10 Must-Try Foods in Paris (And Why You Should Try Them on a Food Tour)
Paris is a feast for all the senses—and especially for your taste buds. Whether it’s your first time in the City of Light or your fifth, tasting your way through Paris is one of the most memorable things you can do. From flaky pastries to rich cheeses and bold wines, the Parisian food scene is as iconic as the Eiffel Tower itself.
To help you dive deep into French cuisine, we’ve listed 10 essential foods to try in Paris—and why the best way to taste them is on a guided food tour with our local expert, Alia.
1. Croissant
Buttery, flaky, and perfectly golden. A real Parisian croissant is a work of art—lightly crisp on the outside, soft and airy inside. Forget the airport versions; once you try one from a proper French boulangerie, you’ll never go back.
🥐 Taste it with Alia as she takes you to her favorite hidden bakery in a charming Parisian neighborhood.
2. Baguette Tradition
French law strictly regulates how a baguette tradition is made—which is why it's so consistently good! Expect a crunchy crust, chewy interior, and no additives.
🥖 Learn how to spot the best baguette on our food tour as Alia explains the “baguette code” Parisians live by.
3. Cheese (Fromage)
France has over 1,000 types of cheese. Brie, Camembert, Roquefort… the list goes on. Served with a glass of wine and fresh baguette, it’s a ritual.
🧀 You’ll sample a hand-picked selection of cheeses in our tour, paired perfectly with local wines.
4. Macarons
Delicate, colorful, and full of flavor. These little almond meringue cookies with creamy filling are both a treat and a visual delight.
🌈 Alia will show you which macaron shops are worth the hype (and which to skip!).
5. Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)
This rich dish features duck slow-cooked in its own fat until it's incredibly tender, then crisped to perfection. A must-try for meat lovers.
🍽️ Our tour includes a traditional bistro where you can enjoy this iconic dish the way locals do.
6. French Onion Soup
Deep, savory broth, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese over crusty bread—this comfort food is a Parisian classic.
🍲 Alia will tell you the history behind this dish and how it became a staple of Parisian cuisine.
7. Escargots (Snails)
Yes, snails! When prepared with garlic and parsley butter, they’re deliciously garlicky bites with a surprising texture.
🐌 Feeling adventurous? Alia will introduce you to escargots in a place where locals love to order them.
8. Crêpes
Savory or sweet, crêpes are everywhere in Paris. Try one filled with Nutella and banana or go savory with ham, cheese, and egg.
🥞 Alia takes you to a local crêperie where the batter is homemade and the toppings are top-notch.
9. Steak Frites
Juicy steak served with crispy fries—it sounds simple, but when done right, it’s extraordinary.
🥩 We’ll stop by a bustling brasserie where the steak frites are a favorite of the locals—and Alia’s too!
10. Tarte Tatin
An upside-down caramelized apple tart that’s buttery, sweet, and slightly tart—this dessert is French perfection.
🍎 Cap off your tour with this delicious dessert as Alia explains the happy accident that led to its creation.
Why Join Our Paris Food Tour?
Exploring Paris through food is about more than eating—it’s about discovering the city’s culture, neighborhoods, and traditions. Our Paris food tour with local guide Alia offers:
- Authentic tastings in hidden gems loved by locals
- Cultural insights and fun stories you won’t get from guidebooks
- Small group sizes for a more personal experience
- The chance to ask Alia anything—from food history to Parisian lifestyle tips
Ready to Eat Like a Local in Paris?
Book your Paris food tour with us today and let Alia guide you through a flavorful journey across the city’s most delicious streets.
