Paris, the City of Light, is not only known for its breathtaking sights but also for its world-renowned French cuisine. As the culinary capital of France, Paris is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a journey of flavours, textures, and traditions with every meal.
For those planning a visit, the anticipation of indulging in the finest French cuisine is palpable. Eating in Paris may seem daunting at first, but some dishes are absolute must-tries for a genuine taste of French culinary excellence.
You can explore everything like walking along the Seine, wandering through the quaint streets of Saint-Germain, or dining in a quintessential French bistro, the Parisian dining scene is second to none. The city's cosy cafes, upscale restaurants, vibrant food tours, and romantic wine bars promise an unforgettable culinary adventure, enticing you to savour every moment. This guide highlights the top 7 foods you must experience in Paris, ensuring your culinary journey in this iconic city is filled with tantalizing meals and memorable moments.
The Classics of French Cuisine
1 - Croissant
The croissant, a staple of French pastry, is beloved for breakfast or as a snack, showcasing France's exceptional baking skills. Its flaky, buttery texture and intricate layers are the result of precise craftsmanship and rich tradition. Enjoyed in various forms—be it plain, filled with chocolate, or combined with ham and cheese—the croissant is a delightful treat at any hour. Though its origins are often linked to Austrian influence, it has been refined and embraced as a fundamental offering in French bakeries, especially in Paris. Experiencing a freshly baked croissant from renowned bakeries like Pain Des Idées or a quaint café in Saint-Germain like Bonaparte Cafe it's essential for any visitor.
2 - Coq au Vin
Coq au Vin, a celebrated French dish, is known worldwide for its deep flavours and comforting essence. This beloved dish involves slowly braising chicken in red wine, usually a red Burgundy, along with lardons (bite-sized bacon pieces), mushrooms, onions, and occasionally garlic. The slow cooking melds the flavours beautifully, yielding a tender chicken in a rich, savoury sauce. With origins dating back to ancient Gaul, Coq au Vin was brought into the limelight in the 20th century by culinary icons like Julia Child, who introduced it to a broader audience in her cookbook Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Some places to try this plate are Cafe La Jacobine, À la Biche au Bois or Cafe Louise.
3 - Bouillabaisse
Originating from Marseille, Bouillabaisse is a traditional Provençal fish stew that captures the essence of the Mediterranean. This elaborate dish combines various local fish and shellfish, such as red rascasse, sea robin, and European conger, with a mix of vegetables including leeks, onions, tomatoes, and celery. The broth, enriched with aromatic spices and saffron, offers a unique taste and vibrant colour. Traditionally, the flavourful broth is served first, accompanied by rouille-smeared grilled bread, with the fish and potatoes presented separately. Bouillabaisse represents more than a meal—it's a celebration of Marseille's rich culinary tradition and a must-experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the genuine tastes of France. A perfect place to eat it are Le Dauphin, Le Mediterranean or Le Dôme Café.
Iconic Street Foods
4 - Crêpes
Crêpes are one of the most iconic and versatile street foods in Paris. These thin, delicate pancakes can be enjoyed in both savoury and sweet variations. For a savoury experience, opt for a galette, typically made from buckwheat flour, and filled with ingredients like ham, cheese, and eggs.
Sweet crêpes, on the other hand, are a delight, often filled with caramel, chocolate, or fruit. You can find crêpes at various street stands and crêperies throughout the city, each offering its own unique flavours and charm. Places like Little Breizh in Saint-Germain and Crêperie Broceliande in Montmartre are highly recommended for their high-quality and flavourful crêpes.
5 - Jambon-Beurre
The Jambon-Beurre, or ham and butter sandwich, is a quintessential French street food that embodies the simplicity and elegance of French cuisine. This classic sandwich consists of a freshly baked baguette, generously spread with high-quality European butter, and layered with thinly sliced, well-cured ham, typically Jambon de Paris.
The combination of the crispy, golden baguette, the rich butter, and the flavourful ham creates a harmonious and satisfying snack that is both affordable and delicious. You can find this sandwich at various bakeries, cafes, and market stalls, such as Caractère de Cochon near the Marché des Enfants Rouges in the Marais district, which is renowned for its authentic Jambon-Beurre.
Sweet Delights and Regional Specialties
6 - Macarons
Macarons stand as a symbol of French culinary excellence, especially in Paris, where these exquisite pastries take centre stage. Characterized by their crisp shell and moist, flavourful filling, macarons come in a variety of flavours, each filled with a luscious ganache or buttercream. Esteemed pâtisseries like Fauchon and Ladurée have perfected the craft of macaron-making, elevating it to an art form.
