snacks – EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog EuroCheapo editors take on the world of budget travel. Tue, 18 Nov 2025 18:54:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.3 Paris Crepes: The best crepe stands and creperies https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-the-5-best-crepe-stands-in-town.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-the-5-best-crepe-stands-in-town.html#comments Mon, 04 Apr 2016 08:35:45 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=16442 Whether it’s with a fork and knife or on the go, eating a crepe just feels so Parisian – even though they are supposed to have originated in Brittany. Finding them is not particularly difficult, especially if you are around the Montparnasse neighborhood. Around the rest of Paris, however, it’s good to have a few » Read more

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Whether it’s with a fork and knife or on the go, eating a crepe just feels so Parisian – even though they are supposed to have originated in Brittany. Finding them is not particularly difficult, especially if you are around the Montparnasse neighborhood.

Around the rest of Paris, however, it’s good to have a few suggestions for when the urge hits. Prices vary widely but expect to pay €3-7 for a takeaway crepe. Restaurants are a bit pricier, at €8-15 for a savory crepe, though look out for set menus that score you a savory and a sweet for decent prices.

Related: 8 Great meals in Paris for €10 or less


The best Paris crepes to try during your trip

Market Crepes: Top Pick

Head to the Marche des Enfants Rouge for the city’s most over-stuffed crepes at Chez Alain Miam Miam. Alain takes his time making each item fresh, grating the cheese onto a freshly prepared buckwheat crepe and loading it with salad, meat, and fresh herbs. The line can wrap around the market, with waits exceeding thirty minutes, but no one walks away disappointed having spent only €7. If he likes you, he may throw in a few sweet crepes for dessert. Take the portable meal to the nearby Square du Temple and embarrass yourself as you try to get it into your mouth.

Latin Quarter Crepes

If you’re meandering through the Latin Quarter by the Pantheon or you just had a pint in one of the student-friendly bars on rue Mouffetard, head to Au Petit Grec (66, rue Mouffetard, 75005). They heap ingredients onto a wide variety of crepes, including seasonal ones like the Savoyard, which offers a thick mountain of cheese and potatoes. Prices hover around €5-6 for the savories. I’ve never had room for a sweet crepe afterward, but they look just as good.

Marais Crepes

On rue des Rosiers in the Marais neighborhood, right down the street from famed L’As du Falafel, there is a blue façade that serves up traditional crepes called La Droguerie — perfect for something that’s not falafel while strolling rue des Rosiers (56 rue des Rosiesr).

Around the corner, you’ll quickly find Princess Crepes (3, rue des Ecouffes, 75004). Keep your eyes peeled for a storefront that resembles a geisha’s dollhouse topped with whipped cream. This tiny store puts a kitschy, nontraditional, Japanese spin on the crepe — and you won’t break the bank while indulging with each creation somewhere around €5. The ice cream is a welcomed touch.

Restaurant Crepes

For a sit-down crepe experience, everyone always buzzes about Breizh Café (109 rue Vieille du Temple) in the Marais. Don’t get me wrong, they’re excellent, but between needing a reservation and fighting all of the “foodie” tourists that go there, it can get kind of frustrating. And at €12-16, it’s not the cheapest.

You have other choices when it comes to crepe restaurants that don’t require reservations. For example, on Ile Saint Louis the tiny Café Med (77 rue Saint Louis en l’Ile) serves up no-frills crepes that hit the spot. Sure it might not feature high-end ingredients, but a good old ham, cheese, and egg crepe doesn’t need anything fancy.

Several other restaurants serve up crepes with a fork and knife for around €10 or less. On the Right Bank, West Country Girl (6 Passage Saint Abroise) is a favorite for those like baker/writer David Lebovitz. On the Left Bank, La Crepe Rit du Clown (6 rue des Canettes) is an easy go-to when you need a crepe fix. Little Breizh (11 rue Grégoire de Tours) is another solid address with some more gourmet options, right in the heart of Saint Germain, and it’s been on food writer Patricia Wells’ radar.

Buckwheat Crepe

Sitting down to a buckwheat crepe with a cup of cider for lunch. Photo: Neil Conway

Tips for eating crepes

Remember crepes are savory or sweet. Savory varieties are best served on a buckwheat crepe and filled with ham, cheese, or egg, but each creperie has its own set of concoctions. Some get crazy with fish, potatoes, various cheeses, and Bolognese sauce (students love it). The buckwheat, however, means they are generally gluten-free but don’t depend on it.

