As tour guides in France, a country known for its incredible food, one of the questions we always get asked is: “What are some popular French dishes to try?”
So today we’re sharing 15 classic French dishes that you absolutely must try when visiting France!
French cuisine is such a blend of flavors, techniques, and cultural influences – and the key to good French food is in the sauce. With the right sauce, you’ll enjoy an excellent French meal.
We’ve rounded up 15 classic French dishes that showcase what French cooking is all about and give you a taste of the country’s culinary story.
In no particular order, let’s get started!
Top 15 Classic French Dishes To Try in France
1. Confit de Canard (Duck Confit)
First up is Confit de Canard, which has been voted the most loved French dish by the locals.
This dish is made by slowly cooking duck in its own fat for several hours, resulting in a tender meat within that is incredibly tender and flavorful. Traditionally seasoned with garlic and thyme, it often comes with crispy skin that adds to the dish’s texture. It’s truly a foodie staple in France.
Where to have it: You can try an exceptional Confit de Canard at La Jacobine, a beloved restaurant in the heart of Paris.
2. Crêpes Galettes
Next, we have Galettes, the savory crepe that is a staple in French cuisine.
Typically filled with cheese, ham, and a sunny-side-up egg, this classic dish can also be customized with delicious additions like mushrooms, spinach, or even smoked salmon. The buckwheat flour used gives them a unique flavor and texture. A must-try for any foodie!
Where to have it: Head over to La Crêperie du Clown or Galette Café to enjoy some of the best Galettes in Paris.
3. Escargots
Third on our list is the famous Escargots, otherwise known as snails.
These snails are slow cooked to perfection in a mix of butter, garlic, and parsley, often served in their shells with a small fork for easy eating. Escargots are often garnished with breadcrumbs for an added crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, this dish is one of our guide Clara’s personal favorites and a true taste of France.
Where to have it: You can find delectable Escargots at L’Escargot Bar, Lescargot, or Chez Fernand, where they are known for their rich flavor and texture.
4. Steak Tartare
Coming in at number four is Steak Tartare.
This dish features fresh raw beef topped with a raw egg yolk and mixed with various herbs, capers, and sometimes a splash of Worcestershire sauce. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it’s a classic that showcases the richness of French cuisine.
Where to have it: To experience a truly authentic Steak Tartare, visit Au Petit Fer à Cheval, where they prepare it with a perfect blend of seasonings.
5. Aligot
Next we have Aligot, as recommended by Clara!
This incredibly cheesy purée is often served with meats and is known for its stretchy, gooey texture, achieved by mixing melted cheese (typically Tomme cheese) into mashed potatoes. It’s a whole experience in itself and is gaining popularity in Paris.
You definitely don’t want to miss this one!
Where to have it: For a delightful Aligot, make your way to L’Auberge Aveyronnaise, where the traditional dish is served alongside sumptuous roasted meats for a comforting meal.
6. Coq au Vin
Next up is the beloved Coq au Vin.
This traditional French dish is made by slowly braising chicken in red wine, along with mushrooms garlic butter, lardons, and pearl onions until it’s tender and bursting with flavour. The rich sauce brings all the ingredients together beautifully.
Where to have it: Fantastic places to savour authentic Coq au Vin are La Jacobine and Le Coq & Fils – the Poultry House, where they pride themselves on using high-quality ingredients for that home-cooked taste.
7. Ratatouille
Coming in at number seven is the vibrant and wholesome Ratatouille.
This vegetable medley, primarily consisting of tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, is cooked to perfection and often served warm or cold. It’s a hearty dish that celebrates the freshness of seasonal produce.
Where to have it: For a delightful Ratatouille, head over to Restaurant Guy Savoy, where the presentation is as stunning as the flavours.
8. Bouillabaisse
Next up is the famous Bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew brimming with a variety of fish and shellfish, flavoured with aromatic herbs and saffron.
This dish is a seafood lover’s dream, offering a taste of the Mediterranean in every spoonful.
Where to have it: For an unforgettable Bouillabaisse experience, visit Brasserie Dubillot, known for their carefully sourced seafood and rich broth.
9. Moules Frites / Moules Marinières
We can’t forget the delightful Moules Frites / Moules Marinières, aka mussels marinara with fries.
These mussels are cooked in a savory broth of white wine olive oil, garlic, and parsley, creating a rich and flavorful dish. Moules Marinières are perfect for any time of day.
Where to have it: For a fantastic meal, Atlas and Huguettes are beloved bistros renowned for their delicious and fragrant moules frites and moules marinières, served in a cozy atmosphere.
