Paris, the culinary capital of the world, is a dream destination for food lovers. From buttery croissants to exquisite macarons, the city offers an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Whether you’re craving Traditional French Dishes like boeuf bourguignon and coq au vin or searching for the Best Croissants in Paris, the city’s bakeries and bistros never disappoint.
Start your day like a true Parisian with our Parisian Breakfast Guide, featuring flaky pastries and rich café au lait. For those with a sweet tooth, discovering Where to Find the Best Macarons in Paris is a must—Ladurée and Pierre Hermé are just the beginning. Don’t miss out on other Must-Try French Desserts, from creamy éclairs to caramelized tarte tatin.
If you’re on a budget, Paris has plenty of Best Cheap Eats, including crispy falafel in the Marais and savory crêpes from street vendors.
Cheese enthusiasts will rejoice in exploring the Top French Cheeses to Try in Paris, best enjoyed with a fresh baguette. And of course, no trip is complete without savoring Authentic French Onion Soup at a cozy bistro.
With this guide, you’ll experience Paris not just as a tourist, but as a local—one delicious bite at a time. Bon appétit!
What to Eat in Paris
Paris is a culinary paradise, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect France’s deep gastronomic heritage. From buttery croissants to rich cheeses and delicate macarons, the city is a must-visit for food lovers.
Start your day with a classic French breakfast of a flaky croissant and café au lait at a local boulangerie. For lunch, indulge in a croque-monsieur, a grilled ham and cheese sandwich with béchamel sauce, or try a fresh baguette sandwich filled with charcuterie and cheese.
Don’t miss out on traditional dishes like coq au vin, beef bourguignon, and duck confit, which showcase the depth of French cuisine. Seafood lovers should try oysters from Normandy or a plate of moules-frites (mussels with fries). For dessert, savor a slice of tarte tatin, crème brûlée, or a perfectly crafted macaron.
Paris is also famous for its cheese—sample varieties like Brie, Camembert, and Roquefort at a fromagerie. Street food options like crêpes and falafel in the Marais offer quick, tasty bites.
With its blend of fine dining and casual cafés, Paris caters to every palate. Whether you’re dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant or grabbing a sandwich by the Seine, the city’s food scene is unforgettable.
Exploring Paris through its cuisine is not just about eating—it’s about experiencing French culture, tradition, and the art of savoring every bite.
Best Croissants in Paris
When in Paris, tasting a truly perfect croissant is a non-negotiable experience. The ideal Parisian croissant is golden-brown, flaky on the outside, and tender with delicate layers inside—buttery, slightly sweet, and fresh from the oven.
The best ones are made with high-quality butter and real craftsmanship, often baked early each morning. Among the top spots, Du Pain et des Idées in the 10th arrondissement stands out for its award-winning, artisanal croissants with a rich, buttery aroma.
Boulangerie Utopie is another favorite, known for its creative flair and exceptional texture, earning praise from food critics and locals alike.
For a classic yet flawless version, head to Eric Kayser, a respected name in French baking with multiple locations across the city. La Pâtisserie Cyril Lignac also impresses with its perfectly balanced croissants, baked in-house daily.
If you’re near Saint-Germain, Boulangerie Poilâne offers a rustic, sourdough-style croissant that’s uniquely delicious. Avoid chains and supermarkets—opt instead for boulangeries with the “Artisan Boulanger” sign, indicating bread is made on-site.
The best time to enjoy a croissant is mid-morning, paired with a café crème at a sidewalk table. Whether plain or filled with almond paste (a “croissant aux amandes”), this iconic pastry captures the essence of Parisian life.
Don’t leave the city without savoring one of these buttery masterpieces—it’s a simple pleasure that defines the Parisian breakfast experience.
Traditional French Dishes to Eat in Paris
Paris is the heart of French cuisine, where centuries-old recipes are served with elegance and pride. To truly experience the city’s culinary soul, you must try its classic dishes.
Start with coq au vin, a rich stew of chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and herbs—comfort food at its finest.
