Paris. Just the name alone conjures images of cobbled streets, Eiffel Tower views, quaint cafés, and of course—mouthwatering food. From buttery croissants to rich duck confit, the City of Light is also the City of Culinary Delight. If you’re headed to Paris and wondering what food you absolutely must try, this guide is for you.
The best food in Paris includes not just traditional dishes but also innovative culinary creations that highlight the city’s vibrant food scene. Make sure to explore both classic and contemporary options while savoring the best food in Paris.
For those wondering where to find the best food in Paris, look no further than the bustling markets and renowned restaurants that showcase the best food in Paris.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best food in Paris, where to eat it, and why it’s so iconic. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this delicious journey through Parisian cuisine will leave your taste buds tingling.
Why Paris Is the Home of the Best Food in Paris
Exploring the Best Food in Paris: A Culinary Journey
To truly experience the best food in Paris, don’t forget to visit local bistros where authentic flavors come together in delightful dishes.
Paris has long been considered the culinary capital of the world. It’s the birthplace of countless cooking techniques, home to world-renowned chefs, and the source of beloved dishes like coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, and crème brûlée. But it’s not just about fine dining—what makes Paris so unique is that unforgettable meals can be found at hole-in-the-wall bistros, corner bakeries, and bustling markets just as easily as in Michelin-starred restaurants.
Let’s dive into the very best food Paris has to offer.
Croissants and Viennoiseries: A Morning Must
You can’t come to Paris without starting your day with a warm, flaky croissant. These buttery pastries are a cornerstone of French breakfasts and best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Head to an artisanal boulangerie (bakery) and ask for a croissant au beurre—you’ll thank us later.
Where to try:
- Du Pain et des Idées (10th arrondissement) – Their traditional croissants and pistachio-chocolate escargot are legendary.
- La Maison d’Isabelle (5th arrondissement) – Award-winning croissants in the heart of the Latin Quarter.
Pro tip: Avoid chain bakeries. Look for signs that say “artisan boulanger” and lines of locals.
Baguette: Simple, Yet Sublime
The humble baguette is taken very seriously in Paris. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and made fresh daily—this long loaf is a Parisian staple. It’s often used for sandwiches, served with cheese, or just eaten with butter.
Where to try:
- Le Grenier à Pain – Winner of multiple “Best Baguette in Paris” awards.
- Boulangerie Poilâne – A historic bakery known for both baguettes and their hearty country loaves.
SEO Tip: Looking for the best baguette in Paris? These bakeries won’t disappoint.
Cheese: A Cultural Experience
France has over 1,000 types of cheese, and Paris is the perfect place to begin exploring them. From creamy brie to pungent roquefort, the variety is mind-blowing. You’ll find cheeses served at restaurants, markets, and fromageries (cheese shops).
Must-try cheeses:
- Camembert
- Comté
- Chèvre (goat cheese)
- Reblochon
- Époisses (for the adventurous)
Where to try:
- Fromagerie Laurent Dubois – A Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) cheesemonger.
- Marché d’Aligre – A market with excellent cheese vendors.
Pair your cheese with a fresh baguette and a glass of wine, and you’ve got yourself a Parisian picnic.
Crêpes: Sweet and Savory Street Food
Crêpes are one of the best street foods in Paris. Thin, delicate, and filled with everything from Nutella to ham and cheese, crêpes are perfect for a quick bite or late-night snack.
Best fillings:
- Sweet: Nutella-banana, lemon-sugar, salted caramel
- Savory: Ham, cheese, mushrooms, eggs (also known as a galette)
Where to try:
- Crêperie Brocéliande (Montmartre) – Authentic Breton-style crêpes.
- Chez Alain Miam Miam (Marais) – Huge savory crêpes with creative fillings.
Duck Confit: Rich and Flavorful
A traditional French dish from the southwest, duck confit is slow-cooked duck leg preserved in its own fat until tender and crispy. Served with potatoes or lentils, this is a comfort food dish that’s also incredibly elegant.
Where to try:
- Chez Dumonet (6th arrondissement) – A classic Parisian bistro with an old-world vibe.
- Josephine Chez Dumonet – Known for generous portions and traditional flavors.
Steak Frites: A Parisian Favorite
Simple but satisfying, steak frites (steak and fries) is a bistro classic. The key is in the sauce—béarnaise, peppercorn, or just a pat of garlic butter. The fries are usually thin and crisp, and the steak is often cooked à point (medium-rare).
