Ah, Paris! The City of Love is also a haven for food enthusiasts. With a culture deeply intertwined with gastronomy, choosing what to eat is just as important as deciding what to see and do. From classic French fare to modern culinary masterpieces, Paris offers a symphony of flavors for every palate. This guide will tantalize your taste buds and lead you to some of the most memorable culinary experiences the city has to offer.
Parisian Breakfast: Croissants, Coffee, and More
Start your Parisian day with a quintessential experience: a flaky, buttery croissant paired with a rich cup of coffee at Angelina. While good croissants can be found in many bakeries, the ones at Angelina are legendary. Their delicate texture and slightly sweet glaze make them an absolute delight. Pro tip: Grab a couple of macarons on your way out for a sweet treat to enjoy as you stroll through the enchanting Tuileries Garden.
Another classic Parisian breakfast option is the croque monsieur or croque madame. These simple yet satisfying sandwiches consist of a generous slice of buttered bread topped with ham and melted cheese. The croque madame adds a fried egg for an extra touch of indulgence. These budget-friendly delights are perfect for a quick and tasty breakfast or lunch, enjoyed at any Parisian café. We recommend Au Coeur du Marais in the charming Marais district, a lovely spot for savoring these French staples.
French Delicacies: Crepes, Duck, and Escargot
The versatile crepe is another Parisian gem. This thin pancake can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dessert, with both savory and sweet variations. Indulge in a savory crepe filled with cheese and ham, or opt for a sweet crepe drizzled with Grand Marnier and topped with a scoop of ice cream. For an authentic street food experience, grab a crepe from a sidewalk crêperie. For the highest quality, savor your crepe in a cozy café. Some top crepe destinations include Breizh Café, Crêperie le Petit Josselin, and Krügen.
Duck is another French favorite, renowned for its rich flavor and tender texture. Due to the challenging conditions for raising ducks, it’s less common in America than in Europe and Asia. Magret de canard (roasted duck breast) and confit de canard (slow-cooked duck leg) are must-try dishes. These delicacies can be found in most Parisian cafes and restaurants. We recommend La Jacobine in the Saint-Germain-des-Pres district or Le Petit Marche near Place des Vosges for a memorable duck experience.
For a truly traditional French appetizer, escargot is a must-try. These snails are served with generous amounts of garlic, parsley, and butter, creating a delightful and delicate flavor. Enjoy them with a special pair of tongs and a small fork for an authentic experience. Benoit, a one-star Michelin bistro specializing in traditional French cuisine, is a great spot to sample this delicacy. Other top choices for escargot include Le Petit Châtelet, Du Pain et des Idees, and the iconic L’Escargot Montorgueil.
Parisian Adventures: Frogs Legs, Onion Soup, and Macarons
For a truly Parisian adventure, try cuisses de grenouille (frog legs). These small, meaty delicacies are typically served with butter and herbs, creating a unique and satisfying experience. While they may not be as common as escargots, they are definitely worth seeking out. Le Chat Noir is one of the best places to try this Parisian specialty. L’Escargot Montorgueil is another excellent choice, offering two-for-one deals on both escargot and frogs legs.
No Parisian culinary journey is complete without a taste of soupe à l’oignon (onion soup). While this dish is readily available in America, the French version is often made with actual beef stock and less cheese, creating a more refined and nuanced flavor. This classic soup is a perfect comfort food and can be found in virtually every café and restaurant in Paris.
For a sweet ending to your Parisian adventure, indulge in a macaron, one of the city’s most beloved treats. These colorful cookies, made with meringue, almond flour, and sugar, have a delightful crunch and are filled with buttercream, jam, or ganache. Ladurée, a renowned macaron maker, offers a wide array of flavors, from coffee and pistachio to raspberry, caramel, chocolate, and vanilla. A visit to Ladurée, with its iconic locations on the Champs-Elysées, Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Rue Cler, is an essential part of any Parisian culinary experience.
