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Eating Well on a Student Budget in Montpellier
Montpellier is a vibrant student city with over 70,000 students. Finding affordable, tasty, and convenient places to eat is a top priority for many. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch between classes, a cozy dinner with friends, or a late-night snack, Montpellier has a diverse food scene that won’t break the bank. This guide covers the best restaurants for students in Montpellier, focusing on value, location, and quality.
Top Budget-Friendly Restaurants Near the University
Proximity to campus is key when you have a tight schedule. Here are some student favorites near the main university hubs.
Crêperie du Marché: A Montpellier Classic
Located near the historic center, Crêperie du Marché is a beloved spot for students. They offer savory galettes and sweet crêpes starting at around €6. The lunch menu is particularly good value, including a galette, a drink, and a dessert for under €10. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to study or catch up with friends.
Le Bistrot d’Antigone: Hearty French Fare
In the Antigone district, just a short walk from the Faculté de Droit and Faculté des Sciences, Le Bistrot d’Antigone serves classic French dishes like duck confit and steak-frites. Their student menu at €12 includes a main course and a dessert. The portions are generous, and the quality is consistent. It’s a bit pricier than some options but worth it for a treat.
Pizza Papa: Quick and Cheap
For a fast, filling meal, Pizza Papa on Rue de la Loge is a student staple. A large slice of pizza costs €3.50, and you can get a full meal with a drink for under €7. They also offer daily specials. It’s perfect for a quick bite between lectures.
Where to Find the Best Kebab and Street Food
Street food is a student’s best friend. Montpellier has excellent kebab shops and falafel stands that are both affordable and delicious.
Kebab House: The Student Favorite
Located on Rue de l’Université, Kebab House is famous for its generous portions and low prices. A kebab sandwich costs €5, and the menu kebab (with fries and a drink) is €7.5. The meat is well-seasoned, and the sauces are homemade. Expect a queue during lunch hours, but it moves fast.
Falafel & Co: Vegetarian-Friendly Option
Near Place de la Comédie, Falafel & Co offers fresh falafel wraps for €6. They also have hummus bowls and salads. It’s a healthy alternative to greasy kebabs. The staff are friendly, and you can watch them prepare your food.
Le P’tit Grec: Greek Street Food
For a taste of Greece, head to Le P’tit Grec on Rue de l’Aiguillerie. Their gyros pita is €6.5, and the portions are huge. They also offer vegetarian options like halloumi wraps. It’s a popular spot for a quick dinner before a night out.
Best Cafés and Bakeries for Students
Cafés are not just for coffee; many offer affordable lunch options and are great for studying.
Boulangerie du Marché: Fresh and Cheap
This bakery near the Marché du Lez offers sandwiches made with fresh baguettes for around €4. They also have quiches, salads, and pastries. It’s a great place to grab a takeaway lunch and sit in the nearby park.
Café de la Comédie: Affordable Lunch Menu
Right on Place de la Comédie, Café de la Comédie might look touristy, but their lunch menu is student-friendly. For €9.9, you get a main course and a drink. The terrace is perfect for people-watching. They also have free Wi-Fi, making it a good spot for studying.
Starbucks? No, Try Local: Caféothèque
Instead of international chains, try Caféothèque on Rue du Bras de Fer. They serve excellent coffee and have a small menu of sandwiches and cakes. A coffee and a croissant costs €4.5. The ambiance is cozy, and they have power outlets for laptops.
Checklist: How to Eat Well on a Student Budget in Montpellier
- Look for student menus: Many restaurants offer a “menu étudiant” at lunchtime for €7-12.
- Eat at the CROUS: University restaurants (RU) offer complete meals for €3.30 (subsidized). You need a student card.
- Use food apps: Apps like Too Good To Go allow you to buy surplus food from restaurants and bakeries at a discount.
- Visit the markets: Marché du Lez and Marché de la Comédie have fresh produce and cheap takeaway food.
- Share portions: Many restaurants serve large portions; split a main course with a friend.
- Avoid tourist traps: Restaurants near Place de la Comédie can be overpriced; walk a few streets away for better value.
Best Asian and International Eats for Students
Montpellier’s diverse population means you can find excellent international cuisine at student-friendly prices.
Le Petit Vietnam: Affordable Pho
On Rue de la Carbonnerie, Le Petit Vietnam serves authentic pho for €8.5. The broth is rich, and the portions are filling. They also have spring rolls and banh mi sandwiches. It’s a comforting meal on a cold day.
Thai Street Food: Spicy and Cheap
Located near the train station, Thai Street Food offers pad thai and curries for around €7. Lunch specials include a main dish and a drink for €9. The flavors are bold, and the service is quick. It’s a popular spot for takeaway.
Sushi Shop: Budget Sushi
While not the highest quality, Sushi Shop on Rue de la Loge has student deals: a sushi box (8 pieces) for €6.5. They also have a loyalty card. It’s a decent option for a sushi craving without spending too much.
