If you’re around the UNESCO headquarters in Paris’s 15th arrondissement and looking for a quick, affordable, and tasty lunch — Nouilles fraîches is a solid option. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t try to impress with decor or concept. Instead, it focuses on what matters: flavorful food, fast service, and fair prices.
1. Consistently Popular with the Local Working Crowd
Located at 32 Rue Frémicourt, just a few minutes from École Militaire and the UNESCO building, this small Vietnamese eatery is usually busy during lunch hours. You’ll see many nearby office workers, regulars, and students grabbing a quick bite. Despite the simplicity of the space, it has a certain charm — unpretentious, practical, and efficient.
2. Housemade Noodles at a Fair Price
The star of the menu is clearly the housemade noodles — served in steaming bowls of soup or wok-fried with vegetables, beef, or tofu. They also offer sautéed dishes, spring rolls, and a few daily specials depending on the season.
Portions are generous, especially for the price point. Most dishes fall in the €10–€15 range, making it one of the most affordable options in the area. And for this part of Paris, that’s not always easy to find.
3. My Impression
I visited for a quick weekday lunch, and it hit the spot. I ordered a spicy stir-fried beef noodle bowl, which came out piping hot within minutes. The texture of the noodles was fresh, and the seasoning was just right — not too salty, not bland.
Nothing fancy, but just the kind of honest, straightforward food I often crave when I’m working nearby.
4. Useful Info
Address: 32 Rue Frémicourt, 75015 Paris, France
Price: €10–€20 per person
Phone: +33 9 83 05 27 89
Delivery: Available via Uber Eats
Closest Metro: Avenue Émile Zola or La Motte-Picquet – Grenelle
Nouilles fraîches may not be a destination restaurant, but it’s definitely one of those places you find yourself returning to again and again — especially if you work or study nearby. Fast, friendly, and filling. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
There are times when all you want is crispy, juicy Korean fried chicken — boneless, perfectly seasoned, and served just the way you remember from home. For me, that place in Paris is Olive Chicken, tucked away on a quiet street in the 14th arrondissement. I first came across it while searching for something comforting on a rainy day, and I’ve returned for birthdays, celebrations, and the occasional homesick craving.
1. A Small Shop That Gets It Right
Olive Chicken is located at 6 Rue Poinsot, 75014 Paris, not far from Denfert-Rochereau. The restaurant itself is small and modest, but the flavors inside are anything but. From the first bite, I knew — this wasn’t just inspired by Korean fried chicken. It was Korean fried chicken.
Everything from the crispy texture to the sweet, spicy sauces tasted just like the 치킨 I used to have in Seoul. Even the boneless cuts are on point — tender, well-seasoned, and never dry.
2. A Menu That Covers All the Classics
What I love about Olive Chicken is how many familiar favorites are on the menu. You can choose from:
Boneless or whole chicken
Sweet soy, spicy, garlic, or “yang nyum” sauces
Classic styles like pa-dak (with scallions) or snowy onion
Half-and-half options like Ban Ban or Ban Ban Ban
There are also wings, chicken udon, salads, rice bowls, and Korean side dishes like pickled radish and tteok (rice cakes). You can sit in, take out, or even get delivery — and there’s Korean beer, yuzu drinks, and even cinnamon highball on the drink menu.
The prices are around €20–30 per person, and portions are more than enough for sharing.
3. A Favorite for Kids and Celebrations
When my child’s birthday came around, this was the spot we chose. It wasn’t about fancy cakes or a big venue — just good chicken, lots of sauces, and the taste of home. It’s also a great choice for group dinners, casual meetups, or when you want something fun and familiar.
If you’re traveling or living in Paris and find yourself missing Korean fried chicken — the real kind, not just fried wings — Olive Chicken is a place I would absolutely recommend.
If you’ve ever craved an overflowing platter of shellfish, a cold pitcher of sangria, and the feeling of eating way more than you planned — Pedra Alta is the place. Located just outside central Paris and with multiple branches across the region, this Portuguese seafood restaurant delivers freshness, generosity, and unbeatable value. Whether you’re with family or friends, Pedra Alta is where big appetites meet big platters.
1. Multiple Locations Across Paris
Pedra Alta is a well-known Portuguese chain with restaurants in:
Boulogne-Billancourt (closest to Paris 15th)
Place de la Nation (Paris 12th)
Levallois-Perret
Créteil, Versailles, and Aubervilliers
No matter where you are in Paris, there’s likely a Pedra Alta nearby. Each branch offers the same lively atmosphere and massive trays of seafood.
