Are you ready to immerse yourself in the delicious world of Parisian cuisine? In this article I am going to discover the secrets of how to eat like a local in Paris.
From charming bistros to bustling markets, Paris offers a culinary adventure like no other.
Get ready to discover how Parisians take to the streets to make you feel like a true Parisian. Let’s take a gastronomic trip together through the streets of Paris!
Related reading: Food in Paris: a culinary center in Europe
Here’s an overview:
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Discover How to Eat Like a Local in Paris: A Guide
Spend the day eating like a local in Paris from breakfast to dinner. Here’s our guide on what to eat for each meal for the full Parisian experience.
Related reading: Paris for beginners: where and what to eat, see or do
Breakfast
Let’s start with breakfast. Honestly, I rarely eat it and prefer to start the day with just espresso.
In fact, about 40% of us have done intermittent fasting our entire lives; We just never called it that. That’s the real reason why French women don’t gain weight.
For those who eat in the morning, There is the traditional croissant or pastry when you go out with friends or even on the way to work.. Often at home we toast the baguette left over from the night before OR we run out and buy a fresh baguette. With a good butter, it is a wonderful way to start the day.
Occasionally, Fruit and yogurt will start your day.There are no hard and fast rules, but eggs and bacon are not traditional.
However, if you come from a country with a breakfast tradition, never be ashamed to eat a quiche from a local artisan bakery in the morning. Even if the French don’t do this, they won’t judge you.
Lunch
Lunch is whatever you like best, depending on your day. If I’m with friends, we could choose a coffee shop.
Lunch is usually a deal at a cafeteria. You can choose two courses for a fixed price.. A starter and a second, or a second and dessert if you prefer sweet.
There are good cafes everywhere, but if you want one that does NOT use canned or frozen foods, choose Fait House, meaning it must be done legally in-house. There will be a sign or plaque announcing it. You can also just ask and point to an item.Homemade?‘and if you get a ouiYou will know that the item you have chosen is made in-house.
When I work, which is often, I tend towards the wonderful Ham Baguette, ham on bread with butter. This is a sandwich I was suspicious of when I first arrived in Paris as a young man. In the United States ham is not served with butter, but I soon fell in love with this wonderful combination and craved it. I think it’s because butter is SO GOOD!
Snacks are not so common, but there is good fruit everywhere, and if you want to eat it directly in the store, just ask the owner to ‘rincer mes fruits, s’il vous plaît?‘
If you are traveling with hungry children, simply visit a Artisanal Bakery; They will gladly cut a quiche or pastry in half for the children.
Dinner
Dinner is where your French culinary dreams can come true.
wine is necessaryAnd the price is reasonable. Bistros and cafes usually offer glasses that cost between 4 and 6 euros, while restaurants charge a little more. Even the bottles are affordable to share with friends.
I love wine bars. Sharing a bottle of wine with charcuterie and cheese is one of my favorite casual evening activities.. French cheese is as good as French butter. Many wine shops have a basement or back room that is opened at night exclusively for this purpose. They don’t know how to cook but they greatly enjoy having a selection of cheeses that will satisfy the most demanding diner.
On a cold, rainy winter night, when a more substantial meal is called for, I often start with a salad and then a Casserole either Beef bourguignon. These are my two favorite hearty meals, but choose the one you like best. French cuisine is very broad and I like a salad to start, others prefer a salad after the main course.
You can do whatever you want. The French are not silently judging you. Unless you order ketchup, they are. Even with fries, ketchup is not common.
Fat is very satisfying. That is why it is tradition to have a little cheese after the meal, and then if you like a sweet.
If it’s a Christmas party or gathering, there’s nothing wrong with ending the evening with a brandy.
There is no rush, take your time with meals
The most important thing is to take your time, enjoy the food and family and friends. If you dine alone, make a reservation. Never rush. The table is yours for as long as you want.
Tips in France
If you are in a tourist trap they ask for a tip, but a small tip is common, from a few coins to a bill, if you are with friends and are there for hours.
Above all, enjoy it, that’s what you’re in Paris for.
Eat like a local in Paris with a chef
Who better to teach you how to eat like a local in Paris than a local chef? Join one of the tours offered by The Chef Tours to immerse yourself in true Parisian food culture.
Each tour offers a unique way to explore Paris through its flavors, stories and hidden gems, designed by expert chefs passionate about sharing their love of the city’s culinary arts.
Chef PJ’s Montmartre Food Tour: Discover the Soul of Paris
Experience the authentic Montmartre with Chef PJ, a Parisian prodigy who brings to life the rich culture and hidden flavors of his hometown. This tour offers an intimate insight into the local culinary scene, led by a chef recognized for his deep roots and extensive experience in the vibrant Paris district. He begins by drinking “café au lait” and savoring a “freshly baked croissant” in a “Café” like a true Parisian.
Upon arrival at Chef PJ’s restaurant, you will be treated to a three-course home-cooked meal, highlighted by perfectly selected French rosé, white and red wines, followed by a discussion of the best pastries and chocolates in town, while sipping a glass of “Pet – Nat.”
Participants can look forward to a personal journey through Montmartre’s lesser-known spots, tasting secret recipes and hearing captivating stories. Chef PJ’s previous high praise on other renowned food tours ensures a highly praised and memorable experience.
- Price: €129.00 each
It starts at 11:00 at the Blanche metro station.
Duration: 5 hours.
Live guide: English.
Not suitable for vegans.
Chef PJ’s Picnic: A Picnic Adventure in Montmartre
Transform a simple meal into an extraordinary feast with chef PJ’s Montmartre picnic. This adventure begins with an uphill funicular ride, followed by a tour led by Chef PJ’s family that delves into the history and soul of Montmartre.
The picnic features a carefully curated gourmet array of local specialties, including pastries, quiches and wines, enjoyed in the picturesque surroundings of Chef PJ’s restaurant with panoramic views. This tour is an ideal option for those seeking a combination of culinary delight and cultural exploration, far from the usual tourist experiences.