10. Tarte Tatin
Next up is the iconic Tarte Tatin. This upside-down caramelised apple tart is a showstopper, with its sweet and tangy flavours complemented by a buttery pastry crust. It’s a delightful way to end your meal and is best enjoyed warm with a dollop of crème fraîche.
Where to have it: For a sumptuous Tarte Tatin, make your way to Sacrée Fleur, where the dessert is crafted to perfection, making it a must-try in your French culinary journey.
11. Steak Frites
Next we recommend that you have the ever-popular Steak Frites. This classic French dish features a juicy steak, perfectly grilled to your liking, served alongside golden, crispy fries. It’s a beautiful marriage of simplicity and flavour that will satisfy any hunger. We’d usually opt for medium-rare.
Where to have it: For a standout Steak Frites experience, try Aux Anysetiers du Roy, L’Aller Retour Marais, or Le Beef Paradis, where they take the dish to the next level.
12. Chicken Confit
Next up is the luscious Chicken Confit. Similar to Duck Confit, this dish involves slow-cooking chicken in its own fat until it’s tender and flavourful, resulting in a rich and comforting meal. The skin becomes delectably crispy, adding a wonderful texture.
Where to have it: A great place to savour Chicken Confit is at La Jacobine or Le Coq & Fils – the Poultry House, where rustic charm meets exquisite cooking.
13. French Onion Soup
At number thirteen, we can’t overlook the comforting and iconic French Onion Soup.
This warm, indulgent dish features caramelised onions simmered in a rich broth, topped with melted cheese and baked to golden perfection. It’s the epitome of French culinary comfort food.
Where to have it: Don’t miss the classic renditions at La Jacobine, Au Pied de Cochon or Bouillon République, known for their delicious, hearty portions of French Onion Soup.
14. Croque Monsieur
Next on our list is the classic Croque Monsieur.
This warm sandwich, filled toasted bread, with ham and melted cheese, is a simple yet satisfying treat. Often enjoyed as a quick lunch, it’s best paired with a side salad to balance the richness.
Where to have it: For an authentic Croque Monsieur, head to Faste – Croque monsieur Paris or Fric-Frac Canal St Martin, where you’ll feel the spirit of Paris while enjoying your meal.
15. Boeuf Bourguignon
Finally, we arrive at the rich and aromatic Boeuf Bourguignon.
This traditional beef stew, braised in red or white wine sauce, with mushrooms, onions, and herbs, offers an explosion of flavours that warms the soul. It’s a dish that embodies the heart of French cuisine.
Where to have it: For a truly memorable Boeuf Bourguignon, look no further than Au Bourguignon du Marais or Le Vieux Bistrot – local favourites that know how to bring out the best in this comforting classic.
The Best French Dishes to Try: A Culinary Adventure in Paris
Trying French food is a key part of really getting to know the rich tapestry of French culture. French bread, with its cultural significance and essential role in iconic French dishes, enhances the culinary experience of enjoying French food.
Each dish has its own story, often tied to local traditions, historical influences, and seasonal ingredients. Whether it’s the flaky, buttery layers of a croissant that kickstart your morning or the comforting goodness of a coq au vin that highlights French culinary artistry, indulging in local cuisine helps you connect more deeply with the country’s heritage.
The variety of flavors and textures reflects France’s diverse identity, making it a great way to dive into the culture. If you’re excited to explore this culinary adventure, checking out the restaurant scene in Paris – maybe even after our Paris Highlights Tour – is a must.
Where To Try the Best French Dishes in Paris
We recently shared our complete guide to the best restaurants in Paris, with top recommendations by arrondissement. At these restaurants, you’ll be able to try the best of the best of these French dishes!
From charming bakeries tempting you with freshly baked baguettes and pastries to vegan restaurants that put a plant-based spin on classic dishes, there’s something for everyone.
Exploring the city’s diverse food scene not only satisfies your cravings but also deepens your understanding of French customs around food, community, and celebrations.
Our vote is for you to go ahead and treat yourself to a culinary adventure in Paris—it’s the perfect way to senusously engage with the essence of French culture, one delicious bite at a time.
Check out our guide Clara’s favourite French dishes!
Discover the Best French Dishes
Whether you’re savoring the cozy goodness of coq au vin or indulging in the delicate layers of a delicious tarte tatin, these 15 classic French dishes truly reflect the passion and artistry behind French gastronomy.
Enjoy exploring these classic dishes that have shaped French food culture!
To help you navigate the lively food scene in Paris, don’t forget to check out our handy restaurant guide to Paris for the best spots to enjoy these delicious treats!
Save this post for your next trip to France – we’ll see you on a tour. Bon appétit!