Paris Crêpes
"Crêpes are thin pancakes folded into triangles or rolled into cones, filled with sweet (Nutella, sugar and lemon, jam) or savory (ham and cheese, egg). Savory buckwheat crêpes are called 'galettes' (from Brittany). They're street food sold from walk-up windows ('guichets') or crêperies. Watching the crêpe-maker spread batter on the hot griddle with a wooden rake is part of the experience. Cheap (€4-8), filling, and perfect on-the-go food."
Logistics
Affordable
Vibe
Casual, street food
Duration
10 minutes
Best For
Snacking
The Backstory
Crêpes originated in Brittany (northwest France) in the 1200s-1300s. Bretons brought crêpe culture to Paris in the 1800s-1900s, opening crêperies and street stands. The Nutella crêpe became iconic in the 1960s-70s. Street crêpe stands cluster around tourist areas and Latin Quarter. Sweet crêpes are dessert or snack; savory galettes are meals.
Local Secret
"Buy from street stands ('guichets') for €4-6, not sit-down crêperies (€10-15 for same thing). Classic fillings: Nutella, sugar-and-lemon, or Nutella-banana for sweet; ham-cheese-egg (complète) for savory. Galettes (buckwheat) are gluten-free and heartier. Watch the crêpe-maker—fresh-made crêpes are better than pre-made. Eat while walking or sitting on a park bench. Best areas: Latin Quarter, Montmartre, Île de la Cité."