Savor the best food in Paris with this tantalizing selection of ten exquisite dishes that will satisfy every foodie's wanderlust.

Wondering what food you must eat in Paris as a traveling foodie?

Indulging in Parisian cuisine with my kids is an absolute delight. Traditional food in Paris is the perfect blend of comfort and refinement.

It will make you wish you could stay in one of the most beautiful cities in the world a little longer.

I vividly remember savoring a small, locally sourced apple from a charming Parisian market - it was a taste sensation like no other. I couldn't resist filling my purse with apples to enjoy as snacks during our visit to Versailles.

Traditional food in Paris

In a nutshell, French cuisine is known for its culinary artistry, elegance, and contribution to the global gastronomic scene. It’s sophisticated, rich in flavor, and emphasizes high-quality ingredients. It encompasses a wide range of dishes from rustic to hearty or delicately exquisite.

Famous food in Paris includes a lot of bread and cheese, sauce, salads, duck mussels, pastries, foie gras, escargot, soup, and of course, wine.

You might find a new appreciation for food after a visit to France.

Eating in Paris with kids

Indulging in the culinary delights of Paris, whether through fine dining or grabbing delectable treats like crepes on the go, is an experience that will forever transform your relationship with food.

And it's not just you who will be captivated by the flavors of France - your kids will be too. Even simple foods like fresh bread and fruit brought smiles to my girls' faces with just one bite.

If you're curious about which Parisian foods are sure to win your kids over, take a look at this list of delightful sweet, and savory treats.

10 must-try foods in Paris

01 | MACAROONS FROM LADUREE

A baby with macaroons in Paris - must eat food in Paris

Discover the iconic and vibrant Parisian delicacies known as macarons—delightful cookies crafted from almond flour and sugar. These delectable treats are not only a popular souvenir but also a convenient on-the-go snack for kids. It all started when my baby caught a glimpse of these colorful delights peeking out of my purse, and the rest, as they say, is history.

With their irresistible allure and exquisite packaging, my personal favorite flavor among them is raspberry. When in Paris, you'll find these delightful macarons in abundance at Ladurée shops, conveniently located throughout the city. So there's no need to search far and wide to satisfy your macaron cravings.

02 | FRESH BREAD

Fresh bread served at Le Baudelaire restaurant in Paris

In France, bread is more than just sustenance; it's a cultural journey. This is one of the things that truly makes our trips to Paris with kids special.

Our little ones devoured the bread like a breath of fresh ocean air. Its softness, sweetness, and occasional chewiness create an almost emotional experience.

During our lunches in Paris, we savored the simple delights of bread, cheese, and fruit, a combination that never fails to delight.

FUN FACT: According to French Law, the "baguette" can only be made from wheat flour, water, yeast, and common salt—no additives or preservatives allowed. As a result, it doesn't stay fresh for long, so you must relish it while it's at its best. Not a problem for us; we gladly indulge in this delightful bread!

WHERE TO FIND IT | La Grande Epicerie Paris.

03 | FRENCH CHEESE

Cheese course at Le Baudelaire restaurant in Paris

What is the must-try food in Paris you ask? Cheese.

In the heart of France, a beautiful storm of cheese awaits. Beyond bread, cheese holds a significant place in French culture—it's ever-present.

My nine-year-old daughter and I would playfully compete for the last morsel of camembert cheese. Its nutty flavor makes it the perfect addition to a picnic, seamlessly fitting into a sliced piece of bread.

FUN FACT: Cheese for dessert! One of the things I adore about France is that cheese is often served as a dessert course. During our dining experience at the Michelin Star restaurant, Le Baudelaire, my daughter and I had the pleasure of selecting our preferred cheeses. A delightful and delicious end to a magnificent meal!

WHERE TO FIND IT | Marché Alimentaire Saint-Germain.

04 | FRENCH PASTRIES

A girl eating french pastry at Le Baudelaire restaurant in Paris

The French, true masters of pastry, have gifted the world with delightful creations. It's as if "decadence" took a leisurely stroll with sugar and stumbled upon Monet, resulting in edible artwork that tantalizes the taste buds.

In Paris, the options for pastries to enjoy with kids are endless, from eclairs and croissants to tarts and more.

FUN FACT: While they may appear indulgent, French pastries are renowned for their light and airy textures, defying expectations of heaviness.

Indulge in these sweet delights at Le Burgundy Paris, one of our cherished hotels, where the esteemed Michelin Star restaurant Le Baudelaire houses pastry chef Pierre Jean Quinoner, a master of his craft, whose creations have garnered accolades and awards.

WHERE TO FIND IT | The Le Baudelaire restaurant inside the Le Burgundy hotel has a famous pastry chef that makes lovely pasty.

05 | PIZZA

A pizza from the in room dining menu at Le Burgundy Hotel Paris

Despite the reputation for haute cuisine and culinary sophistication, the French have a surprising love affair with pizza, second only to the United States in consumption. It goes to show that even in the land of fine dining, everyone craves a comforting slice.

When we sat down to enjoy pizza in Paris, for a fleeting moment, I felt transported to Italy. The flavors and quality surpassed our expectations, leaving my girls and me with a truly memorable pizza experience.

During our delightful stay at Le Burgundy Hotel Paris, we treated ourselves to a cozy night in, ordering room service and indulging in pizza while clad in our comfy pajamas. Not only did it tantalize our taste buds, but it also impressed us with its impeccable presentation. It was pizza perfection in every sense.

