Foods You Should Try When Visiting Paris

Paris is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a culinary experience like no other. The city’s streets are teeming with tantalizing aromas and flavors that beckon you to embark on a gastronomic adventure. From exquisite pastries to delectable cheeses and hearty meals, Paris has something to satisfy every palate.

• Embrace the Bread Culture
  • Baguette: Delight in the crispiness of a freshly baked baguette from a local boulangerie.
    • Where to Find: Visit boulangeries like Eric Kayser, a renowned Parisian bread chain, located across the city.
• Savor Chocolate for Breakfast
  • Pain au Chocolat: Indulge in the buttery goodness of this chocolate-filled pastry.
    • Where to Find: Explore boulangeries or patisseries in the morning for the freshest pastries.
• Explore the World of French Cheese
  • Cheese Tasting: Dive into the diverse world of French cheeses, offered at budget-friendly prices.
    • Where to Find: Visit cheese shops such as Tako & Vermo or Fromagerie Sanders for a personalized tasting experience.
• Delight in Steak Frites
  • Classic French Dish: Enjoy a comforting meal of steak paired with crispy fries, a staple of French cuisine.
    • Where to Find: Explore traditional bistros like Le Relais De L’Entrecôte or Au Bœuf Couronné for an authentic steak frites experience.

Immerse Yourself in Parisian Culinary Adventures

To make the most of your culinary journey in Paris, consider these immersive experiences:

• Take a Food Tour
  • Experience: Join a guided food tour to discover hidden culinary gems and learn about Parisian food culture.
    • Where to Book: Opt for tours like the 3-hour Paris food tour, which includes visits to local markets and cheese tastings.
• Attend a Cooking Class
  • Enhance Your Skills: Participate in a cooking class focused on French cuisine to elevate your culinary prowess.
    • Where to Book: Choose from a variety of classes such as French pastry baking or authentic French cooking.

Indulge in Parisian Treats

Paris, often dubbed as the culinary capital of the world, is a paradise for food enthusiasts. From heavenly pastries to delectable desserts, the city boasts an array of delights that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey through some of Paris’s most iconic treats:

• Macarons: Heavenly Morsels
  • Description: Macarons are like biting into clouds while riding a unicorn—a magical experience! These gluten-free delicacies, made from sugar and almond flour, come in a variety of flavors.
  • Where to Find: Ladurée and Pierre Hermé are renowned for their exquisite macarons. Join a Pastry Tour in Paris to discover the best macarons and other pastries across the city.
• Sip on Real Hot Chocolate
  • Description: Treat yourself to some “chocolat chaud” in Paris—a thick, creamy indulgence unlike any other. Made with real chocolate and milk, French hot chocolate is rich and less sweet compared to its American counterpart.
  • Where to Find: Angelina Paris is famed for its thick, dark hot chocolate. Ladurée and Jacques Genin also offer exceptional variations. Don’t miss Un Dimanche à Paris for a decadent chocolate experience.
• Indulge in Crêpes: Street Food Delight
  • Description: Crêpes, a Parisian favorite, are a delicious on-the-go treat. Whether you prefer sweet Banana Nutella or savory ham and cheese, these thin pancakes are a must-try.
  • Where to Find: Visit brasseries, restaurants, or street corners for a taste of authentic crêpes. Try Breizh Cafe or Bretons for some of the best in town.
• Let the Crème Brûlée Melt in Your Mouth
  • Description: This classic French dessert—creamy custard with a caramelized top—is sheer indulgence. Whether dining out or trying your hand at home, crème brûlée is a decadent delight.
  • Where to Find: Experience the best crème brûlée at Le Soufflé, Chez Janou, La Fontaine de Mars, or Au Petit Riche.
• Try an Eclair (or Three!)
  • Description: L’éclair de Genie offers irresistible éclairs in various flavors. From mascarpone to passion fruit, each bite is a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
  • Where to Find: Head to L’éclair de Genie for some of the finest éclairs in Paris.

More Parisian Delights to Explore

Expand your culinary exploration with these additional treats:

• Prettiest Gelato in Town: Treat yourself to fancy flower-shaped gelato at Amorino. Available across the city, it’s a delightful indulgence no matter the weather.
• Drool Over Prettiest Chocolate Displays: Parisian chocolate shops boast stunning displays, especially during festive seasons. Join a Paris Chocolate Tour to sample various chocolates from renowned establishments like Edwart Chocolatier, Jacques Genin, Pierre Hermé, and La Maison du Chocolat.

• Eat Your Daily Croissant
  • Description: Croissants taste unparalleled in Paris, thanks to the French butter and meticulous craftsmanship. Enjoy at least one daily for an authentic Parisian breakfast.
    • Where to Find: Savor the best croissants at establishments like Maison Pichard, Laurent Duchêne, and La Maison d’Isabelle.
• Try The Oysters Or At Least The Butter
  • Description: While oysters may not be everyone’s cup of tea, Paris boasts some delectable options. Don’t miss the garlic and butter-infused varieties.
    • Where to Find: Head to Au Cancale de Rocher, Le Mary Celeste, or Le Dôme for a taste of Parisian oysters.
• See The Pro For Profiteroles
  • Description: Treat yourself to profiteroles, heavenly cream puffs that are a delight to the senses. Profiterole Cherie offers a unique range of freshly baked pastries to satisfy your sweet cravings.
    • Where to Find: Indulge in the best profiteroles at esteemed establishments like Le Relais de l’Entrecote, L’Encrier, Benoir, and Profiterole Cherie.
• Try Coq Au Vin On A Cold Night
  • Description: Coq au Vin, a traditional French dish, is a comforting chicken stew perfect for cold nights. Experience its rich flavors and hearty goodness during your Parisian sojourn.
    • Where to Find: Visit renowned restaurants like Le Coq Rico, Le Precope, or Auberge Bresane for an authentic taste of Coq au Vin.
• Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With Meringues
  • Description: Meringues, although messy, are a delightful sweet treat worth trying. Indulge in these airy confections during your Parisian escapade.
    • Where to Find: Sample the best meringues at Aux Merveilleux de Fred and Le Loir dans la Théière.
• Try Real French Onion Soup
  • Description: Warm up with a steaming cup of authentic French onion soup—a savory blend of beef broth, onions, cheese, and crusty French bread.
    • Where to Find: Experience the best French onion soup at renowned establishments like La Jacobine, Les Philosophes, and Flottes.