Sweet crepes are made of flour and can contain fruit, Grand Marnier, honey, or Nutella among other items. You can even just eat a sweet crepe on its own, or nature, as the French say. Your best bet is just to try several of them and judge for yourself.

Hungry yet? What are your favorite spots in Paris for crepes? Tell us in the comments!

Note: This post was updated in April 2016 with new listings and current information.

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Amsterdam: 5 easy ways to save on dining https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-5-easy-ways-to-save-on-dining.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-5-easy-ways-to-save-on-dining.html#respond Thu, 07 Feb 2013 16:39:44 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=26252 Culturally, going out to eat in Holland is always due to a special occasion and isn’t simply an every day activity. That means that dining in Amsterdam can be pricey compared to North America’s restaurant culture. Here are five ways to still eat out in Amsterdam without getting caught in pricey pancake pad, or worse, » Read more

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Culturally, going out to eat in Holland is always due to a special occasion and isn’t simply an every day activity. That means that dining in Amsterdam can be pricey compared to North America’s restaurant culture.

Here are five ways to still eat out in Amsterdam without getting caught in pricey pancake pad, or worse, a tortellini tourist trap.

1. Sign up for Groupon’s Amsterdam deals.

The coupons that you’ll find in your welcome brochures from this or that travel company won’t offer the best restaurant deals. It’s more likely that they get a bit of commission off anyone who dines with the flyer they handed you. The spot probably won’t be a local’s pick, and perhaps not even a cuisine worth trying.

Instead of touristy coupons, sign up for Groupon — the coupon website that offers discounts on everything from dining to shopping in Amsterdam. Sign up ahead of your trip for daily email offers, and Google Translate the offer. Daily dinner deals get up to 70% off three- and five-course meals in city center restaurants. From fondue to steak and all-around Dutch meals, the variety guarantees scoring a half-price meal for groups of two or more.

2. Splurge at lunch.

Lunchtime menu prices can be 30% cheaper or more than dinner, and just as tasty. Try a smorgasbord of Dutch sandwiches, or a mixed plate of hapjes (snacks), which can vary from fresh olives to fried bitterballen with mustard. Other cafes will even host a few hot plate specials, like burgers, soups, and deluxe salad plates.

Simply put, eat a grand lunch and go light on dinner to avoid getting taken for a ride.

3. Stay away from the big squares.

Dam Square, Rembrandtplein, Red Light District, Leidseplein and Spui are overflowing with restaurants that serve average meals at inflated tourist prices. (It’s a no-brainer to skip the spots where someone stands on the streets to lure you in.) “Off the beaten path” is always better for local food and atmosphere.

Need some suggestions? My favorite food spots are:

• The cafes at Nieuwmarkt like Café Fonteyn.

• The Thai places on Zeedijk like Thai Bird.

• The narrow alleys in the Jordaan have some great eateries, like La Perla and their wood oven pizza, as will cafes off the Albert Cuypstraat market in De Pijp like Bazar.

• I love a lot of places in the Plantage and Tropenmuseum area for their “student friendly” prices, like Burgermeester and Kriterion.

4. Go ethnic, but be accurate.

Pass on the Italian, Greek, Argentinean and American restaurants. You won’t find high quality plates from these countries unless you actually go to the country itself. I say this because I’m fooled into Mexican restaurants constantly. And I’m always disappointed. The truth is that it’s nearly impossible to get the authentic ingredients, especially for cheap.

If ethnic food is what you’re looking for, think “colonial Dutch.” The Netherlands has a long history with Surinamese and Indonesian spices and trade, and when done right it’s a spicy satisfaction. Turkish and Moroccan restaurants are good picks as well due to the large population in Amsterdam.

5. Take Away? Throw Away!

The simple truth is take away shops in Amsterdam are catered to people with the munchies. The bakeries with Belgian chocolate waffles are not freshly made by the guy selling them. And the giant pizza slices have been made ready-to-bake. It’s all eye candy. Even many French fries stands have giant sacs of frozen potatoes peeled and sliced.

What to do? If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em. There’s no escaping them come nighttime, but some quality take-away spots are always open for lunch.

My advice is to hit the Albert Hein grocery store and stock up on small stuff that can fit into your bag. Belgian chocolate, gouda cheese cubes, tasty crackers and flavorful tapenade spreads are just as yummy for snacking.

