Paris is known for being a glamorous and romantic city, but it’s also one of the best places in the world for food lovers. From fresh-baked bread and mouth-watering pastries to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something for everyone in the City of Light.
To help you make the most of your trip, I’ve put together a list of 8 delicious foods you must eat in Paris. From traditional French dishes to local specialties, these are the eats you won’t want to miss on your next visit to the City of Love!
1. French onion soup
You can’t visit Paris and not try French onion soup. This warm and comforting dish is traditionally made with beef stock, caramelised onions, and topped with croutons and melted cheese. It’s the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter’s day. The caramelized onions add a sweetness that balances out the salty beef stock, making for a flavourful and memorable experience.
2. Pain au chocolat & Croissants
If there’s one thing Parisians know how to do, it’s bake delicious pastries. Pain au chocolat and croissants are two of the most popular pastries in the city, and there are plenty of places to sample some of the best. For the best pain au chocolat, head to Eric Kayser in the 6th Arrondissement. This artisan bakery bakes all its pastries with natural leavening and local European-style butter for a deliciously flaky texture and unforgettable flavour. Meanwhile, if you’re in the mood for a delicious croissant, the folks at La Maison du Croissant have you covered. Located in the 8th Arrondissement, they churn out flaky, buttery croissants all day long. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sample these Parisian staples!
3. Steak Frites
If you’re looking for a hearty meal in Paris, look no further than steak frites. This classic French dish is exactly what it sounds like—steak served with a side of French fries. The key to a great steak frites dish is the steak itself—you want a good quality cut of beef cooked to perfection. For an unforgettable steak frites experience, head to Le Relais de l’Entrecote – where you’ll be served up a set menu of salad with baguette, followed by two servings of steak and fries with the delicious secret sauce.
4. Foie Gras
Foie gras (or duck or goose liver pâté) is a popular dish in France, but it’s especially beloved in Paris. This rich and creamy pâté is made with fresh duck or goose liver, butter, and spices. It’s usually served on toast, and it’s one of the most indulgent dishes you’ll find in the city. This specailty is best shared and enjoyed with a glass of bubbles.
5. Éclairs
Éclairs are a classic French pastry made with choux pastry, a sweet pastry dough. It’s then filled with pastry cream and topped off with either a chocolate or a caramel glaze. The sweetness of the pastry cream is a nice balance to the slight bitterness of the chocolate or caramel topping, making this an unforgettable dessert.
6. Macarons
Macarons are one of the most beloved desserts in Paris. This delicacy is made with finely ground almond flour, sugar, and eggs and is then filled with buttercream or ganache. You can find these little gems all over the city
7. Steak Tartar
If you’re looking for an unusual but delicious dish in Paris, try steak tartar. This dish is made with fresh raw ground beef and is often served with a raw egg yolk, capers, onions, and herbs. For the best steak tartar in the city, head to La Liste in the 1st Arrondissement. Their steak tartar is second to none—the lean beef is mixed with tangy capers and served with a creamy, runny egg yolk that melts when it hits the plate. The combination of tastes and textures is unique and simply unforgettable.
8. Escargot
Escargot is one of the most traditional French dishes and can be found in most restaurants in Paris. This dish is made with snails cooked in a garlic and butter sauce and served in their shells. If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss the opportunity to try this Parisian specialty.
