10 Best French Dishes to try in Paris

1. French Onion Soup – a must in Paris

First up is the quintessentially traditional and comforting dish: Soupe à l’oignon (French Onion Soup). This classic French soup is typically made with a rich beef broth and caramelized onions. It’s often served “gratinéed,” meaning it’s topped with pieces of bread (croutons) and melted cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. The key ingredients include onions, beef or chicken broth, croutons or crispy fried bread crumbs, fresh herbs, and cheese. For vegetarians, there’s also a vegetarian version available. Though traditionally considered an entrée (starter), it’s hearty enough to be quite filling and there are plenty of restaurants in Paris featuring this iconic dish.

 

2. Jambon-beurre – on the go in Paris

Next up is the Jambon-beurre (literally “Ham & Butter”). As simple as it sounds, this isn’t just any ham sandwich—it’s a quintessentially French delight that’s sure to win you over! Made with a freshly baked, crispy baguette, the Jambon-beurre features a generous spread of butter and a sprinkle of salt, with high-quality ham nestled in between. This classic Parisian sandwich is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the true taste of French simplicity and elegance.

 

3. Beef Bourguignon – winter warmer in Paris

Now, let’s talk about a dish beloved by food enthusiasts worldwide: Beef Bourguignon! This classic French beef stew is a staple in Parisian cuisine. It’s made with tender beef simmered in a flavourful blend of beef stock and red wine, complemented by garlic, potatoes, onions, carrots, mushrooms, and chunks of bacon. Known for its deep, rich flavour, Beef Bourguignon has captured the hearts of chefs everywhere, who often put their own spin on this traditional recipe. It’s a true testament to the art of French cooking!

 

4. Oysters

Did you know? France is a leading producer of oysters, with major growing regions including Normandy, Brittany, and Île d’Oléron. In French, an oyster is called “huître,” and they are typically not rinsed to preserve their natural flavors. For all the oyster enthusiasts out there, France offers some exceptionally flavourful oysters. And to truly embrace the Parisian way, be sure to squeeze a lemon over your oyster and enjoy it in one delicious, satisfying gulp!

5. Coq au vin

How about some rooster in wine? That’s right—“Coq au vin” is a classic French dish where rooster or chicken is braised in red wine (sometimes white wine), and served with lardons (bacon) and mushrooms.

#FunFact: The wine plays a crucial role in this dish, as its acidic qualities not only enhance the flavour but also help tenderize the meat.

 

6. Crepes

Are you someone who watches what they eat? I bet some of you are! If so, you’re in for a treat with this next dish—it’s not only tasty but also pretty healthy! Say hello to “Crêpes”! These delicate pancakes are made from flour, milk, butter, salt, sugar, and eggs, and they can be enjoyed with a variety of fillings and toppings. The savory version is known as “crêpe salée” in French, but crêpes can also be enjoyed sweet.

My personal favorite is a crêpe topped with Nutella, whipped cream, and strawberries or blueberries. It’s an absolute delight! What I love about crêpes is that they’re not just delicious but also offer good nutritional value. You can enjoy them anytime—whether you’re just snacking or looking for a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner—without feeling guilty! Honestly, do you even need another reason to fall in love with crêpes?

7. Snails

Have you ever imagined a dish combining garlic, butter, parsley, red wine, and chicken? Sounds intriguing, right? But what if we take it up a notch and add some “Escargots”—yes, snails—to the mix? Wow! Cooked escargots are a beloved French delicacy, and this particular concoction is the perfect way to enjoy them. Of course, there are plenty of other ways to prepare escargots, such as cooking them with tomatoes, peppers, olive oil, herbs, or other flavors.

Escargots are traditionally eaten with a special snail fork, designed to hold the snail shells so you can easily extract the flesh.

#DidYouKnow? Escargot is a traditional delicacy in several European countries, with France being the top consumer, eating tons of snails each year. The ideal preparation involves purging the snails, removing their shells, and then cooking them in a flavorful concoction. Not only does this dish sound delicious, but it’s also incredibly nutritious—rich in protein and water, with very low fat content.

 

8. Ratatouille

Now, let me introduce you to a dish that’s traditionally vegetarian but can easily be made non-vegetarian as well. This classic French stew, called “Ratatouille,” is made with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, peppers, eggplant, garlic, and a selection of fresh herbs. Vegetarians can enjoy it served over mashed potatoes, while those who prefer meat can pair it with grilled chicken or fish. And, of course, don’t forget to sip some wine alongside it!

 

9.Tartiflette

“Tartiflette” is a dish that celebrates the delicious combination of potatoes, gooey cheese, onions, and a white wine-based sauce. While this dish can be made vegetarian, the French often enjoy it with crispy bacon chunks for added flavour. The star ingredient is Reblochon cheese, a local French cheese that provides the perfect rich, creamy texture and flavour that makes this dish so irresistible.

 

10. Cassoulet

Saving the best for last? It would be a great injustice if I didn’t mention one of the most iconic French dishes: “Cassoulet.” This hearty dish is a French classic made with fresh pork, sausages, and baked white beans. For an even more luxurious twist, adding duck takes this dish to the next level.

#RealityCheck: A truly mouthwatering cassoulet shouldn’t be rushed—it takes at least 4 days to prepare properly. Yes, you read that right! Cassoulets are meant to be cooked slowly, allowing the beans, pork, and sausages to fully absorb all the rich flavours. The result is best served straight from the oven, accompanied by red wine, fresh salad, or a side of French bread.

 

Make sure to visit France sometime soon! And when you do, let us know which dishes you enjoyed. Bon appétit, everyone!