Top Foods in Paris: Must-Try Dishes for Every Food Lover

Top Foods in Paris – What Foods Is Paris Famous For?

Paris is known for its incredible food, and some dishes are simply must-tries when visiting. From luxurious delicacies to everyday favorites, here are the top foods that make Paris famous.

Foie Gras

Foie gras is a fancy and rich dish often enjoyed during Christmas and New Year celebrations in France. It’s made from the livers of ducks or geese that are carefully raised using traditional methods passed down for generations. The livers are soaked in spirits like Armagnac, Cognac, or Pineau and then turned into a smooth, creamy terrine.

This delicious treat is usually served with toasted bread, brioche, or gingerbread and topped with a little fig jam. Some restaurants might even serve it with pear chutney for a sweet twist. It’s one of the top foods you have to try when in Paris.

Where to Eat: Comptoir de la Gastronomie, Il était une oie dans le Sud Ouest, and many restaurants across the city.

Escargots

Escargots, or snails, are a classic Parisian dish that you’ll find on many menus at cafés and brasseries. These snails are cooked in a flavorful garlic and butter sauce, which is what gives the dish its signature taste. They’re usually served in their shells with a special fork to help you scoop out the tender meat.

Escargots are often eaten as an appetizer and are a must-try for adventurous eaters. The rich, garlicky butter sauce makes them a favorite for many visitors, even if the idea of eating snails feels unusual at first.

Where to Eat: Brasserie Vagenende, Bistrot des Tournelles, Le Procope, and almost any café or brasserie in Paris.

Duck Confit

Duck confit is a dish that dates back to a time when people needed to preserve meat. The duck is slow-cooked in its own fat, which makes the meat incredibly tender and juicy. The skin is then seared to create a crispy, golden layer.

This dish is often paired with garlicky potatoes sautéed in duck fat, called pommes sarladaises. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for anyone who loves comforting, hearty food. Many bistros in Paris serve duck confit, and while they might not all make it in-house, they take pride in selecting the best producers from southwest France.

Cheese

Paris is a dream destination for cheese lovers. France is home to over 300 types of cheese, and many of them can be found in Paris. Whether you prefer the nutty taste of Gruyere or the bold flavor of Roquefort, there’s something for everyone.

Cheese is often served as its own course in French restaurants, typically after the main meal and before dessert. For a truly Parisian experience, visit a local market and chat with a cheesemonger. They might let you try a few samples.

One of the best places to explore French cheeses is La Fromagerie. This popular cheese shop offers everything from soft cheeses to harder varieties, and the staff can help you find your perfect match.

Where to Taste: To sample a wide variety of flavors, visit La Fromagerie or any local cheese shop in Paris.

What Are Some Affordable Must-Eat Foods in Paris?

Paris is full of delicious food, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy some of the city’s most iconic dishes. Here are some tasty and affordable options to try during your visit.

Croque Monsieur

The croque monsieur is a classic French grilled cheese sandwich, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack. It’s made with ham, grated Emmental or Comté cheese, cream, and a touch of mustard. The sandwich is grilled to perfection, with extra cheese melted on top for even more flavor.

Variations of this sandwich are available at places like Fric-Frac, where you can eat in, take out, or even order online. It’s a simple yet delicious treat, especially after a day exploring the city’s charming neighborhoods.

Steak Frites

Steak frites is a timeless French dish that combines juicy steak with crispy fries. The steak is cooked just the way you like it, though French chefs often recommend not cooking it beyond medium to enjoy its full flavor. The most popular cut for this dish is entrecôte, or rib steak, which is tender and full of flavor.

Pair this classic dish with a visit to the Bistrot Victoires near the Louvre. It’s the perfect way to recharge after wandering through the museum’s stunning galleries.

Where to Eat: Bistrot Victoires, 6 rue de la Vrillière, 75001 Paris.

Quiche

Quiche is a savory French tart with a creamy egg filling and various toppings. The most famous version, Quiche Lorraine, features smoked bacon, but today, you can find endless combinations of fillings like salmon and spinach.

The dish originally came from the Lorraine region in eastern France, and its popularity spread across the country during the Franco-Prussian War. Quiche is a versatile and satisfying option for any meal, and you can try some delicious varieties at Le Petit Baigneur.

Where to Eat: Le Petit Baigneur, 10 rue de la Sablière, 75014 Paris.

Crepes

Crepes are one of France’s most beloved comfort foods, and Paris has endless options for this versatile dish. Sweet crepes are a perfect dessert, especially when filled with orange caramel sauce and flambéed with Grand Marnier, like the famous Crepes Suzette.

For a more casual treat, try a simple crepe with sugar, jam, or salted butter caramel. If you’re in the mood for something savory, opt for a buckwheat galette filled with ham, cheese, and egg, or more gourmet combinations like goat cheese with honey and walnuts.

Where to Eat:

• Little Breizh, 11 rue Grégoire de Tours, 75006 Paris
• Mad’eo, 14 rue de Cadix, 75015 Paris
• La Creperie Bretonne, 56 rue du Montparnasse, 75014 Paris

Croissants and Other Pastries

No trip to Paris is complete without tasting a fresh, buttery croissant. These flaky crescent rolls are perfect on their own or with a little jam. If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, try a pain au chocolat (chocolate-filled croissant) or pain aux raisins (a spiral pastry filled with cream and raisins).

Parisian bakeries also offer other delicious treats, such as apple turnovers, brioches, and tiny sugar-sprinkled chouquettes. For the ultimate pastry experience, order a basket of mini-viennoiseries to sample a variety.

Enjoy the Parisian Way of Eating

In Paris, food isn’t just about eating. It’s about enjoying the experience. Take your time to savor the flavors, textures, and colors of every dish. Skip anything substandard and focus on enjoying your meal in a relaxed and thoughtful way. Paris is all about culinary adventures, so make the most of every bite!