20 Best foods to Eat in Paris: A Food Lover’s Guide

Paris is known around the world as a city of romance, culture, and of course, food. The French capital is home to some of the best restaurants, bistros, cafes, and bakeries in the world, making it a dream destination for any food lover. Whether you’re looking for classic French cuisine, international flavors, or innovative gastronomic creations, Paris has it all.

In this article, we have compiled a list of the 20 best foods to eat in Paris, so you can experience the city’s vibrant food scene to its fullest. From iconic French dishes to lesser-known gems, our guide will take you on a culinary journey through the streets of Paris, showcasing some of the city’s most delicious and iconic foods.

No trip to Paris would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s famous bread, cheese, and wine. Be sure to try a freshly baked croissant or baguette, accompanied by some creamy Camembert or tangy Roquefort cheese and a glass of rich red wine. These quintessential French foods are a must-try for any foodie visiting Paris.

Of course, no discussion of French food would be complete without mentioning some of the country’s most famous dishes. Coq au vin, beef bourguignon, ratatouille, and escargots are just a few of the classic French dishes that you can try in Paris. These hearty and flavorful dishes are perfect for a cozy night out or a special occasion meal.

But Paris is not just about traditional French cuisine. The city’s food scene is constantly evolving, with chefs and restaurateurs constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. This means that you can also enjoy innovative and creative dishes that take inspiration from around the world. From Asian fusion cuisine to modern interpretations of French classics, there is no shortage of exciting and innovative foods to try in Paris.

So whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to explore new flavors, Paris is the perfect destination for your next culinary adventure. Join us as we explore the 20 best foods to eat in Paris and discover the delicious and diverse food scene that this amazing city has to offer.

Here are 20 of the best foods to eat in Paris:

