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Paris food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Paris.
Photo by Alex Harmuth on Unsplash
What to eat in Paris
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Escargots de Bourgogne
$8–$15
Snails baked in garlic-parsley butter, these are a classic French appetizer that are surprisingly tender and rich. The garlic butter is perfect for soaking up with bread.
Where to try: Le Bouillon Chartier (Grands Boulevards)
Steak Frites
$25–$40
A simple yet satisfying dish of perfectly cooked steak, often a bavette or entrecôte, served with a generous portion of crispy french fries. It's a bistro staple for a reason.
Where to try: Bistrot Paul Bert (11th Arrondissement)
Onion Soup Gratinée
$12–$18
A hearty soup made with caramelized onions in a rich beef broth, topped with a thick slice of bread and melted Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a chilly evening.
Where to try: Au Pied de Cochon (Les Halles)
Macarons
$2–$4
Delicate almond meringue cookies sandwiched with a flavorful filling like ganache, buttercream, or jam. These colorful treats are a sweet symbol of Parisian patisserie.
Where to try: Ladurée (Champs-Élysées) or Pierre Hermé (multiple locations)
Croissant
$1.5–$3
The quintessential French breakfast pastry, characterized by its flaky, buttery layers and crescent shape. A true croissant should be light, airy, and melt in your mouth.
Where to try: A local boulangerie in Le Marais
Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)
$28–$45
Duck leg slow-cooked in its own fat until incredibly tender and then typically pan-fried for a crispy skin. It's a rich and decadent dish.
Where to try: Le Relais de l'Entrecôte (Saint-Germain-des-Prés)
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Le Marais
Historic and trendy, with charming cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
people-watchinghistoric architectureJewish quarter specialtiesboutique dining
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Intellectual and artistic, known for its literary cafes, art galleries, and upscale boutiques.
classic bistrospeople-watchingliterary historyupscale shopping
Montmartre
Bohemian and artistic, perched on a hill with stunning city views, charming squares, and a lively atmosphere.
street artiststraditional creperiessweeping viewsbohemian charm
Latin Quarter
Lively and student-oriented, with a youthful energy, bookshops, and affordable eateries.
budget-friendly mealsstudent lifebookstoreshistoric universities
Dietary notes
Traditional French cuisine is rich and often meat-centric. While vegetarian options are becoming more common, especially in larger restaurants and specific neighborhoods like Le Marais, vegan and gluten-free options can still be challenging to find outside of dedicated establishments. Be prepared for butter, cream, and cheese to feature prominently.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is generally included in the bill as 'service compris,' but leaving a few extra euros for exceptional service is appreciated.
- •Reservations are highly recommended for dinner, especially at popular restaurants and on weekends.
- •It's customary to greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening) upon entering.
- •Coffee is usually drunk standing at the bar for a lower price, or seated at a table for a higher price.
- •Dinner is typically eaten later, starting around 8 PM and often extending past 9 PM.
Plan the rest of your Paris trip
Food guides elsewhere