WHERE TO FIND IT | Lovine’s Pizzeria near the Louvre.

06 | ICE CREAM

A girl holding an ice cream cone in Saint Germaine Paris

In the realm of top-secret culinary delights, my absolute must-try in Paris is none other than ice cream.

Paris offers a glorious array of ice cream shops that rank among the finest in the world. With an extensive selection of flavors to satisfy even the most discerning young palates, your kids are bound to discover a scoop that delights their taste buds.

FUN FACT: French-style ice cream stands apart with its addition of rich egg yolks. The result is a velvety, custard-like texture that sets it apart from its American counterpart. In other words, it's an indulgence you simply cannot resist when exploring Paris with kids in tow. So, be sure to savor every creamy, luscious bite of this extraordinary treat.

WHERE TO FIND IT | Jeff de Bruges Paris Champs-Élysées when you are visiting Saint Germain.

07 | FRESH FRUIT

A baby eating an apple inside her room at Le Burgundy Hotel in Paris

Let me share a little secret from my Parisian adventure—the fruit in Paris is simply divine.

The moment you sink your teeth into a juicy, ripe piece of fruit, you'll understand why Paris is a haven for fresh produce and foodies..

Whether you're strolling through markets or perusing the aisles of local grocery stores, you'll find an abundance of vibrant fruits to tempt your taste buds.

Among our favorites were the apples and peaches. One day, our little one couldn't resist the allure of those succulent apples and claimed them all for herself, indulging in a fruit feast of her own making.

So, when in Paris, make sure to relish the opportunity to savor the freshest, most delectable fruits the city has to offer. Your taste buds—and your little ones—will thank you for it.

WHERE TO FIND IT | On any corner and Market Saint-Quentin.

08 | CLASSIC FRENCH BAGUETTE

Allow me to introduce you to a culinary delight that my girls couldn't resist—the iconic French Baguette Sandwich.

Simple yet satisfying, this classic meal holds a special place in the hearts (and tummies) of many. Picture a crusty baguette, lovingly filled with layers of savory ham, delectable cheese, and a generous spread of creamy butter. It's a trio of flavors that instantly captivate the taste buds of kids and adults alike.

The best part? These sandwiches can be found throughout the streets of Paris, making them a convenient and delicious option for a quick bite on the go. And if you're planning a visit a park, grab a baguette sandwich to savor during your playtime.

WHERE TO FINDIT | Les Gourmandises de Saint Honoré when you are near the Louvre.

09 | CREPES

Crepes in Paris with kids? Absolutely!

These savory pancakes are not only a popular food in Paris but also accessible and versatile. Fill them with ham, cheese, veggies, or even chocolate.

And the best part? Crepes fit any mealtime—breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Enjoy them anytime, anywhere in Paris!

WHERE TO FIND THEM | Happy Caffe for when you are near the Louvre.

10 | CHOCOLATES

Paris is a haven for chocolate lovers. With numerous chocolate shops and boutiques, the city offers a variety of chocolates in all shapes and sizes.

My daughter handpicked some chocolates from a shop and enjoyed them in the comfort of our room. If you're seeking kid-friendly activities in Paris, head to Saint-Germain and explore the delightful world of chocolate shops.

WHERE TO FIND THEM | Pierre Hermé, Maison Georges Larnicol and Chapon Chocolatier in Saint Germain.

Food in Paris FAQ

Here is a quick guide to help you navigate the basics as a foodie in Paris with kids.

What is a typical lunch in Paris?

In Paris, a typical lunch offers a delightful variety. Start with a refreshing salad or soup, followed by a meat course like chicken, fish, or quiche. Enjoy it with bread and cheese, and complement the meal with a small grain-based dish such as pasta or rice. Bon appétit!

What breakfast food is Paris known for?

Breakfast in Paris looks like fresh croissants, bread, and pain au chocolate, accompanied by coffee or hot chocolate.

What are the three meals in France?

Breakfast (le petit déjeuner): Light meal with coffee accompanied by bread or a pastry.

Lunch (le déjeuner): Enjoyed in multiple courses, lunch is viewed as the main meal of the day and can last up to two hours.

Dinner (le dîner): Also served in multiple courses, dinner in France is more formal and usually enjoyed later in the evening.

What is the most common breakfast in France?

Fruit, yogurt, baguette with butter and jam or crossiant, with an emphasis on the simplicity of ingredients.

What is a typical French dinner menu?

Entree, usually a soup or salad. The main course consists of meat or fish with a side of vegetables followed by cheese, dessert, and then coffee. Specific ingredients can change depending on the seasons and region.

What is a classic French lunch?

A popular lunch staple in France is the famous croque monsieur. A grilled or baked ham sandwich with Gruyère or Emmental cheese. Typically covered in béchamel sauce and toasted into the cheese is nice and melted and bubbly.

What time is dinner eaten in France?

You can expect dinner to be served between 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM.

What is the most important meal in France breakfast lunch or dinner?

In France, while every meal holds its significance, lunch is considered the main meal of the day.

Are you lanning a trip to Paris with kids and curious about what to eat?

Food in Paris is both delicious and memorable. I provided a few suggestions in this blog post. However, you will also find great cafes, markets, and restaurants on every corner of Paris to explore and taste.

Looking for more family travel experiences in Paris? Get my Paris guides here.

FOOD

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PLAY

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HOTELS

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TIPS