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Dublin: 5 places for late-night cheap eats https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/dublin-5-places-for-late-night-cheap-eats.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/dublin-5-places-for-late-night-cheap-eats.html#respond Fri, 06 Apr 2012 15:24:00 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=22994 In this guest post, Colm Hanratty of Hostelworld.com tells us his favorite places to go for a late-night snack in the Irish capital.  Dublin is famous for many things—friendly locals, outspoken rock stars and pubs being three. After sampling the local Guinness in one of its celebrated “boozers,” chances are you’ll be in search of » Read more

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In this guest post, Colm Hanratty of Hostelworld.com tells us his favorite places to go for a late-night snack in the Irish capital. 

Dublin is famous for many things—friendly locals, outspoken rock stars and pubs being three. After sampling the local Guinness in one of its celebrated “boozers,” chances are you’ll be in search of some late-night eats. Thankfully, there is no shortage of places enjoy cheap eats. These are our favorites.

Zaytoon
14/15 Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

Let’s face it—if you’re going to Dublin you’re going to visit Temple Bar. It’s the tourist center of the city and home to pubs playing traditional Irish music to keep tourists and (some) locals alike happy. It’s also home to Dublin’s best “kebab shop”–Zaytoon. Specializing in Persian cuisine, this late-night kebab den is a step above the rest in “town” (what locals call downtown). They’ve another “restaurant” at the bottom of Camden St. (pictured, top).

Head to The Gigs Place for a full Irish breakfast after a “skin full.”

Gig’s Place
Portobello Bridge, Portobello, Dublin 8

If you speak to anybody who’s been to Ireland prior to your trip, they’re bound to tell you you should try a “full Irish” (breakfast) when you’re there. What they might not tell you is that many find this traditional dish more pleasing after a “skin full” (Irish for “a lot”) of pints. If you want to experience this, Gig’s Place just south of the city centre is where to go.

Afsana
3 Temple Lane, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

Another Temple Bar haunt is Afsana, one of the best value Indian restaurants in the city. The décor won’t blow you away but the vindaloo will, quite literally (it’s hot hot hot!) Staff are extremely friendly and have the patience of saints. They’d have to dealing with those who’ve had one too many night after night. Try the chicken korma—it’s delicious.

Bobo’s
22 Wexford St, Dublin 2

There are many well-known burger joints in Dublin city centre. But this one, which is on the Wexford Street/Camden Street strip, gets our vote. For a start they’ve got a burger called “The Colm.” I kid you not. I’ve eaten one many times because–you are what you eat after all. Other creative titles for burgers include “The Finn McCool” and “The Grafton.”

Pizza Top Takeaway
48-50 Stephen Street Lower, Dublin 2

Similar to pizza places in New York, upon entering this establishment conveniently located beside Grafton Street, you’ll be presented with an array of pizza slices to choose from. Picture barbecue chicken, Hawaiian, pepperoni and more. Also, picture a large queue as this place is popular. It’s worth the wait though.

Hot dogs stands
In front of Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre and across from Trinity College, Dublin 2

If it’s something lightning quick you desire and you can’t face a queue then you need street food. The two best known stands benefit from a high footfall and whisky-fueled revelers from the city’s bars and pubs. The dogs aren’t anything special, but you’re not going to care when you order.

About the author: Hostelworld.com is the leading provider of budget accommodation online and has partnered with djddz.com so you can book cheap hostels in Dublin right here on this site. You can keep up to date with everything they do by liking their page on Facebook and following them on Twitter.

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London Cheap Eats in Soho: Vietnamese, Mexican and Lebanese https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/london-cheap-eats-in-soho-vietnamese-indian-mexican-and-lebanese.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/london-cheap-eats-in-soho-vietnamese-indian-mexican-and-lebanese.html#respond Tue, 20 Mar 2012 16:20:21 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=22637 By Nina Derham in London— Exploring the streets of London can be hungry work and a tasty, filling lunch can be exactly what you need to refuel and keep going. Aside from being one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, London’s Soho is bursting with places to grab a delicious meal. Here are three of my » Read more

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By Nina Derham in London—

Exploring the streets of London can be hungry work and a tasty, filling lunch can be exactly what you need to refuel and keep going. Aside from being one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, London’s Soho is bursting with places to grab a delicious meal.

