Must Try Food to Eat in Paris and Where to Find Them

Paris is known not only for its iconic landmarks but also for its delectable food scene. 

From freshly baked croissants to escargot, this city has a rich culinary heritage that will tantalize your taste buds. 

In this article we will explore must-try foods in Paris and where to find them. Get ready to indulge in the flavors of France as we uncover the best places to satisfy your cravings in Paris. Let the expert Eating Europe guide you, they know their way in the City of (De)Lights!

Brief Overview of Paris as a Culinary Destination

Paris thrives as a gastronomic capital, presenting locals and tourists with a rich culinary heritage. French cuisine enjoys worldwide fame, thanks to the city's strong focus on culinary excellence and an array of consistently high-quality food.

Numerous Michelin-starred restaurants line its lively streets, offering traditional French dishes meticulously crafted by Parisian chefs who employ time-tested techniques. The local culinary traditions burst forth in every bite from artisanal ingredients found at local markets across the city.

The fine dining experience is but one facet of Paris's culinary expertise; don't overlook the famous patisseries or quaint bistros tucked away in scenic neighborhoods.

The Culinary Heritage of Paris

Paris is globally celebrated for its culinary heritage. Roaming through the city, you'll find a wide array of food styles ranging from traditional bistros to contemporary wine bars, each brimming with distinctive flavors and techniques unique to French cuisine.

The gastronomic dining temples are nothing less than treasure troves holding some of the most delectable delights Paris has to offer.

Delving deeper into Parisian culinary customs unlocks an enticing world steeped in regional French cooking traditions. Ingredients used here aren't random picks but part of a meticulous selection process aimed at maintaining high-quality standards.

The overall diversity in this food culture is directly influenced by Paris's ideal geographical location and climate, which favor cultivation around the year. Whether you're savoring pastry from a legendary shop or indulging at specialty coffee cafes, remember that every bite echoes centuries' worth of culinary refinement.

Must-Try Foods and Where to Get Them

Indulge in freshly baked croissants from Boulangerie Pâtisserie Au Petit Versailles du Marais, savor escargot at L’Escargot Montorgueil, and delight your taste buds with Coq au Vin at Le Coq Rico.

Croissants from Boulangerie Pâtisserie Au Petit Versailles du Marais

Au Petit Versailles du Marais stands out amongst the numerous bakeries in Paris. This award-winning bakery has gained a reputation for its exceptional croissants.

Tourists and locals flock to taste these light, buttery delicacies, affirming Au Petit Versailles du Marais as a must-visit destination for pastry lovers. The flaky texture of their croissants is an experience not to be missed during your trip to this culinary hotspot.

Escargot at L’Escargot Montorgueil

L'Escargot Montorgueil is a historic restaurant in Paris that specializes in serving escargot, a traditional French delicacy. Located on a bustling pedestrian street, this establishment has been delighting diners since 1832.

The escargot dish at L'Escargot Montorgueil features snails sourced from the Burgundy region of France, known for its gourmet food and gastronomy. Prepared with butter and garlic sauce, each bite is filled with rich flavors that will leave you craving more.

For an authentic taste of French cuisine and a true dining experience in Paris, don't miss the opportunity to try the escargot at L'Escargot Montorgueil.

Coq au Vin at Le Coq Rico

Experience the rich flavors of traditional French cuisine by trying the Coq au Vin at Le Coq Rico. Led by Michelin-starred chef Antoine Westermann, this renowned Parisian restaurant specializes in gourmet poultry dishes.

Originally considered peasant food, Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that features tender chicken cooked in red wine with onions, mushrooms, and herbs. Le Coq Rico is known for serving an excellent version of this beloved dish, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of French gastronomy.

Located in Montmartre, this fine dining establishment offers a memorable culinary experience in the heart of Paris.

Ratatouille at Chez Janou

Chez Janou is famous for its delicious ratatouille, a traditional French dish that you must try while in Paris. This vegetable stew is bursting with Mediterranean flavors and made with fresh ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and spices.

It's a vegetarian option that showcases the farm-to-table cooking style of Chez Janou. The restaurant's menu includes this classic French dish, which comes highly recommended by Marie Phitidis and other food critics.

Whether you're visiting Disneyland Paris or simply exploring the city, make sure to stop by Chez Janou for their delectable ratatouille experience.

Quiche Lorraine at Le Saint Régis

Nestled in the charming atmosphere of Île Saint-Louis, Le Saint Régis is a quintessentially Parisian café that offers a wide variety of traditional French dishes. Among its signature offerings is the Quiche Lorraine, a savory pie that perfectly exemplifies French culinary artistry.

This iconic dish, hailing from the Lorraine region of France, features a creamy filling of eggs, cream, cheese, and lardons (or bacon), all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. At Le Saint Régis, the Quiche Lorraine is renowned for its delicate balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among both locals and international visitors alike.

Classic Parisian Dishes

Quiche Lorraine at Le Saint Régis

Quiche Lorraine, a savory pie hailing from the Lorraine region of France, is a staple of Parisian cuisine. Le Saint Régis, nestled in the charming atmosphere of Île Saint-Louis, is renowned for its exceptional Quiche Lorraine. This dish features a creamy filling of eggs, cream, cheese, and lardons (or bacon), all encased in a buttery, flaky crust.

It's a comforting and rich delight that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. The combination of savory flavors and the tender texture of the quiche make it a favorite among both locals and international visitors alike.

