1.Croissant at Du Pain et des Idées: Du Pain et des Idées is a renowned bakery located in the vibrant 10th arrondissement of Paris. Their croissants are a true masterpiece. As you step into the bakery, you’ll be greeted by the delightful aroma of freshly baked pastries. The croissants here are known for their golden, flaky exterior and tender, buttery interior. Each bite is a perfect balance of crispiness and softness. Whether you go for a classic plain croissant or indulge in a filled one like almond or chocolate, Du Pain et des Idées offers an exceptional croissant experience that will make your breakfast in Paris unforgettable.
2.Macarons at Ladurée: Ladurée is a renowned pastry shop that has become synonymous with macarons. Their flagship store on Champs-Élysées is a true haven for macaron lovers. As you enter, you’ll be captivated by the elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. Ladurée offers an extensive range of macaron flavors, from traditional ones like vanilla and pistachio to more unique and seasonal creations. The macarons themselves are small, delicate, and brightly colored, with a crisp outer shell and a soft, chewy interior. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and you’ll find yourself savoring the harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Ladurée is not only a place to satisfy your sweet tooth but also an experience that celebrates the artistry of macaron making.
3.Crêpes at Breizh Café: Located in the charming Marais district, Breizh Café brings a taste of Brittany to Paris with its authentic crêpes. The café is known for its dedication to using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. The crêpes here are made from buckwheat flour, giving them a distinct nutty flavor and a slightly earthy aroma. You can choose from a variety of fillings, both sweet and savory. For a sweet option, try the classic combination of butter and sugar or indulge in a Nutella-filled crêpe. If you prefer savory, the galettes, which are the savory version of crêpes, are a must-try. They are often filled with ingredients like ham, cheese, eggs, and mushrooms, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. At Breizh Café, you can experience the flavors of Brittany while enjoying the cozy and inviting ambiance of the café.
4.Escargots at L’Escargot Montorgueil: L’Escargot Montorgueil is a charming restaurant nestled in the heart of the 2nd arrondissement. If you’re feeling adventurous, trying their escargots is a must. Served as a traditional French delicacy, the escargots here are prepared in a garlic and herb butter sauce that enhances their natural flavors. The snails themselves are tender and succulent, offering a unique and indulgent taste. As you savor each bite, the rich buttery sauce and the subtle earthiness of the snails come together to create a delightful combination of flavors. L’Escargot Montorgueil provides a cozy and intimate setting where you can immerse yourself in the traditional French culinary experience.
5.French Onion Soup at Au Pied de Cochon: Au Pied de Cochon is a historic brasserie located near Les Halles. Since 1947, they have been serving their famous French onion soup, making it a beloved dish among locals and visitors alike. This comforting soup starts with a rich, flavorful beef broth that is slow-cooked to perfection. It is then topped with caramelized onions and a generous layer of melted Gruyère cheese. The combination of the sweet and savory onions, the hearty broth, and the gooey cheese creates a symphony of flavors that warms both the heart and the soul. Whether you’re seeking a warm respite during the winter months or simply craving a taste of classic French cuisine, Au Pied de Cochon’s French onion soup is a must-try.
6.Croque-Monsieur at Café de Flore: Café de Flore, located in the iconic Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, has long been a gathering spot for writers, artists, and intellectuals. One of their most popular dishes is the classic Croque-Monsieur. This traditional French sandwich is made with toasted bread, layered with thinly sliced ham and creamy Gruyère cheese. It is then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a crispy exterior and a gooey, indulgent interior. The combination of flavors and textures makes the Croque-Monsieur a satisfying treat for any time of the day. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and you’ll experience a quintessential Parisian dining moment at Café de Flore.
7.Baguette at Poilâne: When it comes to baguettes, Poilâne is a name that stands out in Paris. Situated in the 6th arrondissement, this bakery has a well-deserved reputation for its traditional sourdough bread. Poilâne’s baguettes are crafted with care, using high-quality flour, natural fermentation, and a slow baking process in wood-fired ovens. The result is a crusty exterior with a soft and chewy interior, characteristic of an exceptional baguette. The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of tanginess and nuttiness, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you enjoy the baguette on its own or use it as the foundation for a sandwich or picnic, Poilâne’s baguette is a staple that represents the essence of French bread culture.
