Paris isn’t just the City of Light—it’s the city of flavor. From flaky croissants that melt in your mouth to rich, comforting bowls of French onion soup, Paris is a dream come true for food lovers. But with endless bistros, patisseries, and markets on every corner, knowing what to eat (and where to eat it) can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in.
In this guide to The Ultimate Must-Eat Foods in Paris (and Where to Find Them), we’re serving up the iconic dishes you can’t leave without trying—plus the locals-approved spots to enjoy them. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, this list will help you taste the very best of Paris, one delicious bite at a time.
Bon appétit!
The Ultimate List of Must-Eat Food
Its Historical background, Why You Should Try It, and Where to Find It
1. Croissant: The Quintessential French Pastry
A Buttery Bite of History
Though the croissant is now a symbol of French culinary identity, its roots actually trace back to Austria. The ancestor of the croissant is the kipferl, a crescent-shaped bread popular in Vienna as early as the 13th century. Legend has it that the modern croissant was created in 1683 to celebrate the defeat of the Ottoman Empire during the Siege of Vienna—the crescent shape mirroring the symbol on the Turkish flag.
The croissant made its way to France in the 18th century, reportedly introduced by Marie Antoinette, an Austrian princess who married into the French royal family. But it wasn’t until the 20th century, with the rise of the Parisian boulangerie, that the croissant evolved into the airy, buttery delight we know today, thanks to the technique of laminated dough, which involves folding and layering butter and dough to achieve its signature flakiness.
Why You Must Try It
A perfect croissant is a masterpiece of contrast: golden and crisp on the outside, with delicate, pillowy layers inside. It should flake slightly as you break it apart, releasing the warm scent of butter and baked dough. It’s a simple pleasure, yet one of the most refined ways to start a day in Paris.
Where to Find the Best Croissant in Paris
Du Pain et des Idées – 34 Rue Yves Toudic, 75010 Paris
Tucked away in the Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood, this charming bakery is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Their croissant is consistently named among the best in Paris—golden, glossy, and deeply flavorful. Arrive early, as the pastries often sell out before noon.
Bonus Tip: Try their Pain au Chocolat or the iconic Escargot Pistache, a spiral pastry filled with pistachio cream.
2. Baguette Tradition: The Backbone of French Daily Life
A National Icon with Deep Roots
Few things are more synonymous with France than the baguette. Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century, though the exact moment of its invention is debated. One story suggests Napoleon’s bakers designed the baguette’s long, slender shape to fit neatly into soldiers’ boots. Another theory credits Austrian baker August Zang, who introduced steam ovens to Paris in the mid-1800s, enabling the crusty exterior and soft interior we now associate with the modern baguette.
The “baguette de tradition française” (traditional baguette) was legally defined in 1993 by French law, requiring only four ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast, with no additives or preservatives. This ensures the bread is made fresh daily, often several times a day.
Why You Must Try It
Crisp on the outside, chewy and slightly nutty on the inside, the baguette tradition is more than just bread—it’s a daily ritual. Parisians line up at their favorite boulangeries in the morning, afternoon, and evening for a fresh loaf. It’s the perfect companion to cheese, wine, or simply eaten warm with butter.
Where to Find the Best Baguette in Paris
Le Grenier à Pain – 38 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 Paris
This Montmartre bakery has won the prestigious Grand Prix de la Baguette de Paris multiple times. Their tradition is everything it should be: beautifully blistered crust, satisfying chew, and rich flavor that makes even a plain bite memorable.
Pro Tip: If you see “baguette tradition” instead of just “baguette,” choose it—it’s handmade and preservative-free.
3. French Onion Soup: Comfort in a Bowl, Parisian-Style
A Humble Classic with a Rich History
It might be fancy on the menu today, but French onion soup (soupe à l’oignon) actually began as peasant food. Onions were cheap and abundant, making them a go-to ingredient for working-class families in the Middle Ages. The soup took a luxurious turn in the 17th century, when cooks began caramelizing the onions and topping the dish with crusty bread and melted cheese—turning something humble into something heavenly.
Legend has it that King Louis XV “invented” the dish one night at a hunting lodge, armed with nothing but onions, butter, and champagne. While that story might be a bit embellished, one thing’s for sure: by the 19th century, French onion soup had become a staple of late-night dining in Paris, especially in the markets around Les Halles, where night workers needed something warm and hearty to keep them going.
