Spending and Saving

Nine Secrets for Economical Eating in Europe

With airlines offering downturn flight deals, it’s hard to resist the temptation to splurge on that European vacation—especially if you received a nice severance package to go along with your layoff.

But for the food lover, eating your way through Europe can cost a pretty penny and a half.  (Start thinking about exchange rates now.)  Fortunately, the recession traveler can enjoy fine cuisine on a dime by learning the European secrets of economical eating.

1. Discover the Axis of Pastry

While some other regions of the world are home to less tasty elements, Europe has the glorious Axis of Pastry: France, Italy and Austria. Sweets are not only cheap, they are downright divine.  In cities where the cafés are as ornate as neighboring Baroque churches, enjoy the confections while admiring the Murano chandeliers. Skip the expensive coffee at Demel’s in Vienna and order a chocolate croissant or macaroon pair. For less than three dollars you can have a marble table and a memorable treat.

2. Eat through Eastern Europe.

Thanks to EU immigration laws, you can now eat quality Italian food in Prague without paying for it in expensive Euros. So consider making your way through Hungary, the Czech Republic and Poland.  The museums, trains, and hotels are cheaper and the food is still superb.

3. Plan a picnic

The European grocery store can be a life-altering experience—imported foods that are heavily taxed in the U.S. are significantly cheaper in their homelands. So buy the $3 bottle of Bordeaux, the $2 French brie and fresh baguettes by the dozen. Then follow the locals to the Pont de Arts or have a romantic picnic for two at the Jardin du Luxembourg.

4. Do lunch

In many European countries, lunch is the biggest meal of the day. And not only is it healthier to feast in the afternoon, it’s also cheaper.  Many restaurants have lunch menus that offer three-course meals for an affordable price.

5. Bring your own bottle… of water

Wine is cheaper than water in many European restaurants. If forced to order a drink with your meal, opt for the house wine and drink water from the 25-cent bottle you picked up at the grocery store.

6. Forget appetizers. Go for aperitivo.

Italy’s “happy hour” (but don’t call it that!) is also its best-kept secret. For as little as $7, you can enjoy an Italian all-you-can-eat buffet with the mixed drink of your choice at many local bars. While times and treats differ, many aperitivo spreads offer homemade pastas, fresh cheeses, pizzas and meats. Find the aperitivo frequented by locals or students and you won’t need a pricey dinner.

7. Order dessert first. And last.

It’s always the cheapest thing on the menu and will grant you access to the best restaurants in the world. Go an hour before closing or when the opera gets out.  Be dressed to impress, ask for the dessert menu, and order a coffee or sparkling wine with it. For less than ten dollars you can try the creations of the world’s best chefs without spending a fortune.

8. Take advantage of the McMakeover

Coffee lover? Meat craving? Don’t be afraid of the McDonald’s in Europe.  Since its rebranding, the European McDonald’s look more like a trendy lounge than a fast-food chain. With sophisticated palates and higher expectations, Euro Menu millionaires expect a perfect cappuccino and higher grade meat.  Many European countries have strict laws governing food quality, ensuring that your melted prosciutto and cheese sandwich at the train station in Rome is more than edible.

9. Splurge carefully

There are certain foods you have to sample when traveling Europe. But a Wiener Schnitzel from a street vendor doesn’t taste much different than the one at Vienna’s famous Figlmüller. Research your splurges and budget them in advance so you aren’t left feeling cheated at a tourist trap.

Tags: deals, eating, new frugal, travel