8.Steak Frites at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte: Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is a restaurant that specializes in a classic French dish: steak frites. With multiple locations in Paris, this establishment has perfected the art of serving a perfectly cooked steak accompanied by crispy fries. The menu at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is simple and focused, featuring their famous steak served in two portions. Each serving consists of thinly sliced, tender steak cooked to your preferred doneness and topped with their secret sauce, which is a delicious blend of herbs, butter, and tangy flavors. The steak is served with a generous side of golden, crispy fries that perfectly complement the juicy meat. The combination of the succulent steak, flavorful sauce, and addictive fries makes the steak frites at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte a must-try dish for meat lovers and a true celebration of classic French cuisine.
9.Foie Gras at La Maison de la Truffe: La Maison de la Truffe, located near Place de la Madeleine, is a gourmet store that offers a luxurious selection of truffle-infused products, including the exquisite foie gras. Foie gras, a delicacy made from the liver of a specially fattened duck or goose, is known for its rich, buttery texture and indulgent flavor. At La Maison de la Truffe, you can savor this opulent treat in various forms, such as terrines or pâtés, often accompanied by crispy bread or a sweet fruit compote. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, combining the creamy foie gras with the delicate hints of truffle. La Maison de la Truffe provides a refined and elegant setting to indulge in this French gastronomic delight.
10.Bouillabaisse at Chez L’Ami Jean: Step into the cozy bistro of Chez L’Ami Jean in the 7th arrondissement and transport yourself to the flavors of Provence with their delicious bouillabaisse. Bouillabaisse is a traditional seafood stew originating from the Mediterranean region. Chez L’Ami Jean’s version is a culinary masterpiece, prepared with an array of fresh fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs and spices. The stew is simmered slowly to allow the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and aromatic broth that perfectly complements the tender seafood. Served with a side of toasted bread and a zesty rouille sauce, this hearty dish is a true celebration of coastal French cuisine. A visit to Chez L’Ami Jean promises a warm and convivial ambiance where you can savor the authentic flavors of bouillabaisse.
11.Tarte Tatin at Le Comptoir du Relais: Le Comptoir du Relais, located in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, is a bistro known for its classic French desserts, and their Tarte Tatin is a must-try. This upside-down caramelized apple tart is an iconic French dessert that originated in the heart of France. Le Comptoir du Relais prepares their Tarte Tatin with precision and expertise, using buttery puff pastry and perfectly caramelized apples. The result is a warm and gooey treat with a delicate balance of sweet and tart flavors. Served with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this dessert is a delightful way to end a meal, leaving you craving for more of its comforting and nostalgic taste.
12.Berthillon Ice Cream on Île Saint-Louis: For a refreshing treat on a sunny day, head to Île Saint-Louis and visit the renowned Berthillon ice cream parlor. Berthillon has been an institution in Paris for decades, serving artisanal ice creams and sorbets that are made with high-quality ingredients and crafted with precision. The parlor offers an extensive selection of flavors, ranging from classic options like vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous choices such as lavender or salted caramel. Each scoop is a burst of pure, creamy goodness, showcasing the artistry and dedication that goes into creating these frozen delights. Whether you enjoy your ice cream in a cone or a cup, strolling along the charming streets of Île Saint-Louis with a Berthillon creation in hand is an experience that captures the essence of Parisian indulgence.
From flaky croissants to savory escargots, and from creamy foie gras to aromatic bouillabaisse, the city has something to satisfy every palate. Whether you choose to indulge in the iconic pastries at Ladurée, savor a traditional French onion soup at Au Pied de Cochon, or enjoy a classic Croque-Monsieur at Café de Flore, each bite in Paris is a culinary adventure. The city’s renowned bakeries, bistros, and restaurants pride themselves on using high-quality ingredients and time-honored techniques to create exceptional flavors. Exploring the streets of Paris to discover hidden gems like Du Pain et des Idées for croissants or Breizh Café for crêpes adds an element of discovery to your culinary journey. From the historic neighborhoods of Montmartre and Saint-Germain-des-Prés to the bustling markets of Les Halles, Paris offers an abundance of food destinations that will leave you craving for more. Remember to visit Poilâne for a traditional baguette, try the steak frites at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, and save room for a slice of Tarte Tatin at Le Comptoir du Relais. And don’t forget to cool down with a scoop of Berthillon ice cream on Île Saint-Louis.