2. The Must-Try: Plateau de Fruits de Mer Cataplana
My personal favorite — and the one I always recommend — is the Plateau de Fruits de Mer Cataplana. It’s a heaping tray of grilled prawns, clams, mussels, lobster, and other shellfish, piled over a generous bed of French fries. The seafood is fresh and well-seasoned, and the fries vary by location — sometimes crispy, sometimes soaked in delicious seafood broth. Either way, it works.
The platter is big enough to share among two to four people, though I’ve seen some determined diners take one down solo.
3. Sangria and Sharing
The restaurant is informal and noisy, and that’s part of the experience. It’s the kind of place where you pass dishes across the table, wipe your hands with lemon, and order that second round of sangria without hesitation. Expect to spend around 30 to 40 euros per person, depending on how much seafood and wine you order.
4. Best with a Group
Pedra Alta is best enjoyed with family or friends. When four or more people share a platter or two, the value becomes clear. You get more variety, lower cost per person, and more fun. It’s ideal for celebrations, weekend outings, or anytime you want a lively dinner that feels like a feast.
5. Reservation Recommended (When Possible)
Most Pedra Alta locations do not accept reservations, but a few — such as those in Versailles, Créteil, and Levallois — may accept phone bookings. If you’re planning a visit during dinner hours or on weekends, calling ahead can save you a long wait. Otherwise, arriving before 6:30 p.m. gives you a better chance at being seated quickly.
Most branches are open until 1 a.m., making it one of the best late-night seafood options around Paris.
Pedra Alta is not about elegance or quiet dining. It’s about indulgence, sharing, and bold flavor. If you’re in Paris and craving fresh seafood without the fine-dining markup, this is one of the best spots to gather with people you like and eat with both hands.
It’s the kind of place that stays in your memory long after the shellfish are gone.
There are some flavors you can’t shake — and for me, grilled lamb skewers (양꼬치) are one of them. When I lived in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, there were evenings when all I wanted was that savory, charcoal-grilled taste paired with a cold drink. On those days, I headed to Kochi.
Here’s why this place stands out:
1. Korean Skewers with a Refined Twist
Kochi is located at 45 Rue de la Convention, a short walk from Convention metro station. At first glance, it looks like a small, minimalist restaurant — but don’t let the clean design fool you. Inside, you’ll find an impressive selection of grilled skewers, inspired by Korean street food but elevated in quality and presentation.
They offer a wide variety, from chicken and beef to seafood and vegetables, but it’s their lamb skewers (yang kkochi) that I keep going back for.
2. Perfectly Grilled, Flavorful Lamb
The lamb skewers here are juicy, well-seasoned, and grilled to order. The meat has that signature smokiness you expect, with just the right balance of spice and salt. Each skewer comes out hot, tender, and not overly greasy — just right.
They’re often served with sides like pickled radish, Korean sauces, and sometimes lettuce wraps. It’s a perfect pairing with beer or soju, and ideal for a relaxed night out.
Expect to spend about €20–30 per person, depending on how many skewers you order — not cheap, but the quality and ambiance make it worthwhile.
3. A Go-To Spot for Skewer Lovers
Kochi isn’t a typical Korean BBQ restaurant — it’s focused, intentional, and stylish without being pretentious. Whether you’re dining solo or catching up with friends, it’s a place where the food takes center stage.
If you’re ever in Paris 15th and craving lamb skewers, this is the spot. Trust me — you’ll come back.
If you’ve ever lived in Korea — or simply fallen in love with its food — you know that Korean-style pork cutlet (돈까스) is something special. It’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and always comes with rice, shredded cabbage, and that nostalgic brown sauce. During my stay in Paris, there were times I really missed that exact meal. And when that craving hit, I would go to Madang.
Here’s why I think it’s worth a visit:
1. Korean Comfort Food in the 15th Arrondissement
Located at 141 Rue de la Croix Nivert, Madang is a Korean restaurant that’s better known for its barbecue — but their tonkatsu is also worth noting. The restaurant is quiet and welcoming, with staff who are familiar with both locals and long-time Korean residents in Paris. It’s the kind of place where you sit down and instantly feel like you’ve come home for dinner.
2. Tonkatsu That Delivers on Flavor and Portion
Madang’s Korean-style tonkatsu isn’t the cheapest in town — you’ll pay around €20–25 for the meal. But what you get is a large, crispy cutlet, nicely plated with rice, shredded salad, dipping sauce, and side dishes. It’s not fusion or French-style — it’s exactly the kind of 돈까스 you’d expect to find in a Korean neighborhood diner.
