Discover the best of Parisian cuisine with our guide to the city's iconic dishes. From buttery croissants and rich escargots to comforting onion soup and decadent macarons, embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Paris.
Paris, the city of lights, is also a city of delights—especially for the gastronomically inclined. This culinary capital of the world offers a rich tapestry of flavors that tell stories of tradition, innovation, and an unyielding passion for food. Here’s a guide to some of the most iconic local dishes you must savor during your Parisian escapade.
Croissants and Pain au Chocolat
Start your day like a true Parisian with a buttery, flaky croissant or a rich, chocolate-filled pain au chocolat. These pastries are the epitome of French baking, often enjoyed with a steaming cup of café au lait. For the perfect bite, head to Du Pain et des Idées, a charming boulangerie in the 10th arrondissement renowned for its exceptional viennoiseries.
Soupe à l’Oignon
On a chilly day, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of soupe à l’oignon gratinée to warm your soul. This rich onion soup topped with gooey melted cheese and crusty bread is a staple of Parisian bistros. Le Comptoir du Relais in Saint-Germain-des-Prés serves an unforgettable version that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors.
Coq au Vin
For a taste of French countryside cuisine, coq au vin is a must. This classic dish features chicken braised in red wine, mushrooms, and lardons, creating a symphony of deep, hearty flavors. Le Procope, the oldest café in Paris, offers a superb rendition that has stood the test of time since 1686.
Steak Frites
No visit to Paris is complete without indulging in steak frites. This simple yet satisfying dish of perfectly cooked steak paired with crispy, golden fries is a bistro favorite. Le Relais de l'Entrecôte, with its secret sauce and no-choice menu, has perfected this pairing, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Boeuf Bourguignon
For a rich and comforting meal, boeuf bourguignon is a must-try. This beef stew, slow-cooked with red wine, onions, and mushrooms, is a classic example of French comfort food. Chez René in the Latin Quarter serves a traditional and hearty version that will leave you feeling like you’ve experienced a piece of French culinary history.
Duck Confit
Duck confit is a traditional French dish where duck legs are slow-cooked in their own fat until tender and flavorful. The crispy skin and succulent meat make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. For an outstanding duck confit experience, head to La Tour d’Argent in the 5th arrondissement. This historic restaurant not only offers an excellent version of the dish but also provides a dining experience steeped in Parisian history and elegance.
Escargots de Bourgogne
When in Paris, indulge in the quintessential French delicacy—escargots. These Burgundy snails, usually prepared with a luscious garlic-parsley butter, are a must-try for adventurous eaters. L'Escargot Montorgueil in the 1st arrondissement has been serving this traditional dish since 1832, offering a historic ambiance to match the exquisite flavors.
Foie Gras
Foie gras, made from the liver of a specially fattened duck or goose, is a luxurious delicacy that can be enjoyed in various forms—pâté, mousse, or seared. For an authentic taste of this indulgent treat, head to Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie in the 1st arrondissement. This historic restaurant and delicatessen offers a variety of foie gras dishes, ensuring a memorable culinary experience.
Quiche Lorraine
Quiche Lorraine, with its creamy custard filling, smoky bacon, and flaky pastry crust, is a beloved dish perfect for any time of the day. Le Moulin de la Vierge, a quaint bakery with several locations around Paris, offers some of the best quiche Lorraine in the city.
Cheese
France is renowned for its cheeses, and a visit to Paris wouldn't be complete without sampling a variety of them. From creamy brie and pungent roquefort to tangy chèvre and nutty comté, the city's fromageries offer an incredible array of cheeses. Fromagerie Laurent Dubois, a celebrated cheese shop, provides a curated selection that will delight any cheese lover.
Crêpes
Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, crêpes are a versatile Parisian treat. For an authentic experience, visit Breizh Café in the Marais, where you can enjoy traditional buckwheat galettes filled with ham, cheese, and egg, or indulge in sweet crêpes with salted caramel and whipped cream.
Macarons
End your culinary journey with the jewel of French patisserie—the macaron. These delicate almond meringue cookies filled with luscious ganache come in an array of flavors and colors. Ladurée and Pierre Hermé are the reigning champions of these confections, each offering a unique take on this iconic treat.
Crème Brûlée
Crème brûlée, with its creamy custard base and crisp caramelized sugar topping, is a quintessential French dessert. A great spot to try this is Le Soufflé near Place de la Madeleine, where the classic dessert is prepared with a delicate touch and served with a touch of Parisian flair.
Tarte Tatin
This classic French dessert features caramelized apples baked in a buttery pastry. The tart is served upside-down, showcasing the rich, golden apples. Chez Dumonet – Joséphine in the 6th arrondissement serves a mouthwatering tarte Tatin that's the perfect end to any meal.
The Best and Most Enduring French Bistros in Paris
Paris is home to many bistros that have stood the test of time, offering both locals and visitors a taste of authentic French cuisine in charming settings. Here are some of the best and most longstanding French bistros in the city:
Le Procope
Location: 13 Rue de l'Ancienne Comédie, 6th arrondissement and was founded in 1686.
As the oldest café in Paris, Le Procope has a rich history and has hosted many famous figures, including Voltaire and Benjamin Franklin. The bistro serves classic French dishes in a historic and elegant atmosphere.
Le Comptoir du Relais
Location: 9 Carrefour de l'Odéon, 6th arrondissement.
Le Comptoir du Relais is a beloved bistro, helmed by renowned chef Yves Camdeborde, offers traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. The cozy setting and excellent food make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Benoit
Location: 20 Rue Saint-Martin, 4th arrondissement.
Benoit is one of the last authentic Parisian bistros and is now part of the Alain Ducasse group. The restaurant maintains its traditional charm and offers a menu full of classic French dishes, including cassoulet and foie gras.
Chez Georges
Location: 1 Rue du Mail, 2nd arrondissement.
Known for its timeless interior and robust menu of French classics, Chez Georges is a quintessential Parisian bistro. The warm, inviting atmosphere and consistent quality make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Bistrot Paul Bert
Location: 18 Rue Paul Bert, 11th arrondissement.
Bistrot Paul Bert has quickly become a Parisian institution. Known for its steak frites and other bistro classics, it offers an authentic dining experience in a lively setting.
Au Pied de Cochon
Location: 6 Rue Coquillière, 1st arrondissement.
This historic bistro, located near Les Halles, is famous for its hearty dishes, including the namesake pig’s trotters. Open 24/7, Au Pied de Cochon is a beloved spot for both its food and its vibrant, bustling atmosphere.
Le Baratin
Location: 3 Rue Jouye-Rouve, 20th arrondissement.
A bit off the beaten path, Le Baratin is a hidden gem in the Belleville neighborhood. The bistro offers a seasonal menu that focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients, and it has a loyal following among food enthusiasts.
La Fontaine de Mars
Location: 129 Rue Saint-Dominique, 7th arrondissement.
Located near the Eiffel Tower, this charming bistro serves traditional French cuisine in a picturesque setting. La Fontaine de Mars is known for its friendly service and classic dishes like duck confit and crème brûlée.
Chez Janou
Location: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 3rd arrondissement.
With a Provençal flair, Chez Janou offers a lively and casual dining experience. The bistro is famous for its extensive pastis selection and its delicious chocolate mousse.
