French cuisine is often linked with luxury, but several restaurants in Singapore offer authentic French dishes at reasonable prices. These places highlight simple yet classic recipes, from rustic stews to buttery pastries, without the high cost of fine dining.
A brief look at French cuisine
French food focuses on fresh ingredients and careful technique. It is often divided into two main styles. Haute cuisine, also known as grande cuisine, is refined and elegant, with complex dishes, fine presentation, and premium ingredients. Cuisine bourgeoise, on the other hand, is simpler and homely, built around traditional recipes like slow-cooked stews, roasts, and pastries.
Across both styles, you will find staples such as baguettes, croissants, and quiches, as well as classic mains like coq au vin (chicken braised with wine), boeuf bourguignon (beef stew with red wine), and duck confit (slow-cooked duck). French desserts are equally popular, with tarts, éclairs, and crème brûlée often appearing on menus.
Common French menu words
Knowing a few French words can make ordering easier:
Entrée: starter or appetiser
Plat: main course
Potage: soup
Ragoût: slow-cooked stew
Poisson: fish
Poulet: chicken
Boeuf: beef
Fromage: cheese
Pâtisserie: pastry or bakery item
Vin: wine
Plat du jour: dish of the day
Table d’hôte: set meal with fixed courses, usually cheaper than à la carte
Where to enjoy affordable French cuisine in Singapore1. Merci Marcel
Merci Marcel is a modern French cafe with several outlets, such as at Tiong Bahru, Orchard, and East Coast. Its menu changes slightly throughout the day, featuring some common items like ratatouille (stewed vegetables), croque monsieur (a type of sandwich), and artisanal cheeses. The cosy decor makes it a perfect brunch spot or a chill dinner venue.
Cost: Mains start from $21.
2. Les Bouchons
Les Bouchons is known for its generous steak frites and no-frills French fare. The focus is on quality meats, fresh salads, and comforting starters. With locations at Robertson Quay, Ann Siang and Rochester, the restaurant offers an authentic bistro experience with a casual charm.
Cost: Weekday lunch sets from $37.
3. French Fold
French Fold focuses on sweet and savoury galettes and crêpes. The buckwheat galettes are filled with ingredients like ham, cheese, or eggs, while dessert crêpes feature classic pairings like chocolate or caramel. The chic Telok Ayer and Orchard locations make it a cool hangout for casual meals or tea breaks.
Cost: Galettes and crêpes from $9.
4. Bistro Gaston
Bistro Gaston brings the flavours of Burgundy to Keong Saik Road, featuring signature dishes like boeuf bourguignon. The atmosphere is inviting yet stylish, with a curated wine list that complements the food perfectly.
Cost: Lunch sets (Tuesday to Friday) from $38.
5. Paul
Paul is a French bakery chain loved for its freshly baked bread and tarts. Their sandwiches and all-day breakfast are perfect for a quick meal, while the pastries are a must-try. With multiple outlets across Singapore, Paul is super convenient for a French bite on the go.
Cost: All-day breakfast from $18.90.
Affordable French food isn’t hard to find in Singapore. Whether you’re craving a buttery croissant or a rich beef stew, these places hit the spot without burning (too big) a hole in your wallet. Gather your friends, pick one of these cafes or bistros, and enjoy some French vibes without flying to Paris.
This article was originally published in FEMALE.
Dining and Cooking