Paris is a culinary capital, with a food scene that is as diverse as it is delicious. From traditional French cuisine to international flavors, Paris has something to offer for every foodie out there. While there are many things to do in Paris, No matter which areas of Paris you’re staying in, you can’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy some classic French food. So, if you are planning a trip to the city of love, here’s everything you need to know about the food in Paris.
What Paris is Famous For?
10 Most Popular Foods in Paris
Paris is known around the world for its gourmet cuisine. From savory meats and fish to rich sauces and decadent pastries, the French know how to prepare food that is both delicious and visually stunning. Here are ten of the most famous foods in Paris that every food lover must try:
French Cheese
Cheese is the heart of French gastrology. Cheese making is also a traditionally carried forward activity in Paris that is fascinating for visitors to watch and learn the art of cheese making. Fromagerie, Camembert, Brie, and Roquefort cheese are the must-try categories in Paris.
Boeuf Bourguignon (Beef Stew)
This classic French dish originated in the Burgundy region and is made with beef, onions, mushrooms, and bacon. It is typically served with potatoes or pasta.
Crepes
Crepes is yet another interesting, easily found street food adored in Paris. You can find street side stalls for crepes every few steps in Paris. This basic, delicious, and filling food is a must-try!
Ratatouille (Vegetable Stew)
A popular vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. It is often served as a side dish or as a main course with rice or pasta.
Cassoulet (Bean Stew)
A hearty bean stew made with white beans, pork sausage, bacon, and sometimes duck confit. This dish is a specialty of the southwestern region of France.
Quiche Lorraine (Egg and Bacon Tart)
This savory tart is made with a flaky crust filled with a mixture of eggs, cream, bacon, and cheese. It is often served as a breakfast or lunch dish.
Pain au Chocolat (Chocolate Croissant)
Similar to a croissant, this pastry is filled with a stick of chocolate and is a popular breakfast or snack food.
Macarons
These colorful, delicate cookies are made from almond flour and are filled with buttercream or ganache. They come in a variety of flavors, including raspberry, pistachio, and salted caramel.
Crème Brûlée (Burnt Cream)
A rich, creamy dessert made with custard and topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. It is often served in a small ramekin and is a popular dessert in French restaurants.
Food Tours
Food tours are an excellent way to experience the local cuisine and culture of a new city, and Paris is no exception. From chocolate and pastry tastings to delicious cured meats and cheese tours, there are countless food tours available in Paris that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Here are two different types of food tours in Paris:
Walking food tours
Walking food tours are a great way to explore Paris’s neighborhoods and taste some of the city’s best dishes. These tours are typically led by local guides who take you to different foodie hotspots, such as markets, bakeries, and cafes. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history and culture of the city’s food scene and get to sample a variety of dishes, from croissants and cheese to mouth-watering creps and fresh pastries.
Pastry & Chocolate Tours Paris
In Paris Chocolate & Pastry tour, you’ll enjoy a variety of classic French desserts and sweets. Taste an explosion of treats from artisanal chocolates, crepes and delicious macarons to award winning pastries, and the creamiest ice-creams.
A highly rated food tour operator in Paris is Secret Food Tours. Run by Parisians, you can choose from five different food tours to help you explore the culinary side of Paris. You can also check out Viator’s top-rated Ultimate Paris Food Tour for a three-hour food fest in the Le Marais neighborhood
Finding Restaurants in Paris
Finding the perfect restaurant in Paris can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city. With so many options to choose from, it’s important to have a game plan before you start your search. Here are three subheadings to help you find the best restaurants in Paris:
Research online
One of the easiest ways to find restaurants in Paris is to do some research online. There are many websites and apps that can help you find restaurants based on your location, cuisine preferences, and budget. Yelp, TripAdvisor, and The Fork are all popular options that offer user reviews, photos, and menus to help you make an informed decision.
Ask locals
Parisians are passionate about their food, and they’re often more than happy to share their favorite restaurants with visitors. If you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb, ask the concierge or host for recommendations. You can also strike up a conversation with locals at a café or bar and ask for their favorite restaurant suggestions.
Explore the neighborhoods
Paris is divided into different neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and food scene. Exploring these neighborhoods is a great way to discover hidden gems and find restaurants that suit your taste. Some popular neighborhoods for foodies include Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Montmartre. You can also look for areas with high concentrations of restaurants, such as Rue Montorgueil or Rue des Petits Champs.