Why You Must Try It
This isn’t just any soup. It’s deeply savory, rich with sweet caramelized onions, swimming in a beefy broth that’s been simmered to perfection. On top? A slice of toasted baguette, blanketed in gooey, golden Gruyère cheese, broiled until bubbly and irresistible. It’s warming, nostalgic, and seriously satisfying—especially on a chilly Paris evening.
Where to Find the Best French Onion Soup in Paris
Le Comptoir du Relais – 9 Carrefour de l'Odéon, 75006 Paris
Tucked into the heart of Saint-Germain, this beloved bistro serves a soul-hugging version of onion soup that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. Their secret? A slow-cooked broth and ultra-generous cheese topping.
Insider Tip: Grab a table outside on a crisp day and pair your soup with a glass of red wine. It’s the Parisian way.
4.Steak Frites: The Bistro Favorite That Never Goes Out of Style
A French Love Story on a Plate
It might seem simple—steak and fries—but steak frites is a dish with deep roots in French and Belgian culinary history. It first gained popularity in the brasseries of Paris in the 19th and early 20th centuries, where working-class diners wanted something hearty and satisfying that didn’t take hours to prepare.
What makes steak frites so special in France is not just the ingredients, but the way they’re treated. The steak is typically a flavorful cut like entrecôte (ribeye) or bavette (flank), cooked to tender perfection—often rare or medium-rare, just the way the French like it. The fries? Hand-cut, double-fried, and golden-crisp, often served in generous piles.
And don’t forget the sauce—from creamy peppercorn (au poivre) to garlicky herb (beurre maître d’hôtel), the right sauce turns this into a true Parisian pleasure.
Why You Must Try It
Because nothing beats a classic done right. Steak frites is bold, satisfying, and a perfect way to experience the relaxed elegance of Parisian bistro dining. It’s that magical mix of crispy, juicy, salty, and savory that hits all the right notes—especially when paired with a glass of red wine.
Where to Find the Best Steak Frites in Paris
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte – 20 Rue Saint-Benoît, 75006 Paris (and other locations)
This place only serves steak frites, and people line up for it. The secret? A legendary, top-secret herb butter sauce that’s poured generously over perfectly cooked steak, followed by crispy fries... and then a second helping. Yes, they automatically offer seconds.
Good to Know: No menu, no fuss. You just choose how you want your steak cooked, and they handle the rest.
5. Duck Confit: Slow-Cooked Luxury from the French Countryside
A Dish Born from Preservation, Perfected by Time
Long before refrigeration, French cooks needed clever ways to keep meat fresh. Enter confit de canard—a method that dates back to the Gascony region of southwest France. Ducks were seasoned with salt, garlic, and herbs, then slowly cooked in their own fat and stored submerged in it, where they could be preserved for months.
This practical approach turned into a culinary art form. When it’s time to eat, the duck leg is gently reheated until the meat is meltingly tender and the skin turns irresistibly crisp. Once a farmhouse staple, duck confit eventually found its way to Parisian bistros, where it’s now considered the ultimate rustic indulgence.
Why You Must Try It
Duck confit is rich, savory, and utterly comforting—like the French version of a Sunday roast. The meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, the skin is crackling and golden, and it’s typically served with garlic-roasted potatoes, green beans, or even a splash of red wine sauce. It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of deep, meaty flavor that lingers long after the last bite.
This isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience.
Where to Find the Best Duck Confit in Paris
Chez L’Ami Jean – 27 Rue Malar, 75007 Paris
This unpretentious, energetic bistro near the Eiffel Tower is a favorite among locals and foodies alike. Their duck confit is the real deal—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and served in generous portions that feel more like a loving hug than a meal.
Insider Tip: Save room for dessert—the chef here is known for his outrageously good rice pudding (riz au lait) too.
6. Escargots: A Surprisingly Elegant French Delicacy
A Gourmet Legacy from the Vineyards
While eating snails may sound unusual to some, escargots have been a part of French gastronomy for centuries, especially in the Burgundy (Bourgogne) region. The tradition dates back to ancient Roman times, but it was in 19th-century France that escargots truly became a refined appetizer, particularly when paired with garlic, parsley, and butter.
