Restaurants across France are introducing low-price "menus anti-crise" to help consumers reduce food expenses amid rising inflation [1], [2].

This shift reflects a growing economic pressure on households, as both local eateries and global fast-food chains like McDonald's adjust their pricing to maintain customer volume. The trend highlights a broader struggle for consumers to afford basic dining options without spending a significant portion of their income.

These specialized set-menu meals are often priced around 10 euros [2]. Some promotions have gone even lower, with reports of portions priced under $2.95 [1]. This pricing strategy is designed to attract budget-conscious diners who are increasingly avoiding full-priced menus due to the cost-of-living crisis.

The movement is visible across the Paris region, including Cergy, and has extended to other Francophone regions such as Montreal [1], [3]. In some areas away from city centers, there is a growing prevalence of fast-food outlets offering these discounted, larger portions to capture the market [3].

Similar trends in low-cost consumption have appeared globally. For example, the bubble-tea chain Mixue has seen success with a low-price model, opening a shop on Feb. 25, 2025 [4]. This pattern of "broken prices" suggests a global shift where consumers are prioritizing extreme affordability over premium offerings.

Regarding the economic climate in other markets, Tyrone Siu of Reuters said, "La Chine n’arrive décidément pas à relancer sa consommation" [4]. This indicates that the struggle to stimulate consumer spending is not limited to Europe but is a recurring theme in several major economies.

“Low-price "menus anti-crise" are often priced around 10 euros.”

The emergence of "anti-crisis menus" signals a transition in the hospitality industry where volume-based, low-margin pricing becomes a survival strategy. By lowering the barrier to entry for dining out, restaurants are attempting to prevent a total collapse in foot traffic as inflation erodes the purchasing power of the middle and lower classes.