Buzz
What are the famous specialties of romantic France? What should you eat when visiting France? Mytour recommends the must-try iconic French dishes.
French cuisine has long been celebrated for its refined preparation methods and diverse flavors. The culinary culture here is not just about food but also a way of life, reflected in every flaky croissant, exquisite glass of wine, or aromatic slice of cheese.
When discussing French cuisine, iconic dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon, baguette, and French onion soup cannot be overlooked. Each dish carries its own unique story, leaving a lasting impression on travelers.
Are you ready to try these famous French dishes? Join Mytour on an enchanting journey to explore the wonders of French gastronomy!
1. Boeuf Bourguignon - A Premium French Delicacy
Boeuf Bourguignon - a delicate blend of beef and Burgundy red wine, has long been a symbol of French cuisine. The beef is slow-cooked with traditional Bourgogne wine, enriched with savory broth, and seasoned with garlic, mushrooms, onions, and herbs.
The cooking process is intricate, but the result is tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef infused with rich flavors, guaranteed to satisfy any diner. Boeuf Bourguignon is often served with toasted French bread or mashed potatoes, balancing the boldness of the wine and spices. If you visit Paris, be sure to dine at Le Comptoir du Relais or Le Bœuf sur le Toit, where authentic Boeuf Bourguignon is served.
2. Mediterranean-Style Bouillabaisse Fish Soup
When mentioning the port city of Marseille, France, the renowned Bouillabaisse fish soup cannot be overlooked. This dish features fresh Mediterranean fish caught daily, along with shrimp, mussels, and other seafood.
The irresistible aroma of Bouillabaisse broth comes from fish bone stock and spices like saffron, fennel, star anise, cayenne pepper, and a hint of orange zest. Typically, the French enjoy Bouillabaisse with wine and toasted bread topped with rouille, a spicy sauce made from garlic, olive oil, and red pepper. Diners can dip the bread into the soup or savor the fish and broth separately. For an authentic experience, try Chez Fonfon or Le Miramar in Marseille.
3. French-Style Coq Au Vin - Wine-Braised Chicken
Coq au Vin, which translates to "rooster cooked in wine" in French, is a classic wine-braised chicken dish originating from Burgundy, France. This dish gained popularity in the United States after chef Julia Child featured it on her PBS show “The French Chef.”
While there are many variations of this dish today, the core ingredients typically include a whole chicken, red or white wine, pork fat, mushrooms, onions, garlic, and spices. Coq au Vin is best enjoyed with mashed potatoes, crispy toasted bread, or a side of boiled vegetables like carrots and green beans.
For an authentic Coq au Vin experience, consider visiting La Jacobine in Paris or L’Auberge de l’Ill in the Alsace region.
4. Decadent French-Style Caramel Crème Brûlée
France is the birthplace of many world-famous desserts, including Crème Brûlée. The recipe for this caramelized custard first appeared in 1691 and quickly became a trend in restaurants during the 1980s.
A crisp caramelized layer on top, which crackles enchantingly at the touch of a spoon, hides a smooth and creamy vanilla custard beneath. The perfect balance of sweetness and richness makes this dish not just a treat for the palate but also a celebration of French culinary culture and finesse.
You can enjoy this dessert at any upscale restaurant or take a moment to sit in a cozy Parisian café, savoring Crème Brûlée with a cup of hot tea or coffee, leaving an unforgettable impression.
5. Croissant - The Iconic Pastry Representing French Cuisine
Visiting France without trying a Croissant is like missing out on a culinary symphony. Although Croissants originated in Austria, the French have perfected them, making them an essential part of Parisian culture.
With its golden, flaky crust and soft, airy interior, each Croissant is a perfect blend of butter, flour, and yeast, offering a sweet and fragrant flavor. As you bite into it, you’ll experience the melt-in-your-mouth sensation of fresh butter layered within delicate pastry.
Today, Croissants are often enjoyed with jam, butter, or chocolate, but savoring a traditional Croissant with a hot cup of coffee in the morning remains a top choice for many. For an authentic experience, try Croissants at Maison Pichard or Du Pain et des Idées in Paris.
6. Garlic Butter Escargots
Escargots, or garlic butter snails, offer one of the most unique yet captivating culinary experiences France has to offer. Each snail is carefully prepared, stuffed with aromatic garlic butter and parsley, creating an indescribably unique flavor.
Enjoying Escargots requires a bit of skill and patience, as you’ll need a clamp to hold the shell and a small fork to extract the meat. Pair it with toasted bread to soak up the rich sauce and a glass of white wine to balance the buttery richness. Escargots are a must-try for visitors seeking traditional French cuisine, especially in cozy Parisian restaurants like L'Escargot Montorgueil.