Here are three of my favorites that will fill you up without eating away at too much of your budget.

Nam
58 Dean Street, W1D 6AL
Tube: Leicester Square
Web site

I buy my lunch from this simple Vietnamese café very often and I can’t recommend it highly enough. The menu is straightforward, with a choice of fragrant noodle soup or salad topped with tasty beef, pork, chicken, prawns or tofu. The soups either come as Pho, with flat rice noodles or as Mien, with mung bean noodles. Each delicious dish costs just £4.90 and the servings are really generous. Summer rolls are also on the menu at just £2.90 a portion.

Grab a seat at one of the shared tables or take away to nearby Soho Square if the sun is shining.

Freshly prepared burritos, tacos and more at Benito’s Hat. Photo: MSeasons

Benito’s Hat
19 New Row, WC2N 4LA
Tube: Covent Garden
Web site

There are plenty of choices when it comes to munching on Mexican street food in London, but Benito’s Hat is especially good at what it does. Head down this pretty street and escape the bustle of Covent Garden after a busy morning of shopping or for an early pre-theater dinner.

Benito’s Hat offers freshly prepared, massively filling burritos, tacos and salads stuffed with spiced beans or rice. Team with marinated chicken, braised pork, grilled steak or vegetables before topping with all the salsas your heart could desire. For a lighter option go for the soup of the day or just drop in to sample the extensive Mexican beer and cocktail menu (the Pomegranate Margaritas are not to be missed).

 

Lebanese street food at Yalla Yalla. Photo: Suziedepingu

Yalla Yalla
1 Green’s Court, W1F 0HA
Tube: Leicester Square / Piccadilly Circus
Web site

Straddling the boundary between tourist-heavy Leicester Square and the sultry backstreets of Soho proper, Yalla Yalla is a hidden gem that rewards anyone who stumbles across it.

Serving up delicious Lebanese street food day and night, this is the perfect choice for lunch on the run or a more relaxed eat-in affair if you’re lucky enough to bag one of the little wooden tables. Mezze such as spicy sausages and batata harra (spicy potatoes with pepper and chilli) or traditional wraps filled with falafel, chicken or spiced lamb make for a truly tasty lunch stop and prices start from just £6.

Also in our guide: If you’re planning a trip to London and in the market for affordable, central accommodation, be sure to read our reviews of our recommended budget hotels. All of our picks have been visited and inspected by one of our editors. Read more in our guide to London.

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Amsterdam: 5 late-night snacks for Cheapos on the prowl https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-5-late-night-snacks-for-cheapos-on-the-prowl.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-5-late-night-snacks-for-cheapos-on-the-prowl.html#respond Fri, 30 Dec 2011 20:49:06 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=21126 There is so much nightlife in Amsterdam that “sightseeing” bars and coffeeshops can lead to late hours wandering the streets in search of cheap eats. You should know your options before ducking into a take-away joint or pizza bar. Here is my advice for Amsterdam’s best late-night cheapo snacks: King of fries: Chipsy King Chipsy » Read more

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There is so much nightlife in Amsterdam that “sightseeing” bars and coffeeshops can lead to late hours wandering the streets in search of cheap eats. You should know your options before ducking into a take-away joint or pizza bar.

Here is my advice for Amsterdam’s best late-night cheapo snacks:

King of fries: Chipsy King

Chipsy King, the classic frites stand, has three prime Amsterdam spots: Dam Square, Red Light District, and Leidseplein. Open until 6 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays (3 a.m. otherwise), Chipsy King is a perfect pit stop for fries that are filling and come with an array of sauces to choose from. And for just a few euros, it’s the best deal out there.

Bitter ball IN

Pubs usually serve bar snacks until late, and the usual buy is the bitterballen. They come in servings of six balls, battered and fried, with meat purée and seasoned roux inside. Expect a side of mustard for dipping, and watch out on that first bite – they’re served piping hot! It’s a delicious snack with beer, and a traditional Dutch specialty costing about €3.

“Oughtta” Turk

Turkish pizza and falafel bars run rampant amongst the nightlife streets of Amsterdam. MAOZ is a favorite among vegetarians for their falafel and bottomless veggie toppings, while shoarmas are heaven in a wrap for meatheads who love spice. The large Turkish population in Holland guarantees at least a hint of authenticity to your order, and deals hover between €3 – €4.

FEBO? Oh no!