Traditional Food in Paris
Paris is a city that is renowned for its food, and there are plenty of traditional dishes to try that will give you a taste of the city’s rich culinary history. Here are some traditional foods in Paris that you should definitely try:
Croissants
Croissants are a staple of French breakfast and are available in nearly every bakery and café in Paris. They’re made with buttery, flaky pastry and are often served with jam, butter, or chocolate. A freshly baked croissant with a cup of coffee is the perfect way to start your day in Paris.
Baguettes
Baking bread is a dedicated culinary practice in Paris, and these long loaves of bread, called Baguettes, are the basis of many recipes of Parisian cuisine. Made of a lean dough of flour, Baguette is the star of every bakery shop in Paris that you can find every 5 kilometers on the streets of the city.
Escargots (Snails)
A popular French delicacy, snails are cooked with garlic butter and parsley and served as a starter. The snails are often cooked in a special dish with small round indentations, called an escargotiere.
Best Restaurants in Paris
Paris is a city that is known for its love of food, and it’s no surprise that some of the best restaurants in the world can be found here. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone who loves good food, there are plenty of options to choose from in Paris. So, grab a fork and get ready to indulge in some of the city’s most delicious dishes at these five amazing restaurants:
Le Jules Verne
For a dining experience that is out of this world, head to Le Jules Verne located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. Chef Frédéric Anton’s gourmet French cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds, and the stunning panoramic views of the city are simply breathtaking.
Septime
If you’re looking for modern French cuisine that is creative and flavorful, then Septime is the place for you. With two Michelin stars and a spot on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Chef Bertrand Grébaut’s dishes are sure to impress.
L’Ambroisie
For classic French cuisine that has been perfected over the years, look no further than L’Ambroisie. This legendary restaurant has held three Michelin stars for over 30 years and Chef Bernard Pacaud’s dishes are a true work of art.
Le Comptoir du Relais
If you’re in the mood for a cozy bistro experience, then head to Le Comptoir du Relais in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. Chef Yves Camdeborde’s traditional French dishes like steak tartare and confit duck leg will transport you to a simpler time.
Guy Savoy
For innovative French cuisine that will surprise and delight your taste buds, check out Guy Savoy’s eponymous restaurant. With three Michelin stars and a reputation for pushing the boundaries of French cooking, Chef Guy Savoy’s dishes are a true culinary adventure.
No matter which of these restaurants you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable dining experience in Paris. So, bring your appetite and get ready to discover the city’s delicious food scene!
Bonjour Paris!
The city of love had me hooked the moment I tasted its exquisite cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned Parisian or a first-time visitor, French food will never fail to amaze you. From sweet pastries to savory dishes and refreshing drinks, every bite is a treat for your taste buds. And as you indulge in Parisian delicacies, don’t forget to say bon appétit!
While food is a highlight of any trip to Paris, it’s important to plan ahead for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Check out Travel Diaries for travel tips, budgeting, and more. And if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay in Paris, be sure to read our post on accommodations. Bon voyage and bon appétit!”
FAQs
What are 5 famous foods in France?
– Croissant: A buttery, flaky pastry that is a breakfast staple.
– Escargots de Bourgogne: Snails cooked with garlic, parsley, and butter, typically served as an appetizer.
– Bouillabaisse: A seafood stew originating from Marseille, typically made with various fish, shellfish, and flavored with saffron.
– Crème Brûlée: A rich custard dessert with a caramelized sugar crust on top.
Why is Paris food so good?
What is Paris most known for food?
– Baguette: The quintessential French bread, characterized by its long, slender shape and crispy crust.
– French Onion Soup: A comforting soup made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with melted cheese and crusty bread.
– Macarons: Colorful and delicate almond meringue cookies filled with flavored ganache, buttercream, or jam.
– Steak Frites: A classic dish consisting of a juicy steak served with a side of crispy French fries.
– Foie Gras: A luxury delicacy made from the fattened liver of a duck or goose, often served in pâtés or as a standalone dish.
What do people eat and drink in Paris?
– French pastries and desserts like croissants, pain au chocolat, and tarts.
– Cheese and charcuterie platters featuring a variety of local and regional cheeses, cured meats, and accompaniments.
– Bistro-style dishes such as steak frites, quiche, and confit de canard (duck confit).
– Fresh seafood and fish, such as oysters, mussels, and sole meunière.
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