Paris, the city of lights, romance, and… incredible food. More than just a pretty backdrop for your travel photos, Paris is a culinary capital, a place where food is an art form and a deep-rooted part of the culture. To truly experience the essence of Paris, you simply *must* delve into the world of typical French food in Paris. But what does that even mean? It’s more than just fine dining and Michelin stars. It’s about the classic dishes, the iconic flavors, and the everyday Parisian dining experiences that define this extraordinary city. This guide will navigate you through the most authentic and delicious typical French food you simply *must* savor while exploring the charming streets of Paris. Forget the diet, loosen your belt, and prepare for a delightful culinary journey!
Savory Sensations of Paris
Let’s kick things off with the savory delights that define Parisian cuisine. From hearty classics to comforting bistro staples, these dishes will leave you feeling satisfied and wanting more.
Steak and Fries: A Parisian Love Affair
Ah, steak frites. It might sound simple – steak and fries – but in Paris, it’s elevated to an art. This isn’t just any steak and fries; this is a perfectly seared, often entrecôte (ribeye), steak, cooked to your exact preference, accompanied by a generous portion of golden, crispy, and perfectly salted fries. The secret lies in the quality of the ingredients and the preparation. The steak is often served with a simple but exquisite sauce, such as sauce au poivre (pepper sauce) or sauce béarnaise, enhancing the flavor of the beef.
Where to find this classic? Look no further than Le Relais de l’Entrecôte. This restaurant, with multiple locations in Paris, specializes in one thing, and one thing only: steak frites. The no-menu concept ensures that you receive a perfectly cooked steak, served with their secret sauce and endless fries. For a more traditional bistro experience, try Le Bouillon Chartier, a historic brasserie offering classic French dishes at affordable prices. It’s a bustling, authentic Parisian experience where you can enjoy typical French food in Paris without breaking the bank.
The Croque Monsieur and Madame: The Ultimate Grilled Sandwich
The Croque Monsieur is more than just a ham and cheese sandwich; it’s a Parisian institution. Made with sliced ham and Gruyère cheese, this sandwich is grilled or pan-fried until golden and bubbly. But what elevates it to something truly special is the béchamel sauce, a creamy white sauce that adds richness and decadence.
Now, for the Croque Madame. What sets it apart? A fried egg perched delicately on top. The egg adds another layer of flavor and texture, making it even more indulgent. Both versions are staples in Parisian cafes and bistros.
You’ll find excellent Croque Monsieur and Madame at almost any café. For a particularly memorable experience, head to Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This historic cafe has been a favorite among artists and writers for decades, and their Croque Monsieur is a classic for a reason. They are experts in creating delicious typical French food.
French Onion Soup: A Warm Embrace on a Cold Day
Soupe à l’oignon gratinée, or French onion soup, is a soul-warming classic. This rich and flavorful soup starts with a deeply caramelized onion broth, simmered for hours to extract its sweetness. It’s then topped with a slice of crusty bread and a generous layer of Gruyère cheese, which is broiled until golden and bubbly. The combination of sweet onions, savory broth, and melted cheese is simply irresistible.
Look for a soup with a dark, rich broth and plenty of caramelized onions. The cheese should be generously applied and perfectly melted. This soup embodies the essence of typical French food.
A great place to enjoy French onion soup is Au Pied de Cochon, a historic restaurant in the Les Halles district. They are known for their traditional French cuisine and their excellent onion soup.
Escargots: Dare to Try This Parisian Delicacy
Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room – snails. Escargots might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of delicious food, but in Paris, they are a beloved delicacy. Prepared with garlic, butter, and parsley, these snails are surprisingly flavorful and tender.
The key is the preparation. The snails are carefully cleaned and cooked in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, which infuses them with flavor. The dish is typically served in a special escargot dish, with individual compartments for each snail.
Don’t be afraid to try escargots. They are a unique and memorable Parisian experience. To eat them, use the provided tongs to hold the shell and a small fork to extract the snail. Dip it in the garlic butter sauce and enjoy. They are a delicious example of typical French food.
For an authentic escargot experience, try L’Escargot Montorgueil, a historic restaurant specializing in this dish.
Crêpes: Savory and Sweet Delights
Crêpes, thin pancakes, are a ubiquitous sight on the streets of Paris. While sweet crêpes are popular, don’t overlook the savory galettes. Made with buckwheat flour, these galettes are a Breton specialty and a delicious alternative to traditional crêpes.
Popular fillings include ham, cheese, eggs, and vegetables. They are often folded into a square shape and served hot. You can find crêpes at street vendors throughout Paris, as well as in dedicated crêperies.
Look for crêperies in the Marais district for some really delicious typical French food. Breizh Café is also a popular place to enjoy a well-made crêpe.
Sweet Temptations: Parisian Pastries and Treats
Now, for the sweet part of our culinary journey. Paris is a paradise for pastry lovers, and these sweet treats are not to be missed.
The Croissant: A Parisian Breakfast Staple
The croissant is perhaps the most iconic of all French pastries. This flaky, buttery pastry is a staple of the Parisian breakfast. A truly great croissant should be golden brown, flaky on the outside, and soft and buttery on the inside.