Equally iconic is boeuf bourguignon, tender beef slow-cooked in red wine, often served with potatoes or buttered noodles. Another must-try is duck confit, where duck legs are preserved in their own fat and then crisped to perfection, offering a deep, savory flavor.
Don’t miss steak frites, a Parisian bistro staple featuring a juicy steak—usually hanger or ribeye—paired with golden, crispy fries.
For seafood lovers, moules-frites (mussels with fries) is a beloved dish, typically steamed in white wine, garlic, and shallots. A lighter option is salade Niçoise, a refreshing mix of tuna, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, olives, and anchovies.
Warm up with soupe à l’oignon (French onion soup), a comforting broth of caramelized onions topped with a toasted baguette and melted Gruyère cheese. Another classic is escargots de Bourgogne, snails cooked in garlic-parsley butter—surprisingly delicious and a true French tradition.
For a taste of Parisian home cooking, try quiche Lorraine, a savory tart with bacon, eggs, and cream, or choucroute garnie, sauerkraut loaded with sausages and pork, popular in Alsatian brasseries.
These dishes are best enjoyed in traditional bistros like Le Comptoir du Relais, Chez Janou, or Bouillon Pigalle, where authenticity meets warm service. Dining on these classics isn’t just a meal—it’s a journey through France’s rich culinary heritage.
Where to Find the Best Macarons in Paris?
- Pierre Hermé
- Ladurée
- Cyril Lignac
- Sadaharu Aoki
- Des Gâteaux et du Pain
- Jacques Genin
- Stohrer
- Popelini
Pierre Hermé
Known as the “Picasso of Pastry,” Hermé offers innovative flavors like Ispahan (rose, lychee, and raspberry) and is widely considered to make the best macarons in Paris. Locations across the city, including St. Germain and Champs-Élysées.
Ladurée
The iconic luxury brand famous for its delicate, pastel-colored macarons and elegant tea salons. Try the classic rose or salted caramel. Flagship store on the Champs-Élysées and multiple locations.
Cyril Lignac
A top chef with a passion for perfection. His macarons are rich, flavorful, and beautifully crafted, with seasonal options like yuzu or honey. Find them in his boutiques across Paris.
Sadaharu Aoki
A Japanese-French patissier offering unique flavor combinations like matcha, yuzu, and black sesame. Perfect for those seeking a delicate, less sweet option.
Des Gâteaux et du Pain
Run by renowned baker Claire Damon, this boutique offers rustic-chic pastries and some of the most balanced, flavorful macarons in the city. Located in the 11th arrondissement.
Jacques Genin
Famous for his chocolates, Genin also makes an exceptional macaron—crisp on the outside, chewy inside, with intense flavors like passionfruit and caramel. A must-visit in the Marais.
Stohrer
Paris’s oldest pastry shop (est. 1730) offers traditional macarons with a historic twist. Great for combining a taste of history with quality.
Popelini
Best known for mini macarons and macaron éclairs, offering fun, bite-sized treats in creative flavors. Ideal for a sweet snack on the go.
Must-Try French Desserts in Paris
Paris is a dream destination for dessert lovers, offering a dazzling array of sweet treats that blend artistry and flavor. No visit is complete without indulging in these classic French desserts.
Start with the legendary crème brûlée—a silky vanilla custard topped with a crisp layer of caramelized sugar, best enjoyed in a traditional bistro like Le Comptoir du Relais. Equally iconic is the tarte tatin, an upside-down caramelized apple tart with flaky pastry, often served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Don’t miss the île flottante (“floating island”), a delicate dessert featuring a poached meringue floating on a sea of crème anglaise, sometimes adorned with caramel threads.
For chocolate lovers, fondant au chocolat—a rich, gooey chocolate cake with a molten center—is a must. Another favorite is the opéra cake, a sophisticated stack of almond sponge, coffee buttercream, and dark chocolate ganache, elegantly layered and often found at patisseries like Dalloyau or Lenôtre.
