Thatch Editor’s List: 5 Must-Try French Foods and Best Restaurants (2024)
Discover the top 5 French foods to try in Paris and where to find them, from flaky croissants to iconic steak frites. With expert insights from Thatch, explore the City of Light's culinary scene, uncovering both hidden gems and famous eateries. Bon appétit!
Liv Coning
Marketing Lead
Aug 29 2024
Thatch Editor’s List: 5 Must-Try French Foods and Best Restaurants (2024)
Paris, the culinary capital of the world, offers an array of delectable dishes that are a must-try for any food enthusiast. Here are the top 5 French foods to savor in the City of Light, along with the best places to indulge in these gastronomic delights.
By leveraging Thatch's expert-curated guides and itineraries, you can reduce planning time and stress, discover authentic hidden gems beloved by locals, and create a personalized experience that aligns with your specific tastes and preferences. Start planning your gastronomic tour of Paris with Thatch today to make the most of your time in the City of Light and dive into the top 5 French foods you must try during your visit.
Croissants
The croissant, an iconic French pastry with Austrian origins, has a rich history dating back to 13th century Austria, where a crescent-shaped pastry called "kipferl" was popular. The modern croissant is believed to have been introduced to France in the mid-19th century by August Zang, an Austrian baker who opened a Viennese bakery in Paris in 1839. Zang introduced the French to the kipferl and the steam oven, which allowed for the creation of the flaky, layered texture we associate with croissants today. Over time, French bakers adapted and refined the recipe, creating the distinctively French croissant.
Renowned for its flaky, buttery texture achieved through a complex lamination process, the croissant's distinctive crescent shape ensures even baking and maximizes crispy edges. By the early 20th century, it had become a staple of French bakeries and cafés. Versatile and culturally significant, croissants are a beloved staple in French daily life and have gained worldwide popularity as a breakfast treat.
Where to Try:
Du Pain et des Idées
Du Pain et des Idées
Arrondissement: 10th
Price: €
Founded in 2002 by Christophe Vasseur, this bakery quickly became famous for its traditional baking methods and high-quality ingredients. Du Pain et des Idées is particularly renowned for its pain des amis, a rustic sourdough bread, and its escargot pastry, a spiral-shaped treat filled with pistachio and chocolate. The bakery's commitment to artisanal techniques and seasonal ingredients has earned it a loyal following among locals and tourists alike. Its charming 19th-century setting, complete with original mirrors and painted ceilings, adds to the authentic Parisian experience.
Du Pain et des Idées
18 reviews
•
29 mentions
Arrondissement: 10th Price: € Founded in 2002 by Christophe Vasseur, this bakery quickly became famous for its traditional baking methods and high-quality ingredients.
La Maison d'Isabelle
La Maison d'Isabelle
Arrondissement: 5th
Price: €
Winner of the "Best Croissant in Paris" award in 2018, La Maison d'Isabelle is a true pastry paradise. This bakery's commitment to using organic, locally-sourced ingredients results in viennoiseries that are nothing short of heavenly. The flaky, buttery layers of their croissants will make even the most discerning pastry connoisseur swoon.
La Maison d’Isabelle
9 reviews
•
29 mentions
Get the inside scoop on La Maison from local experts, travel creators, and tastemakers. Browse genuine trip notes, La Maison reviews, photos, travel guides, and itineraries from real travelers and plan your trip with confidence.
Boulangerie Utopie
Boulangerie Utopie
Arrondissement: 11th
Price: €
Established in 2016 by Erwan Blanche and Sébastien Bruno, Boulangerie Utopie has quickly become one of Paris's most innovative and beloved bakeries. Known for their creative approach to traditional French baking, they offer a range of unique and colorful pastries alongside classic favorites. Their croissants are particularly praised for their perfect balance of flakiness and butteriness.
Steak Frites
Steak frites, a quintessential French bistro dish, pairs a juicy steak with crispy fries. Originating in mid-20th century France and Belgium, it embodies French culinary simplicity. Its uniqueness lies in its consistency across restaurants, often served as the sole main course with a signature sauce. The perfectly double-fried 'frites' complement the simply seasoned steak.
Where to Try
Le Relais de l'Entrecôte
Le Relais de l'Entrecôte
Arrondissement: 6th
Price: €€
Established in 1959, Le Relais de l'Entrecôte is renowned for its single-dish concept: entrecôte steak with secret sauce and unlimited fries. This unique approach revolutionized Parisian dining, focusing on perfecting one dish. The restaurant's enduring popularity and expansion, including international branches, showcase the timeless appeal of well-executed simplicity in French cuisine.
Bistrot Paul Bert
Bistrot Paul Bert
Arrondissement: 11th
Price: €€
Opened in 2000, Bistrot Paul Bert has become a beloved institution in Paris's 11th arrondissement. Known for blending traditional French cuisine with modern flair, it attracts both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Parisian dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to seasonal ingredients and classic recipes has made it a standard-bearer for French bistro culture, earning critical acclaim and cementing its status as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts in Paris.