A good croissant should have a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior. The best croissants are made with high-quality butter, which gives them a rich, decadent flavor.
Start your day like a Parisian and grab a croissant from a local bakery. The aroma is amazing, the taste is even better. They are the epitome of typical French food in Paris.
For an exceptional croissant, head to Du Pain et des Idées, a renowned bakery in the Canal Saint-Martin district.
Macarons: A Rainbow of Flavors
Macarons are colorful almond meringue cookies filled with ganache, buttercream, or jam. These delicate treats are a visual delight and a burst of flavor.
Ladurée and Pierre Hermé are two of the most famous macaron shops in Paris. They offer a wide range of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous combinations like rose and pistachio.
From decadent chocolate to refreshing fruity flavors, you are sure to find something you will enjoy. These little delights are typical French food that is sure to sweeten your day.
Crème brûlée: A Classic Custard with a Crispy Crust
Crème brûlée is a classic French dessert consisting of a creamy custard base topped with a brittle caramelized sugar crust. The contrast between the smooth custard and the crunchy crust is what makes this dessert so appealing.
The caramelized sugar crust is created by torching a thin layer of sugar on top of the custard. The torching process caramelizes the sugar, creating a hard, glassy shell.
When you enjoy crème brûlée, crack the top with your spoon to reveal the creamy custard underneath. A culinary experience that embodies typical French food.
You can find crème brûlée on the menu of many Parisian restaurants. Le Soufflé is another good option for indulging in this classic dessert.
Pain au chocolat: A Chocolate Lover’s Dream
Pain au chocolat, literally “chocolate bread,” is a close cousin of the croissant, but filled with rich, dark chocolate. This pastry is perfect for chocolate lovers.
It is best enjoyed warm, when the chocolate is slightly melted. The combination of flaky pastry and rich chocolate is simply irresistible. The aroma is enough to lure you in!
Pain au chocolat is best enjoyed with a coffee or a glass of milk. You can find it in almost every Parisian bakery. A typical French food breakfast item that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Eclairs: Creamy and Delicious
Eclairs are long, narrow pastries made from choux pastry, filled with cream and topped with icing. They come in a variety of flavors, from classic chocolate and coffee to more modern variations like salted caramel and pistachio.
The cream filling is typically flavored with vanilla, chocolate, or coffee. The icing is often made with chocolate or caramel. These are delicious typical French food options.
You can find eclairs at patisseries throughout Paris. L’Éclair de Génie is a great choice that specializes in eclairs.
Raise a Glass: Drinks to Complement Your Meal
No Parisian culinary experience is complete without the perfect beverage. From wine to coffee, here’s what to drink with your meal.
Wine: A French Tradition
France is world-renowned for its wine, and Paris is the perfect place to explore the country’s diverse wine regions. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, there’s a French wine to suit every taste.
For red wine, consider a Bordeaux or a Burgundy. Bordeaux wines are typically full-bodied and complex, while Burgundy wines are lighter and more elegant. For white wine, try a Sancerre or a Chablis. Sancerre wines are crisp and refreshing, while Chablis wines are dry and mineral-driven.
Pair a Bordeaux with steak frites, a Burgundy with escargots, a Sancerre with seafood, and a Chablis with cheese. Pairing wine with typical French food will enhance your whole experience.
Coffee: The Parisian Fuel
Coffee is an essential part of Parisian life. Parisians often start their day with a café au lait (coffee with milk) and enjoy espresso throughout the day.
Ordering coffee in Paris can be a bit different than in other countries. A café is typically an espresso, while a café allongé is a longer espresso. Be sure to specify what you want when ordering.
Find a sidewalk cafe and enjoy a cup of coffee while enjoying the vibrant culture of Paris. It’s a delicious way to savor the typical French food experience.
Pastis: An Anise-Flavored Aperitif
Pastis is an anise-flavored spirit that’s a popular aperitif in France. It’s typically served with water and ice, and it turns milky white when the water is added.
Pastis is a refreshing and flavorful drink that’s perfect for sipping on a warm day. Be aware of the strong anise flavor!
Tips for Dining Like a Parisian
To truly immerse yourself in the Parisian culinary scene, here are a few tips.
Reservations: Plan Ahead
For popular restaurants, especially for dinner, making a reservation is highly recommended. This will ensure that you get a table and avoid long waits.
Tipping: A Gracious Gesture
Tipping is not as common in Paris as it is in some other countries. Service is typically included in the bill. However, it’s customary to leave a small tip (around five to ten percent) for exceptional service.
Menu Vocabulary: Speak the Language
Knowing a few basic French phrases will make your dining experience much smoother. Learn how to say “please,” “thank you,” and “the bill, please.”
Finding Authentic Experiences
Avoid restaurants with menus only in English or those located in highly touristy areas. Look for restaurants that are frequented by locals and that offer traditional French cuisine.
Opening Hours: Be Aware
Restaurants in Paris often have specific opening hours. They may be closed for lunch or dinner during certain hours. Be sure to check the hours before you go.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Exploring the typical French food in Paris is an essential part of experiencing this extraordinary city. From savory classics like steak frites and French onion soup to sweet treats like croissants and macarons, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the Parisian culinary experience, try new things, and savor every moment. You won’t be disappointed. Bon appétit!
