Planning a trip to Paris but don’t know what cuisines to try? I’ve got you covered! I may be French-Canadian, but I absolutely love dishes from l’Hexagone (France). I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Paris a few times so far, and I can tell you that the cuisine here is just as important as its iconic landmarks. It can be daunting to figure out what to eat though, especially if it’s your first time there. To help, I’ve listed out ten of the best dishes to try in Paris alongside a recommended restaurant for that dish.
For my non-French speaking readers, I’ve also included a quick phonetic way to order these dishes like a pro. Explore what each dish has to offer and once you’ve had a chance to taste them for yourself, you’ll know why these dishes are on the list of best foods to try in Paris.
1. Moules-Frites
Moules-frites quite literally translates to “mussles-fries” and is a very popular French dish (it’s even popular here in Montreal). It’s made by steaming mussels in a strong garlic-y wine broth that’s served alongside with classic French-cut fries. This dish embodies the Belgian culinary influence in France, and is a favourite in both Belgium and Northern France. No matter when you visit Paris, you’ll find this dish year-round.
How to pronounce it: mool-freet
Restaurant Recommendation:
Seulement Sea – 4.8 star rating on google – Renowned for their moules-frites but they’re also known for their other classic seafood dishes.
2. Coq au Vin:
This one is a funny-sounding one for non-Francophones (you know why) but I can vouch that it is absolutely scrumptious. Coq au Vin is named quite literally after its main ingredients: chicken braised with wine. It is cooked alongside mushrooms and lardons (thick cut bacon), which is what gives it its hearty taste. This rural French cooking classic has a rich history that dates back centuries, making it a staple in French culinary heritage.
How to pronounce it: kok-oh-vehn
Restaurant Recommendation:
La Jacobine – 4.6 star rating with over 4k reviews – It’s celebrated for its traditional French cuisine like their signature coq au vin dish, and its unique setting is in a historic passageway.
3. Quiche Lorraine:
Although I’m not listing out desserts and sweet dishes, don’t think I forgot about French pastries! Quiche Lorraine is a popular dish around the world, but it originates from France’s Lorraine region. Yes, the French are quite fond of naming things by their respective regions. It’s essentially a flaky pastry filled with a savoury custard of eggs, cream, and smoked bacon (drool). Don’t let the ingredients fool you though: this dish is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of French cuisine.
How to pronounce it: keesh loh-rain
Restaurant Recommendation:
Basserie Les Deux Palais – 4.4 stars with over 2.7k reviews – Located at the centre of Île de la Cité and close to the Cité metro station, this restaurant offers a delicious quiche Lorraine as well as great views.
4. Bouillabaisse:
Paris has a unique ability to bring in flavours from throughout the country into one amazing city. This dish falls on my best food to try list because it brings in the amazing Provençal cuisine from Marseille in the south of France. Originally considered a “fisherman’s soup”, Bouillabaise has come a long way since then as a higher-end dining option. The fish stew has a tomato base that’s enriched with luxurious saffron and served with a side of rouille – if you’re a seafood lover, you’ll need to add this dish to the top of your list for best dishes to try in Paris. Note: If you’re only somewhat into seafood, the strong aroma might be a bit much for you.
How to pronounce it: boo-ya-bayss
Restaurant Recommendation:
Marius – 4.6 star rating – This decades-old restaurant specializes in seafood platters and is a great option for you to try bouillabaisse in Paris.
5. Gratin Dauphinois:
This one is for you potato lovers! The dish perfectly combines thinly sliced potatoes with garlic infused cream, and is baked until it’s perfectly golden at the top. I’m lactose intolerant, but will still make an exception to enjoy this gem of a dish. It’s also interesting to note that Gratin Dauphinois is typically a dish served at family dinners, but that doesn’t take away its place as a staple at French restaurants. Another added bonus? If you have little ones, they will absolutely love it.
How to pronounce it: grah-tan doe-fee-noh
Restaurant Recommendation:
Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie in the 1st arrondissement, where it’s known for its rich flavors and comforting warmth.
6. Canard Confit:
Canard confit (or duck confit as it’s known in English) is a dish that you’ll probably only eat once in a while, and most likely only once while in Paris. Why? Simply put, it’s a superbly rich and decadent dish. It’s made of duck legs slow-cooked in their own fat until the meat becomes extra tender. Traditionally, you’ll find this dish served with potatoes and garlic, classic staples in French cuisine. If you’re feeling like getting a little fancy, this is the dish to try.
How to pronounce it: can-ar kon-fee
Restaurant Recommendation:
La Fontaine de Mars near the Eiffel Tower, which serves up classic French fare in a cozy setting.
7. Escargot:
Yes, this is indeed what you think it is – snails. I know it can sound strange at first, but trust me it tastes delicious! Escargot is prepared with garlic butter and parsley, and offers a unique flavour profile if you’re willing to try it. This is quite honestly a quintessential French dish, and often associated with luxury and the fine dining experience of Paris. Give it a try, you’ll thank me.
How to pronounce it: ess-car-go
Restaurant Recommendation:
L’Escargot Montorgueil, specializing in this traditional French appetizer.
8. Tarte Flambee:
Also known as Flammekueche, this crispy dish topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons offers a delightful crunch with every bite. Originating from the Alsace region, Tarte Flambee is a testament to the historical German influence on Alsatian French cuisine.
How to pronounce it: tart flahm-bay
Restaurant Recommendation:
Flam’s, known for its authentic rendition of the dish.
9. Paris-Brest:
This wheel-shaped pastry filled with praline cream not only treats the taste buds but also nods to French cycling history. What I found most interesting about this dish is that it was created in 1910 to commemorate the Paris-Brest bicycle race (both of these are cities in France). This makes the dish as much a part of French cycling culture as French cuisine.
How to pronounce it: pa-ree brest
Restaurant Recommendation:
Pâtisserie Stohrer, the oldest patisserie in Paris.
10. Tarte aux Champignons:
A savory baked dish, this mushroom tart combines earthy mushrooms with creamy cheese in a golden pastry crust. A sophisticated yet comforting choice. Tarte aux Champignons is a culinary delight that showcases the versatility of French cuisine.
How to pronounce it: tart oh sham-pi-nyon
Restaurant Recommendation:
Les Papilles, located in the bustling Latin Quarter, The Tarte aux Champignons here is prepared with locally sourced mushrooms that vary with the season.
Exploring these ten dishes in Paris offers more than just a meal; it’s a journey through the heart of French culture and culinary excellence. Each dish promises a memorable gastronomic adventure, perfect for anyone looking to savor the best food in Paris. Enjoy your culinary explorations, and let each bite take you closer to the soul of this beautiful city. Bon voyage and bon appétit!