Of course, no dessert tour of Paris is complete without macarons—those colorful, delicate meringue-based cookies with creamy fillings.
Try them at Ladurée or Pierre Hermé for the ultimate experience. Also sample éclairs, especially the modern versions at L’Éclair de Génie, which come in flavors like passionfruit or pistachio. And for something simple yet satisfying, grab a warm chouquette or a custard-filled chou à la crème from any local boulangerie.
Whether you’re enjoying dessert in a Michelin-starred restaurant or picking up a pastry to eat by the Seine, Paris turns sweets into an art form. Each bite offers a taste of French elegance, tradition, and pure indulgence.
Best Cheap Eats in Paris: Delicious & Budget-Friendly Options
Contrary to popular belief, eating well in Paris doesn’t have to be expensive. The city is full of affordable, high-quality food options that let you enjoy authentic French flavors without breaking the bank.
Start with a classic jambon-beurre—a simple yet delicious baguette sandwich layered with butter and fine ham—available at most local boulangeries for under €5. For something heartier, try a crêpe from a street vendor; go savory with a complète (ham, cheese, and egg) or sweet with Nutella and banana.
Paris is also famous for its falafel in the Marais. L’As du Fallafel draws crowds with its fluffy pita stuffed with crispy falafel, fresh veggies, and tahini sauce—all for around €7.
Another budget-friendly favorite is cheese or charcuterie boards at casual wine bars like Le Baron Rouge, where you can picnic at a nearby market table.
Don’t miss bouillon restaurants, a recent revival of early 20th-century canteens offering traditional French dishes at low prices.
Bouillon Pigalle or Bouillon Chartier serve classics like onion soup, beef bourguignon, and duck confit for €10–12 per dish. Bakeries like Du Pain et des Idées offer incredible pastries, including award-winning viennoiseries, for just a few euros.
For a quick and satisfying meal, explore ethnic food markets or food halls like Marché des Enfants Rouges, where you can sample Moroccan, Vietnamese, and Lebanese dishes starting at €6. Lastly, grab a wine and cheese picnic from a fromagerie and enjoy it by the Seine at sunset.
With a little local know-how, you can eat like a Parisian on a budget—delicious, fresh, and full of flavor.
Top French Cheeses to Try in Paris
Paris is a paradise for cheese lovers, with over 1,000 varieties of French cheese available in its bustling markets, specialty fromageries, and bistro cheese boards.
No visit to the city is complete without sampling some of France’s most iconic cheeses. Start with Brie de Meaux, a creamy, bloomy-rind cheese from Île-de-France with a rich, earthy flavor—often called the “king of cheeses.”
Equally famous is Camembert de Normandie, a soft, buttery cheese with a deeper, mushroomy taste when fully ripe.For a sharp contrast, try Roquefort, a bold blue cheese made from sheep’s milk and aged in natural caves. Its tangy, salty flavor is unforgettable.
Comté, a firm, nutty cheese from the Jura mountains, pairs perfectly with wine and is a favorite for cheese platters. Don’t miss Reblochon, essential for making tartiflette, a hearty Alpine dish—it’s smooth, slightly fruity, and wonderfully melty.
Other must-tries include Chèvre (goat cheese), which comes in many forms—from fresh and tangy to aged and crumbly—often enjoyed with a baguette and honey.
Munster offers a pungent aroma and strong flavor, beloved by adventurous eaters. For something unique, sample Époisses, a washed-rind cheese from Burgundy with a sticky orange rind and intensely savory profile.
Visit renowned fromageries like La Fromagerie Laurent Dubois, Androuët, or Fromagerie Quatrehomme at Marché d’Aligre for expert guidance and fresh selections.
Many shops offer tastings, so don’t hesitate to ask. Pair your cheese with a baguette, a glass of red wine or cider, and perhaps a ripe pear. In Paris, cheese isn’t just food—it’s a cherished part of daily life and culinary tradition.