If you spot Febo’s yellow sign with red letters and with food waiting inside small square compartments, try to stop yourself. There’s a good chance that burger’s been sitting there for a while. So has the chicken sandwich, just look at the wilted lettuce. Intrigued by the fried cone-shaped mystery? Don’t try a taste test at three in the morning. The little doors are fun to open, but leave the FEBO to the locals; they can handle it.

Bite into the Burger Bar until 4 a.m. on weekends. Photo: Tavallai

Hit the (burger) bars

Burger joints are beginning to blossom in Amsterdam, and one late-night life saver is the Burger Bar. There are two locations downtown (Kolksteeg 2 and Reguliersbreestraat 9), and the bonus is they’re open until 4 a.m. on weekends. Burger Bar will surprise you with their range of patties and endless list of toppings to help build a customized late-night burger made for an epic chow-down.

Go nuts

If you’re desperate for something in your stomach, most cafes will have a big jar of peanuts somewhere behind the bar. A generous handful in a bowl is just a euro, and if you’re lucky they’ve been pimped with wasabi or coated with a spicy crunch.

As a last resort, check near cigarette machines at bars for a Pringles vending box – they come in fun-pack sizes and cost only a few euros.

Also in our guide: If you’re wandering around late at night snacking on fried bitterballen, hopefully you already have a place to stay. If, however, you still need some guidance on affordable sleeps, check out our reviews of the best budget hotels in Amsterdam, all of which have been visited, inspected and photographed by our editors. Read more in EuroCheapo’s Guide to Amsterdam.

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Amsterdam: Our 3 favorite pancake joints https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-pancake-shops-3-places-to-get-great-cakes.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-pancake-shops-3-places-to-get-great-cakes.html#comments Mon, 12 Sep 2011 12:01:18 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=20010 The pancake is one of the most famous plates in Dutch cuisine. Short in stature but large in circumference, the Dutch pancake is served with mixed-in ingredients that can go sweet, savory, or quite experimental. Here are three Cheapo picks for my favorite pancake shops in Amsterdam: Pannekoekenboot (Pancake Boat) Web site (in Dutch) 4:30 » Read more

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The pancake is one of the most famous plates in Dutch cuisine. Short in stature but large in circumference, the Dutch pancake is served with mixed-in ingredients that can go sweet, savory, or quite experimental.

Here are three Cheapo picks for my favorite pancake shops in Amsterdam:

Pannekoekenboot (Pancake Boat)
Web site (in Dutch)
4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Pancakes on a boat? Only in the Netherlands. The Pancake Boat organizes one hour, 90-minute, and three-hour boat rides throughout the city on their large and authentic-looking boat. While patrons cruise through the canals the servers bring out rounds and rounds of pancakes. It’s an all-you-can-eat ordeal as you taste pancakes flavored with apple, or bacon, and add toppings like cheese or chocolate sprinkles.

The boat also offers theme cruises for kids, Sunday brunches, and romantic pancake excursions. The price starts at €15 per person per hour, and the normal cruise starts at 4:30 p.m. and again at 6 p.m.

Carousel Pancake House
Weteringschans

This pancake house, round in shape like a pancake, boasts its own vintage carousel. The location is central, smack dab in the middle of Weteringschans roundabout, just next to the Heineken Brewery, and their menu is extensive. Prices are normal, about €12 for a typical ham and cheese pancake, although many patrons flock here for their sweet and sugary mini pancakes, or poffertjes.

What sets this pancake place aside from the others is its special character and relaxed atmosphere. Sure it’s for tourists and non locals, but it’s cute and their prices are reasonable. The service is decent, and the place is nice and spacious.

The Pancake Bakery
Prinsengracht 191
Web site
Open daily noon to 9:30 p.m.

The Pancake Bakery offers the real Dutch pancake experience when it comes to look, feel and flavor. Centrally located along the Prinsengracht, the two-level house offers an oh-so cozy and candlelit lower level and a high-ceiling top floor with a canal view. The space is small, and it’s common to share tables with other patrons, however the friendly atmosphere makes it all comfortable.

Tables are equipped with a pot of stroop syrup and powdered sugar, but we’d recommend getting creative with their exotic pancake menu. Why settle for the blueberry when you can dive into a pineapple? Or how about the Egyptian pancake with lamp, red pepper, garlic sauce and salad? Those with a sweet tooth will love dishes like “French”– a pancake with apple, raisins, vanilla ice cream, Cointreau and whipped cream.

