Contents
Introduction
Bonjour! If you’re planning a trip to Paris, get ready to indulge in some of the best food the world has to offer. But before you start making reservations at those fancy Michelin-starred restaurants, let’s talk about why it’s so important to eat like a local while you’re in the City of Lights.
The Importance of Eating Like a Local in Paris
First and foremost, eating like a local is an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in French culture. Food is an integral part of French life and has been for centuries.
By seeking out local spots and dishes, you’ll not only taste the flavors of Paris but also experience its history and traditions. Eating like a local is also a chance to support small businesses and family-owned restaurants.
These establishments often offer unique dishes that can’t be found anywhere else. Plus, by dining at these spots instead of chain restaurants or tourist traps, you’re helping keep the city’s food scene vibrant and diverse.
Brief Overview of Food Culture in Paris
The culinary scene in Paris is celebrated worldwide for its elegance, sophistication, and quality ingredients. Traditional French cuisine emphasizes freshness, simplicity, and technique over complex seasoning or spices. One staple ingredient that’s ubiquitous on menus throughout Paris is butter – lots and lots of butter!
It may not be the healthiest ingredient but it sure makes everything taste amazing. Another defining characteristic of French cuisine is wine pairings – there’s nothing quite like savoring an expertly chosen glass with your meal.
In recent years, however, Paris has seen a surge in international cuisine options as well as vegetarian/vegan-friendly eateries. Don’t worry though: no matter what kind of food lover you are, there’s something for everyone here.
Croissants: The Quintessential French Breakfast Pastry
When it comes to breakfast in Paris, there is nothing more iconic than a fresh, flaky croissant. These buttery pastries are a staple of French cuisine and can be found at nearly every boulangerie (bread bakery) in the city. The perfect croissant should be golden brown on the outside with layers of delicate pastry on the inside that practically melt in your mouth.
To truly experience the best croissants that Paris has to offer, it’s important to seek out smaller, independent bakeries rather than chains or tourist traps. Look for signs advertising “boulangerie artisanale” or “fait maison” which indicate that the pastries are made in-house using traditional methods.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try ordering your croissant “au beurre,” meaning with extra butter. This will result in an even richer and more indulgent pastry experience.
Coffee: The Art of Ordering Coffee in Paris
In France, coffee culture is serious business and ordering a coffee can be more complicated than you might expect. To start, it’s important to know that there are several different types of coffee drinks commonly available: café au lait (coffee with milk), café crème (similar to a latte), espresso (a small shot of strong coffee), and café allongé (similar to an Americano). When ordering your coffee, keep in mind that most cafes have two different prices for drinks: one for standing at the bar and another for sitting at a table.
If you’re looking to save some money and don’t mind standing while you drink your coffee, opt for the bar option. If you’re feeling particularly brave, try ordering your espresso “un peu serré,” which means “a little tight.” This will result in an even stronger shot of espresso with less water added, and is a common way to enjoy coffee in France.
Overall, the key to enjoying coffee like a local in Paris is to take your time and savor the experience. Head to a cozy cafe with a good book or a friend and enjoy the simple pleasure of a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.
Lunch
When it comes to lunch in Paris, bistros are the heart and soul of French cuisine. These casual eateries are often small and cozy with a lively atmosphere, perfect for a midday meal.
The menus at bistros typically feature classic French dishes like escargots, steak frites, and bouillabaisse. But don’t be intimidated by the menu – it’s often more about the ambiance and the experience than anything else.
Baguettes: A staple for lunchtime sandwiches
No French lunch is complete without a baguette sandwich. You’ll find boulangeries (bakeries) on almost every street corner in Paris selling freshly baked baguettes throughout the day. One of my favorite ways to enjoy a baguette sandwich is with jambon-beurre (ham and butter), which is simply ham and butter on a baguette – simple yet delicious!
Other popular fillings include cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, or pâté. And don’t forget to pair your sandwich with some crisp potato chips or an ice-cold drink.
France is famous for its cheese and there’s no shortage of varieties to choose from. From Camembert to Roquefort to Comté, each region has its own unique cheeses that are worth trying.
To navigate this vast selection like a pro, start by asking your server for recommendations based on your preferences – whether you prefer something mild or strong-tasting. If you’re feeling adventurous, try ordering a cheese plate as an appetizer or dessert at lunchtime – it’s an excellent way to sample different flavors without committing to one big slice.
Lunchtime in Paris is all about enjoying classic French fare in a casual, convivial atmosphere. Whether you opt for a cozy bistro, a hearty baguette sandwich, or a cheese plate, you’re sure to have a delicious and memorable meal.
Snacks and Sweets
Macarons: A Delicate and Colorful Treat
Macarons are a French delicacy that can be found in almost every bakery in Paris. These delicate, colorful treats are made from two meringue-based cookies that sandwich a creamy filling.
Some of the most popular flavors include pistachio, raspberry, chocolate, and vanilla. Macarons are not only delicious but also visually stunning.
The colors range from pastel to vibrant hues that make them a perfect addition to any Instagram feed. If you want to try some of the best macarons in Paris, head over to Ladurée or Pierre Hermé.
Both have been in the business for over 100 years and have perfected their recipes. One bite of their macarons will transport you to taste heaven.
