Top 10 Must-Try French Dishes in Paris

Paris is known for many things – its iconic landmarks, romantic atmosphere, and of course, its delectable cuisine. French food is renowned all over the world for its rich flavors, elegant presentation, and use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. And there’s no better place to experience the best of French cuisine than in the heart of Paris.

If you’re planning a trip to the City of Lights, make sure to add these top 10 must-try French dishes to your food itinerary. From savory classics to sweet indulgences, these dishes will surely satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

1. Croissants
No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in a buttery, flaky croissant. This iconic French pastry is a staple breakfast item in Parisian cafes and bakeries. Made with layers of buttery dough, croissants are baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Whether you prefer a plain croissant or one filled with chocolate or almond paste, you can’t go wrong with this classic French treat.

2. Escargots
While the thought of eating snails may not be appealing to some, escargots are a must-try dish in Paris. These land snails are cooked in a garlic and herb butter sauce, giving them a rich and savory flavor. They are usually served as an appetizer and are best enjoyed with a glass of white wine.

3. Coq au Vin
Coq au Vin, which translates to “rooster in wine,” is a traditional French dish that originated in the Burgundy region. This hearty stew is made with chicken, red wine, bacon, mushrooms, and herbs. The chicken is slowly cooked in the wine sauce, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. It is often served with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

4. Steak Frites
Steak Frites, or steak and fries, is a simple yet delicious dish that can be found in almost every bistro in Paris. The steak is usually a tender cut of beef, such as filet mignon or ribeye, and is served with a side of crispy French fries. It is often topped with a rich and flavorful sauce, such as peppercorn or béarnaise.

5. Ratatouille
Made famous by the Disney movie of the same name, Ratatouille is a classic French dish that originated in the Provence region. It is a vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and herbs. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for vegetarians and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.

6. Crème Brûlée
No list of must-try French dishes would be complete without mentioning the famous Crème Brûlée. This creamy custard dessert is topped with a layer of caramelized sugar, giving it a satisfying crunch. It is a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess and is a popular dessert in Parisian restaurants.

7. French Onion Soup
French Onion Soup, or soupe à l’oignon, is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cold day. It is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with a slice of bread and melted cheese. The combination of flavors and textures in this soup is simply irresistible.

8. Macarons
Macarons are delicate and colorful French cookies that have become a symbol of Parisian sweets. These almond-based cookies have a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, and are filled with a variety of flavors, such as chocolate, raspberry, and pistachio. They are not only delicious but also make for a beautiful and Instagram-worthy treat.

9. Bouillabaisse
Bouillabaisse is a seafood stew that originated in the port city of Marseille but can be found in many restaurants in Paris. It is made with a variety of fish and shellfish, such as cod, mussels, and shrimp, and is flavored with saffron and other herbs and spices. This hearty and flavorful dish is a must-try for seafood lovers.

10. Baguette
Last but certainly not least, the iconic French baguette is a staple in Parisian cuisine. This long and crusty bread is a symbol of French culture and is a must-try for anyone visiting Paris. It is perfect for making sandwiches, dipping in soups, or simply enjoying with a spread of butter or cheese.

In conclusion, Paris is a food lover’s paradise, and these top 10 must-try French dishes are just a small taste of the delicious cuisine the city has to offer. From savory to sweet, these dishes will give you a true taste of French culture and leave you wanting more. So, make sure to add them to your food itinerary and bon appétit!

Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Restaurants in Paris

Paris is known for its iconic landmarks, romantic atmosphere, and of course, its delicious food. From croissants and macarons to escargots and coq au vin, the city of love has a plethora of culinary delights to offer. While many tourists flock to the popular restaurants and cafes in the city, there are also hidden gems scattered throughout Paris that offer a unique and authentic dining experience. These off-the-beaten-path restaurants not only serve delicious food, but also provide a glimpse into the local culture and traditions of the city.

One such hidden gem is Le Bistrot Paul Bert, located in the 11th arrondissement. This cozy bistro has been around since 1996 and has become a favorite among locals. The menu features classic French dishes such as steak frites and confit de canard, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with wooden tables and vintage posters adorning the walls. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends.

Another hidden gem is Le Comptoir du Relais, situated in the bustling Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. This small and unassuming restaurant is run by renowned chef Yves Camdeborde and offers a unique twist on traditional French cuisine. The menu changes daily, depending on the availability of fresh ingredients, but you can always expect to find innovative and flavorful dishes. The restaurant also has a cozy outdoor terrace, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine and people-watching.

