Must-Try Foods in Paris?
Paris is not just the city of lights; it’s also a haven for food lovers. From classic French pastries to decadent savory dishes, the city boasts a rich culinary history. Here’s a detailed guide to What to Eat in Paris, along with the best spots to savor them, complete with their locations and social media links.
1. Croissants and Pain au Chocolat
Why You Must Try It
These buttery, flaky pastries are breakfast staples in Paris. A well-made croissant should be crispy on the outside and airy inside, while Pain au Chocolat adds a delightful chocolatey surprise.
Where to Get It
- Du Pain et des Idées
- Known for their traditional methods and exceptional pastries.
- Address: 34 Rue Yves Toudic, 75010 Paris
- Social Media: Instagram
- Specialty: Their pistachio-raspberry escargot is a must-try alongside the classics.
- Pâtisserie Blé Sucré
- Famous for perfectly caramelized croissants and exquisite pastries and authentic French flavors.
- Address: 7 Rue Antoine Vollon, 75012 Paris
- Social Media: Instagram
2. Jambon-Beurre (Ham and Butter Baguette)
Why You Should Try It
Simple yet iconic, the Jambon-Beurre consists of a crusty baguette filled with butter and high-quality ham. This grab-and-go sandwich is perfect for a picnic by the Seine or a quick snack between sightseeing.
Where to Try
- La Fontaine de Belleville
- This Cafe is known for its traditional Jambon-Beurre, paired with a great coffee.
- Address: 31-33 Rue Juliette Dodu, 75010 Paris
- Social Media: Instagram
- Chez Aline
- A retro-style sandwich shop famous for its fresh, artisanal Jambon-Beurre.
- Address: 85 Rue de la Roquette, 75011 Paris
- Social Media: Instagram
3. Steak Tartare
Why You Should Try It
This classic French dish features raw minced beef mixed with capers, onions, mustard, and egg yolk. It’s bold, flavorful, and a must-try for adventurous eaters—definitely one of the top foods in What to Eat in Paris.
Where to Try
- Le Severo
- A butcher-turned-bistro offering one of the finest Steak Tartares in Paris.
- Address: 8 Rue des Plantes, 75014 Paris
- Website: Lesevero.fr
- Le Train Bleu
4. French Onion Soup (Soupe à l’Oignon)
Why You Should Try It
This hearty soup combines caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese on toasted bread. Perfect for chilly Paris evenings!
Where to Try
- Le Comptoir du Relais
- Known for its rich and flavorful onion soup.
- Address: 9 Carrefour de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris
- Website: Le Comptoir du Relais,
- Au Pied de Cochon
- A classic spot that serves onion soup 24/7.
- Address: 218 Champs-Élysées, Paris
- Social Media: Instagram
5. Macarons
Why You Should Try Them
These delicate, colorful almond meringue cookies filled with ganache are a Parisian signature treat.
Where to Try
- Ladurée
- Pierre Hermé
6. Escargots (Snails)
Why You Should Try It
This iconic appetizer is cooked with garlic, parsley, and butter for a rich, savory flavor, making it one of the top foods in What to Eat in Paris.
Where to Try
- L’Escargot Montorgueil
- One of the oldest snail-specialty restaurants in Paris.
- Address: 38 Rue Montorgueil, Paris 1
- Social Media: Instagram
- Chez Janou
- Offers a Provençal twist on escargots.
- Address: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 75003 Paris
- Social Media: Chezjanou
7. Cheese (Fromage)
Why You Should Try It
Paris offers an incredible range of cheeses, from creamy Brie to tangy Roquefort. Pair them with a fresh baguette for the ultimate French experience, and you’ll be adding yourself to the list of those who have eaten the must-try foods in Paris.
Where to Try
- Fromagerie Laurent Dubois
- Androuet
- A historic cheese shop offering high-quality products.
- Address: 37 Rue de Verneuil, 75007 Paris
- Social Media: Instagram
8. Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)
Why You Should Try It
This dish features duck legs slow-cooked in their fat until tender with a crispy exterior.
Where to Try
- Le Petit Périgourdin
- Known for its hearty and flavorful duck confit.
- Address: 39 Rue des Écoles, 75005 Paris
- Social Media: Instagram
- Chez Dumonet
- A fine-dining experience with a traditional touch.
- Address: 117 Rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris
Bon Appétit: Wrapping Up Your Paris Food Journey
Paris is a culinary paradise, offering everything from simple street food like Jambon-Beurre to gourmet dishes like Steak Tartare. This guide ensures you won’t miss out on the city’s most iconic flavors. Bookmark this list and savor every bite of Parisian culture during your trip!
FAQs
What are the must-try pastries in Paris?
Croissants and Pain au Chocolat are classic Parisian pastries that every visitor should try. They are crispy, buttery, and perfect for breakfast. Where can I find the best croissants in Paris?
Du Pain et des Idées and Pâtisserie Blé Sucré are known for their exceptional croissants, along with unique flavors like pistachio-raspberry escargot.
What is Jambon-Beurre, and why should I try it?
Jambon-Beurre is a simple yet iconic French sandwich made with high-quality ham, butter, and a crusty baguette. It’s a great grab-and-go snack while exploring Paris.
Where can I get the best Jambon-Beurre in Paris?
La Fontaine de Belleville and Chez Aline are two great places to try this delicious sandwich.
What is Steak Tartare, and is it safe to eat?
Steak Tartare is a dish made from raw minced beef mixed with capers, onions, mustard, and egg yolk. It’s a bold, flavorful dish for adventurous eaters.
Where can I try the best Steak Tartare in Paris?
Le Severo and Le Train Bleu are highly recommended for their outstanding Steak Tartare.
What is French Onion Soup, and why is it so popular?
French Onion Soup, or Soupe à l’Oignon, is a hearty soup made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese on toasted bread. It’s perfect for chilly days.
Where can I enjoy the best French Onion Soup?
Le Comptoir du Relais and Au Pied de Cochon are two excellent spots to savor this iconic soup.
What are macarons, and where should I try them?
Macarons are colorful, delicate almond meringue cookies filled with ganache. Ladurée and Pierre Hermé are famous for offering the best macarons in Paris.
Are escargots really a must-try food in Paris?
Yes, escargots, or snails, are a French delicacy cooked with garlic, parsley, and butter. They’re a savory treat for food lovers.
Where can I try the best escargots in Paris?
L’Escargot Montorgueil and Chez Janou are great places to taste this classic French appetizer.
What is the best French cheese to try in Paris?
Paris offers a wide variety of cheeses, from Brie to Roquefort. Pairing them with a fresh baguette is a must.
Where can I buy the best French cheese in Paris?
Fromagerie Laurent Dubois and Androuet are two historic cheese shops offering a wide selection of cheeses.
What is Duck Confit, and why is it so special?
Duck Confit is slow-cooked duck leg that becomes tender and crispy. It’s a French comfort food classic.
Where can I try Duck Confit in Paris?
Le Petit Périgourdin and Chez Dumonet are known for their delicious Duck Confit.
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