At Fauchon, for instance, the creation of macarons is taken to new heights with the use of premium ingredients like finely ground almond flour and eggs from free-range chickens. The meticulous process, from achieving the perfect meringue shell to the infusion of the flavourful ganache, ensures that each macaron is a testament to the finesse of French pastry craftsmanship.
7 - French Cheese and Wine
The tradition of pairing French cheese with wine is a cornerstone of France's culinary heritage, with Paris serving as a prime destination to explore these exquisite combinations. The secret to a successful pairing lies in the knowledge of the cheese and wine's origin and their unique characteristics.
Soft cheeses such as Brie and Camembert from the Ile de France region are wonderfully complemented by the depth of a red Burgundy or the crispness of Champagne. Conversely, robust cheeses like Roquefort find their match in the sweet notes of a white Sauternes, creating a harmonious balance between the cheese's boldness and the wine's sweetness.
In Paris, embarking on a journey through the world of French cheese and wine can be as simple as visiting local markets or participating in a wine and cheese tasting class. These experiences deepen the understanding of pairings like Morbier with Syrah, or goat cheese with Sancerre. The city's abundant fromageries and wine bars, particularly in the Saint-Germain and Marais areas like Fromagerie Quatrehomme or Paroles de Fromagers, present an array of cheeses and wines, inviting every diner to embark on a flavourful exploration of France's gastronomic legacy.
Best Food Tour in Paris
Paris Private Experience by Sherpa Food Tours offers a tailored culinary journey designed for food lovers. These versatile tours are suitable for groups of all sizes and can easily be customized to fit your schedule.
Whether you're planning a romantic date for two, a corporate event, or a special celebration, Sherpa Food Tours crafts a unique gastronomic experience that caters to your preferences. Simply select your desired date and group size, and their dedicated team will handle all the arrangements. Each tour is thoughtfully designed to highlight the finest Parisian cuisine while accommodating dietary restrictions and individual tastes, ensuring an unforgettable and personalized experience for every participant.
Eating in Paris
In the heart of France, Paris shines as a beacon of culinary excellence, presenting a diverse and rich gastronomic journey. From the flaky layers of a freshly baked croissant to the deep, comforting flavours of Coq au Vin, and from the delicate finesse of macarons to the hearty richness of Bouillabaisse, each dish stands as a tribute to the vast culinary heritage of France. Make sure to indulge in classic French dishes like Jambon-Beurre and Crêpes, and seize the chance to enhance the experience with French cheese paired perfectly with a glass of wine.
Whether you find yourself wandering the charming streets of Saint-Germain or enjoying the sophisticated ambiance of a high-end restaurant, every meal in Paris promises a captivating journey through flavours and traditions. Embark on your culinary adventure, embrace a food tour, and delight in the best that Paris has to offer. Bon appétit!
FAQ About Eating in Paris
What Is The Most Famous Thing To Eat In Paris?
The most famous things to eat in Paris include escargots (snails cooked in their shells with butter, garlic, and parsley), confit de canard (duck slow-cooked in its own fat), and classic dishes like steak frites, baguettes, and various French cheeses and pastries.
What Are Five Rules For Eating Out At A Restaurant In Paris?
When dining out in Paris, adhere to these five essential rules:
- Greet upon entry: Say "bonjour" or "bonsoir" upon entering and address your server as "Monsieur," "Madame," or "Mademoiselle".
- Use correct cutlery: Keep your fork in your left hand and your knife in your right. When finished, align your cutlery together, pointing towards the upper left side of your plate.
- Maintain posture and etiquette: Sit up straight, keep your elbows off the table, and eat quietly.
- Order appropriately: Order all courses at the beginning, unless starting with an apéritif. Opting for the 3-course prix fixe menu often offers the best value.
- Wait to be seated: Do not seat yourself without guidance; wait for the manager or a waiter to seat you.
What Time To Eat Dinner In Paris?
Dinner in Paris typically begins between 19:00 (7:00 pm) and 20:30 (8:30 pm), with many restaurants starting dinner service by 19:00. The customary dinner hour falls around 20:00 to 20:30. Some establishments may stay open until 23:00 (11:00 pm) or later.
Where Does Celebrities Typically Eat in Paris?
In Paris, celebrities frequently dine at the Ritz Bar, Bar Hemingway, and Café de Flore. They also frequently visit various eateries and lodging facilities in the city.