Best Food in Paris: 10 Must-Try Dishes and Top Restaurants

Paris is one of those cities where food isn’t just part of life – it’s the main event. From buttery croissants to rich duck confit, every bite feels like a love letter to French cuisine. 

In this guide, we’ve curated the best food in Paris, featuring 10 must-try French dishes you can’t miss, along with bonus sections for the finest desserts and drinks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, this list will ensure you experience Paris through its incredible flavors.

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Croissant

A real Parisian croissant is a world away from the ones you might’ve tried elsewhere. It’s all about that crispy golden shell, soft airy layers inside, and a buttery aroma that makes you stop mid-walk. You’ll often find locals lining up in the morning just to grab theirs fresh from the oven.

If you’re looking for the best food in Paris to start your day, a fresh croissant should be at the top of your list.

Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)

This dish is everything you’d want on a cozy evening: duck slow-cooked until meltingly tender, then crisped up to perfection. It’s rich, flavorful, and usually served with potatoes sautéed in duck fat. A must for meat lovers.

Onion Soup (Soupe à l’Oignon)

French onion soup is the ultimate comfort food – caramelized onions, savory broth, and a cheesy, bubbly top that’s broiled until golden. It’s perfect for cold days or cozy nights.

Steak Frites

Simple but legendary. A perfectly cooked steak, a mountain of crispy fries, and usually a buttery Béarnaise or pepper sauce. This dish shows that you don’t need fancy to be unforgettable.

Coq au Vin

This dish is all about slow cooking and deep flavors. Chicken is braised in red wine with garlic, mushrooms, and herbs until it’s fall-apart tender. It’s rustic, hearty, and full of French countryside charm – truly one of the best foods in Paris.

Ratatouille

A colorful Provençal vegetable stew that’s both healthy and delicious. The ingredients – zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, and bell peppers – are cooked with olive oil and herbs until they melt together into something magical.

Cheese

Paris is a cheese lover’s dream. You can sample dozens of varieties from creamy Brie to strong blue cheeses. Whether you grab a few slices for a picnic or sit down at a cheese bar, this is an experience in itself.

Some of the best food in Paris can be found on a cheese board.

Escargots

Yes, snails. But trust us – once they’re cooked in garlic, parsley, and butter, they become something truly special. The texture is tender, the flavor is rich, and you’ll probably be surprised by how much you like them.

Crêpes & Galettes

Crêpes are thin and versatile – you can go sweet with Nutella or go savory with cheese, ham, and egg (called a galette when made with buckwheat flour). They’re a classic Parisian treat for any time of day, and a must-try on the list of the best food in Paris.

Baguette Tradition

Forget everything you thought you knew about baguettes. In Paris, the traditional version is crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and best eaten fresh from the bakery. Locals literally carry them under their arms like it’s an accessory.

For a more immersive culinary experience, you can explore the city through a food tour where you’ll taste classic French dishes, discover hidden culinary spots, and learn about the local food culture. Find some exciting options here:

And if you’re feeling inspired to cook your own French creations, a cooking class could be just what you need! Learn to make delicious Parisian dishes like coq au vin or ratatouille from local chefs. Explore class options here:

Bonus: Best Parisian Desserts

Macarons

Crispy on the outside, soft and chewy inside – macarons are a delicate treat made with almond flour and filled with ganache, cream, or jam. The flavors range from classic vanilla and raspberry to bold combos like rose-lychee or pistachio-saffron. A perfect souvenir too (if they make it that far).

Tarte Tatin

This upside-down caramelized apple tart is a warm, buttery dream. The apples are slow-cooked until they melt in your mouth, then baked with pastry on top before being flipped. Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a scoop of cream or ice cream.

Chocolate Éclairs

A classic French pastry filled with rich cream (usually vanilla, coffee, or chocolate) and topped with a shiny glaze. It’s light, indulgent, and satisfying all at once. You’ll find both traditional and creative modern versions around Paris, making it a classic choice among the best food in Paris.

Bonus: Drinks to Try in Paris

French Wine

France is basically wine paradise. Whether you go for a bold Bordeaux, a silky Pinot Noir from Burgundy, or a crisp Loire white, wine is part of daily life here. You don’t have to break the bank—house wines in bistros are often delicious.

Tip: Ask for “un verre de vin rouge/blanc” (a glass of red/white) and enjoy it with cheese or duck confit.

Kir Royale

A bubbly apéro made by mixing crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) with Champagne or sparkling wine. It’s sweet, elegant, and super French. Perfect for starting a dinner or celebrating something special.

Pastis

A southern French favorite—this anise-flavored spirit is often served with water, turning it milky white. Locals sip it before dinner, especially in summer. It’s a strong taste, but worth trying at least once for the cultural experience.

Café Crème

Basically the French version of a latte. It’s creamy, smooth, and ideal for sipping slowly at a sidewalk café while people-watching. Don’t expect giant sizes—coffee in Paris is about quality, not quantity.

Tip: Order this at a café in the morning or afternoon, but avoid it after dinner (Parisians usually drink espresso then).

Hot Chocolate (Chocolat Chaud)

Parisian hot chocolate is an indulgent treat that’s rich, creamy, and thick—almost like drinking a melted chocolate bar. Often served with a dollop of whipped cream or a piece of dark chocolate, it’s the perfect pick-me-up for a winter afternoon. Expect something much more decadent than your average cocoa.

Final Tip

The best food in Paris isn’t always found in fancy restaurants. Sometimes they’re from a street stall, a quiet side street bistro, or a bakery you randomly walk past. Just follow the smell of butter, the sound of clinking wine glasses, and your appetite. You’ll be just fine.

If you’re planning your first trip to Paris and want to make the most of your time while indulging in the city’s rich culinary offerings, check out our 3-day Paris itinerary for first-time visitors. It will guide you through the best places to eat, see, and experience, helping you savor the authentic flavors of Paris while exploring its iconic landmarks.