Late-Night Eats: Where to Go After Studying or Partying
When hunger strikes late, these spots are open past midnight.
McDonald’s: 24/7 Option
Not the most exciting, but the McDonald’s on Place de la Comédie is open 24/7. You can use the self-order kiosks to avoid queues. The McFirst menu is under €5. It’s a reliable fallback.
Le Kiosque: Late-Night Kebabs
Near the university, Le Kiosque serves kebabs until 4 AM on weekends. Their kebab is €5.5, and they have a friendly atmosphere. It’s a favorite among students after a night out.
Pizza Delivery: Domino’s and Local
Domino’s Pizza offers student discounts online. A medium pizza starts at €8. There are also local pizzerias like Pizza Roma that deliver late and have good deals.
How to Save Even More: Tips from Local Students
I spoke with students at Université de Montpellier to get their insider tips.
- “Always check the blackboard for daily specials,” says Marie, a third-year biology student. “Many restaurants have a ‘plat du jour’ that’s cheaper than the regular menu.”
- “Bring your own container,” suggests Ahmed, an engineering student. “Some bakeries and sandwich shops give a small discount if you bring your own container or cup.”
- “Eat at the CROUS as much as possible,” recommends Camille, a master’s student. “For €3.30, you get a full meal. It’s the best deal in town.”
- “Follow restaurants on social media,” adds Julien, a business student. “Many post exclusive deals or flash sales on Instagram or Facebook.”
Common Mistakes Students Make When Eating Out in Montpellier
Avoid these pitfalls to make the most of your budget.
- Eating in tourist zones: Restaurants around Place de la Comédie and Rue de la Loge are often overpriced. Walk a few minutes away for better deals.
- Not checking for student discounts: Always ask if there’s a student menu or discount. Many places offer them but don’t advertise.
- Buying drinks separately: Tap water is free in France. Instead of buying soda, ask for a carafe d’eau. It saves money and is healthier.
- Ignoring the CROUS: University restaurants are not just for lunch; some are open for dinner. Check the schedule.
- Overtipping: Service is included in France. You can leave a small tip (€1-2) for good service, but it’s not expected.
Frequently Asked Questions About Student Dining in Montpellier
What is the average cost of a meal for a student in Montpellier?
A typical lunch at a sit-down restaurant costs between €8 and €12. Street food like kebabs or pizza slices are around €5-7. The best deal is the CROUS university restaurant at €3.30 for a full meal.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options for students?
Yes. Falafel & Co, Le P’tit Grec (halloumi), and many Asian restaurants offer vegetarian options. There are also dedicated vegan spots like Vegan Corner near the train station. The CROUS also has vegetarian menus.
Where can I find the cheapest lunch in Montpellier?
The cheapest lunch is at CROUS restaurants (€3.30). For street food, Kebab House offers a filling kebab for €5. Bakeries like Boulangerie du Marché have sandwiches for €4. Also, use Too Good To Go for surprise bags from bakeries and restaurants.
Do restaurants in Montpellier offer student discounts?
Many do, but you often have to ask. Look for “menu étudiant” on the chalkboard or menu. Some places offer a discount only at lunchtime. Always carry your student ID.
What are the best areas for student-friendly restaurants?
The area around the Université de Montpellier (Route de Mende) has many affordable options. The historic center, especially near Rue de l’Ancien Courrier and Rue de l’Aiguillerie, has cheap eateries. Also, the Antigone district has several bistros with student menus.
Is it cheaper to cook at home or eat out in Montpellier?
Cooking at home is generally cheaper, especially if you shop at markets or discount supermarkets like Lidl or Aldi. However, eating out can be affordable if you choose wisely. The CROUS meals are cheaper than cooking a similar meal from scratch.
Your Go-To Student Eats in Montpellier
Montpellier is a fantastic city for students who love good food without overspending. From the unbeatable value of CROUS restaurants to the diverse street food scene, there’s something for every taste and budget. Remember to explore beyond the main tourist streets, ask for student deals, and use apps like Too Good To Go. Whether you’re grabbing a quick falafel between classes or enjoying a leisurely crêpe with friends, you’ll find that eating well as a student in Montpellier is entirely possible. Bon appétit!
Photo by jaziaraujo on Pixabay
Are there any good options near the Faculty of Medicine? The article mentions places near law and science faculties, but I’m studying at the medical school.
Great question! Near the Faculty of Medicine (Faculté de Médecine), which is located near the historic center, you’ll find several budget-friendly options. Crêperie du Marché is a short walk away and offers great lunch deals. For quick bites, Pizza Papa on Rue de la Loge is also nearby. Additionally, the street food spots like Kebab House on Rue de l’Université are within a 10-minute walk. Hope that helps!