Where to try:
- Le Relais de l’Entrecôte – Famous for its no-menu, all-you-can-eat steak frites with secret sauce.
- Bistrot Paul Bert – A local favorite with a traditional atmosphere.
7. Escargots: For the Adventurous Eater
Snails might sound strange if you’ve never tried them, but escargots de Bourgogne are a delicacy in Paris. Typically served with garlic, butter, and parsley, they’re rich and surprisingly tender.
Where to try:
Bouillon Chartier – Affordable and classic French dishes in a grand Belle Époque setting.
L’Escargot Montorgueil – A historic spot with a beautiful interior and excellent escargots.
Onion Soup: A Bowl of History
Soupe à l’oignon (French onion soup) is a deeply savory, caramelized onion broth topped with bread and melted cheese. It’s comforting, especially in colder months.
Where to try:
- Au Pied de Cochon – Open 24/7 and famous for their onion soup.
- Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie – A cozy spot with rich, flavorful soup.
Macarons: A Bite of Luxury
These colorful, delicate cookies made with almond flour are one of the most iconic Parisian desserts. Crisp on the outside, soft in the middle, and filled with ganache or jam—they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.
Top flavors: Pistachio, rose, raspberry, salted caramel, chocolate.
Where to try:
- Pierre Hermé – Often called the “Picasso of Pastry.”
- Ladurée – The classic name in macarons with multiple locations.
French Pastries: Art You Can Eat
From éclairs to tarte Tatin, Parisian pâtisseries are works of art. Don’t miss:
- Éclair au chocolat – A choux pastry filled with cream and topped with icing.
- Tarte au citron – Tangy lemon tart with a buttery crust.
- Mille-feuille – Layers of puff pastry and custard cream.
- Paris-Brest – A wheel-shaped choux pastry with praline cream.
Where to try:
- Carl Marletti – Stunning modern pastries.
- Stohrer – Paris’s oldest pâtisserie, established in 1730.
French Wine and Aperitifs
Pair your meals with local French wines—Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, and more. Also, try traditional aperitifs like Kir Royal, pastis, or a glass of Chablis before dinner.
Where to try:
- Le Baron Rouge – A wine bar near Marché d’Aligre.
- Ô Chateau – Offers wine tastings and pairings.
Berthillon Ice Cream: A Sweet Parisian Icon
On the Île Saint-Louis, Berthillon has been serving some of the best ice cream in Paris since 1954. The flavors are intense, natural, and unforgettable.
Top flavors: Salted caramel, raspberry, hazelnut, passionfruit.
Café Culture: Espresso, People-Watching, and Pastries
Parisian cafés aren’t just about coffee—they’re about the vibe. Sit outside, sip an espresso or café crème, and watch the world go by.
Where to try:
- Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots (Saint-Germain) – Historic, a bit touristy, but iconic.
- Coutume Café – For serious coffee lovers.
Markets: Fresh, Local, and Delicious
Parisian food markets are heaven for foodies. From cheese and charcuterie to seasonal fruit and fresh oysters, there’s something for every palate.
Best food markets:
- Marché Bastille – Large and lively, especially on Sundays.
- Rue Cler – A charming pedestrian market street.
- Marché des Enfants Rouges – The oldest covered market in Paris.
International Eats: A World of Flavor in Paris
While French food is the star, Paris is also home to vibrant immigrant communities offering incredible international cuisine:
- North African: Couscous, tagines – try Le 404 in the Marais.
- Vietnamese: Pho and banh mi – try Pho 14.
- Middle Eastern: Falafel and shawarma – try L’As du Fallafel on Rue des Rosiers.
Final Tips for Eating Well in Paris
- Reservations are key. Many popular spots book up quickly.
- Lunch menus are often cheaper than dinner with the same quality.
- Don’t rush. Dining in Paris is meant to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
- Speak a little French. A simple “Bonjour!” goes a long way.
Conclusion: Eat Like a Parisian
The best food in Paris isn’t just about what’s on your plate—it’s about the experience. It’s the atmosphere of a cozy café, the buzz of a market, the joy of finding the perfect croissant. Whether you’re feasting on foie gras or grabbing a crepe from a street vendor, every meal in Paris is an invitation to slow down, savor, and smile.