The texture is just right, and the portion is generous enough that I never left hungry. On cold Paris nights or tired days, it hit the spot every time.
3. For When You Just Want a Familiar Meal
There are times when you want to explore new food, and there are times when you just want something familiar. Madang is where I went when I needed something Korean, comforting, and solid — especially when tonkatsu was what I had in mind.
If you’re in Paris and looking for a meal that brings you back to Seoul (or Busan, or Daegu), this is one of those places that gets it right.
During my three years living in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, I visited many restaurants. But one place I kept returning to was Siu Yu, a small Chinese restaurant that offered more than just food — it offered comfort.
Here’s why I recommend it:
1. A Welcoming Local Restaurant with a Kind Owner
Siu Yu is located on 3 Rue Sextius Michel, close to Dupleix metro station. The exterior is simple, but inside you’ll find a calm, welcoming environment. The owner is incredibly warm and generous — always smiling and happy to chat or help. Even as a non-French speaker, I never felt out of place.
Over time, I came to appreciate the neighborhood feeling of the restaurant — it doesn’t try to be trendy or fancy, but you always feel at ease.
2. Delicious, Affordable Chinese Dishes
The menu includes classics like sweet and sour pork, stir-fried beef and vegetables, shrimp dumplings, and fried rice. Every dish is satisfying without being heavy, and ideal for both solo meals and group dinners.
Most meals cost €10–20 per person, and the portion sizes are generous. I often shared with friends and still had leftovers.
3. Free Corkage – Quietly Generous
One of the most unique features of Siu Yu — and a reason I returned so often — is that the restaurant allows guests to bring their own wine, with no corkage fee.
There’s no sign or policy listed, but over three years, I was never charged. As long as you’re polite and order food, bringing your own bottle of wine is welcomed.
In a city like Paris where corkage is rarely free, this was something special. It reflected the owner’s kind attitude — not transactional, just hospitable.
If you’re in the area and looking for a friendly, affordable place to enjoy a relaxed dinner, Siu Yu is a spot I’d recommend without hesitation.
Relocating to Paris with children is both exciting and overwhelming. One of the first things I had to figure out after deciding to move was where my child would go to school. Living in the 15th arrondissement — a peaceful, family-friendly area in the southwest of Paris — I explored several options, and eventually chose ICS Paris International School. Here’s why, and what I learned along the way.
1. Public or International School?
If you’re new to France, one of the first questions you’ll face is whether to enroll your child in the public school system or go for an international school. In France, public elementary schools are assigned based on your home address, a system known as sectorisation scolaire. While public schools are free and generally good, the main challenge for foreigners is the language barrier — classes are conducted entirely in French, and there’s little support for non-French speakers.
As a result, many foreign families, including mine, turn to international schools. These schools are more adaptable for students coming from abroad, and classes are often in English or bilingual formats.
2. Why ICS Paris?
After visiting multiple schools in the area, ICS Paris clearly stood out. It offers a welcoming, multilingual environment where children from around the world can feel at home. My child didn’t speak French fluently when we moved, and ICS was one of the few schools that not only understood this challenge but had systems in place to help with the transition.
What made a difference for us:
English-language instruction throughout the primary years
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), which is globally recognized and great for mobile families
French taught as an additional language, with varying levels for beginners and advanced speakers
A warm, supportive community of families and teachers
Located in the 15th arrondissement, which was ideal for our family’s daily commute
ICS is also part of the Globeducate network, which includes dozens of respected international schools across the world.
3. The Admissions Experience
One thing I really appreciated was how easy and supportive the admissions process was. The team responded quickly to our emails, explained each step clearly, and allowed us to do a virtual tour before arriving in Paris.
For admission, you’ll usually need:
Your child’s most recent school reports (translated, if needed)
A copy of your child’s passport and visa
Immunization records
Application and registration forms
Enrollment is open throughout the year, depending on availability.
One of the things that drew me to ICS was the school’s diversity. The student body includes over 60 nationalities, and no single nationality dominates.
Estimated nationality breakdown:
United States & Canada: ~15–20%
United Kingdom & Ireland: ~10%
France (often bilingual families): ~15%
China, South Korea, Japan: ~10–15%
India & South Asia: ~10%
Middle East: ~10%
Other European countries: ~10–15%
Latin America & Africa: ~5–10%
It felt reassuring to know that my child would be surrounded by other newcomers and third-culture kids.
5. Tuition and Fees
Like most international schools, ICS Paris is a private institution with annual tuition fees. For elementary grades, expect to pay around €20,000 to €25,000 per year, depending on the grade level and any additional services (bus, meals, after-school care). While it’s a financial investment, we felt the level of education and the nurturing environment were worth it.