What makes French escargots special isn't just the snail itself, but how it’s prepared. The dish known as Escargots de Bourgogne features Helix pomatia—a species of land snail known as the Burgundy snail—which is gently cooked and served in its shell with a decadent garlic-herb butter. The result? A dish that’s earthy, rich, and deeply satisfying.
Why You Must Try It
Think of escargots not as “snails,” but as a buttery, garlicky, melt-in-your-mouth appetizer with a whisper of the French countryside. The texture is tender (not slimy!), and the sauce—loaded with garlic, parsley, and good French butter—is so delicious you’ll want a baguette on hand just to mop it up.
Trying escargots in Paris is not only about flavor—it’s a culinary adventure, and a chance to eat like a true Parisian gourmand.
Where to Find the Best Escargots in Paris
L’Escargot Montorgueil – 38 Rue Montorgueil, 75001 Paris
A Paris institution since 1832, this elegant restaurant specializes in escargots and serves them in a variety of styles, including classic à la bourguignonne. The setting is old-world chic, and the service makes you feel like a guest at a grand Parisian soirée.
Chez Janou – 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 75003 Paris (Le Marais)
A lively Provençal bistro with a relaxed vibe, perfect for first-timers. Their escargots come perfectly seasoned and are often the surprise favorite of the night.
Pro Tip: Don’t be intimidated by the special tongs and fork—they’re part of the fun! And yes, it’s absolutely acceptable to use bread to soak up every last drop of that garlic butter.
7.Crêpes (Sweet & Savory): Thin, Tasty, and Totally Parisian
From Brittany to the Bouquinistes
Crêpes have been a beloved part of French food culture since the 13th century, with roots in the Brittany region of northwest France. Originally made with buckwheat flour (galettes), crêpes were an everyday food—simple, affordable, and endlessly versatile. Over time, wheat-based crêpes became popular for sweet variations, and both styles eventually made their way to Paris, where they became a street-food staple.
Stroll along the Seine or through the Marais, and you’ll catch the scent of hot crêpes being made to order—batter ladled onto a sizzling griddle, spread thin, then folded around everything from Nutella to ham and melted cheese.
Why You Must Try It
Crêpes are light yet satisfying, delicate yet indulgent. You can go sweet with sugar and lemon, butter and cinnamon, or the beloved banana-Nutella combo. Or dive into the savory world with ham, cheese, egg, or even smoked salmon and crème fraîche. They’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, dessert, or an impromptu snack between museums.
Plus, there’s something magical about enjoying a warm crêpe as you wander the streets of Paris. It’s casual, delicious, and unmistakably French.
Where to Find the Best Crêpes in Paris
Crêperie Brocéliande – 15 Rue des Trois Frères, 75018 Paris (Montmartre)
This charming Breton-style crêperie in Montmartre serves up authentic galettes (savory buckwheat crêpes) and sweet crêpes in a cozy, relaxed setting. The menu is creative, the ingredients are fresh, and the vibe is warm and welcoming—just like the dish itself.
Quick Fix? For a classic street-side snack, head to any reputable crêpe stand near the Luxembourg Gardens, Notre-Dame, or along Rue Cler. Watch them spin the batter right in front of you—it's part of the experience!
8.Macarons: Paris’s Most Elegant Little Indulgence
A Royal Treat with Italian Roots
Believe it or not, macarons didn’t begin in France. They originated in Italy, and it was Catherine de’ Medici, an Italian noblewoman who married King Henry II of France in the 16th century, who brought the almond-based treat to the French court. Back then, they were simple cookies made of almond flour, sugar, and egg whites—nothing like the pastel-perfect sweets we know today.
The transformation into the iconic Parisian macaron, with two airy shells sandwiching a creamy filling, is credited to the Ladurée family bakery in the early 20th century. Their pastry chef, Pierre Desfontaines, had the brilliant idea to join two cookies with a ganache-like center, creating the delicate, jewel-toned confections that now fill shop windows across the city.
Why You Must Try It
Light, crisp on the outside, chewy within, and bursting with flavor in every bite—macarons are magic in miniature. From classic flavors like raspberry, chocolate, and pistachio, to more adventurous options like rose, passionfruit, or salted caramel, each one is a tiny work of art. They're the perfect sweet souvenir—or a luxurious moment of indulgence between shopping or sightseeing.
