From velvety red wines to richly sauced specialties, Bordeaux is a feast for the senses. While this southwest French city is most famously known for its world-class vineyards, the culinary scene here is just as compelling. Whether you’re wandering through local markets or dining in a centuries-old brasserie, Bordeaux offers plenty of ways to satisfy your appetite.
From decadent canelés to savory duck confit, knowing what to eat in Bordeaux is the first step to experiencing the region like a local. This city’s culinary landscape blends tradition with bold, regional flair—serving up fresh oysters from nearby Arcachon Bay, creamy cheeses from the countryside and hearty classics like entrecôte à la Bordelaise. Whether you’re strolling through a farmers’ market or dining riverside, every bite tells a story of southwestern France.
1. Canelés
These small, caramelized pastries are the pride of Bordeaux. With a crisp, dark shell and a tender, custardy center, canelés are made from a rich batter of eggs, milk, flour, vanilla and rum, baked in fluted copper molds. They’re the perfect bite-sized treat to pair with coffee or a glass of sweet Sauternes wine. You’ll find canelés in nearly every bakery in the city, from upscale patisseries to tiny corner shops.
2. Entrecôte à la Bordelaise
This is Bordeaux’s signature steak dish and it’s one you’ll want to savor. Entrecôte à la Bordelaise features a tender rib steak served in a silky red wine and shallot sauce, often with marrow and bone for added richness. The sauce is made using Bordeaux wine, giving it a local twist that pairs beautifully with a full-bodied red from nearby vineyards. It’s hearty, indulgent and deeply flavorful—French comfort food at its finest.
3. Oysters from Arcachon Bay
Located just an hour from Bordeaux, Arcachon Bay is one of France’s top oyster-producing regions. These oysters are prized for their briny, mineral-rich flavor and they’re often enjoyed raw with lemon or a splash of mignonette sauce. Head to one of the city’s lively markets, like Marché des Capucins, for a tray of freshly shucked oysters and a glass of crisp white wine for the ultimate local experience.
4. Foie Gras
Foie gras is a luxurious staple of southwestern French cuisine and Bordeaux is no exception. This rich, buttery duck or goose liver pâté is often served as a starter with toast points and a fruit compote or fig jam. You’ll also find it in more creative preparations—layered into terrines, pan-seared with wine reductions or even used to fill flaky pastries. It’s decadent, yes—but also undeniably delicious.
5. Duck Confit
Slow-cooked to perfection, duck confit is another dish deeply rooted in Bordeaux’s culinary heritage. The duck leg is salted, cooked in its own fat until meltingly tender and then crisped up before serving. Often paired with garlicky potatoes or white beans, this dish showcases rustic French cooking at its best. You’ll find duck confit everywhere from countryside bistros to upscale restaurants throughout the city.
6. Magret de Canard
While duck confit uses the leg, magret de canard features the breast of the duck, typically seared and served medium rare with a wine reduction sauce or fruity glaze. The meat is rich and slightly gamey, with a crispy, flavorful skin. Served with seasonal vegetables or a potato purée, this dish is a refined twist on the region’s love for duck.
7. Lamproie à la Bordelaise
This traditional dish may be more adventurous, but it’s deeply tied to the region. Lamproie, or lamprey eel, is slowly braised in a red wine sauce with leeks, shallots and cured pork. Though not for every palate, it’s a historic specialty often enjoyed during seasonal festivals or in restaurants proud of their local roots. For those seeking an authentic taste of Bordeaux, it’s worth trying at least once.
8. Fromage de Chèvre and Tomme de Brebis
No French food guide would be complete without cheese and Bordeaux delivers. Goat cheese (fromage de chèvre) and sheep’s milk tomme de brebis are among the most popular varieties in the region. These cheeses are often served simply—with a slice of bread and a drizzle of honey—or included on elaborate cheese boards in wine bars and restaurants. Don’t leave without sampling a few at a local market.
9. Puits d’Amour
Translating to “wells of love,” this delightful pastry originated just north of Bordeaux and is made with puff pastry, custard and a caramelized sugar topping. It’s delicate, indulgent and perfect with an espresso after a rich meal. While not as widely known as other French desserts, it’s a beloved regional treat that locals adore.
10. Magret de Canard (Duck Breast)
A favorite in southwestern France, magret de canard is duck breast typically served medium-rare with a crisped skin and rich, juicy interior. It’s often paired with seasonal vegetables, a red wine reduction or sweet fruit-based sauces like fig or cherry. This dish highlights Bordeaux’s love of refined yet hearty cuisine, often appearing on brasserie menus across the city. If you're looking to experience the region's depth of flavor beyond seafood, this is an indulgent alternative rooted in local culinary tradition.
Bordeaux Food Excursions to Explore
If you're hoping to pair your sightseeing with delicious local flavor, Bordeaux’s culinary excursions offer the perfect combination. From casual tastings to immersive market visits, here’s one to check out:
- Bordeaux On Your Own
- This self-guided experience lets you explore the city’s culinary scene at your own pace. Stroll through Bordeaux’s elegant boulevards, stop by the vibrant Marché des Capucins for fresh oysters or pastries or settle into a local café for a glass of Bordeaux wine and a regional cheese plate. It’s the perfect way to soak in the flavors and atmosphere of this iconic French destination.
What to Eat in Bordeaux
Wondering what to eat in Bordeaux? Start with regional favorites like canelés, entrecôte à la Bordelaise, Arcachon oysters, foie gras, duck confit, magret de canard, lamproie à la Bordelaise and artisan cheeses. Add in a few sweet pastries and some of the world’s finest wines and you’ll quickly understand why this city is a favorite for food lovers. Whether you’re tasting your way through a local market or sitting down to a multi-course meal, Bordeaux serves up unforgettable flavors at every turn.
Want to dive deeper into this flavorful region? Learn what Bordeaux is known for and find out the best time to visit to plan your perfect getaway.
Keep Exploring Bordeaux, France
Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Bordeaux, France Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Bordeaux with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What is Bordeaux, France Known For? - Learn more about the city's architecture, charm, food markets and medieval towns.
- When is the Best Time to Visit Bordeaux? - Plan the best time for your perfect getaway.
- What to Buy in Bordeaux - Discover the best souvenirs, from iconic bottles to handcrafted treasures.
