The Art of Cooking in Small Spaces: Recipes from my Chambre de Bonne

When I lived in Paris, my tiny home was a chambre de bonne – a notoriously small, often cramped attic room originally designed as servant quarters. Typically no more than 9 square meters, these compact spaces sit perched on the top floors of classic Haussmannian buildings, with sloped ceilings and just enough room for a bed and a wardrobe. Despite their size, chambres de bonne have become an iconic, if challenging, way for Parisians (especially students and young professionals) to live affordably in the heart of the city. Living in one means embracing minimalism – and the unique charm of Parisian living. 

Living in a chambre de bonne means making the most of every inch, especially when it comes to cooking. My tiny kitchen corner was equipped with just a double hot plate and a microwave, forcing me to get creative with simple, quick recipes that fit the space and my busy Parisian lifestyle.  

Though the space, for some, may seem too small for even one person, I still managed to host many friends in my chambre de bonne, with wine and cheese nights being a regular occurrence. Though if you received an invitation, you did not expect a chair or space at the “dining table” – often, these soirees meant sitting on the floor with plates on laps and drinks permanently in hand!  

The truth is, most of my everyday meals were “girl dinners” – snack plates made up of whatever I’d picked up from my local supermarket. Melon and jambon sec, olives, a torn piece of baguette, a wedge of cheese, a few cornichons, hummus with some crudités… simple, satisfying, and perfect for one. But when I wanted to make something a little more special – whether to share with friends or just for myself, these next 10 recipes became my go-to dishes. Still incredibly simple, but just polished enough to feel like I’d made an effort. 

Though these recipes might sound a little fancy, I was actually a strapped-for-cash au pair juggling a tight budget. Luckily, clever hacks – like using the Too Good To Go app, visiting markets just before closing for last-minute deals, and shopping at the nearby Lidl – helped to find fresh, quality ingredients without overspending. Tasty ingredients don’t always have to come with a high price tag, even in Paris. 

Living in a chambre de bonne taught me that you don’t need a big kitchen (or even a full-sized table) to cook and share beautiful meals. With a bit of creativity, a few good ingredients, and the warmth of friends squeezed together on the floor, even the tiniest of spaces can feel rich with life.  

Shakshuka with Ricotta, Spinach & Fresh Herbs 

This isn’t your average shakshuka – it has a little added je ne sais quoi. The tomato base is rich and spiced just right, but I stir in fresh spinach, dollop it with ricotta, and top it off with loads of herbs and torn basil. Eat straight from the pan and perfect with warm crusty bread and even better with good company. 

Grilled Ham and Cheese Croissant 

This is the kind of breakfast that is a decadent yet simple joy. I take a flaky, buttery croissant from La Grande Alésia – my beloved local boulangerie, and, in my opinion, the very best in Paris. Inside goes a few slices of ham and a generous bit of cheese from Fromagerie Boursault, my favorite cheesemonger. I warm it gently in a pan until the croissant crisps and the cheese melts into everything. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you smile with every oozy bite. 

Chicken Milanese with Tomato Spaghetti 

Crisp, golden chicken breasts paired with spaghetti tossed in a warm, bright tomato sauce. It’s simple and hearty, yet somehow seems deceptively elegant. Best enjoyed with a glass of something lovely and maybe a candle or two, even if it’s a Tuesday. Crusty baguette on the side? Bien sur. 

Rigatoni with Courgette, Lemon & Goat’s Cheese

This one feels especially fresh – like something you need to eat with the windows open and a light breeze. With the fruit and veg fresh from Au Bon Jardinier on Rue Bezout … courgette, bright lemons, and the creamiest goat cheese come together with rigatoni in this breezy pasta dish. It’s lemony and lush with that goat’s cheese tang melting into every bite.  

French onion butter beans

Inspired by the deep, sweet flavors of French onion soup, but softer and full of creamy butter beans. The onions cook low and slow until they’re golden and jammy, in a rich sauce that tastes like it’s been simmering all day (it hasn’t). It’s a comforting meal, best shared in big spoonfuls with toasted bread and perhaps a little glass of red wine. 

Asparagus, Pea & Mint Frittata 

Bright and green, this frittata is full of springlike joy. Lightly cooked asparagus, sweet peas, and fresh mint all tucked into soft, warm eggs. It’s lovely hot or cold, and makes a fresh, cheerful lunch with a crisp salad on the side. 

Creamy Pumpkin & Sage Orzo 

Silky orzo stirred with pan-fried pumpkin and a dollop of cream, topped with crispy sage leaves. Earthy and gentle, it’s a dish for chilly evenings when you want something a bit special but not fussy.

Fig, Brie, Walnut & Blackberry Salad

Soft figs, creamy brie, toasted walnuts, and blackberries nestled on greens, with a light honey-balsamic dressing. It’s sweet and savory – perfect for a late summer lunch. 

French Toast with Cherries & Flaked Almonds 

Thick slices of bread (preferably brioche) soaked in eggy custard, gently fried until golden. Then topped with warm cherries, a sprinkle of toasted almonds, and maybe a drizzle of maple syrup if you’re feeling super sweet. Lovely with a morning espresso. 

Vanilla Ice Cream with Warm Dates, Olive Oil & Sea Salt

Soft scoops of vanilla ice cream topped with warm, fried dates – sticky, rich, and caramelised. A drizzle of good olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top brings everything together in a surprising and lovely way. It’s sweet, creamy, and chewy all at once.  

Whether you’re in a snug attic room in Paris or a compact city flat somewhere else, I hope these dishes bring a little comfort, a sprinkle of joy, and a reminder that the best meals aren’t always the most elaborate – they’re the ones cooked with love. 

Bon appétit, and thank you for visiting my little kitchen.