Strange Foods You Must Try in Paris
Unusual French Delicacies That Might Surprise You
When you think of French cuisine, you might imagine buttery croissants, escargots, creamy cheeses, and fine wines. But Paris also has a quirky, bold, and lesser-known side of its food culture—one that's not for the faint-hearted! If you're an adventurous foodie, this guide is for you. Here are some strange foods you must try in Paris—and where to taste them.
1. Andouillette (The Pungent Sausage)
This traditional sausage made from pork intestines has a reputation for its… let’s say, unique aroma. Andouillette is a French delicacy with a very strong flavor and smell—definitely an acquired taste. But for locals, it's a nostalgic favorite. Try it grilled with mustard sauce and fries.
👉 You’ll often find it in bistros in Les Halles or Montmartre.
2. Tête de Veau (Calf’s Head)
Yes, you read that right. This dish is exactly what it sounds like: boiled calf’s head, often served with a tangy ravigote sauce. It's a traditional plate served on special occasions and in classic brasseries.
🧠 Rich in gelatin, it’s a French culinary tradition that dates back centuries. A must-try if you're curious about nose-to-tail dining!
3. Pied de Cochon (Pig’s Trotters)
Another nose-to-tail specialty, pig's feet are slow-cooked until tender and crispy on the outside. Served with mashed potatoes or lentils, this dish might look intimidating, but the flavor is incredible.
🍽️ One of the best places to try it? Au Pied de Cochon, near Les Halles, open 24/7.
4. Escargots de Bourgogne (Snails in Garlic Butter)
Okay, snails might be cliché—but they’re still strange to many! Served in their shells with parsley and garlic butter, escargots are a Parisian favorite and a great starter for brave foodies.
🟢 Tip: Don’t think about what you’re eating—just enjoy the buttery goodness!
5. Tripoux (Tripe Parcels)
A traditional dish from southern France that you’ll occasionally find in Paris. It consists of sheep tripe stuffed with herbs and vegetables, simmered in a white wine sauce. It’s flavorful and surprisingly tender.
🥄 Try this if you’re looking for something really off the beaten path.
6. Blood Sausage (Boudin Noir)
Made with pork blood, fat, and onions, this rich, dark sausage is often served with apples or mashed potatoes. Boudin Noir has a deep flavor and creamy texture that surprises many first-timers.
🥩 A popular winter dish that’s full of bold flavor.
Want to Try These Strange Parisian Foods With a Local?
If reading this list made you curious (or hungry!), why not taste these weird and wonderful foods with a local guide who can explain their history, flavors, and traditions?
🥖 Join our Food Tour in Paris
At Foodprint Tours, we take you to hidden spots, beloved by Parisians, where you can try authentic and unusual dishes—along with more familiar bites like crêpes and cheese, of course. Our tours are small, personal, and packed with stories that bring French food culture to life.
Book now and explore the strange side of Parisian cuisine—with delicious surprises around every corner.