Bœuf Bourguignon at Le Bistrot Paul Bert

Bœuf Bourguignon is a beloved French classic that you must savor while in Paris. This hearty stew originates from the Burgundy region and features tender pieces of beef slow-cooked in red wine, accompanied by a medley of onions, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. Le Bistrot Paul Bert, a traditional Parisian bistro, is renowned for its delectable version of this iconic dish. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a rich and soul-warming meal.

Cassoulet at Au Pied de Cochon

For a taste of hearty and comforting Parisian cuisine, make your way to Au Pied de Cochon for their famous Cassoulet. This traditional dish hails from the southwestern regions of France and is a hearty stew composed of white beans, pork, sausages, and sometimes duck confit. It's a rustic and satisfying choice that's perfect for a chilly evening in Paris.

Bouillabaisse at Le Miramar

Le Miramar is the place to experience Bouillabaisse, a classic Provençal fish stew with roots in Marseille but widely appreciated in Paris. This fragrant and flavorful dish combines a variety of fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs in a saffron-infused broth. Served with a side of rouille sauce and crusty bread, it's a delightful immersion into the seafood-rich traditions of southern France.

Pissaladière at Chez L'Ami Jean

Pissaladière is a classic southern French dish that has found a welcoming home in Paris. At Chez L'Ami Jean, you can enjoy a fantastic version of this savory tart. It features a crisp, golden crust topped with caramelized onions, black olives, and anchovies, offering a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors. It's a delightful option for a light lunch or appetizer.

These classic Parisian dishes not only showcase the depth and diversity of French cuisine but also invite you to explore the rich tapestry of flavors that Paris has to offer. From rich stews to delicate pastries, these iconic dishes are a testament to the city's culinary heritage. As you traverse the charming streets of Paris, be sure to seek out these classics for an authentic taste of the city's gastronomic excellence.

Classic Parisian Pastries

1. Macarons from Ladurée: Ladurée is an iconic pastry shop in Paris renowned for its delectable macarons. These delicate, colorful almond meringue cookies with creamy fillings come in a variety of flavors, from classic ones like vanilla and chocolate to more exotic options such as rose and violet.

2. Éclairs from L'Éclair de Génie: For a sweet treat with a twist, head to L'Éclair de Génie. This bakery offers a modern take on the classic éclair, with a wide range of flavors and unique toppings. From chocolate and coffee to passion fruit and pistachio, these éclairs are a pastry lover's dream.

3. Tarte Tatin at Chez L'Ami Jean: Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert, and Chez L'Ami Jean serves one of the best in Paris. This upside-down caramelized apple tart is a true delight. The apples are tender, the caramel is rich, and the pastry is perfectly flaky.

4. Mille-Feuille at Stohrer: The mille-feuille is a classic French pastry, and Stohrer is the place to savor it in Paris. Layers of delicate puff pastry, pastry cream, and a glossy caramelized top create a dessert that's both beautiful and delicious.

5. Madeleines at Blé Sucré: Start your day with a fresh batch of madeleines from Blé Sucré. These shell-shaped sponge cakes are perfectly buttery and lightly sweet, making them an ideal accompaniment to your morning coffee.

6. Palmiers at Du Pain et des Idées: Du Pain et des Idées is famous for its palmiers, also known as elephant ears. These flaky, caramelized pastries are a delight with their layers of buttery puff pastry and a hint of sweetness.

Parisian Cheeses

1. Camembert: No visit to Paris is complete without trying Camembert, a soft, creamy, and slightly tangy cheese. Pair it with a baguette and some fresh fruit for a delightful snack.

2. Brie: Brie is another popular French cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor. Enjoy it with some crackers and a glass of wine for a delightful cheese tasting experience.

3. Roquefort: If you love blue cheese, don't miss Roquefort. It's a strong, tangy cheese with distinctive blue veins. Spread it on a piece of crusty bread for a unique taste of Paris.

4. Comté: Comté is a semi-hard cheese with a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. It's perfect for a cheese platter or a grilled cheese sandwich.

5. Pont-l'Évêque: A smooth and creamy cow's milk cheese with a distinct orange rind, Pont-l'Évêque has a mild, earthy flavor. It pairs well with a crusty baguette or fresh fruit.

6. Saint-Nectaire: Hailing from the Auvergne region, Saint-Nectaire is a semi-soft, aromatic cheese with a creamy interior. It has a subtle nutty flavor and is often enjoyed with a glass of red wine.

These classic pastries and cheeses are just a small sample of the delicious food you can discover in Paris. As you explore the city, be sure to visit local bakeries, cheese shops, and markets to savor the full range of Parisian culinary delights. 

Whether you're enjoying a croissant in a charming café or indulging in a cheese platter with a view of the Eiffel Tower, the culinary journey in Paris is an experience like no other.

Parisian Food Festivals and Events

Paris is not only known for its incredible food but also for its vibrant culinary events and festivals. One of the most famous food festivals in France is Taste of Paris. This annual event gathers some of the best chefs in the city to showcase their cuisine through ephemeral gastronomy and gastronomic delights.

At Taste of Paris, visitors have the opportunity to sample mouthwatering taster-sized portions of Parisian food served by the talented chefs themselves. It's a truly immersive experience that lets you savor the best of Parisian cuisine and restaurants all in one place.

So if you're looking to indulge in French culinary delights and immerse yourself in the gastronomic culture of Paris, don't miss out on these exciting food festivals and events!