Prices vary from €7 for the basics and €14 for the fancy selections.

Other cakes in town

There are dozens of pancake places around Amsterdam, many of them with an extensive menu and prices that aren’t too expensive. But your best bet is to venture off the busy plazas and select one that’s within your budget and memorable.

Do you have a favorite pancake provider? Tell us about it in the comments section.

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Madrid: The tastiest sandwiches in town for Cheapos https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/madrid-the-tastiest-sandwiches-in-town-for-cheapos.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/madrid-the-tastiest-sandwiches-in-town-for-cheapos.html#comments Fri, 09 Sep 2011 14:59:45 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=20065 Sandwiches in Madrid are simple and cheap, and that’s what makes them a hit. Forget about going all gourmet by adding texture, exotic ingredients, and multi-grain bread—who needs all the fancy fillings when staple ingredients will do. The best bocadillos around the city stick to what they know, no bells and whistles here, just good » Read more

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Sandwiches in Madrid are simple and cheap, and that’s what makes them a hit. Forget about going all gourmet by adding texture, exotic ingredients, and multi-grain bread—who needs all the fancy fillings when staple ingredients will do. The best bocadillos around the city stick to what they know, no bells and whistles here, just good eating.

Here are six sandwich shops guaranteed to hit the spot:

Bar Postas
Calle Postas, 13
Metro: Sol
Telephone: (+34) 91 521 1942

At this unassuming spot between the hustle and bustle of Sol and the Plaza Mayor you’ll find the best calamari sandwich in town. There aren’t many tables at this establishment, so either eat the fried, crispy, goodness at the bar with a caña or take it for the road.

Bar Melos
Calle Ave María, 44
Metro: Lavapies
Telephone: (+34) 91 527 5054

Big appetites should head here. Bar Melos is famous for their zapatillas: an enormous sandwich overflowing with ham and cheese on what is almost like challah bread. It’s scrumptious.

Cervecería 100 Montaditos
Multiple locations
Web site

In Spain, Montaditos is similar to Starbucks in the States; they’re everywhere. Walk through the center and you’ll spot them on almost every corner. Although a chain, Montaditos is one of the best places to stop for bite-sized sandwiches at an unbeatable price. Tip: Swing by on a Wednesday when all sandwiches are only €1.

Museo del Jamón
Multiple locations
Web site

Yes, it looks like a tourist trap (see photo, top), but it’s a local stop for many Madrileños. And, although it feels like a museum, with ham legs hanging from the ceiling, it’s not. No, the Museo del Jamón is instead one of the greatest places to munch on an inexpensive bocadillo, elbow to elbow with locals.

Hurly Burly
Calle del Marqués de Cubas, 2
Telephone: (+34) 91 523 2367
Metro: Banco de Espana

Winner of many international sandwich contests, the Hurly Burly is a more expensive, gourmet option. Treat yourself to a bocadillo of cod, morcilla spread, and peppers. Or go for the goat cheese with tomato and paletilla ibérica. Or perhaps the fajitas with lomo, mushrooms and tomato sauce. Yum!

El Cubanito
Bravo Murillo, 10
Metro: Quevedo
Telephone: (+34) 91 471 547

El Cubanito is the spot if you’re craving a traditional Cuban sandwich. Not much more to say here, only that once you bite into this soft, juicy, and super savory bocadillo, you’re likely to order another one.

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Florence: How to enjoy a cheapo aperitivo https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/florence-how-to-enjoy-a-cheapo-aperitivo.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/florence-how-to-enjoy-a-cheapo-aperitivo.html#respond Tue, 30 Aug 2011 14:40:47 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=19834 Since arriving in Tuscany, you’ve not only developed a palate for fine wine, but also a handsome routine where every night you like to indulge in an aperitivo. The only problem is that it’s been putting a real dent in your budget. So here’s what to do to keep the coins in your pocket and » Read more

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Since arriving in Tuscany, you’ve not only developed a palate for fine wine, but also a handsome routine where every night you like to indulge in an aperitivo. The only problem is that it’s been putting a real dent in your budget.

So here’s what to do to keep the coins in your pocket and the wine in your tummy.

Squat a Piazza

If you’re not picky on location but like to be around people, here’s what I suggest. Make your way to one of the piazzas, like Piazza Sant’Ambrogio and find yourself a seat on the steps of the church or any of the benches.