And let’s be honest: snapping a photo of your colorful macaron haul on a Parisian café table is almost as satisfying as eating them.
Where to Find the Best Macarons in Paris
Pierre Hermé – 72 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris (and other locations)
Often called the “Picasso of Pastry,” Pierre Hermé is known for bold, unexpected flavor combinations and flawless technique. His macarons are slightly larger than most, intensely flavored, and beautifully balanced—an absolute must for serious dessert lovers.
Ladurée – 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris (and others)
The historic name behind the modern macaron, Ladurée’s boutique, feels like stepping into a pastel dream. The flavors are refined, and the presentation is iconic—perfect for gifting or just treating yourself.
Insider Tip: Buy a box to take home, but always enjoy at least one fresh on the spot!
9.Cheese Platter: France on a Plate—One Bite at a Time
A Proud Cornerstone of French Culture
In France, cheese isn't just food—it's a national treasure. With over 1,200 varieties across the country, every region offers something unique, from creamy cow’s milk cheeses of Normandy to nutty Alpine tommes and pungent blues from Auvergne. Charles de Gaulle once famously joked, “How can anyone govern a country with 246 kinds of cheese?” (Spoiler: there are many more now.)
The tradition of the plateau de fromages—a curated selection of cheeses served after the main course or with wine—is rooted in the French art of dining slowly and savoring each moment. It’s about contrast, balance, and delight: soft and firm, mild and bold, fresh and aged.
Why You Must Try It
A cheese platter in Paris is a mini tasting tour of France. It might include:
•Brie de Meaux – creamy and mild, the “King of Cheeses”
•Comté – firm and nutty, aged to perfection
• Roquefort – blue-veined and bold, made from sheep’s milk
•Chèvre – fresh or aged goat cheese, tangy and bright
•Reblochon or Tomme de Savoie – rustic, earthy mountain cheeses
Served with a crusty baguette, fruit, and maybe a glass of red wine, it’s not just a snack—it’s an experience. Whether you’re picnicking by the Seine or dining at a bistro, this is the Parisian way to linger, chat, and fall in love with France all over again.
Where to Find the Best Cheese Platters in Paris
Fromagerie Barthélemy – 51 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris
A tiny, elegant cheese shop loved by locals (and reportedly the late Julia Child), Barthélemy is a beautiful place to create your own picnic platter. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to recommend based on your tastes.
Le Bar à Fromage by Androuet – 41 Rue Saint-Louis en l'Île, 75004 Paris
Sit down and enjoy a full cheese and wine pairing at this charming cheese bar. They offer thoughtfully curated platters that take your taste buds on a journey from mild to wild.
Cheerful Tip: Don’t be shy—ask for help! Most cheese sellers love guiding curious eaters. And yes, it’s totally acceptable to eat cheese for lunch or dinner. Or both!
10. Tarte Tatin: The Sweetest Mistake in French Culinary History
An Upside-Down Legend with a Buttery Twist
Some of the best dishes are born from happy accidents, and Tarte Tatin is no exception. In the late 1800s, at a country inn run by the Tatin sisters in the Loire Valley, one of them reportedly forgot to line a tart pan with pastry before baking apples. Instead of starting over, she placed the dough on top and baked it anyway. After flipping the whole thing upside down to serve—voilà! A caramelized masterpiece was born.
This rustic upside-down tart became a French classic almost overnight, celebrated for its simplicity and soul-warming flavor. Over the decades, it found its way from countryside kitchens to Parisian patisseries, where it remains a menu staple today.
Why You Must Try It
Tarte Tatin is pure, cozy decadence. Slices of apple are slow-cooked in butter and sugar until they turn golden, syrupy, and just slightly sticky. Then they’re topped with a thin, buttery crust and baked until the pastry turns crisp and flaky. Served warm—often with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or crème fraîche—it’s comfort food, French-style.
The balance of textures (soft fruit, crisp crust) and flavors (sweet, slightly tangy, deeply caramelized) is irresistible. It’s elegant, nostalgic, and never too fussy—just what dessert should be.