For those looking for a taste of North African cuisine, Le 404 is the place to go. Tucked away in the trendy Marais district, this restaurant serves up delicious Moroccan dishes in a vibrant and colorful setting. The menu includes tagines, couscous, and other traditional dishes, all bursting with flavor and spices. The restaurant also has a lively atmosphere, with live music and belly dancing performances on certain nights.

If you’re in the mood for some seafood, head to L’Avant Comptoir de la Mer. This standing-room-only bar is located next to its sister restaurant, L’Avant Comptoir, and specializes in fresh seafood dishes. The menu changes daily, depending on the catch of the day, but you can always expect to find a variety of oysters, clams, and other seafood delicacies. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, with locals and tourists alike vying for a spot at the bar.

For a taste of traditional French cuisine with a modern twist, visit Septime. This Michelin-starred restaurant is located in a quiet corner of the 11th arrondissement and offers a unique dining experience. The menu changes frequently, but always features fresh and seasonal ingredients. The dishes are beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, making it a favorite among foodies. The restaurant also has a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion.

Last but not least, for a taste of the Middle East in Paris, head to Miznon. This Israeli street food restaurant has a lively and energetic atmosphere, with a menu that includes pita sandwiches, falafel, and other Middle Eastern specialties. The food is simple yet delicious, and the atmosphere is always buzzing with energy. It’s the perfect spot for a quick and tasty meal while exploring the city.

In conclusion, while Paris is known for its famous restaurants and cafes, there are also hidden gems scattered throughout the city that offer a unique and authentic dining experience. From cozy bistros to lively street food joints, these off-the-beaten-path restaurants not only serve delicious food, but also provide a glimpse into the local culture and traditions of the city. So next time you’re in Paris, be sure to venture off the tourist path and discover these hidden culinary treasures.

Bon appétit!

Indulge in Parisian Pastries: A Guide to the Best Bakeries in the City

Paris, the City of Love, is also known for its delectable cuisine. From savory dishes to sweet treats, Paris has something to offer for every palate. And when it comes to pastries, the city is a true paradise. With a long history of pastry-making and a strong culture of indulgence, Paris is home to some of the best bakeries in the world. In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the city’s most renowned bakeries, where you can indulge in the most delicious pastries and experience the true essence of Parisian cuisine.

First on our list is Ladurée, a famous bakery that has been around since 1862. Located on the iconic Champs-Élysées, Ladurée is known for its macarons, a delicate French pastry made with almond flour and filled with a variety of flavors. The bakery offers a wide range of macaron flavors, from classic ones like vanilla and chocolate to more unique ones like rose and salted caramel. The macarons at Ladurée are not only delicious but also beautifully presented, making them the perfect souvenir to bring back home.

Next up is Pierre Hermé, often referred to as the “Picasso of Pastry”. With multiple locations across the city, Pierre Hermé is a must-visit for any pastry lover. The bakery is known for its innovative and creative approach to pastries, using unique flavor combinations and techniques. Their signature pastry, the Ispahan, is a delicate rose-flavored macaron filled with rose cream and fresh raspberries. Other must-try pastries at Pierre Hermé include the Mogador, a passion fruit and milk chocolate tart, and the Plaisir Sucré, a chocolate and hazelnut cake.

For those looking for a more traditional Parisian bakery experience, Eric Kayser is the place to go. With over 100 locations in Paris, Eric Kayser is a household name when it comes to French pastries. The bakery is known for its artisanal bread, made with natural yeast and baked in a wood-fired oven. But their pastries are equally delicious, with classics like croissants, pain au chocolat, and éclairs. The bakery also offers a variety of seasonal pastries, so there’s always something new to try.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet and savory, head to Du Pain et des Idées. This bakery is known for its unique pastries, such as the escargot chocolat-pistache, a spiral-shaped pastry filled with chocolate and pistachio cream. The bakery also offers a variety of savory pastries, including their famous croissant filled with ham and cheese. The rustic and charming atmosphere of Du Pain et des Idées makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a pastry and a cup of coffee.

Last but not least, we have Stohrer, the oldest pastry shop in Paris. Founded in 1730, Stohrer has been serving up delicious pastries for almost three centuries. The bakery is known for its baba au rhum, a rum-soaked cake that is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Other must-try pastries at Stohrer include the tarte au citron, a tangy lemon tart, and the éclair au chocolat, a classic French pastry filled with chocolate cream.

In conclusion, Paris is a paradise for pastry lovers. With its long history of pastry-making and a strong culture of indulgence, the city offers a wide range of delicious and unique pastries. From traditional bakeries to innovative and creative ones, there’s something for everyone in Paris. So next time you’re in the City of Love, make sure to indulge in some of the best pastries the city has to offer. Bon appétit!