French Gastronomy: Top Foods You Must Eat in France

French Gastronomy is world famous. More than 84% of the French believe that gastronomy is an art; the world will agree. 

Characterized by thoughtfully blended flavours, uber-fresh local ingredients, refined combinations of food and wine, and a distinct emphasis on snacks, French gastronomy is a bucket-list worthy experience to say the least. The presentation, on the other hand, will unleash a paradox of not wanting to spoil it with your touch, but also wanting to taste it. 

A visit to any destination in France demands a wholehearted indulgence into French cuisine. However, with the array of specialties the country offers, you will most likely be spoilt for choice. There is a slew of diverse traditional local food in France that varies from region to region in flavours, ingredients, cooking techniques, and more. From escargot to croissants to ratatouille, expect a symphony of flavours wherever you go.

To select the best food in France would be an overwhelming affair, but if you wish to taste the essence of French gastronomy, this guide of the best foods to eat in France is for you.

The Best Things to Eat in France

Here is a round-up of some of the most iconic foods you must eat in France.

Escargot

Escargot is one of the most popular foods in France. Comprising primarily of edible land snails, the dish, believed to have originated over 2000 years ago, is best served with butter, garlic, parsley, and shallots. Characterized by a mild yet distinct earthly flavour of the snails that elevates with the addition of warm garlic, parsley, and butter, escargot is known to pair well with wine from Burgundy, as the dish is also from the same region. The rich chewy texture compliments the citrus-infused flavours of wines like Chablis. Typically served as an apéritif or a starter before a meal, escargot, a signature French dish is served during special occasions, and is undoubtedly one of the best things to eat in France.

Croissant

Croissants are perhaps the most iconic of all foods to eat in France. In fact, they are synonymous with French culture and are loved by all, inside and outside of the country. Although these delectable pastries are known to be a French specialty, they originate from Vienna in Austria, and are inspired by kipferls, another kind of pastry dish. For the same reason, they are called “viennoiseries” in some regions.

In terms of its taste and texture, croissants are known for their soft, buttery taste and flaky consistency. Perfectly made classic croissants have a delightful airy center with a dash of sweetness, making them one of the best things to eat in France. As they are essentially a snack item, most people have it during coffee breaks in the evening. Over the years, the dish has become a hot breakfast favourite as well.

Also Read: France Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Boeuf Bourguignon

Boeuf Bourguignon is another one of the most popular foods in France. Comprising tender beef chunks simmered in red Burgundy wine and stewed vegetables like pearl onions, carrots, garlic, mushrooms, and bacon lardons, Boeuf Bourguignon is recognized as an elegant comfort food in the country. Known for its rich explosion of flavours and healthy composition, the dish has a versatile quality that allows people to enjoy it in more ways than one.

Packing nourishment with every bite, it harmoniously combines the juicy flavours of the beef brisket or chuck beef, the fruitiness of the red wine, the smokey essence of the bacon, and the umami touch of the mushrooms. Because of its wholesome nature, it is considered a main course dish, and is often best paired with red burgundy wines like Pinot Noir. The heavenly combination of the beef stew and the berry notes of the wine, make Boeuf Bourguignon one of the best things to eat in France.

Creme Brûlée

Creme Brûlée is the most famous dish in France in the dessert category. Although technically French, this caramelized sugary custard dish is world famous and a number of its variations are prepared across continents today. Its origin is often a subject of controversy as the English, the French as well as the Spanish claim its make. However, it was a French chef who first publicly published a recipe for the Creme Brûlée.

One of the most fascinating attributes of this dessert is that it offers phenomenally lingering sweet flavours with the most basic rudimentary ingredients of eggs, milk, vanilla, sugar, and sometimes cream. Its soft, creamy custard filling contrasts the crunchy caramel sugar topping, and delivers a balanced sweetness that is often unforgettable for a foreigner. If you are on a quest to try the best of France, don’t forget to add this masterpiece of a dessert dish to your list.

Camembert

Camembert is a type of French cheese derived from cow’s milk. Compared to the other top foods in France, Camembert is a fairly straightforward and simple item that tastes lovely on its own, and can be elevated with other things like chilli flakes, vermouth, fruits, or crackers. Originating in Normandy, this cheese exudes sophistication in every bite combining the tangy, rich, earthy flavours with a hint of sweetness and silky texture. 

Interestingly, the French categorize an entire course of their meal to cheese called “Fromage” and Camembert typically falls in that line. It is best paired with red wine and champagne as the rich buttery flavours of the cheese compliment the punch of these drinks. If you are up to trying authentic French local food varieties, then Camembert is indeed one of the best things to eat in France.

Also Read: Top 10 Best Places to Visit in France

Crêpes

Crêpes are another global favourite among French desserts. Comprising ultra-thin pancakes made of flour, eggs, milk, vanilla, and butter, these gastronomic classics are often enjoyed with both sweet and savoury add-ons or toppings. Toppings aside, crêpes have a neutral subliminally sweet taste, much like regular pancakes. Because of their lightness and typically sweet flavours, it is often a dessert item. However, many indulge in crêpes for evening snacks as well. Contemporary French menus have variations of this elegant dish combining chocolate, vanilla and fruit flavours, making it a versatile food option for foreigners.