Bouillon Chartier
Bouillon Chartier
Arrondissement: 9th
Price: €
Founded in 1896, Bouillon Chartier is a historic Parisian restaurant offering classic French cuisine, including excellent steak frites, in a stunning Belle Époque setting. Known for its affordable prices, authentic atmosphere, and efficient service, Bouillon Chartier remains a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking a genuine taste of traditional Paris.
Escargots
Escargots have a rich history in French cuisine dating back to Roman times. They gained popularity in the 19th century and became a symbol of French gastronomy. Traditionally gathered from vineyards, escargots are now primarily farmed. Their significance lies not just in their unique taste, but also in their cultural importance as a representation of French culinary heritage. The preparation method, typically involving garlic, butter, and parsley, has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Where to Try
Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond
Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond
Arrondissement: 1st
Price: €€
Founded in 1832, Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond is a historic Parisian restaurant offering traditional French cuisine, including delicious escargots. Its charming Belle Époque decor and affordable prices attract both locals and tourists seeking an authentic dining experience. The restaurant's longevity and commitment to classic French dishes have made it a significant part of Paris's culinary landscape.
Macarons
Macarons have a rich history dating back to the 16th century, with roots in both Italy and France. However, the modern macaron as we know it today was popularized in the early 20th century by Pierre Desfontaines of the famous Parisian patisserie Ladurée. These delicate confections gained cultural significance as symbols of French culinary artistry and luxury. Their vibrant colors, diverse flavors, and precise craftsmanship have made them not just a beloved treat, but also a representation of French gastronomic excellence.
Where to Try
Pierre Hermé
Pierre Hermé
Arrondissement: Multiple locations, original in the 15th
Price: €€
Founded in 1997 by Pierre Hermé, nicknamed the "Picasso of Pastry," this patisserie revolutionized macarons with innovative flavors. Hermé's unconventional combinations and precision techniques elevated the macaron to gourmet status, inspiring a new generation of pastry chefs and reinforcing Paris's culinary reputation globally.
Ladurée
Ladurée
Arrondissement: Multiple locations, original in the 8th
Price: €€
Founded in 1862, Ladurée revolutionized the macaron in the early 20th century by creating the double-decker style. This innovation, coupled with their luxurious presentation, elevated the macaron to a symbol of Parisian elegance. Today, Ladurée remains a global icon, significantly influencing French pastry trends and standards worldwide.
Carette
Carette
Arrondissement: 4th and 16th
Price: €€
Established in 1927, Carette is a renowned Parisian tea room celebrated for its exquisite pastries, particularly its macarons. With its Belle Époque-inspired decor and prime locations, Carette embodies Parisian refinement and has become a significant part of the city's culinary heritage. Family-owned for nearly a century, it maintains traditional techniques while adapting to modern tastes, cementing its status as a must-visit destination for pastry enthusiasts.
Crêpes
Crêpes, thin pancakes originating from 13th-century Brittany, are a beloved French staple. Initially made with buckwheat flour, they evolved into both sweet (crêpes sucrées) and savory (galettes) varieties. Crêpes hold cultural significance, particularly during Candlemas celebrations. Their versatility and widespread popularity have made them an international ambassador of French cuisine, reflecting the country's culinary heritage and adaptability.
Where to Try
Breizh Café
Breizh Café
Arrondissement: 3rd (Marais)
Price: €€
Opened in 2007 by Bertrand Larcher, a native of Brittany, Breizh Café has become a go-to spot for authentic Breton crêpes in Paris. The café's significance lies in its role in elevating the humble crêpe to gourmet status, introducing Parisians to high-quality, organic ingredients sourced directly from Brittany. Known for using buckwheat flour imported from Brittany and featuring both traditional and innovative flavor combinations, Breizh Café has played a crucial part in preserving and promoting Breton culinary heritage in the capital.
Culture Crêpes
Culture Crêpes
Arrondissement: 5th (Latin Quarter)
Price: €
Culture Crêpes offers a modern twist on traditional Breton crêpes. Established in 2015, this trendy spot has quickly become popular among locals and tourists alike. Their menu features both classic and innovative flavors, using high-quality ingredients sourced from local producers. The contemporary decor and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal place to enjoy both sweet and savory crêpes in the heart of Paris.
Crêperie Gigi
Crêperie Gigi
Arrondissement: 6th (Saint-Germain-des-Prés)
Price: €
Crêperie Gigi, a family-owned establishment opened in 2015 in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, has quickly become a local favorite. Founded by Breton native Gigi Delarue, it's known for preserving authentic Breton crêpe culture in Paris. The restaurant stands out for its traditional methods, warm atmosphere, and commitment to sustainability, sourcing high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients primarily from Brittany and Île-de-France producers.