Next, resist the temptation to drink at one of the surrounding establishments. They will be overpriced and lousy. Instead, walk the neighboring streets until you find a little store (some call it a “kiosk”) that sells cheap beer and wine. There are lots of these in Florence and lots of people do it.

Purchase a beverage, return to the piazza, soak up the ambiance and toast the stars.

Fun bars for aperitivo

If you are not big fan of “piazza guzzle” here’s a few bars that are fun. First try “Volume” in Piazza Santo Spirito with its vintage/museum deco. Or the nearby La Cité (still my personal favorite) with its book-covered walls and small music stage.

Or maybe it’s food you want with your aperitivo, so try Kitsch Bar where you’ll have access to a full buffet of Italian specialties during aperitivo time.

If pubs are more your thing, try The Lion’s Fountain Pub, which is usually overflowing onto the square.

Bottoms Up

Have you heard of Vin Santo? If not you need to try it. Often made in Tuscany’s very own Chianti Region, Vin Santo is a strong sweet wine served either before or after dinner (or at any other time of the day that you see fit). You can pick it up anywhere that sells wine, but my suggestion would be one of the larger supermarkets where it is definitely cheaper (Coop, Esselunga, etc.).

And if you are completely new to the Italian drinking scene, consider trying an ice cold shot of Limoncello, a lemon liqueur from the south or a shot of Grappa, Italy’s answer to Tequila.

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Barcelona: 4 divine ice cream shops in Barcelona https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/devin-ice-cream-shops-in-barcelona.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/devin-ice-cream-shops-in-barcelona.html#comments Tue, 26 Jul 2011 11:57:32 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=19324 By Regina W Bryan in Barcelona— One of the top five reasons I live in Barcelona is the weather. I’m from the Pacific NW in the United States, which is lovely when the clouds lift. Sick of the rain, I wanted to be in the sunshine which motivated me to move to Costa Rica, Guatemala » Read more

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By Regina W Bryan in Barcelona—

One of the top five reasons I live in Barcelona is the weather. I’m from the Pacific NW in the United States, which is lovely when the clouds lift. Sick of the rain, I wanted to be in the sunshine which motivated me to move to Costa Rica, Guatemala and now Spain. But I digress…

As much as I love the sunny Mediterranean summer we’re having this July, I have to say: It’s HOT. Really hot the past couple of weeks. So hot that walking around outside makes me feel faint and in need of a siesta... and an ice cream.

Luckily, both of these essential needs are easily met in Barcelona. A siesta can be taken anywhere (in the grass, on the beach, on a bench; in this city anything goes), and ice cream shops are almost as plentiful as bars!

Vioko
Passeig de Joan De Borbó #55
La Barceloneta
Web site

Some ice creameries are better than others. The number one, best of the best, top-dog ice cream shop is Vioko, in La Barceloneta by the beach. There are always people getting cones and cups here, even in the winter. In the summer there’s a line, but go ahead and grab a number because it’s worth the wait.

Vioko has weird ice cream flavors such as “Violet and Jasmine with Grapefruit,” which sound strangely delicious though I haven’t tried them. I have licked their Chocolate Tentacion which has dulcede leche and brownie in it, as well as their Strawberry with fresh fruit, their Mint and Chocolate, and their Cheese Cake with Berries. As you can see, I’ve been a regular at Vioko “researching” this post.

Their cones are slightly more expensive than other ice cream shops in the area, but only by twenty or thirty cents. Their portions are bigger than other shops, so it all works out in the end.

Bellamia
Calle Espaseria 14
El Born
Web site

Bellamia in El Born neighborhood is another appetizing choice if you’re after a traditional Italian gelato. On Carrer de L’Espaseria, this is the place to go after a tasty meal at one of the barri’s many cutting-edge restaurants. Order a couple cups at Bellamia and then take them over to Passeig del Born and sit on one of the benches there, people-watching and taking in the balmy Barcelona night.

Horchata

While I prefer ice cream, lots of locals would rather have an horchata than a gelato. Horchata is a super sweet and very typical Spanish drink that’s popular during the summer. Grab one at Planelles Donat in the center of the city or at La Valenciana, which is a happening ice cream and horchata joint in the Eixample. Both of these shops are historic dating back to 1850 and 1910, respectively.