7. Foie Gras - A Rare and Luxurious French Delicacy
Foie Gras, a luxurious dish associated with French nobility since ancient times, is highly prized by gourmets. To achieve the smooth, rich, and delicate texture of duck or goose liver, the birds are meticulously fattened for 12-18 days.
Foie Gras can be prepared in various forms, from velvety mousse to fragrant pâté, but the pan-seared version remains the most ideal. Each slice of Foie Gras melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with crispy toast or a sweet-and-sour fruit sauce to balance the flavors. Enhance the experience with a glass of Sauternes white wine to elevate the dish’s sophistication.
8. French-Style Ratatouille - A Hearty Vegetable Stew
The humble vegetable stew Ratatouille took the culinary world by storm after Pixar’s animated film of the same name debuted in 2007. This dish evokes the rustic and pure charm of the southern French countryside.
The light and refreshing flavor of Ratatouille comes from a blend of ingredients like tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, cooked in olive oil with basil and rosemary. What makes it special is that each vegetable retains its distinct flavor even after cooking.
Enjoy Ratatouille with a slice of baguette or alongside main dishes like fish or roasted lamb. The harmony between the vegetables and meat creates an explosion of flavors. For those seeking an authentic experience, La Colombe d'Or in Saint-Paul-de-Vence is the perfect destination.
9. French-Style Onion Soup - Soupe À L'oignon
One of France’s most iconic dishes is Soupe à l'Oignon, beloved from casual bistros to upscale Parisian restaurants. Originating in the mid-19th century, this onion soup has become a favorite appetizer for many diners.
Onions are simmered until tender in a rich beef broth, topped with a layer of melted Gruyère cheese on crispy toasted bread, making it irresistible on chilly French days. Pair the soup with a glass of French red wine for a complete meal. Visit Le Procope, Paris’s oldest restaurant, or Au Pied de Cochon for the most authentic version.
10. Terrine - A French Delicacy for the Elite
Originating from European aristocratic cuisine in the 15th century, Terrine is not just an elaborately prepared cold dish but also a refined work of art in French culture. It can be enjoyed in various ways, such as a breakfast dish with toasted bread or as a starter salad at formal dinners.
Today, there are many variations of Terrine, including pork, seafood, or foie gras versions. Chefs layer meat, fish, or vegetables tightly in molds to create visually stunning slices. Unlike pâté, Terrine retains the natural texture of its ingredients, allowing diners to fully appreciate their freshness.
Some renowned French restaurants serving exceptional Terrine include Le Grand Véfour with its Duck foie gras terrine and L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon with its vegetable terrine salad.
11. Salad Niçoise - A Must-Try French Dish
Like a vibrant painting from the South of France, Salad Niçoise embodies Mediterranean flavors with pure olive oil and the fresh taste of anchovies. This nutritious salad is perfect for a light summer meal.
Salad Niçoise has captivated not only the French but also food lovers worldwide. Modern variations may include green beans or potatoes, but regardless of preparation, Niçoise retains its freshness and the distinct flavors of Nice. Pair it with a glass of rosé wine for a perfect combination. If you visit Nice, don’t miss the chance to dine at La Petite Maison or Le Safari to enjoy an authentic Salad Niçoise made with the freshest ingredients.
12. French-Style Croque Monsieur Sandwich
The name "Croque Monsieur" comes from "croque" (crispy) and "monsieur" (gentleman), reflecting the culinary style of early 20th-century Parisian cafés. Sliced bread is layered with ham, topped with Gruyère cheese, and grilled or fried until golden and crispy, with the cheese melted to perfection.
This is a quick and delicious option for breakfast or lunch. In some places, Croque Monsieur is enhanced with creamy béchamel sauce or transformed into Croque Madame with a fried egg on top. It’s an ideal choice for a light meal.
Visit iconic cafés like Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots to savor an authentic Croque Monsieur while soaking in the charm of historic Parisian streets.
13. French-Style Quiche Lorraine
When it comes to Quiche Lorraine, the image of a charming yet irresistible savory tart comes to mind for every food enthusiast. Originating from the Lorraine region, situated between France and Germany, this dish carries a rich cultural fusion.
With its flaky crust combined with a creamy filling of eggs, fresh cream, and bacon, Quiche Lorraine has become a popular appetizer at high-end tea parties. Traditionally, Quiche Lorraine does not include milk; instead, fresh cream is used to create a smooth and rich filling. Its delicate yet hearty flavor makes it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a leisurely tea party.