If you are looking to prepare an itinerary for your summer France tour package, then sampling crêpe varieties at local cafes while admiring the glistening Eiffel Tower would be one of the best 10 things to do in Paris.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille is perhaps one of the best things to eat in France in the veg category. Made of fresh stewed vegetables, this dish is known to capture the essence of summer as it combines rich harvests with colours. In contrast to the typically heavy stews that the French are known to enjoy, Ratatouille is the perfect example of a French main course item that brings a burst of flavours with a unique concoction of just veggies. 

Some of its key ingredients include Zucchinis, egg plants,  mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, red and green peppers, garlic, and several seasoning additions. The stewing process brings out the best of the understated flavours of Zucchini and eggplant while also balancing the stronger essences of onions and tomatoes, making it a harmonious brew. Having originated in Provence, this dish carrying the generous influence of Mediterranean culture, is an insight into France’s evolution as well. 

Macarons

Macarons are another famous sweet French snack item, introduced in Paris, by chef Catherine de’ Medici during the 15th century. Much like many of the food varieties in the country, Macarons have an Italian origin. Characterized by vibrant colours and endearing small round shapes, Macarons are colourful meringue sandwiches with delicious buttercream fillings, and are one of the most diverse French foods you will encounter, as they come in a wide variety of flavours today. At their core, Macarons are sweet with nutty hints; the rest of the flavours depend on their make. For their history, and their snackable quality, they are one of the best French dishes to try in Paris. Bring home a cherished package of authentic Parisian Macarons to let your friends and family feel the magic of quintessential French gastronomy.

Also Read: 10 Unobvious Things to Know Before Visiting France

Wrapping Up: The Best Things to Eat in France

From the earthy flavours of Escargot to the striking sweetness of the uber-popular Creme Brûlée, France offers flavourful indulgences like no other. A trip to the country demands a deep dive into its gastronomy that is world famous for its taste as well as presentation. Whether you choose to add some of the best wine tours in France or the best cheese tours to your itinerary, knowing what to pair your food with makes a big difference.

Use this guide to the best things to eat in France when planning France tour packages to make sure you don’t miss out on the country’s best. 

Pro tip: Choose the best restaurants to eat, the best hotels in Paris to stay, and cheap flights to Paris to make the most of your gastronomically enriched French vacation. Obtain your France Schengen visa with only reliable providers of online visa services for 180+ countries, for a hassle free journey.

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Quick Summary – The 8 Best Things to Eat in France

France is famous for its gastronomic offerings. Brimming with rich flavours, fresh local ingredients and tasteful combinations of food and wine, it is a bucket-list worthy experience for travellers. If you are looking to enjoy the best of French food in your France tour package, the top 8 best things to eat in France are: Escargot, Croissants, Boeuf Bourguignon, Creme Brûlée, Camembert, Crêpes, Ratatouille and Macarons.

FAQs

What is France’s most famous food?

France is famous for many foods including sweet and savoury items. One of the most popular and famous dishes is Boeuf Bourguignon – a rich beef stew made with tender beef simmered in red Burgundy wine, and beef stock. Cooked with wholesome vegetable ingredients like carrots, onions, garlic, and sometimes bacon lardons, this beef stew is recognized as a wholesome, elegant comfort food in France.

What food must I try in Paris?

Some of the must-try foods in Paris are:

• Escargot
• French cheese varieties – particularly Camembert
• Crepes
• Macarons
• Croissants
• Duck Confit
• Foie gras

What is a French breakfast?

A typical French breakfast consists of a hot beverage, either coffee or tea, and one of these: either classic croissants – smooth pastries with airy centers and buttery flavours, or baguette varieties slathered with butter or jam.

What is France’s national dish?

France is not known to have a national dish. However, several of its iconic dishes include stew varieties such as Pot-au-feu, and Boeuf Bourguignon.

Is Indian food popular in France?

Yes, the French are known to love Indian cuisine. In fact, India’s rich blend of spicy flavours, ingredients and colours, are said to be France’s second-favourite among Asian cuisine.

What do the French drink for breakfast?

The French typically have coffee for breakfast, which is often served in a large bowl as opposed to a mug or a cup, as they dip their tartines or baguettes in the coffee. 

What time is lunch in France?

In France, lunch breaks are strictly between 12 PM and 2 PM.

Can you eat while walking in Paris?

No, munching on anything while walking around in public places or riding public transport, is frowned upon in Paris. It is advised to not eat while on the go.

What is the French main dish?

Some popular main course dishes in France are:

• Boeuf Bourguignon
• Ratatouille 
• Coq au vin
• Classic Duck Confit
• Cassoulet
• Bouillabaisse

Is ratatouille a main dish?

Yes, Ratatouille is a main course French dish, best combined with crusty French bread, and fruit wines like Provence rosé.

What are some desserts in France?

Some popular desserts in France are:

• Classic French Crêpes
• Creme Brûlée
• Macarons
• French Apple Tart
• Madeleines
• Chocolate Eclairs

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