Paris isn’t just the City of Light — it’s a city of flavor, where every buttery croissant, melt-in-your-mouth cheese and perfectly sauced dish tells a story. Whether you're people-watching at a corner café or sitting down to an elegant multi-course meal, the best foods in Paris elevate everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.
If you’re wondering what to eat in Paris during your visit, this guide walks you through 12 iconic dishes that showcase the heart and soul of French cuisine. From delicate pastries to bistro favorites, every bite is a chance to experience the city’s culinary legacy.
1. Croissants and Viennoiseries
Start your Parisian mornings the local way — at a boulangerie. The humble croissant is a buttery, flaky staple made fresh each day. Beyond croissants, try a pain au chocolat (chocolate-filled), chausson aux pommes (apple turnover) or pain aux raisins (raisin swirl). They’re best enjoyed warm with a café crème in hand.
2. Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)
A bistro favorite, duck confit is a slow-cooked duck leg that’s been cured in salt and gently cooked in its own fat until irresistibly tender and crispy. It’s usually served with roasted potatoes or lentils and offers deep, savory flavors that showcase traditional French comfort food at its finest.
3. French Onion Soup (Soupe à l’Oignon)
Comforting and deeply flavorful, this iconic soup layers caramelized onions in rich beef broth, topped with toasted baguette slices and bubbling melted cheese — usually Gruyère or Comté. It’s a classic dish often enjoyed in cozy cafés, especially in the colder months.
4. Macarons
These colorful almond meringue confections are a quintessential Parisian treat. Light, crisp shells sandwich creamy ganache or jam in flavors ranging from pistachio and rose to salted caramel and dark chocolate. For the most famous versions, visit legendary patisseries like Ladurée or Pierre Hermé.
5. Steak Frites
Few dishes are more beloved in French brasseries than steak frites. This simple yet satisfying meal features a perfectly seared steak (often entrecôte or ribeye) served with golden, crispy fries and your choice of sauce — like béarnaise, peppercorn or herb butter. It's a must for any Paris first-timer.
6. Crêpes
Whether sweet or savory, crêpes are an essential part of what to eat in Paris. Street vendors serve them hot and folded with fillings like Nutella, strawberries, ham or cheese. For a sit-down experience, visit a crêperie and try a galette — a heartier, buckwheat version filled with savory ingredients.
7. Escargots de Bourgogne
For the adventurous eater, escargots (snails) are a must-try. Typically prepared with garlic, parsley and butter, these delicacies are served sizzling hot in their shells. Don’t let the idea deter you — the flavor is rich and garlicky, with a tender texture that pairs well with crusty bread and white wine.
8. Quiche Lorraine
Originally from northeastern France, quiche Lorraine has become a staple in Parisian cafés. This savory tart is made with eggs, cream, bacon (lardons) and cheese, all baked in a buttery crust. It’s perfect for a light lunch or midday snack between sightseeing adventures.
9. Baguette with Fromage
There’s something magical about a freshly baked baguette paired with artisanal French cheese. Whether you opt for creamy Brie, pungent Roquefort, nutty Comté or tangy goat cheese, this combo is a favorite among locals. Pick some up from a market or fromagerie and enjoy a picnic by the Seine.
10. Coq au Vin
A traditional dish that dates back centuries, coq au vin is a rich chicken stew braised in red wine with mushrooms, onions and herbs. It's the kind of hearty, slow-cooked comfort food that warms you from the inside out — especially when served with a glass of Burgundy.
11. Tarte Tatin
This upside-down caramelized apple tart is a rustic French dessert that’s both elegant and indulgent. The apples are slowly cooked in butter and sugar, topped with pastry and then flipped to reveal golden, glossy perfection. Often served warm with a dollop of crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream.
12. Éclairs
Another patisserie staple, éclairs are choux pastries filled with cream and glazed with chocolate, coffee or fruit icing. They’re crisp on the outside, creamy on the inside and beautifully presented. Perfect for a sweet pick-me-up as you explore the city’s arrondissements.
Parisian Food Excursions Worth Savoring
You don’t have to be a fine dining expert to enjoy the best foods in Paris — but joining a curated food excursion can elevate the experience. If you're arriving in the city via cruise or day trip, these culinary excursions offer a taste of Parisian flavor paired with unforgettable sightseeing:
- Paris Sightseeing with Lunch
- See the highlights of Paris from the comfort of a narrated motorcoach ride, with a stop for a contemporary French lunch at Bistro Parisien. Overlooking the Seine and Eiffel Tower, this experience lets you take in iconic views while enjoying elevated cuisine — think seasonal produce, creative plating and Parisian flair.
- Paris Sightseeing with Lunch Cruise
- Board a glass-covered riverboat for a relaxed lunch while cruising past landmarks like Notre-Dame and the Conciergerie. Before the cruise, enjoy a scenic drive along the Champs-Élysées. It’s a unique way to pair sightseeing with classic French dining — all while floating through the heart of the city.
These tours offer more than just a meal — they’re full cultural experiences that let you see, taste and feel the magic of Paris all at once.
What Foods is Paris Famous For?
The best foods in Paris are buttery croissants, rich sauces, perfectly aged cheeses and world-class pastries. If you want to eat like a local, start your day with a flaky croissant, savor steak frites or duck confit for lunch and finish with a sweet tarte Tatin or a box of delicate macarons. Other classics that Paris is known for include escargots, French onion soup and crusty baguettes paired with artisan cheese. These dishes capture the elegance, comfort and time-honored techniques that define French cuisine. Whether you’re dining in a charming café or indulging on a river cruise, the flavors of Paris are unforgettable.
Keep Exploring Paris, France
Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Paris, France Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Paris with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What is Paris, France Known For? - Learn more about the city's romantic atmosphere, world-class museums and iconic landmarks.
- When is the Best Time to Visit Paris? - Plan the best time for your perfect getaway.
- What to Buy When Shopping in Paris - Discover the best souvenirs, from designer finds to small mementos.