Popular Non-French Cuisine in Paris
While Paris is renowned for its French cuisine, the city's culinary scene has evolved to embrace diverse international flavors. The history of non-French cuisines in Paris reflects the city's cosmopolitan nature and changing demographics.
Japanese cuisine gained popularity in the 1960s with increased Japanese immigration. Middle Eastern cuisine, introduced by immigrants in the mid-20th century, has become integral to Paris's food scene. Italian cuisine, popular since the early 20th century, saw a boost post-World War II. These international cuisines have enriched Paris's gastronomic landscape, contributing to its reputation as a global culinary capital where traditional French cuisine coexists with a wide array of international flavors.
1. Japanese Cuisine
1. Japanese Cuisine
Japanese food has gained immense popularity in Paris, reflecting the city's appreciation for refined and artistic culinary traditions.
Where to Try: Kodawari Ramen
Where to Try: Kodawari Ramen
Arrondissement: 6th
Price: €€
Opened in 2016, Kodawari Ramen has become a significant player in Paris's Japanese culinary scene. By meticulously recreating a Tokyo alley atmosphere, it offers an immersive dining experience that has captivated Parisians.
2. Middle Eastern Cuisine
2. Middle Eastern Cuisine
The influx of Middle Eastern immigrants has enriched Paris's food scene with flavorful dishes from Lebanon, Israel, and other countries in the region.
Where to Try: L'As du Fallafel
Where to Try: L'As du Fallafel
Arrondissement: 4th (Marais)
Price: €
L'As du Fallafel, established in 1979, is renowned for its exceptional falafel sandwiches. This iconic eatery has significantly contributed to popularizing Middle Eastern cuisine in Paris, enriching the city's culinary diversity.
3. Italian Cuisine
3. Italian Cuisine
Italian food has long been popular in Paris, with numerous restaurants offering everything from authentic Neapolitan pizza to homemade pasta.
Where to Try: Pink Mamma
Where to Try: Pink Mamma
Arrondissement: 9th
Price: €€
Part of the Big Mamma Group, Pink Mamma has become a Parisian hotspot for Italian cuisine. Known for its stunning four-story space with a rooftop greenhouse, it offers high-quality, authentic Italian dishes made with carefully sourced ingredients.
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I’ve been lucky enough to visit Paris on 9 separate occasions so far and these are by far the most memorable places I’ve been to eat!
I know that deciding on where to eat also depends on where you'll be that day, so make sure to refer back to the map to get an idea of where each of these different food places are located!
I try to add to this guide every time I have another memorable meal in Paris - so be sure to give it a save for the updates! ✨
Foodie
Private
This guide is a foodie's dream. It's full of quick, flavorful foods around Paris and where to get them. Quick picks, grab-and-go, and quick sit-down spots.
You'll find French classics, international cuisine, vegetarian and gluten-free options, along with some epic reinvented treats located all around Paris.
Foodie
$10.00
4.6
(97)
Paris is a major global city, meaning incredible food from under-represented cuisines is at your fingertips. I have made a point to try restaurants from under-represented cuisines, and these ones are SO GOOD!
It's not hard to find incredible French restaurants, authentic Italian restaurants, and even a plethora of mouth-watering Asian restaurants.
However... this guide is different. I created this to help open your eyes to some of the other wonderful types of food you can savor here, and to shine a light on eateries/food cultures that don't always get as much hype as they deserve.
If you're looking for something off-the-beaten-path (or if you're tired of French food), you'll enjoy this guide.
This guide includes:
✅ 13 places I've tried & loved, including cuisine from Senegal, Israel, Singapore, Georgia, Kurdistan, Africa, Ethiopia, Tunisia, India, and Lebanon.
🇸🇳🇮🇱🇸🇬🇬🇪🌍🇪🇹🇹🇳🇮🇳🇱🇧🇩🇿
🇺🇸🍗 BONUS: An excellent fried chicken joint at a US soul food restaurant.
🤤 4 places I want to try next, including cuisine from Taiwan, Tunisia, and Armenia.
🇹🇼🇹🇳🇦🇲
You also get:
✍️ My personal notes for each recommendation
📍 An interactive map of all recommendations
🔓 Access to all future updates when you SAVE this guide
🎞️ Linked videos (where applicable) that bring recommendations and advice to life
🍴 This guide is FREE. I’d be so grateful if you shared this guide with a friend or contributed a small tip. 🙏🏼
Foodie
Free
Paris is one of the great foodie destinations of the world, but unfortunately is home to a lot of eateries that are not worth your time. With this guide, you don't have to ever worry about having a bad meal in the French capital again. I have everything from bistrots and brasseries, a few tasting menus, bakeries, crêpes and coffee.
With each place I have some details on the story behind it, along with some of my recommendations of what to order there.
For the restaurants, try booking as far in advance as you can to make sure you can get a table there, as some of these places are quite popular and can be difficult to book.
I hope this guide serves you well on your Paris food adventures!
Coffee • Foodie • Wine
$10.00
5.0
(1)
**
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