1. Croissants – Croissants are undoubtedly one of the most iconic French pastries and a must-try food when visiting Paris. These flaky, buttery treats are typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, accompanied by a steaming cup of coffee or tea. A good croissant should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with layers of buttery pastry that melt in your mouth. These buttery, flaky pastries are a staple of French breakfast and are perfect with a cup of coffee.
2. Baguettes – No visit to Paris would be complete without sampling the iconic baguette, the quintessential French bread that has become a symbol of French cuisine. The baguette is a long, thin loaf of bread that is crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside, and is perfect for soaking up sauces and gravies. The secret to a good baguette lies in the quality of the ingredients, and the best baguettes are made with simple ingredients such as flour, water, yeast, and salt. Paris is home to countless bakeries and patisseries, each with their own unique take on the baguette, and it is impossible to walk down a street in Paris without encountering the delicious aroma of fresh-baked bread. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a sandwich, the baguette is a staple of French cuisine that no food lover should miss.
3. Escargots – Escargots, or snails, are a French delicacy that might seem unusual to those unfamiliar with French cuisine. However, this classic dish is a must-try for any foodie visiting Paris. The snails are usually prepared with garlic and parsley butter and served in their shells with a special snail fork. The texture of the snails can be compared to a tender piece of meat, and the garlic butter adds a rich and savory flavor. While it might not be for everyone, escargots are a true taste of French culture and an experience not to be missed.
4. Steak frites – Steak frites is another classic French dish that is a must-try for any food lover visiting Paris. It consists of a juicy and tender steak, usually a sirloin or ribeye, served with a side of crispy fries. The steak is often cooked to perfection and seasoned with herbs and butter, while the fries are cut into thin strips and fried until golden brown. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that perfectly showcases the quality of French beef and the art of French cooking. Whether you enjoy it in a cozy bistro or a fancy restaurant, steak frites is a French classic that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
5. Coq au vin – Coq au vin is another classic French dish that has gained worldwide fame. It’s a hearty and flavorful chicken stew that originated in the Burgundy region of France and is made with red wine, bacon, mushrooms, and pearl onions. The dish is slow-cooked for hours, which allows the flavors to develop and deepen. The chicken becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, while the wine sauce adds a rich and complex taste. Coq au vin is typically served with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. This is a perfect comfort food for a cold winter’s day, and it’s no wonder that it has become one of the most popular French dishes around the world.
6. Ratatouille – Ratatouille is a traditional French vegetable stew that originated in the Provence region of southern France. It’s a colorful and flavorful dish made with a variety of fresh vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all slowly cooked together with herbs and olive oil. The vegetables are usually cut into small pieces and arranged in an elegant spiral pattern, making the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious. Ratatouille is a perfect vegetarian option and can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish to accompany your favorite meat or fish. It’s a healthy and flavorful way to enjoy the bounty of fresh produce that France has to offer.
7. Boeuf Bourguignon – Boeuf Bourguignon is a classic French dish that has become famous around the world. This hearty beef stew originated in the Burgundy region of France and is made with tender beef that has been marinated in red wine and slowly cooked with carrots, onions, and bacon. The flavors are rich and deep, with the red wine adding a bold and complex taste to the dish. Boeuf Bourguignon is typically served with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread, which is perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce. This is a dish that requires patience and time to prepare, but the end result is well worth the effort. Boeuf Bourguignon is a true French classic and a must-try for any foodie visiting Paris.
8. Quiche Lorraine – Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish that has become a staple in brunch menus around the world. This savory pastry is made with a flaky crust and filled with a rich and creamy mixture of eggs, cream, cheese, and bacon. It’s a versatile dish that can be served hot or cold and is perfect for any meal of the day. Quiche Lorraine is a perfect example of the French art of baking, with the crust and filling perfectly complementing each other. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal, Quiche Lorraine is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to please any palate.
9. Crème brûlée – Crème brûlée is a decadent dessert that has become a staple of French cuisine, and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth visiting Paris. The dessert is made with a rich and creamy custard that is flavored with vanilla, and is topped with a layer of caramelized sugar that forms a crunchy crust when torched with a flame. The combination of the silky smooth custard and the crackling sugar topping is irresistible, and crème brûlée has become a classic dessert in French restaurants and patisseries around the world. Whether enjoyed after a meal or as a standalone treat, crème brûlée is a perfect example of the French art of indulgence and decadence, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to try it.
10. Tarte Tatin – Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert that originated in the small town of Lamotte-Beuvron in the Loire Valley. The dessert consists of caramelized apples that are baked in a buttery pastry crust until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. The dessert is typically served warm, often with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The origins of the dessert are the subject of much debate, with some claiming that it was created by accident when a pair of sisters forgot to put the pastry crust on top of their apple tart and instead flipped it over to reveal a beautifully caramelized top. Regardless of its origins, Tarte Tatin has become a beloved dessert in French cuisine, and is a perfect example of the French art of using simple ingredients to create delicious and satisfying dishes.
11. Macarons – Macarons are a delicate and colorful French confection that has taken the world by storm. The dessert consists of two small meringue-based cookies that are sandwiched together with a creamy filling, often flavored with fruits, chocolate, or other sweet ingredients. Macarons are known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs, and are often displayed in elegant pastry shops and patisseries throughout Paris. The perfect macaron has a crispy shell and a soft, chewy interior, and is a true testament to the art of French pastry making. Whether enjoyed as a treat for oneself or as a gift for someone special, macarons are a delicious and indulgent way to experience the sweet side of French cuisine.
12. Éclairs – Éclairs are a beloved French pastry that have become popular around the world. These delicate pastries consist of a choux pastry shell filled with a rich and creamy filling, typically chocolate or vanilla pastry cream. The pastry is then topped with a shiny and decadent glaze, usually made from chocolate or coffee. Éclairs are a perfect example of the French art of pastry-making, with the delicate choux pastry shell and rich filling creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat at the end of a meal, éclairs are a must-try for any food lover visiting Paris.
13. Confit de canard – Confit de canard, or duck confit, is a classic French dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The dish consists of duck legs that have been salted and slowly cooked in their own fat until they are tender and flavorful. The result is a rich and succulent meat that is perfect for pairing with a variety of sides, such as roasted potatoes or sautéed greens. Confit de canard is a staple of French cuisine and can be found on the menus of many traditional Parisian bistros and brasseries. The dish is a perfect example of the French art of preserving meat, and the slow cooking process ensures that the meat is packed with flavor and deliciousness. Whether enjoyed as a main course or as part of a larger meal, confit de canard is a must-try for any food lover visiting Paris.
14. Bœuf tartare – Bœuf tartare, or steak tartare, is a classic French dish that consists of raw beef that has been finely chopped or minced and seasoned with various herbs and spices. The dish is often served with a raw egg yolk on top, as well as onions, capers, and other condiments, and is typically accompanied by crispy French fries or a simple salad. Bœuf tartare is a dish that requires the freshest and highest quality ingredients, and is a testament to the French emphasis on quality and taste. While it may seem intimidating to some, bœuf tartare is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the rich and complex flavors of French cuisine.
15. Fromage – Fromage, or cheese, is a beloved staple of French cuisine that is enjoyed both as a standalone snack and as an ingredient in many dishes. France is home to a vast array of cheeses, ranging from soft and creamy bries to sharp and pungent blues, and every region of the country has its own unique varieties and traditions. Whether served on a platter with fruit and nuts or melted into a dish like fondue or raclette, cheese is a cornerstone of French cuisine and a must-try for anyone visiting Paris. Be sure to visit a fromagerie to sample a few different varieties and to learn about the history and culture of French cheese-making.
16. Moules frites – Moules frites, or mussels and fries, is a beloved French dish that is especially popular in coastal regions. This simple but delicious dish consists of steamed mussels served in a flavorful broth made with white wine, garlic, and shallots, and served with crispy French fries. The combination of the salty, briny mussels with the crispy, golden fries is a match made in heaven. Moules frites is often served in casual bistros and seafood restaurants throughout Paris, and is a perfect meal for a lazy afternoon or evening with friends. Whether enjoyed with a cold beer or a glass of white wine, moules frites is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the simple pleasures of French cuisine.
17. Soupe à l’oignon – Soupe à l’oignon, or French onion soup, is a comforting and hearty dish that has become a classic of French cuisine. The soup is made by caramelizing onions in butter until they are soft and sweet, before adding a rich beef broth and a splash of red wine. The soup is then topped with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous amount of grated Gruyere cheese, before being broiled until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The result is a rich and flavorful soup that is perfect for cold winter evenings. Soupe à l’oignon is often served as a starter in French bistros and brasseries, and is a perfect example of the French art of using simple ingredients to create delicious and satisfying dishes.
18. Pain au chocolat – Pain au chocolat, or chocolate croissant, is a popular French pastry that has become a breakfast staple around the world. The pastry consists of a flaky and buttery croissant dough that is wrapped around a few pieces of dark chocolate, and is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. While pain au chocolat can be found in bakeries and cafes all over Paris, the best ones are made fresh each morning by skilled pastry chefs who take great care in ensuring the perfect balance of butter, dough, and chocolate. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast on-the-go or as a leisurely treat during a weekend brunch, pain au chocolat is a delicious and quintessentially French way to start the day.
19. Pâté – Pâté is a rich and flavorful French spread that is typically made from liver, although there are many variations that use other meats, such as chicken or duck. The liver is finely ground and mixed with herbs, spices, and often a splash of cognac or brandy, before being cooked in a terrine or mold. The result is a smooth and silky spread that is perfect for spreading on toast or crackers, or for use as a dip. Pâté is a true delicacy that showcases the art of French charcuterie and is often served as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a charcuterie board, Pâté is a must-try for any foodie visiting Paris.
20. Chocolate – Chocolate is an integral part of French cuisine and is used in a variety of desserts, pastries, and confections. From rich and decadent chocolate cakes to delicate chocolate truffles, there are endless ways to enjoy chocolate in Paris. The French take their chocolate very seriously, and many chocolatiers use only the highest quality cocoa beans to create their artisanal chocolates. Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous chocolatiers, such as Jean-Paul Hévin, Jacques Genin, and Pierre Marcolini, who create exquisite chocolate creations that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether enjoyed in a rich chocolate cake, a delicate truffle, or as a hot cocoa on a chilly evening, chocolate is a must-try for any food lover visiting Paris.

