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Comprehensive Guide to International Cuisine in Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, located in the Alsace region of France, is a city that blends French and German influences, creating a unique culinary identity. However, its cosmopolitan nature and status as the seat of the European Parliament have also made it a hub for international cuisine. Whether you're craving Italian, Asian, Middle Eastern, or even American flavors, Strasbourg offers a wide variety of international dining options. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the international culinary scene in Strasbourg.

1. Popular International Cuisines in Strasbourg

Italian Cuisine

Overview: Italian food is a favorite in Strasbourg, with many restaurants offering authentic pizzas, pastas, and risottos.
Popular Restaurants:
- La Trattoria da Giovanni: Known for its wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. Located near the city center.
- Pizzeria Ristorante San Marco: Offers a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of Italian classics.
Average Cost: €12–€20 for a main dish; €8–€12 for a pizza.
Dining Tip: Italians value simplicity and quality ingredients. Look for dishes with seasonal ingredients for the most authentic experience.

Asian Cuisine

Overview: Strasbourg has a growing Asian food scene, including Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese options.
Popular Restaurants:
- Madame Julia: A trendy spot for sushi and Japanese fusion dishes.
- Le Mandala: Specializes in Thai and Cambodian cuisine, with flavorful curries and stir-fries.
- Pho Kim Saigon: A casual Vietnamese eatery known for its pho and banh mi.
Average Cost: €10–€15 for a main dish; sushi platters range from €15–€30.
Dining Tip: Many Asian restaurants in Strasbourg offer lunch menus (formules) at reduced prices, typically including a starter, main dish, and dessert for around €12–€18.

Middle Eastern Cuisine

Overview: Middle Eastern food is well-represented, with Lebanese, Turkish, and Moroccan restaurants being the most common.
Popular Restaurants:
- La Table de Kashmir: Offers a mix of Lebanese and Indian dishes, including mezze platters and tandoori specialties.
- Le Riad: A Moroccan restaurant known for its tagines and couscous dishes.
- Anatolia: A Turkish restaurant offering kebabs, pide (Turkish pizza), and baklava.
Average Cost: €10–€18 for a main dish; mezze platters for sharing cost around €20–€30.
Dining Tip: Sharing is common in Middle Eastern dining. Order a variety of small dishes to experience a range of flavors.

American Cuisine

Overview: For those craving burgers, BBQ, or Tex-Mex, Strasbourg has several American-style diners and restaurants.
Popular Restaurants:
- The Brooklyn Café: Known for its gourmet burgers and milkshakes.
- Holy Cow! Gourmet Burger Company: Offers a variety of creative burger options with fresh ingredients.
- El Sombrero: A Tex-Mex restaurant serving tacos, burritos, and margaritas.
Average Cost: €12–€18 for a burger or Tex-Mex dish.
Dining Tip: Portions at American-style restaurants tend to be larger than at traditional French establishments, so come hungry!

Indian Cuisine

Overview: Indian food is a popular choice for those seeking bold flavors and spices.
Popular Restaurants:
- Le Penjab: Offers a wide range of North Indian dishes, including butter chicken and biryani.
- Le Maharaja: Known for its tandoori dishes and vegetarian options.
Average Cost: €12–€20 for a main dish; €25–€30 for a full meal with appetizers and drinks.
Dining Tip: Indian restaurants in Strasbourg often cater to French tastes, so if you prefer authentic spice levels, let your server know.

Other Cuisines

Mexican: Try La Vaca Loca for authentic tacos and enchiladas.
African: Le Kilimandjaro offers West African specialties like yassa chicken and peanut stew.
Spanish: Tapas Café is a great spot for Spanish tapas and paella.
Korean: Kimchi serves traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi.

2. Average Costs for International Dining

Casual Dining: €10–€20 per person for a main dish and drink.
Mid-Range Restaurants: €20–€35 per person for a full meal (starter, main, dessert, and drink).
Fine Dining: €40–€70 per person for a multi-course meal with wine.

3. Dining Customs and Etiquette

Reservations: It’s a good idea to make reservations, especially for popular restaurants or during weekends.
Tipping: Service is included in the bill (indicated by "service compris"), but it’s customary to leave a small tip (5–10%) if the service was exceptional.
Dining Hours: Lunch is typically served from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, and dinner starts around 7:00 PM. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service.
Sharing: Sharing dishes is common in Middle Eastern, Asian, and Spanish restaurants. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations for group dining.
Dietary Restrictions: Strasbourg’s international restaurants are generally accommodating of dietary restrictions. Inform your server if you have allergies or specific preferences.

4. Local Considerations and Tips

Language: While many restaurant staff speak English, it’s helpful to know a few French phrases, such as:
- "Une table pour deux, s’il vous plaît" (A table for two, please).
- "Je suis allergique à…" (I am allergic to…).
Lunch Menus: Many restaurants offer affordable lunch menus (formules déjeuner) that include a starter, main dish, and dessert for a fixed price.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options: While Strasbourg is traditionally meat-heavy, international restaurants often have vegetarian and vegan options. Look for Indian, Middle Eastern, or Asian restaurants for the best variety.
Takeaway and Delivery: Many international restaurants offer takeaway and delivery services through apps like Uber Eats, Deliveroo, and Just Eat.

5. Where to Find International Restaurants

City Center (Grande Île): Most international restaurants are concentrated in the historic city center, making it easy to explore different cuisines on foot.
Krutenau District: Known for its trendy vibe, this area has a mix of casual and upscale international dining options.
Neudorf: A residential area with hidden gems offering authentic international food at reasonable prices.

6. Events and Food Festivals

Strasbourg Food Truck Festival: Features a variety of international cuisines served from food trucks.
Christmas Market (Marché de Noël): While primarily focused on Alsatian specialties, you’ll also find international food stalls offering everything from German bratwurst to Spanish churros.

Strasbourg’s international culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, offering something for every palate and budget. By exploring the city’s many international restaurants, you’ll not only satisfy your cravings but also experience the multicultural spirit of this European capital. Bon appétit!