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Paris: The city’s tastiest ice cream, frozen yogurt and gelato https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-the-citys-tastiest-ice-cream-frozen-yogurt-and-gelato.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-the-citys-tastiest-ice-cream-frozen-yogurt-and-gelato.html#comments Tue, 05 Jul 2011 13:06:37 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=19285 As the sun starts beating down on a July afternoon in Paris, one surefire escape from the heat is a walk to the frozen food isle of the grocery store. Walk past the frozen bags of spinach and boxes of frozen pizza and you’ll find the cure to even the most sizzling of Parisian summer » Read more

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As the sun starts beating down on a July afternoon in Paris, one surefire escape from the heat is a walk to the frozen food isle of the grocery store. Walk past the frozen bags of spinach and boxes of frozen pizza and you’ll find the cure to even the most sizzling of Parisian summer days: Ice cream. In all shapes and varieties, there is a flavor that is sure to please everyone.

But when you’re visiting Paris, don’t waste your time and money on store-brand desserts. Grab a five euro bill and head out to some of the best ice cream joints that the city has to offer. Here are my favorites:

The Classic

Berthillon
Main store: 29-31 rue Saint Louis en l’Ile, 75004
http://www.berthillon.fr/

Berthillon may just be the most popular ice cream in Paris, and with good reason. These tiny scoops of ice cream are so packed with flavor that one lick will instantly justify the long wait in line. Take note, it’s the only French ice cream on this list.

The Non-classics

It Mylk
15 rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, 75006
http://www.itmylk.fr/

It Mylk has two locations in Paris serving up something that Parisians still aren’t entirely sure about: frozen yogurt. A far cry from the ice creams at Berthillon, It Mylk offers natural, fat-free yogurt that you can adorn with any combination of berries, granola, chocolate, etc. A quick look at the endless yogurt aisle in the grocery store and you’ll see why this concept works. And hey, it’s basically guilt-free.

My Berry
25 rue Vieille du Temple, 75004 or 51 rue Saint Louis en l’Ile, 75004
http://www.myberry.eu/

My Berry has the same concept as It Mylk but under a different name, recalling the Pink Berry frozen yogurt franchise in the United States. With tangy tart yogurt and a complicated array of toppings, My Berry is one of the places worth waiting in line for in the Marais on a Sunday after you’ve waited in a similar line for one of the best falafel sandwiches on nearby rue des Rosiers.

Enter the gelato…

Amorino
Various addresses listed on their Web site

When it comes to the best frozen treats, Parisians know that Italians are the real masters, even when, like Amorino, it’s a French company parading around as an Italian one. These stores can be found all over the city and they serve up picturesque Italian-style gelato in the form of a flower. Their chocolate-hazelnut combo (called the “Inimitable”) is a fantastic choice, especially for Nutella lovers. Chain-haters beware: Amorino boutiques are as ubiquitous as Starbucks, but the demand for ice cream is just so high…

Grom
81 rue de Seine, 75006
http://www.grom.it/

I first tried Grom in New York, unaware that it started in Torino. I never imagined I’d have the good fortune to grab a scoopful in Paris. Happily, in 2008 the high quality and eco-friendly Italian-based gelato makers brought their craft to Paris’ Saint Germain neighborhood after spreading all across Italy and overseas. They’re also very aware of food allergies, so there is a flavor for everyone.

Pozetto
39 rue du Roi de Sicile, 75004
http://www.pozzetto.biz/

Pozetto is yet another Italian gelateria that makes it easy for you. Not only is the menu limited to a very select 12 flavors, but they’re all delicious, so there’s no way to lose. Go crazy with pistachio, mint, and panna cotta flavors or go basic with Fior di Latte, a pure cream variety that seems simpler than vanilla with a taste that is anything but vanilla.

Mary’s
1 rue Charles-François Dupuis, 75003

Mary’s is one of those places that will always leave you with a smile. The super friendly owner, Mary, will speak to you in beautiful Italian, rarely English or French, while helping you choose which of her handmade flavors is best for you. The fruit sorbets are probably my favorite in Paris and her tea-based flavors are just as refreshing on a hot day, like a frozen scoop of fresh iced tea. And the entire experience of getting a cone from Mary and talking with her will make your ice cream taste all that much sweeter.

Your favorite ice cream spots

Tell us, Cheapos, do you have any other recommendations for a scoop or two to fight the summer heat? Tell us about your favorite ice cream joint in our comments section.

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