Famous Food in Paris

Almost, if not more important than the sites and the museums, the food in Paris is something unforgettable. Whether you love sweet treats or fine dining, Paris has something for everyone and every taste. Keep reading for the top dishes and food in Paris to try and where to eat them.

Crepes

Who doesn’t love a fresh crepe? The ultimate in Paris food, these super-thin "pancakes" can be served either sweet or savory. This French tradition is made from flour, eggs, milk, butter, and sugar or salt and filled with fresh fruit or honey. Nowadays, you can find crepes with plenty of delicious fillings, like Nutella or sausage. Some top Paris food spots to try a crepe are Crêperie Little Breizh or La Crêperie de Josselin.

Macarons

You can’t think of Paris food without thinking of these small, sweet bites. Macarons are made from almond flour or meal, sugar, egg white, and coloring and come in many flavors, including favorites pistachio and raspberry. Perfect if you want a sweet treat that won’t ruin your appetite. Macarons are one of the most loved and sweet foods in Paris, and you can find them everywhere, but some of the best macarons can be found at Pierre Herme Bonaparte. Perhaps try one of more than fifteen flavors at Jean-Paul Hevin, that can be boxed beautifully to make the perfect gift

Crepes in Paris

Croissants

If you want to eat Paris food like a local, then your first stop for the day should be at a local boulangerie to pick up a fresh Croissant. Croissants are made from super buttery and flaky pastry and usually come in common fillings or flavors, including almond, chocolate, vanilla, or praline. Honestly, it is difficult to find a bad croissant in Paris, and some of the best places with the freshest pastries are La Maison d’Isabelle and Maison Pichard.

Oysters

Have you ever eaten oysters? Well, there is no better place to give it a try than in Paris. If you are traveling to Paris during the oyster season between April and October, this is the best time to try this tasty treat. Some of the best spots to try are Huîtrerie Régis, Huguette Bistro, or Le Mary Celeste. Pairing your oysters with the right glass of wine is important, and the best spots will select the perfect glass for you to try. Usually, a white wine, either sparkling or still.

Onion Soup

Looking for a savory dish unique to France, you have to try an onion soup during your stay in Paris. Made from caramelized onions, broth, and cheese and layered on top of a bread bowl or usually served gratinéed with croutons. The French onion soup can be eaten at any time of the year, but winter is ideal, as this warm dish brings you an ultimate comfort. Some of the best spots to try this iconic soup are Le Cinq, and the popular restaurant La Poule au Pot.

Croque Monsieur

Most of us have grown up eating some version of a ham sandwich, and you might be surprised that one of the must-try Paris food options is the Croque monsieur, basically a French ham and cheese toastie. If you are looking for the perfect Paris food for breakfast or brunch, look no further. This simple treat will give you enough energy for plenty of sightseeing. Try Galerie Georges filled with cheese and truffle for an extra indulgent Croque monsieur! Or, if you want to stick with a more traditional grilled cheese, try Fast.

Paris is also packed with amazing international cuisines, food markets, and street food stalls that won’t disappoint. There are also plenty of choices if you have specific dietary requirements and are looking for vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free options.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some classic foods to try in Paris?

Paris is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of dishes that showcase the best of French cuisine. Here are some foods to try that are a must on your culinary journey:

  • Steak frites: A classic dish that combines tender steak with crispy frites. Many bistros in Paris serve this combination, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
  • Steak tartare: A real French delicacy, this raw beef dish is seasoned with spices and often served with frites on the side. It's one of the best steak tartare experiences you can have in Paris.
  • Escargot: If you're feeling adventurous, try escargot, or snails, usually cooked with a flavorful combination of garlic, butter, and herbs. You can find these served in places like Escargot Montorgueil in the heart of Paris.
  • Pain au chocolat: A perfect pastry for breakfast or a snack, pain au chocolat is a must-try pastry filled with chocolate.
  • Salted butter caramel: This ultimate Paris food is a sweet treat you can find in many patisseries and is often used in desserts and candies.

These dishes offer a taste of French culture and Paris' diverse culinary scene, making it worth exploring the city's restaurants.

Where can I find the best food in Paris?

Paris is known for its diverse food scene, and whether you're looking for traditional bistro fare or something more modern, you’ll find a lot to order. Here are some places to consider:

  • Bistrot des Tournelles: A popular spot where you can enjoy steak frites and other classic French dishes.
  • Fontaine de Belleville: Known for serving snails and a great selection of French dishes.
  • Le Marais: This district is home to many restaurants offering delicious snails, cheeses, and steak tartare.
  • Rue Montorgueil: A lively market street where you can grab pain au chocolat, pastries, and ice cream while soaking in the local culture.

Don't forget to try local specialties like cheese varieties and garlic-based dishes, which are a true taste of Parisian cuisine.

What is the best way to explore the food culture in Paris?

The best way to experience Paris’ food culture is through a combination of tours, visits to local markets, and sampling the foods to try. Here's how to make the most of your culinary adventure:

  • Food tours: Join a food tour to explore different neighborhoods and learn about Paris’ culinary history. A tour of Rue des Tournelles or Rue Montorgueil will introduce you to great restaurants, bakeries, and cheese shops.
  • Cooking classes: Learn how to make classic French dishes like steak frites or snails with a local chef. Many places offer hands-on classes where you can prepare French dishes.
  • Try regional specialties: Paris is full of regional dishes from places like Burgundy, where you can try local meat and beef dishes, or enjoy escargot according to legend, dating back nearly three centuries.

If you're visiting Paris, you can't leave without sampling these dishes that are part of the heart of Parisian culture.