6. Living in the 15th Arrondissement
ICS is located within easy walking distance of metro lines and shops. The 15th arrondissement is calm, residential, and has a mix of local French life and international families. If you’re planning to live nearby, this neighborhood offers a great quality of life — with parks, cafés, and reliable transport options.
Choosing a school abroad isn’t easy, but ICS made that decision easier for us. If you’re looking for a reliable, friendly, and internationally minded school for your child in Paris — especially if you’re still learning the language yourself — I’d definitely recommend giving ICS a serious look.
They made us feel welcome from day one, and more importantly, they helped our child feel confident, supported, and excited to learn.
Safety Guidelines for Arriving Passengers Traveling into Paris
Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport is one of the busiest in Europe, welcoming millions of travelers annually. However, several recent reports have highlighted a rise in smash-and-grab robberies targeting vehicles — particularly along the highway routes between CDG and central Paris.
These incidents typically involve motorbike-riding criminals breaking car windows during traffic jams or stoplights to steal bags or personal belongings.
What’s Happening?
Multiple travelers have reported the following pattern:
While en route from CDG to Paris (especially on the A1 highway near Saint-Denis), their vehicle slowed down or stopped in traffic.
At that moment, individuals on scooters or motorcycles approached the vehicle, smashed a side window, and quickly grabbed handbags or valuables.
The attackers then fled the scene rapidly, taking advantage of traffic conditions and escape routes.
These attacks are not limited to any one type of vehicle — reports have involved:
Licensed taxis
Private airport transfer vans
Rental cars
They have also occurred in daylight and on well-traveled roads, which makes situational awareness especially important.
How to Protect Yourself – Safety Guidelines for All Travelers
Keep Valuables Hidden from View Never place bags, laptops, phones, or valuables on your lap or beside windows. Instead, store them at your feet, under the seat, or in the trunk if not needed during the ride.
Lock Doors and Close Windows Immediately after entering the car, ensure all doors are locked and windows are fully closed, especially when approaching tunnels or high-traffic areas.
Stay Alert When the Vehicle Stops Most incidents occur at stoplights, entry ramps, or traffic jams. When the car is stationary, be aware of your surroundings and avoid using your phone or appearing distracted.
Avoid Displaying Signs of Tourism Try not to appear disoriented or visibly unfamiliar with the area. Keeping a confident, alert demeanor can deter opportunistic thieves.
Do Not Resist During an Attack If confronted, do not attempt to fight back or chase attackers. Prioritize your physical safety, and report the incident to authorities immediately after.
Avoid Late-Night Arrivals Alone If Possible While these incidents have occurred during the day, nighttime travel carries additional risks. Consider traveling with others or using a private transfer service with door-to-door drop-off if arriving late.
What to Do If Something Happens
Call 112 (European emergency number) immediately
Visit the nearest police station (commissariat) to file a theft report (déclaration de vol)
Report lost passports, IDs, or valuables to your embassy or consulate
Cancel any stolen credit cards or mobile devices via your provider
If insured, contact your travel insurance provider with police documentation
While the majority of passengers travel safely between CDG and Paris, it’s important to be informed. These incidents are serious, but they can often be prevented through simple awareness and preparation.
By keeping your belongings secure and staying alert during the drive into Paris, you significantly reduce your risk.
If you’re flying into Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA) with a low-cost airline like Ryanair or Wizz Air, you’re not technically in Paris yet — but don’t worry. Even though Beauvais is about 85 km (53 miles) from the city, getting to central Paris is still simple if you plan ahead.
Here’s how to do it — especially if you’re traveling on a budget or with luggage.
1. Official Beauvais Airport Shuttle – The Most Direct Option
Route: BVA Airport → Paris Porte Maillot (West Paris)
Duration: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Fare: €16.90 one-way (online), €18 at the airport (as of 2024)
Frequency: Matches flight schedules (every arrival has a bus)
Departure: Right outside the terminal
Arrival: Paris Porte Maillot (Metro Line 1, RER C nearby)
Luggage: Large suitcases are allowed and stored underneath
This is the most reliable and popular way to reach Paris. You don’t need to reserve in advance, but it’s cheaper online at www.aeroportbeauvais.com.
2. Train via Beauvais City – Cheaper but Less Convenient
Step 1: Take a taxi or local bus to Beauvais SNCF train station (15 min)
Step 2: Take a TER regional train to Gare du Nord (Paris)
Duration: ~1h15 by train (total ~1h45–2h with transfer)
Cost: €13–€17 (combined)
Luggage: Moderate – trains allow large luggage, but access and transfers may be inconvenient
Only recommended if you’re staying near Beauvais city or want to avoid the shuttle crowds.