Where to Find the Best Tarte Tatin in Paris
Chez Dumonet – Joséphine – 117 Rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris
A classic bistro where time seems to slow down, Chez Dumonet serves a truly unforgettable Tarte Tatin. It’s baked to order and comes out perfectly warm, golden, and rich. One slice is often enough for two (but no judgment if you don’t share!).
Sebastien Gaudard Pâtisserie – 22 Rue des Martyrs, 75009 Paris
For a refined take on this rustic treat, head to this elegant pâtisserie, where tradition meets finesse. The apples are tender, the crust is divine, and the presentation is beautiful enough to make you pause, just for a second, before diving in.
Sweet Tip: If you’re enjoying a leisurely meal at a bistro, always ask if their Tarte Tatin is house-made and served warm. That’s when it truly shines.
Sample 3-Day Meal Plan like a local
Here’s a 3-day Parisian meal plan designed to help you enjoy as many of the must-eat foods as possible, while still leaving space to stroll, sip, and soak in the city. Each day features thoughtfully paired meals and locations, with a mix of bistros, patisseries, and casual spots—all tied to authentic Parisian neighborhoods!
Day 1 – Classic Parisian Comforts: Morning in the 10th Arrondissement
*Breakfast
Du Pain et des Idées
•Croissant (start classic!)
•Pain au chocolat, café crème
•Stroll along Canal Saint-Martin afterward
*Lunch
Le Comptoir du Relais (6th arr., Latin Quarter)
•French Onion Soup
•Side salad or glass of house wine
•Enjoy people-watching at the busy crossroads
*Snack/Dessert
Pierre Hermé (Saint-Germain)
•Choose 2–3 macarons: try rose, pistachio, and passionfruit
*Dinner
Chez L’Ami Jean (7th arr., near Eiffel Tower)
•Starter: Seasonal salad or pâté
•Main: Duck Confit with crispy potatoes
•Dessert: Shared rice pudding or tarte of the day
Day 2 – Bistro Vibes & Street Food Charm: Morning in Montmartre
*Breakfast/Brunch
Crêperie Brocéliande
•Savory crêpe: ham, egg, cheese (galette)
•Sweet crêpe: butter + sugar or banana + Nutella
•Sip cider and explore Sacré-Cœur afterward
*Lunch
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte (multiple locations)
•Starter: Green salad with walnuts
•Main: Steak Frites with secret sauce
•Dessert: Classic profiterole (if you’ve got room)
*Afternoon Snack
Fromagerie Barthélemy (7th arr.)
•Pick up a small cheese selection and baguette
•Head to Champ de Mars for an Eiffel Tower picnic
*Dinner
L’Escargot Montorgueil (1st arr.)
•Starter: Escargots de Bourgogne
•Main: Roasted chicken or seasonal fish
•Pair with chilled white Burgundy
Day 3 – Countryside Flavors in the City: Morning in Le Marais
*Light Breakfast
Grab a baguette tradition and coffee from a local boulangerie
*Lunch
Le Bar à Fromage by Androuet (Île Saint-Louis)
•Cheese platter with Comté, Brie, Roquefort, Chèvre
•Served with fruit, nuts, and fresh bread
•Optional: glass of Chablis or Gamay
*Afternoon Dessert & Stroll
Sebastien Gaudard Pâtisserie
•Tarte Tatin and espresso
•Walk to nearby Tuileries Garden or Seine riverbanks
*Dinner (Last Night Treat!)
Chez Dumonet – Joséphine
•Starter: Seasonal soup or terrine
•Main: Chef’s special (duck, beef bourguignon, or veal)
•Dessert: Warm Tarte Tatin, again—yes, it’s worth a second helping
Warm Tips
•Mix and match based on your schedule—Paris cafés are wonderfully flexible.
•Consider booking dinner reservations, especially for Day 1 & 3.
•Leave time for wine, walking, and whimsy—this plan is about pleasure, not pressure.
Final Message to foodies going to Paris
If you’re heading to Paris, get ready for a culinary adventure like no other! From flaky croissants and rich French onion soup to buttery duck confit and dreamy macarons, every bite tells a story.
Take your time, savor the flavors, and don’t be shy—try everything, even those escargots! Parisian food is all about joy, tradition, and sharing good moments around the table.
So pack your appetite and your sense of wonder, because Paris is waiting to delight your taste buds and your heart. Bon appétit and happy eating!
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