14. French-Style Tartiflette
Tartiflette embodies the spirit of the Alps, where hot potato dishes topped with melted Reblochon cheese are served in ski resorts. Made with thinly sliced potatoes, bacon, onions, and cheese, this hearty dish not only satisfies the palate but also warms the soul, especially after a long day on snowy slopes.
Originally created in the 1980s to promote Reblochon cheese, Tartiflette quickly became a culinary symbol of the Haute-Savoie region. It is often paired with white wine to enhance its flavors and served with crusty bread to soak up the rich cheese sauce. Want to try Tartiflette? Visit any restaurant in Chamonix or Megève.
15. French-Style Duck Leg Confit - Confit De Canard
Duck leg confit - Confit de Canard - is a signature dish of Gascony, France, where locals have long preserved a unique cooking method. The duck is salted and slow-cooked in its own fat, resulting in a rich, flavorful, and tender texture that melts in your mouth.
The slow-cooking process, lasting several hours, allows the meat to absorb aromatic flavors and become incredibly tender, ready to be crisped on the outside before serving.
Duck confit is often served with golden potatoes fried in duck fat, known as "pommes de terre à la sarladaise," creating a perfect pairing. If you’re in Toulouse or Bordeaux, don’t miss the chance to try exceptional Confit de Canard at Chez Dupont or La Cave à Canard.
16. French-Style Beef and Vegetable Stew - Pot-Au-Feu
Pot-au-feu is often referred to as the "soul of French cuisine" due to its long history and deeply satisfying flavors. Did you know this beef and vegetable stew was a favorite of King Louis XIV?
Typically, Pot-Au-Feu is made with inexpensive cuts of beef, such as cartilage and marrow bones, along with vegetables like carrots, leeks, turnips, and onions, creating a rich and aromatic broth. The hours-long simmering process ensures the meat becomes tender and flavorful. Traditionally, Pot-au-feu is served with bread, a touch of spicy Dijon mustard, and pickles to enhance the taste. It’s the perfect dish for cold winter evenings and a quintessential representation of French home cooking.
17. French-Style Meat and Bean Stew - Cassoulet
Originally a dish for the working class, Cassoulet has since become a globally beloved delicacy. Each region in France has its own unique take on this legendary dish. For instance, in Castelnaudary, duck confit is considered the soul of Cassoulet, while Toulouse uses pork sausage as the main ingredient.
Simmered for hours, the ingredients blend together to create a rich, savory, and velvety flavor that captivates diners from the first bite. A little secret is the crispy crust on top, formed by lightly baking the dish at the end of cooking. Pair it with a glass of red wine to fully appreciate the sophistication of Cassoulet.
18. French-Style “Thousand-Layer” Crêpes
Crêpes, the delicate and soft pancakes originating from Brittany, are a culinary symbol of French street food. Made from flour, eggs, milk, and butter, Crêpes can be enjoyed in both sweet and savory styles.
Today, crêpes are loved worldwide, with countless variations from Nutella and whipped cream to bacon and cheese. Notably, crêpes Suzette - a version flambéed with orange sauce and Cointreau - is a favorite among royalty and celebrities.
In France, Crêpes are often served with cider, a traditional drink with a light, refreshing taste that creates the perfect balance. Visit Crêperie Breizh Café in Paris or Ti Jos in Montparnasse to enjoy exquisite Crêpes in a cozy, quintessentially French setting.
19. Macarons - One of the World’s Most Challenging Pastries from France
The colorful and delicate Macarons have become a sweet symbol of France. Each Macaron is a work of art, with a crisp outer shell and a smooth, creamy filling, made from egg whites, almonds, and sugar. They come in a variety of flavors like chocolate, raspberry, vanilla, and matcha to cater to every taste.
Beyond their delicious taste, the vibrant boxes of Macarons make for perfect gifts for special occasions and are Instagram-worthy. Prices range from €1.5 to €3 per piece, depending on the brand. For the most famous Macarons, visit Ladurée or Pierre Hermé in Paris, two sweet havens you’ll never forget.
French cuisine is renowned for its sophistication and diversity, from hearty stews to elegant desserts. The combination of fresh ingredients and skillful preparation creates a rich culinary tradition that captivates food lovers worldwide.
Planning a trip? Don’t miss these helpful articles on Mytour: 24 Famous Tourist Spots in France for Independent Travelers, 10-Day France Travel Itinerary by Train, 16 Famous Tourist Spots in Germany for Independent Travelers, 15 European Destinations Perfect for Independent Travelers, 14-Day Europe Travel Guide for Independent Travelers, and What is a Schengen Visa? Latest Schengen Visa Application Process.
Discover the iconic French dishes and embark on your own culinary adventure today!
