Gazing at the Eiffel Tower, strolling along the Seine, and marveling at the artworks in the Louvre — these are only some of the must-try activities that tourists do while in Paris. What many forget, however, is that the city of romance is also the city of great food, offering a variety of dishes that would delight any foodie’s taste buds. The best part? Not all of these treats will put a serious dent on your wallet, as many of these can actually be purchased from a street vendor or a local store and not from a resto that specializes in haute cuisine. Take a look at this list to see what food to try in Paris, France.
1. Falafel
It might seem strange that the first slot is occupied by food that actually did not originate in Paris, or France for that matter, but one bite of the falafel will easily make you understand why it’s on the list. The best part is you can get this as a sandwich, so you can enjoy one while exploring the sights. L’As du Falafel has been touted for selling one of, if not the best-tasting falafel sandwich in the world, with each bite containing a perfect blend of falafel, veggies, and sauce. Because of its popularity, expect long lines, but it does move pretty fast so you should be able to get your hands and teeth on one of these sandwiches with little fuss.
L’As du Falafel
Address: 32-34 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris, France)
Price: 4 EUR (4.54 USD)
2. Macarons
These delicate meringue pastries may have since become a worldwide phenomenon, but nothing beats getting them from where they originated. Flavors range from classics such as vanilla and strawberry to more exotic, such as lime-basil. Debate continues to rage on whether the macarons from Ladurée, credited as the inventors of this pastry or Pierre Hermé, who constantly comes up with new flavors — has the better-tasting offerings. Try both and find out!
Ladurée
Address: 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées Paris, France
Website: Ladurée
Price: 11.10 EUR (12.61 USD) for six macarons
Pierre Hermé
Address: 18 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie Paris, France
Website: Pierre Hermé
Price: 3.60 EUR (4.09 USD) per piece
3. Caramels
Macarons may have already gained international traction, but what many people don’t know is that Paris is also the home of some of the best caramels in the world. In particular, those in the know rave about the ones offered by the chocolatier La Chocolaterie de Jacques Genin. These come in a variety of flavors, ranging from classics such as plain caramel to quirkier offerings such as ginger and mango passionfruit caramel. Warning: the caramels are very popular, so do head to the store as early as possible or else risk not being able to purchase any.
La Chocolaterie de Jacques Genin
Address: 133 rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris, France
Website: La Chocolaterie de Jacques Genin
Price: 110 EUR (124.99 USD) per kilogram
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4. Baguette
Have a baguette for breakfast while in the city, and see for yourself just how different this iconic bread is in France compared to other cities. With an annual search for the best baguette in the city and a current proposal to have the bread be given UNESCO recognition, it’s safe to say that the French take their baguettes seriously. Pro tip: don’t just check if the bread is freshly baked; try to get ones that have pointy and not rounded ends, because these indicate that the baguette was prepared by hand. Head over to Maison Kayser if you want to try some of the best baguettes in Paris.
Maison Kayser
Address: 18 Rue du Bac, 75007 Paris, France
Website: Maison Kayser
Price: 1.25 EUR (1.42 USD)
5. Bordier butter
This is another entry that may be deemed as strange, but hear us out. Bordier butter, which originated in Brittany, has been ranked as the best in the world, thanks to its rich flavor and smoothness. If you plan to bring some home, be sure to bring a cooler with you, as the butter melts quickly. Bordier butter can be purchased from fromageries and gourmet retailers such as Le Grand Épicerie de Paris.
Le Grand Épicerie de Paris
Address: Le Grande Épicerie de Paris, 38 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris, France
Price: 4.80 EUR (5.25 USD) for 125 g (8.2 oz)
6. Chocolate
The French have elevated their love for all things chocolate into an art form, as can be seen in the number of creative combinations they have concocted (basil chocolate, anyone?) If you’re an adventurous foodie who wants to try an assortment of flavors, make sure to head on over to Patrick Roger, who was given the Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) award in 2000, recognizing that it is one of the best in the industry.
Patrick Roger
Address: 108 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France
Website: Patrick Roger
Price: Starts at 6 EUR (6.81 USD)
7. Cheese from Laurent Dubois
From a MOF awardee for chocolate, we move on to a recipient of this award for cheese. Fromagerie Laurent Dubois is a maker of artisan cheeses. The sheer number of varieties can quickly overwhelm you if it’s your first time visiting, so be sure to get the assistance of the staff who can help you choose the best types of cheeses based on your taste and budget. Some variants can be vacuum-sealed if you want to bring some back.
Fromagerie Laurent Dubois
Address: 47 T boulevard Saint Germain, 75005 Paris, France
Website: Fromagerie Laurent Dubois
Price: Starts at 10 EUR (11.86 USD)
8. Crepes
Whether you like them sweet or savory, crepes are also a must-try while in Paris. The popularity of these treats is such that there are street vendors that sell them, and you can grab one and enjoy eating it as you stroll along the city. Flavors range from simple — such as nutella or cinnamon and sugar to more elaborate ones. Visit Breizh Café, ranked as offering some of the best crepes in Paris, if you want a sit-down experience. Make sure to make reservations though, since the cafe sees a lot of customers daily.
Breizh Café
Address: 109 rue Vieille du Temple, Paris, France
Price: Starts at 8 EUR (9.09 USD).
9. Soufflé
Soufflé can be translated to “to blow,” which may be in reference to the airiness of this dessert, in fact, it’s actually served straight from the oven and should be eaten before it deflates. For an adult version of this treat, try the Grand Marnier Soufflé, flavored by the eponymous orange liqueur. Try the version offered by La Cuisine de Philippe, ranked as one of the best restaurants in Paris.
La Cuisine de Philippe
Address: 25 rue Servandoni, Metro St Sulpice, 75006 Paris, France
Price: 11 EUR (12.50) for a full meal
10. Foie Gras
Foie gras is translated to “fat liver”, which can also be used as a good description for this dish. Made from duck or goose liver, this is considered a luxury food delicacy. It is usually eaten by spreading it on bread, but there are chefs who serve it as a full dish.
Maison Guyard
Address: 42 Rue De Verneuil 75007 Paris, France
Price: 125 EUR (142.03 USD) per kilo
Foodie haven in France
There’s a reason why French food, and Parisian offerings, in particular, has become a favorite among foodies. In fact, the sheer number of unique dishes, pastries, desserts and not to mention drinks offered there can quickly overwhelm you. Plan ahead and jot down what kinds of food you want to try before your visit so you can take the time to look for these when you go there. The French take their cuisine seriously, so it’s only fair that you also make the effort to explore their foodie culture when you come and visit. Bon appétit!