Best Places for Authentic French Onion Soup in Paris
- Au Pied de Cochon
- Le Comptoir du Relais
- Bouillon Pigalle
- L’Escargot Montorgueil
- Le Petit Pontoise
- Chez Janou
- Le Procope
- Brasserie Lipp
Au Pied de Cochon
Open 24/7 in the heart of Paris, this legendary brasserie serves a rich, deeply flavorful onion soup with a generous layer of melted Gruyère on toasted bread—perfect after a late night out.
Le Comptoir du Relais
A classic Parisian bistro where chef Yves Camdeborde elevates traditional dishes. Their onion soup is savory, slow-cooked to perfection, and full of caramelized depth.
Bouillon Pigalle
This modern take on a historic canteen offers an affordable and authentic version of soupe à l’oignon, packed with onions and topped with a bubbling cheese crust—great value and big flavor.
L’Escargot Montorgueil
One of Paris’s oldest restaurants, serving a refined yet traditional onion soup with a delicate broth and high-quality beef stock.
Chez Janou
Known for its Provençal flair, this cozy spot offers a hearty, comforting version of the soup, ideal with a glass of red wine.
Le Petit Pontoise
A hidden gem with a rustic menu. Their onion soup is rich, golden, and generously gratinéed—ideal for a chilly Parisian day.
Le Procope
Claiming to be the oldest café in Paris, it serves a classic, elegant onion soup in a historic setting, made with slow-simmered broth and caramelized onions.
Brasserie Lipp
A traditional Alsatian brasserie famous for its choucroute, but their onion soup is equally impressive—deep, savory, and authentically Parisian.
Parisian Breakfast Guide: What & Where to Eat Like a Local
To eat breakfast like a true Parisian, forget full English spreads or giant pancakes—Parisian mornings are simple, elegant, and centered around fresh bread, butter, and coffee.
Locals typically start the day with a café au lait (coffee with steamed milk) served in a large bowl-like cup and a flaky croissant or a pain au chocolat from a neighborhood boulangerie. These pastries are golden, buttery, and best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.
For a more filling option, try a tartine—a thick slice of fresh baguette or country bread generously spread with high-quality butter and homemade jam.
Some Parisians add a soft-boiled egg or a slice of cheese for extra sustenance. You’ll rarely see cereal or yogurt in traditional cafés, but you might find them in hotel breakfasts or more international spots.
To experience an authentic Parisian breakfast, skip the tourist-heavy cafés on the Champs-Élysées and head to local favorites. Du Pain et des Idées in the 10th arrondissement is legendary for its artisanal pastries and welcoming vibe.
Boulangerie Utopie (11th) impresses with creative, perfectly baked croissants. In Saint-Germain, Eric Kayser offers a classic French experience with excellent coffee and bread.
Many locals grab their pastry to go and enjoy it with coffee at a quiet park bench or by the Seine. Others linger at a sidewalk table, reading the paper or chatting with friends. The pace is relaxed, not rushed.
For a fuller morning meal, some traditional brasseries serve light breakfast plates with ham, cheese, and bread. But the true Parisian way? A warm croissant, a strong coffee, and savoring the moment—one bite at a time.
Conclusion
Paris is truly a food lover’s paradise, offering an incredible array of flavors that cater to every palate and budget. From the flaky, buttery layers of the Best Croissants in Paris at legendary bakeries to the rich, comforting flavors of Traditional French Dishes like boeuf bourguignon, the city’s culinary scene never fails to impress.
Whether you’re indulging in delicate macarons from the Best Macarons in Paris or treating yourself to Must-Try French Desserts like crème brûlée and éclairs, every bite tells a story of French craftsmanship and passion.
For travelers watching their budget, the Best Cheap Eats in Paris prove that delicious food doesn’t have to be expensive—whether it’s a crispy falafel in Le Marais or a warm, cheesy crêpe from a street vendor.
Cheese enthusiasts will delight in exploring the Top French Cheeses to Try in Paris, best paired with a fresh baguette and a glass of wine. And let’s not forget the soul-warming Authentic French Onion Soup, a must-have at classic Parisian bistros.
