France is known for its delicious food. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll want to know what to eat. This guide will help you find the most French foods to try. Keep in mind that different regions of France have their own special dishes. So, what you eat in one place might be different from another. Are you ready to experience the true flavors of France?
French Food Staples
These are some of the most popular and classic French foods you can find almost anywhere in the country.
Escargots
If you want a truly French starter, try escargots. These are snails, and they are often cooked in a lot of butter. Restaurants will give you a special tool to hold the hot pan and a fork to get the snails out. Many people, even kids, enjoy them. You can find escargots on menus all over Paris.
French Onion Soup
Another great starter is French onion soup. It’s made with beef broth, onions, bread, and cheese. The cheese is melted on top. Be careful when you eat it, because the soup under the cheese can be very hot!
Croque Monsieur
For a quick and easy snack, try a Croque Monsieur. This is a grilled ham and cheese sandwich. It usually has Gruyère or Emmental cheese on top. It’s a very common snack that you can find in many places, even on trains. You might want to use a fork and knife to eat it, especially if you’re giving it to kids, as it can be greasy.
Quiche Lorraine
Quiche Lorraine is a popular choice at bakeries and shops. It’s a ham and cheese quiche. You can buy it by the slice or get a whole one. It’s a must-try food for many visitors.
Bakery Treats
French bakeries offer many delicious treats.
Croissants
You have to try a butter croissant from a French bakery. It’s much better than any croissant you’ve had before!
Pain au Chocolat
Another great choice is Pain au Chocolat, which is a chocolate croissant. It’s a fantastic treat.
Baguette
Don’t forget to get a baguette. It might sound simple, but the bread in France is very good. You can have it with butter for a simple but delicious lunch.
French Cheeses
Visit a cheese shop and try some of the many cheeses from all over France. You can find a cheese shop near a bakery and a butcher, so you can get bread, cheese, and meat all in one place.
Tarts
French bakeries also have many tarts. Try a Tarte Tatin (apple tart) or a Tarte au Citron (lemon tart). There are also pear tarts and other sweet treats to choose from.
Crêpes
For a sweet and easy treat, get a crêpe from a street vendor. You can get it with Nutella or other sweet fillings. You can also get a galette, which is a savory crêpe.
Sit-Down Meals
If you’re looking for a more formal meal, here are some great options.
Steak Frites
Steak Frites is a classic French dish. It’s steak with fries. The beef in France is very good, so this is always a great choice.
Duck Confit
Another great option is Duck Confit. This is slow-roasted duck, and it’s incredibly delicious.
French Wine
France is famous for its wine. When you’re in France, be sure to try some of the local wines. You can enjoy a glass of wine at a café with your Croque Monsieur or another snack.
Foie Gras
Foie Gras is another famous French food. It is goose liver pâté. You eat it with bread, and sometimes with jam or chutney.
Tips for Eating in France
- Reservations: If you’re going to be in Paris on the weekend, make sure to make dinner reservations. Restaurants can get very busy. During tourist season it’s a good idea to make reservations even during the week.
- Patience: Eating in France is not about eating fast. Be patient and enjoy the experience. You’ll have multiple courses, so take your time.
Ready to Eat?
There are so many great foods to try in France. You’ll find delicious options everywhere you go. So, go out and explore the French cuisine!