Chapter 9: Café Experiences for Different Budgets

French café culture accommodates all economic levels through careful choices. Understanding options enables participation regardless of financial constraints.

Budget Strategies: - Morning counter coffee: 1-2€ - Afternoon café sitting: 2-3€ - House wine: 3-4€ per glass - Plat du jour: 10-15€ for full meal - Happy hour drinks: 30-50% discounts

Mid-Range Experiences: - Breakfast formula: 8-12€ (coffee, juice, croissant) - Lunch menu: 15-25€ (starter, main, coffee) - Afternoon tea service: 15-20€ - Apéro with snacks: 20-30€ for two

Luxury Indulgences: - Historic café terraces: 7-10€ per coffee - Champagne service: 15-25€ per glass - Full afternoon tea: 30-50€ - Celebrity chef café menus: 50€+

The key lies in choosing experiences matching moments. Daily counter coffee, weekly terrace lunch, monthly luxury treat—this rhythm enables sustainable café participation. French locals master this balance, maintaining café habits across income levels.