To truly eat like a Parisian, follow our Parisian Breakfast Guide and start your day with café au lait and a perfectly baked viennoiserie. Whether you’re dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a charming neighborhood café, every meal in Paris is an experience to savor.
So pack your appetite and wander the streets of Paris—each corner holds a new culinary adventure waiting to be discovered. After all, in the City of Light, every meal is a celebration of flavor, tradition, and joie de vivre. Bon appétit!
frequently asked questions
1. What are the must-try foods in Paris?
Paris offers iconic eats like buttery croissants, crusty baguettes, steak frites, and escargot. Don’t miss macarons, crème brûlée, or cheese plates. For authentic experiences, try onion soup, duck confit, and boeuf bourguignon.
Street crepes and falafel in Le Marais are perfect for quick bites. End with café au lait at a sidewalk bistro for the full Parisian food experience.
2. Where can I find the best croissants in Paris?
Top spots include Du Pain et des Idées (buttery, flaky perfection), Blé Sucré (award-winning), and La Maison d’Isabelle (2018 best croissant winner).
For classic versions, try Boulangerie Utopie or Cyril Lignac’s bakeries. Avoid touristy areas – locals know the best croissants come from neighborhood boulangeries with long morning queues. The perfect croissant should be golden, crisp outside, and airy inside.
3. What traditional French dishes should I eat in Paris?
Essential dishes include boeuf bourguignon (beef stew), coq au vin (chicken in wine), and duck confit. Try steak tartare if adventurous, or classic steak frites.
For lunch, croque monsieur (toasted ham-cheese sandwich) is perfect. Don’t miss seafood like moules marinières (mussels) or seasonal dishes. These classics are best enjoyed in traditional brasseries like Chez Denise or Le Comptoir du Relais.
4. Which bakery has the best macarons in Paris?
Ladurée (inventors of the macaron) and Pierre Hermé (innovative flavors) are most famous. For alternatives, try Carette (perfect texture) or Sadaharu Aoki (Japanese-French fusion).
Avoid buying near tourist sites – quality varies. The best macarons have crisp shells, chewy interiors, and balanced flavors. Seasonal specials (like Hermé’s rose-lychee) are worth trying. Expect to pay €2-3 per piece at top shops.
5. What are the best French desserts to try in Paris?
- Crème brûlée (caramelized custard)
- Tarte tatin (upside-down apple pie)
- Profiteroles (cream puffs with chocolate)
- Mille-feuille (layered pastry)
- Éclairs (choux pastry with cream)
- Paris-Brest (hazelnut praline wheel)
6. Where can I eat cheap but delicious food in Paris?
- L’As du Fallafel (Marais falafel)
- Chez la Vieille (classic bistro)
- Bouillon Pigalle (modern cafeteria)
- Crêperies (try Breizh Café)
- Marché des Enfants Rouges market
- Baguette sandwiches from any boulangerie
- Ethnic eats in Belleville
7. What French cheeses should I try in Paris?
- Brie de Meaux (creamy)
- Roquefort (blue cheese)
- Comté (nutty, aged)
- Chèvre (goat cheese)
- Camembert (soft, pungent)
8. Where can I get authentic French onion soup in Paris?
- Au Pied de Cochon (Les Halles)
- Bistrot des Vosges (Marais)
- Chez Janou (Southern French style)
- Le Petit Vendôme (classic)
Look for rich beef broth, caramelized onions, and proper melted gruyère crust. Served year-round but perfect in colder months. Avoid tourist traps with bland, pre-made versions.
9. What do locals eat for breakfast in Paris?
- Café au lait or espresso
- Tartine (baguette with butter/jam)
- Croissant or pain au chocolat
- Sometimes yogurt or fruit
10. Is street food popular in Paris?
- Crêpes (sweet or savory)
- Falafel (especially in Le Marais)
- Baguette sandwiches (jambon-beurre)
- Roast chicken with potatoes
- Chestnuts (in winter)