Finding a satisfying lunch for under €10 in the heart of Paris can feel like a daunting task, especially outside of fast-food chains. It seems almost impossible! However, just a stone’s throw from the 10th arrondissement’s town hall, Espace Japon offers a delightful solution, a hidden gem that defies all expectations.
A Cultural Hub with a Culinary Surprise
Espace Japon has a fascinating history, dating back to the 1970s. It all started with the “Ovni” magazine, published in Japanese by Ilyfunet Editions. This magazine, aimed at Japanese residents in Paris and those in Japan with a passion for French culture, provided insights into life in the City of Lights.
In the 1980s, Espace Japon expanded to include a cultural center, eventually finding its current location on Rue de Nancy in 2008. You can’t miss it; it’s right next to the police station, a striking contrast to the quiet street just a few meters away from the bustling Boulevard de Strasbourg.
More Than Just a Meal: A Cultural Experience
Espace Japon is a vibrant hub of Japanese culture, offering a wide array of activities to immerse yourself in the Land of the Rising Sun. From Japanese language classes to cooking and Ikebana workshops, and even manga drawing sessions, there’s something for everyone.
A small library provides a gateway to the world of Japanese literature, allowing you to delve into the fascinating intricacies of hiragana, katakana, and kanji. A mini-grocery store stocks essential Japanese ingredients like rice vinegar, peach liqueur, matcha tea, and sake.
But the real star of the show is the Médiacafé, where two skilled chefs prepare the famous daily-changing €10 bento. Today’s menu boasts a medley of sautéed green cabbage with ginger, a Japanese omelet, zucchini sautéed in soy sauce, and a comforting sweet potato stew with yuzu.
A Taste of Japan at a Steal
Once you’ve placed your order, find a cozy spot at one of the wooden tables that line the room, or, if it’s crowded, enjoy your lunch in the library. Soon enough, your tray arrives, complete with a refreshing green tea and lemon beverage (an additional €2) or a delicious dessert (€4).
While the sweet potato stew might be a bit on the small side, you get a lot of bang for your buck. What truly elevates this experience is the exceptional miso soup. Unlike the watery, bland versions often served elsewhere, here you’ll find a flavorful broth brimming with fresh onions and a delectable fried tofu.
The omelet is light and fluffy, the rice perfectly cooked, and the vegetables beautifully seasoned. Even our growing teenager, who usually has a bottomless pit for a stomach, was pleasantly surprised. And while the dorayaki (pancakes filled with sweet bean paste) might not be everyone’s favorite, the matcha cake was a unanimous hit.
We left Espace Japon feeling full, satisfied, and not a bit broke. It’s the perfect spot to experience authentic Japanese cuisine and culture at an unbeatable price.
Getting There and More Information
Espace Japon Médiacafé is located at 12, Rue de Nancy, Paris (10e). You can reach it by metro, getting off at Château d’Eau (line 4). It’s open Tuesday to Friday from noon to 5 pm and Saturday from noon to 3 pm. For more information, visit espacejapon.com.
If you’re looking for a unique and affordable culinary adventure in Paris, make sure to add Espace Japon to your list. It’s a hidden gem that will leave you craving for more!
