Paris isn’t just a city of romance—it’s the food capital of the world! From buttery pastries to savory classics, these 15 iconic foods will give you a true taste of Paris.
1. Croissant
Flaky, golden, and buttery, the croissant is the ultimate Parisian breakfast pastry. Each layer is carefully folded to create a perfect balance of crispiness and softness.
And let’s not forget its equally delicious cousin, the pain au chocolat—a buttery pastry filled with rich, melted chocolate that’s a must-try for any visitor.
Both pastries are staples in French culture and a true delight for your taste buds.
Where to Try Them
While you can find excellent croissants and pains au chocolat in almost any bakery, here are some standout options:
- Du Pain et des Idées (Canal Saint-Martin)
- La Maison d’Isabelle (Latin Quarter, award-winning croissants)
- Poilâne (Saint-Germain-des-Présand other locations)
- Le Grenier à Pain (Multiple locations across Paris, including Montmartre)
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Pair it with a café crème or espresso and enjoy it plain—no butter or jam is necessary!
2. Baguette
The baguette is more than bread in Paris—it’s a symbol of daily life.
Its crispy crust and soft, airy interior make it perfect for sandwiches, a cheese platter, or simply eating as is.
A freshly baked baguette is warm, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, representing the heart of French culinary tradition.
Where to Try Them
You’ll find excellent baguettes at almost any boulangerie in Paris, but here are some top recommendations:
- Le Grenier à Pain (Multiple locations, multiple “Best Baguette” awards)
- Boulangerie Utopie (Canal Saint-Martin)
- Maison Landemaine (Multiple locations)
Cultural Tidbit
France has strict laws regulating how baguettes are made to ensure quality and freshness—only flour, water, yeast, and salt are allowed!
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Tear it with your hands, never slice it with a knife. Enjoy it fresh, ideally on the same day it’s baked. Pair it with cheese or use it to soak up sauces at dinner.
3. Macarons
Macarons are bite-sized, colorful, and delightfully sweet, with a delicate almond meringue shell and a creamy filling.
These treats come in a rainbow of flavors, from classic vanilla and pistachio to exotic combinations like rose-lychee or salted caramel.
Each macaron is a tiny work of art, both in flavor and appearance.
Where to Try Them
- Ladurée (Champs-Élysées and other locations)
- Pierre Hermé (Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Opera and other locations)
- Carette (Le Marais and Trocadéro)
- Fauchon (Place de la Madeleine and other locations)
Cultural Tidbit
Macarons became popular in France thanks to Catherine de Medici in the 16th century but gained fame in Paris with modern-day pâtissiers like Ladurée.
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Savor them slowly with tea or coffee—don’t gobble them like cookies!
4. Onion Soup
This comforting soup is made with caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and topped with a slice of crusty bread covered in gooey, melted Gruyère cheese.
It’s the perfect dish for warming up on a chilly Parisian day, with its deep, savory flavors and satisfying textures.
Where to Try Them
- Au Pied de Cochon (Les Halles, open 24/7)
- Le Bouillon Chartier (Multiple locations, affordable and authentic)
- Chez Janou (Le Marais)
- Les Philosophes (Le Marais)
- La Jacobine (Latin Quarter)
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Break through the cheesy crust slowly and savor the broth. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a small baguette slice.
5. Steak Frites
Steak frites is a French bistro staple: a juicy, flavorful steak cooked to perfection, served alongside crispy, golden fries.
The steak is often accompanied by a rich sauce like béarnaise or peppercorn, making it a hearty and satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine.
Where to Try Them
- Le Relais de l’Entrecôte (Multiple locations, famous for its secret sauce)
- Bistrot Paul Bert (11th Arrondissement, classic ambiance)
- Le Severo (14th Arrondissement, known for its meat quality)
- Chez Georges (Rue du Mail, traditional French bistro)
- Bouillon Pigalle (Pigalle, affordable and lively)
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Order your steak “à point” (medium rare), and enjoy it with a simple green salad on the side.
6. Escargots
Escargots, or snails, are a classic French delicacy cooked in garlic, parsley, and butter.
Their tender texture and rich, savory flavor make them a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Served sizzling in their shells, this dish is a unique and memorable part of the Parisian dining experience.
Where to Try Them
- L’Escargot Montorgueil (Montorgueil, specializes in escargots)
- Chez André (Champs-Élysées, traditional bistro)
- Le Procope (Saint-Germain-des-Prés, historic restaurant)
- Allard (Saint-Germain-des-Prés, classic French cuisine)
- Chez Georges (Rue du Mail)
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Use the snail tongs to hold the shell and a small fork to scoop out the meat. Soak up the buttery sauce with fresh bread.
7. Crêpes
Crêpes are thin, versatile pancakes that can be filled with sweet treats like Nutella, strawberries, or sugar, or savory options like ham, cheese, and mushrooms.
They’re the perfect street food and a comforting meal or snack for any time of day.
Where to Try Them
- Breizh Café (Le Marais, for gourmet crêpes)
- La Crêperie Josselin (Montparnasse, authentic Breton-style crêpes)
- Chez Imogène (11th Arrondissement)
- Crêperie Suzette (Le Marais)
- Street vendors in Montmartre or Saint-Michel
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Fold it into a neat triangle for eating on the go or enjoy it flat on a plate with cider if dining in.
8. Cheese Platter
A French cheese platter is a feast for the senses, featuring a variety of textures and flavors.
From creamy Brie and Camembert to sharp Roquefort and nutty Comté, there’s a cheese to please everyone.
Served with fresh baguette and fruit, it’s a quintessential Parisian experience.
Where to Try Them
- Fromagerie Laurent Dubois (Award-winning cheesemonger with multiple locations)
- Chez Janou (Le Marais, perfect for cheese and wine)
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Start with the mildest cheese and work your way to the stronger flavors. Pair each cheese with a sip of wine for a full experience.
9. Tarte Tatin
Tarte Tatin is a caramelized upside-down apple tart, known for its rich, buttery crust and deep caramel flavors.
The apples are cooked in sugar and butter until perfectly tender, making every bite a delightful mix of sweetness and crispness.
Where to Try Them
- Chez Janou (Le Marais, for authentic tarte Tatin)
- Le Bistrot Paul Bert (11th Arrondissement)
- Carette (Trocadéro or Le Marais)
- Café des Musées (Le Marais)
- Brasserie Lipp (Saint-Germain-des-Prés)
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Enjoy it warm with a dollop of crème fraîche or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
10. Croque-Monsieur
The croque-monsieur is a grilled ham and cheese sandwich topped with béchamel sauce and melted cheese.
Add a fried egg, and you’ve got a croque-madame!
This café classic is cheesy, crispy, and deeply satisfying—a perfect lunch or snack.
Where to Try Them
- Café de Flore (Saint-Germain-des-Prés, iconic café)
- Carette (Trocadéro or Le Marais, elegant presentation)
- Le Bonaparte (Saint-Germain-des-Prés)
- Angelina (Rue de Rivoli, known for pastries and light meals)
How to Eat Like a Parisian
Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of white wine for a light but indulgent meal.
With a passion for travel and having visited over 50 countries, Dorian is eager to share his favorite spots and expert tips to help you explore Paris and France like a local.
