This article is for you if you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to feel like a local while enjoying delicious French cuisine. As an American who has called Paris home for several years, I’ve learned a few insider tips and tricks that will help you navigate the dining scene like a Parisian. Let’s dive into these helpful hints!
From Carafe to Cafe Gourmand: Making the Most of Your Meal
One of the most common questions I get from my friends visiting Paris is: “How do I get the most out of my dining experience?” Let me tell you, knowing a few simple tricks can go a long way in making your Parisian dining adventures more enjoyable and budget-friendly.
Carafe d’eau: Don’t be surprised if you see your server offering a carafe d’eau instead of bottled water. A carafe d’eau is a carafe of tap water, which is free of charge! This is a great way to save money, especially if you’re ordering drinks like wine or beer. Just remember that carafe d’eau usually refers to still water. If you want sparkling water, you’ll have to pay for it. You can politely say “une carafe” to request a carafe of still water. If you say “still” you’ll likely be served a bottle of water instead. It’s worth noting that the first syllable of “carafe” is pronounced more like “care” rather than “car.”
Cafe Gourmand: If you’re feeling a little extra sweet, order a cafe gourmand. This delightful dessert option is a must-try. For the price of a single dessert, you’ll receive a coffee and three to five mini desserts – a true treat for the sweet tooth! It’s usually enough to share, making it a perfect option for couples or friends. One person can order the cafe gourmand, and the other can order a simple cafe. This way, you both get to enjoy a variety of delicious desserts!
Bread and Bills: Navigating French Dining Customs
Bread: Don’t be surprised if you don’t get an individual bread plate at your table. It’s customary in Paris to share a basket of bread among your dining companions. Simply rest your piece of bread on your table or plate. And let’s not forget, the main purpose of bread is to soak up the delicious sauce left after you’ve finished your meal. This is not only a practical way to enjoy every bit of flavor but also a customary practice in French dining.
Pay when you like: First-time visitors to Paris may find the pace of French service a bit different from what they’re used to, especially when it comes to the bill. In a traditional French restaurant, your server won’t bring the bill until you ask for it. Just let your server know when you’re ready to pay. But what if you can’t find your server and you’re ready to leave? Not to worry! Simply stand up and leave, making sure to stop by the payment station on your way out. Don’t worry, this is considered perfectly acceptable, except at Michelin-starred restaurants or places with particularly attentive service. It’s especially common at lunch.
Splitting the Bill and Dinner Timing: Parisian Etiquette
Splitting the Bill: While splitting the bill evenly is the easiest option, in Paris, it’s perfectly normal for each person to pay for what they ordered. If there are significant differences in what each person has had (like someone had wine, while others didn’t), simply figure out what each person should pay and pay the server individually. The last person covers the remaining amount. Some restaurants have point-of-sale systems that allow the server to click individual items for each person, which is super convenient. But many don’t. No worries, you can easily do the math yourself.
Dinner time: In Paris, dinner is typically served at 8 or 9 pm. Apéro, which is a pre-dinner drink and snacks, often takes place at 6 or 7 pm. Many Parisians finish their workday around 7 pm, so you won’t find them dining at 6 pm. For a truly lively atmosphere, consider going to dinner at 8:30 or later. If you prefer to eat earlier, you might find yourself dining with a few other tourists.
Embrace Parisian Dining
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a truly authentic Parisian dining experience. Remember, the best way to get to know a city is by embracing its customs and traditions. So relax, savor your meal, and enjoy the unique charm of Parisian dining! Let me know your thoughts on these tips, and feel free to share any tips you’ve discovered on your own Parisian culinary adventures!