3. Taxi or Ride-Share – Only for Groups or Emergency
Fare: Around €170–€200 to Paris
Duration: ~1h15 depending on traffic
Luggage: No issue for large suitcases
When to use: Only in groups (3–4 people) or during public transit strikes
Taxis from BVA are expensive due to distance. Ride-sharing (Uber) is rarely available directly from the airport.
4. Best Option for 28”+ Luggage
Option
Luggage Friendly
Notes
Airport Shuttle Bus
Excellent
Dedicated luggage space, direct service
Train via Beauvais
Moderate
Multiple steps; not ideal for big bags
Taxi / Private Car
Excellent
Expensive, but direct and private
Take the official shuttle unless you have a reason to stay in Beauvais
If traveling during peak hours, expect some traffic near Paris
From Porte Maillot, you can easily connect to Metro Line 1 to reach central areas like Champs-Élysées, Louvre, or Bastille
The shuttle schedule is tightly aligned with flight arrivals — you won’t wait long
Orly Airport (ORY) is the second-largest airport in Paris, located just 13 kilometers south of the city center. Whether you’re arriving for study, travel, or work, here’s a simple and practical guide on how to reach downtown Paris from Orly — including what works best if you’re carrying large suitcases (28” or more).
1. OrlyBus – Direct and Reliable
Route: Orly Airport to Denfert-Rochereau (Left Bank, Line 4 & 6, RER B)
Duration: 30–40 minutes
Fare: €11.20
Frequency: Every 8–15 minutes
Luggage: Good for large bags — storage available in front area of the bus
This is the most popular direct option. It connects easily to the metro system.
2. Tram + Metro (T7 + Line 7)
Route: Take Tram 7 from Orly to Villejuif-Louis Aragon (Line 7 terminal)
Duration: About 50–60 minutes total
Fare: €2.10 (tram) + metro fare
Luggage: Not ideal for large bags due to frequent stops and tight space
This is the cheapest way but includes transfers and is slower than other options. Not recommended if you’re new to the system or traveling with heavy suitcases.
3. Orlyval + RER B Train
Route:
Orlyval automated shuttle to Antony station
RER B train to central Paris (e.g. Châtelet, Saint-Michel)
Duration: 35–45 minutes
Fare: €13.30 (Orlyval + RER B combo ticket)
Frequency: Every 4–10 minutes
Luggage: Not ideal during rush hours — some stairs and narrow spaces
This option is faster than the tram but costs a bit more. You can use a single ticket for both connections.
4. Taxi – Fixed Fare and Comfortable
Fare (flat rate set by government):
€32 to Left Bank (e.g. Montparnasse, Latin Quarter)
€37 to Right Bank (e.g. Louvre, Gare de Lyon)
Duration: 30–45 minutes depending on traffic
Luggage: Excellent for large or multiple suitcases
Where: Taxi ranks just outside each terminal
Yes — fares from Orly to Paris are officially fixed. No negotiations needed.
Important: Only use official taxi stands. Avoid any drivers who approach you inside the terminal.
5. Ride-Sharing (Uber, Bolt)
Fare: €35–€55 depending on demand
Luggage: Fine for 1–2 medium bags; request larger car if needed
Pickup: Designated zones outside terminal
Prices are not fixed — check the app before confirming. Reliable, but not always cheaper than taxi.
6. Private Transfer (Pre-Booked)
Fare: €50–€90 depending on provider
Luggage: Ideal for big luggage or group travelers
Services: Welcome Pickups, Blacklane, Klook, etc.
Driver meets you inside the arrivals area and helps with bags
Best choice if you’re new to Paris, arriving late, or want door-to-door comfort.
Best Options for 28”+ Luggage
Method
Luggage Friendly
Notes
Taxi
Excellent
Fixed fare, door-to-door
OrlyBus
Very Good
Direct with onboard space
Private Transfer
Excellent
Meet & greet, full luggage assistance
RER + Orlyval
Moderate
Transfers + stairs, less convenient
Tram + Metro
Not ideal
Crowded, multiple transfers
For large luggage, stick to OrlyBus, official taxis, or private transfers
For budget travel, Orlyval + RER B is fast and efficient, but avoid during rush hours
Taxi fares are fixed between Orly and Paris — safe and regulated
Always use official taxi stands or pre-booked drivers — no private solicitations inside the terminal