In conclusion, Paris is a food lover’s paradise, offering an unparalleled gastronomic experience that is hard to beat. From the humble croissant to the exquisite macaron, there is a culinary delight to suit every palate in this city. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or simply looking to explore new flavors, Paris has something for everyone.

The food scene in Paris is not only diverse but also rich in history and culture. Many of the dishes that are now considered French classics were born out of the city’s long and fascinating history. As such, every meal in Paris is an opportunity to learn about the city’s unique culinary traditions and cultural heritage.

One of the most wonderful things about eating in Paris is the sheer variety of options available. From street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers a diverse range of dining experiences. Whether you want a quick bite on the go or a romantic dinner in a chic bistro, there is a perfect option waiting for you in Paris.

Moreover, the food culture in Paris is not just limited to traditional French cuisine. The city’s diverse population has brought with it a range of international flavors and cooking styles, meaning that you can enjoy everything from Vietnamese pho to Lebanese falafel. This diversity adds an extra layer of excitement and discovery to eating in Paris.

In short, there are few places in the world that can compare to Paris when it comes to food. From classic French dishes to international flavors, the city offers a wealth of culinary experiences that are sure to delight and inspire. So if you’re planning a trip to Paris, be sure to come hungry, as there is no shortage of food to eat in this amazing city.