaurants that truly cater to vegetarians. The key? Look for busy spots, ask questions, and embrace the city’s vibrant food culture.
Must-Try Vegetarian Restaurants in Paris
Amber doesn’t hold back when it comes to her favorite spots. First up: crêperies. She raves about Breizh in Les Marais, a Breton-style crêperie where you can indulge in savory galettes filled with mushrooms, cheese, and eggs. If you’re near Montparnasse, Le Crêperie de Jocelyn is another must-visit, though Annie warns that the lines can get long—so go early or be ready to wait. For something quick and affordable, Au Petit Grec in the 5th arrondissement offers delicious Greek-French fusion crêpes that are perfect for eating on the go.
If you’re craving something more upscale, Pristine is a mostly vegetarian restaurant with a legendary mushroom tart that Amber calls “unmissable.” Meanwhile, Le Fleurimond in the 7th arrondissement is ideal for a sit-down meal, with a seasonal vegetarian menu that’s worth every euro. Both spots prove that vegetarian restaurants in Paris can be just as elegant and satisfying as their meat-heavy counterparts.
For wine lovers, Amber recommends Le 1745, a cozy wine bar where you can build your own cheese or charcuterie board (vegetarian, of course). Septième la Cave, near Bastille, is another gem—tiny but mighty, with a focus on natural wines and small plates like herbed goat cheese that will leave you dreaming of your next visit.
Sweet Treats and Hidden Gems
No trip to Paris is complete without dessert, and Amber has you covered. Le Comptoir de la Madeleine in the 9th arrondissement serves fresh, warm madeleines in flavors like salted caramel. It’s a tiny spot, but the treats are worth the hunt. Chocolate lovers should head to Jean-Paul Hevin in the 7th, where the hazelnut bark is so good, it might just become your go-to souvenir.
But Paris isn’t just about French food. Amber highlights some of the city’s best international options for vegetarians. Habesha in the 15th arrondissement offers incredible Ethiopian cuisine, with plenty of plant-based dishes to share. Zia, near the Eiffel Tower, serves up New Mexican brunch favorites like breakfast burritos and Dutch babies—perfect for when you need a break from croissants. And if you’re exploring the Canal Saint-Martin area, don’t miss Plan D, a vegan sandwich shop with creative, colorful options that even non-vegans will love.
Where to Shop for Vegetarian Ingredients
Want to cook your own meals? Amber shares her favorite places to shop for high-quality ingredients. Le Bon Marché is her go-to for gourmet groceries, including an entire fridge dedicated to different types of butter (yes, really!). For cheese lovers, Fromagerie Hardouin at Marché d’Aligre is a treasure trove, especially if you’re looking to bring home a wheel of 30-month-aged Comté. It’s cheaper than the fancy shops and just as delicious.
Amber also suggests picking up French salt or vacuum-packed galettes as unique, easy-to-pack gifts. These are the kinds of souvenirs that foodies will actually appreciate—and use!
Tips for Navigating Paris as a Vegetarian
Being Vegetarian in Paris doesn’t have to be stressful. Amber and Annie share practical tips to help you eat well without the hassle. Always check menus for the little sprout emoji, but don’t assume it means vegetarian—sometimes it just means there’s a vegetable in the dish! Ask about broths in soups, and don’t be afraid to customize your order. Most restaurants are happy to accommodate, especially if you’re polite and clear about your needs.
Another pro tip: Use apps like Happy Cow to find vegan and vegetarian options near you. And if you’re traveling with meat-eaters, places like Le 1745 and Cosi (which has locations in the 6th and Les Marais) offer something for everyone, so no one feels left out.
Why You Should Listen to This Episode
This conversation is more than just a list of restaurants—it’s a masterclass in how to enjoy Paris as a vegetarian. Amber’s enthusiasm is contagious, and her recommendations are tried-and-true. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your tenth, you’ll walk away with new ideas for where to eat, what to order, and how to make the most of your time in the city.
Annie’s warm, conversational style makes the episode feel like a chat with a knowledgeable friend. You’ll laugh, you’ll take notes, and you’ll definitely get hungry. By the end, you’ll realize that being Vegetarian in Paris isn’t a limitation—it’s an opportunity to discover some of the city’s best-kept secrets.
Ready to Explore Vegetarian Paris?
If this summary has your mouth watering, you won’t want to miss the full episode. Listen to Episode 574 of the Join Us in France Podcast on your favorite podcast app, Spotify, or YouTube. Annie and Amber’s tips will inspire you to book your trip and start planning your vegetarian food tour of Paris.
Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and the newsletter for more insider guides, travel tips, and stories from France. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, Join Us in France is your go-to resource for experiencing the real France—one delicious bite at a time.
Links to restaurants mentioned
Breizh breizhcafe.com
Le Comptoir de la Madeleine: Facebook page
Jean-Paul Hevin: jeanpaulhevin.com
Habesha: TripAdvisor page
Plan D: Instagram page
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TranscriptCategories: French Food & Wine, Paris