If you’re traveling to France or exploring French cuisine, you might be wondering, what French food dishes should you try? French food is known for its rich flavors, high-quality ingredients, and centuries-old culinary traditions. Whether you’re visiting Paris, Lyon, or a cozy bistro in a small village, there are certain French dishes you simply can’t miss. From savory stews to sweet pastries, let’s dive into the must-try dishes that define French cooking.
1. Croissant
Let’s start with breakfast! Croissants are a staple of French mornings. These buttery, flaky pastries are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee. Whether you have a plain croissant, or one filled with chocolate (pain au chocolat), this is a true French classic. Croissants are available in every bakery, or boulangerie, and should be eaten fresh for the best taste.
If you’re wondering what French food dishes should you try for breakfast, a croissant is the perfect choice.
2. Escargots de Bourgogne (Snails)
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can’t miss escargots de Bourgogne (snails). This dish is a French delicacy, especially popular in the Burgundy region. The snails are cooked in garlic butter, parsley, and a bit of white wine, making them flavorful and tender. Many restaurants across France serve them, and they’re a must-try for anyone looking to taste something authentically French.
Even if you’re hesitant about snails, don’t worry—once you try escargots, you may become a fan!
3. Coq au Vin
Coq au vin is one of the most beloved dishes in French cuisine. This rich chicken stew is slowly cooked in red wine, with mushrooms, onions, and herbs, creating a deeply flavorful dish. The name itself means “cock in wine,” referring to the traditional use of rooster in the recipe. Typically served with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, coq au vin is the ultimate comfort food in French cuisine.
So, if you’re asking what French food dishes should you try, coq au vin is definitely a must.
4. Bouillabaisse
If you love seafood, you must try bouillabaisse, a traditional fish stew from the coastal region of Provence. Made with various kinds of fresh fish, shellfish, tomatoes, garlic, and saffron, bouillabaisse is full of rich, Mediterranean flavors. It’s often served with rouille, a garlic mayonnaise-like sauce, and toasted bread to dip into the soup.
This dish truly reflects the flavors of the Mediterranean, making it a great choice when asking what French food dishes should you try in the south of France.
5. Ratatouille
For something light and vegetable-based, ratatouille is a classic French dish. Originating from the Provence region, this vegetable stew is made with eggplant, zucchini, peppers, tomatoes, and onions, all cooked with olive oil and herbs. It’s often served as a side dish but can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
If you’re wondering what French food dishes should you try for a healthy and flavorful dish, ratatouille is a great option.
6. Quiche Lorraine
A quiche is a savory French pie made with eggs, cream, and a variety of fillings. The most famous variety is quiche Lorraine, which comes from the Lorraine region. It’s made with crispy bacon, cheese, and a creamy egg custard filling, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. This dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
If you’re exploring French food, quiche Lorraine is a dish you should definitely try.
7. Tarte Tatin
For dessert, tarte tatin is a must-try. This iconic French pastry is an upside-down caramelized apple tart. It’s made by cooking apples in butter and sugar until they turn golden and caramelized, then baking it all in a pastry crust. When flipped, it creates a beautifully glossy, sweet apple tart.
Tarte tatin is a classic French dessert that will make your meal unforgettable. It’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
8. French Onion Soup
Another French classic you should try is French onion soup. This dish is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and white wine, all topped with a slice of gruyère cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s comforting and filling, perfect for chilly evenings.
If you’re wondering what French food dishes should you try to experience traditional French comfort food, French onion soup should be at the top of your list.
9. Steak Frites
Steak frites is one of the simplest and most delicious French meals. It consists of a perfectly cooked steak, usually served with crispy fries (frites). While the dish may sound basic, the quality of the steak and the fries makes it a French favorite. You can find it in almost every brasserie or bistro across the country.
If you’re asking what French food dishes should you try for a hearty and satisfying meal, steak frites won’t disappoint.
10. Macarons
For a light, sweet treat, macarons are a must-try French dessert. These colorful, delicate cookies are made from almond flour and filled with a variety of creamy fillings, such as chocolate, raspberry, or pistachio. Macarons are a staple in French patisseries, and you’ll find them in almost every bakery.
If you’re a fan of sweet treats, don’t miss out on these beautiful and flavorful little cookies.
11. Crêpes
For something that’s both sweet and savory, crêpes are a French favorite. Originating from Brittany, these thin pancakes can be filled with anything from Nutella and bananas to cheese, ham, and eggs. You can find crêpes in cafés and crêperies across France, and they are a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dessert.
Crêpes are a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste. They’re definitely worth trying when asking what French food dishes should you try.
Conclusion
So, what French food dishes should you try? France offers an incredible range of dishes that highlight the country’s culinary creativity and rich traditions. From flaky croissants to savory coq au vin and indulgent tarte tatin, the variety of flavors and textures in French food is unmatched. Whether you’re craving seafood, stews, or pastries, French cuisine has something to offer every food lover.
Next time you’re in France—or at a French restaurant—be sure to taste these iconic dishes to experience the true essence of French food!