Crepes: Savory or Sweet, a Classic Street Food
Crepes are thin pancakes that can be filled with anything your heart desires – from savory fillings like ham and cheese to sweet fillings like Nutella and bananas. They’re perfect for a quick snack or a light meal on the go. You can find crepe stands all over Paris, but some of the best ones are located near tourist attractions like Notre-Dame Cathedral or along Rue Montorgueil.
The most iconic street food is the Nutella crepe sprinkled with powdered sugar – it’s practically mandatory when visiting Paris! If you’re looking for something more savory, try a ham and cheese crepe or one filled with spinach and goat cheese.
Hot Chocolate: Thick, Rich, and Indulgent
Hot chocolate in France is not your average hot cocoa made from powder mix packets! It’s thick, rich, indulgent melted chocolate served piping hot in an espresso cup accompanied by whipped cream on top.
This luxurious drink will warm you from the inside out on a chilly day. Some of the best hot chocolate in Paris can be found at Angelina, a tea room that has been serving up decadent hot chocolate since 1903.
Their secret recipe is made with three types of African cocoa from Niger, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire, which gives it its velvety texture and luscious flavor. No visit to Paris would be complete without trying some French snacks and sweets.
From colorful macarons to savory crepes to indulgent hot chocolate, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds in this gastronomic paradise. So go ahead and indulge – eating like a local in Paris is an experience you won’t forget!
Dinner
Brasseries vs. Bistros vs. Michelin-starred restaurantsWhen it comes to dinner in Paris, the choices can be overwhelming. One of the first decisions to make is what type of restaurant you want to visit. Brasseries are large and bustling, often serving classic French dishes like steak frites and moules marinières. Bistros are smaller and more intimate, with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal menus. Michelin-starred restaurants offer a more formal dining experience with exquisite cuisine and impeccable service. Brasseries are great for lively group dinners or pre-theater meals, while bistros offer a cozy atmosphere ideal for romantic evenings or intimate gatherings with friends. Michelin-starred restaurants are perfect for special occasions or when you want to splurge on an unforgettable culinary experience.
Wine: Pairing with your meal like a pro
Wine is an essential part of French dining culture, and knowing how to pair it with your meal is essential for enjoying an authentic gastronomic experience in Paris. When choosing wine, consider the flavors and textures of your dish. For example, white wine pairs well with seafood dishes while red wine complements meat dishes.
Don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations based on their expertise in pairing wines with dishes on the menu. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try some lesser-known French wines that pair well with lesser-known French delicacies like escargots.
Escargots and other French delicacies
When it comes to trying new foods in Paris, escargots (snails) may not immediately come to mind as a must-try dish for many people but they are definitely worth trying! They’re usually served as an appetizer at bistros or brasseries and traditionally cooked in garlic butter sauce. Other French delicacies to try include foie gras (a rich and creamy pâté made from duck or goose liver), coq au vin (chicken cooked in red wine), and bouillabaisse (a fragrant seafood stew).
These dishes may be more expensive than typical restaurant fare but they’re worth trying at least once for the gastronomic experience they provide. Dinner in Paris is a true culinary adventure, with options ranging from bustling brasseries to intimate bistros to exquisite Michelin-starred restaurants.
Pair your meal with the perfect wine, and don’t forget to try some of the more daring French delicacies like escargots or foie gras. Whatever your choice, dining like a local is all about embracing the culture of food in Paris and creating unforgettable memories along the way.
Markets and Street Food
Marché d’Aligre: A bustling market filled with fresh produce and artisanal goods
If you’re looking to experience Parisian markets, Marché d’Aligre is a must-visit. Located in the 12th arrondissement, this market has been around since the 18th century. It’s open every day except Monday, and it’s the perfect place to grab some fresh produce and artisanal goods.
You can find everything from cheeses and meats to fruits and vegetables here. In addition to food items, you can also find clothing, antiques, and other trinkets at Marché d’Aligre.
The prices are reasonable, so it’s a great place to shop if you’re on a budget. While you’re there, be sure to try some of the street food vendors selling delicious snacks like crêpes or galettes.
Falafel stands in the Marais district
Paris may not be known for falafel, but in the Marais district, there are some of the best falafel stands in Europe. The neighborhood is home to a large Jewish community who brought their culinary traditions with them from North Africa and the Middle East.
As a result, there are several places where you can find mouth-watering falafel sandwiches. One of the best places is L’As du Fallafel on Rue des Rosiers.
They serve up warm pita bread filled with crispy fried chickpea balls topped with hummus, tahini sauce, cucumber salad, and spicy harissa sauce—all for just €7! There’s usually always a line outside their storefront because they’re that good.
Other great falafel places in Marais include Chez Hanna Hummus & Falafel (near Place des Vosges), and Miznon (near the Centre Pompidou). Try them all and find your favorite!
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the ultimate guide to eating like a local in Paris! It’s not just about the delicious food (although that’s certainly a big part of it), but also about immersing yourself in the culture and experiencing Paris like a true local. By following these tips, you’ll not only enjoy some amazing meals, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for French cuisine and the way it reflects the history and traditions of this incredible city.
Plus, who knows – you might even make some new friends along the way! Remember: when in doubt, follow the locals.
They know where to find the best food and drink in town. And don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new – you might just discover your new favorite dish!
