Paris, the City of Lights, is renowned for its romantic ambiance, iconic landmarks, and artistic heritage. But beyond the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, Paris is a culinary paradise, a place where food is not just sustenance but an art form. In 2010, UNESCO recognized the “gastronomic meal of the French” as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting the importance of food in French culture. So, What Is Paris Known For Food? Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey to discover the iconic dishes and culinary experiences that make Paris a top foodie destination.
Must-Try Foods in Paris
Here are some of the most famous foods in Paris that you simply can’t miss:
Croissants: The Quintessential Parisian Breakfast
No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in a buttery, flaky croissant. This simple pastry requires expertise and time to perfect. Enjoy it with coffee, orange juice, or on its own for a truly Parisian start to your day. Unlike the more formal sit-down affairs of lunch and dinner, breakfast in Paris is often enjoyed on the go, allowing you to savor your croissant while exploring the city.
Where to try the best croissant in Paris: For an award-winning experience, visit La Maison d’Isabelle (47ter Boulevard Saint-Germain), known for its organic flour and certified butter croissants.
Escargots: A Taste of French Tradition
For a culinary adventure, try escargots, a national symbol of Parisian food. These snails are typically served in their shells, stuffed with a flavorful mixture of garlic, herbs, and butter. While the classic Burgundy recipe remains popular, many Parisian restaurants offer creative variations with Roquefort, truffle, or curry-based sauces.
Where to try the best snails in Paris: L’Escargot Montorgueil is a historic Parisian institution serving snails for nearly 200 years.
Macarons: Bite-Sized Elegance
Macarons, delicate almond flour-based cookies with a creamy filling, are a Parisian must-try. These bite-sized works of art come in a variety of flavors, from classic pistachio and raspberry to more adventurous salted butter caramel and rose petals.
Where to try the best macarons in Paris: Pierre Hermé is a favorite for his innovative and creative macaron flavors. Sadaharu Aoki is another excellent choice, known for his violet macaron with violet and earl grey creams and fresh raspberries.
Jambon-Beurre: The Perfect Parisian Sandwich
For a quick and satisfying lunch, grab a jambon-beurre, a simple yet delicious sandwich made with Parisian ham, butter, and a crispy baguette. The quality of the ingredients is key to a great jambon-beurre.
Where to try the best jambon-beurre in Paris: La Fontaine de Belleville is renowned for its jambon-beurre made with carefully selected ingredients.
Steak Tartare: A Bistro Classic
For adventurous eaters, steak tartare is a must-try. This bistro classic consists of raw ground beef seasoned with capers, onion, and black pepper, typically served with a raw egg yolk on top.
Where to try the best steak tartare in Paris: Le Severo is a carnivore’s paradise, known for its high-quality meat and flavorful steak tartare.
A plate of steak tartare garnished with herbs and served with roasted potatoes, representing a traditional and adventurous Parisian culinary experience.
Cheese: A World of Flavor
France is a cheese lover’s paradise, with over 300 varieties to choose from. From creamy Brie de Meaux to pungent Munster, there’s a cheese for every palate. Cheese is often served as a separate course between the main course and dessert.
Where to try the best cheese in Paris: Fromagerie Laurent Dubois offers a wide selection of French cheeses.
Onion Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food
French onion soup is a comforting and flavorful dish made with caramelized onions and beef broth, topped with crusty croutons and Gruyère cheese.
Where to try the best onion soup in Paris: Bistrot des Vosges serves an excellent homemade onion soup.
Exploring Parisian Cuisine
What is Paris known for food besides these iconic dishes? Paris offers a diverse culinary landscape, from traditional bistros to innovative restaurants. Explore the city’s food markets, such as Marché Bastille and Marché d’Aligre, to discover fresh produce and local specialties. Don’t forget to indulge in the city’s many pastry shops and chocolate boutiques for an authentic French dessert experience.
Paris is also home to a vibrant international food scene. From Vietnamese restaurants to Kosher eateries, you can find a wide variety of international cuisines in the city.
Paris is a culinary destination that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with unforgettable memories. So, the next time you’re in the City of Lights, be sure to explore its culinary offerings and discover what is Paris known for food firsthand.
