Exploring Paris’s celebrated landmarks is a must for any traveler, but what truly makes the city come alive is the exciting and flavourful journey through its streets and neighbourhoods. Paris is not just about the museums and monuments; it is also about indulging in the authentic tastes of the city! From buttery croissants to savoury crêpes and everything in between. For those who want to experience the "real Paris”, there is nothing better than trying its street food, where each bite tells a story of tradition, culture and craftsmanship.
So, grab your appetite and get ready to taste your way through Paris, where every corner offers a delicious new adventure!
1. Crêpes in the Latin Quarter
Our first tasty recommendation is to indulge in crêpes in the Latin Quarter!
In the heart of Paris, just a stone's throw from famous landmarks like the Pantheon and Notre-Dame, lies the lively Latin Quarter - a neighbourhood of narrow, winding streets and a bustling atmosphere. Here, you will find one of the city’s most beloved street foods: crêpes! The area is filled with charming crêpe stands at nearly every turn, offering quick and delicious treats to fuel your exploration.
For a classic choice, try a sweet crêpe spread with Nutella, a local favourite that is perfect for satisfying a chocolate craving. Or, for something savoury, go for a ham and cheese crêpe, warm and melty, with the perfect balance of flavours. Many stands offer additional options too, so you can customize to your taste. Whether you prefer your crêpe filled with bananas, strawberries, or perhaps even an egg for breakfast-style fare, each bite feels quintessentially Parisian!
2. Baguette Sandwiches Near the Eiffel Tower
This is your chance to try the world-famous French baguettes, with the Eiffel Tower in the background!
Just steps from this iconic masterpiece, the surrounding bakeries offer fresh baguette sandwiches filled with simple, delicious ingredients. A local favourite is the “jambon-beurre” - a perfect combination of ham and creamy butter tucked into a crisp, golden baguette. Other popular options feature tasty cheeses, roasted vegetables or even smoked salmon.
Once you have picked up your sandwich, head over to the nearby Champ de Mars. With its sprawling green lawns and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, it is the perfect spot for a classic Parisian picnic. Unwrap your sandwich, relax on the grass and appreciate the moment as you dine with one of the world’s most acclaimed views as your backdrop. It doesn’t get much more Parisian than this!
3. Falafel in the Marais
The moment you wander into a new part of the city, there is yet another pastry to try!
In the charming Marais district, not far from the historic Place des Vosges and the modern Pompidou Center, you will find some of the best falafel in Paris. Along Rue des Rosiers, famous falafel stands serve up delicious, generously filled pita wraps that are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal. These warm, delicious wraps are packed with crispy falafel, fresh vegetables and creamy tahini sauce, making each bite a treat for the senses. It does not matter if you are meandering the cobblestone streets or relaxing nearby, a falafel from the Marais is a must-try, offering a taste of this vibrant neighbourhood’s multicultural flair.
4. Croissants & Pain au Chocolat Near the Louvre
What better way to kick off your day than with a classic Parisian breakfast? A fresh croissant or pain au chocolat from one of the many delightful bakeries near the Louvre Museum are the perfect choice! These buttery, flaky pastries are the perfect morning fuel before diving into the world of art and history within the Louvre’s storied walls. The warm, golden layers of a freshly baked croissant or the rich chocolate-filled centre of a pain au chocolat make for an ideal breakfast. Eat your pastry with a coffee as you take in views of the city awakening, setting the stage for a day of exploration and discovery!
5. Cheese & Charcuterie at Marché Bastille
Now let’s switch it up and talk about something salty instead! For a different side of French gastronomy, head to Marché Bastille, near the historic Place de la Bastille, where you can sample a wide variety of local cheeses and charcuterie. The market is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from creamy brie and tangy Roquefort to savoury pâté and saucisson. Pick up a selection of these artisanal delights and assemble the perfect picnic by the nearby Canal Saint-Martin. With its picturesque setting and laid-back atmosphere, the canal is an ideal spot to enjoy your French treats, watch the boats drift by and soak in the local charm.
6. Éclairs in Montmartre
When you visit the illustrious Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre, be sure to try a freshly made éclair from one of the charming local patisseries. Montmartre’s bohemian charm is best experienced with a delicious éclair in hand, as you wander through its cobblestone streets. Whether filled with rich chocolate, coffee or vanilla cream, each éclair offers a sweet taste of Parisian pastry perfection. The vibrant neighbourhood, with its artistic history and stunning views, provides the perfect ambiance for enjoying this classic treat. Take your time to really feel the flavours and soak in the atmosphere of one of Paris’s most picturesque districts.
7. Macarons by the Seine River near Pont Neuf
Another truly sweet Parisian experience is to pick up some macarons from the specialty shops near Pont Neuf and enjoy them as you stroll along the Seine River. These colourful, bite-sized treats come in a wide variety of flavours, from classic raspberry and pistachio to more inventive options like salted caramel or lavender. The delicate shells and rich fillings make each macaron a perfect indulgence, and what better way to savour them than with the iconic Seine River as your backdrop? Take your time, admire the view, and let these little French confections add a touch of sweetness to your day.
8. Socca in Belleville
Do not miss the artsy neighbourhood of Belleville, a great hidden gem for food lovers and recognized for its street art and stunning views of Paris. Among the many local treats, socca stands out as a unique savoury snack. This thin chickpea pancake, originally from the south of France, is often served crispy and golden on the outside, with a soft, slightly nutty interior. It is the perfect bite to enjoy as you explore Belleville's buzzing streets, offering a taste of regional French cuisine that is both simple and delicious. Socca is a must-try for anyone looking to discover something different in Paris!
9. Churros and Waffles at the Tuileries Gardens
When you wander through the beautiful Tuileries Gardens and Place de la Concorde, you will most likely be tempted by the smell of delicious churros and waffles that occasionally wafts in the air. Whether you opt for warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated churros or a crispy waffle topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, these indulgent snacks are an amazing way to satisfy your cravings while exploring one of Paris’s most beautiful gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through the Tuileries, relax by the fountains and treat yourself to a taste of something sweet amidst the tranquil setting!
10. Oysters at Marché d’Aligre
Last but definitely not least, pay a visit to the Marché d'Aligre, close to the historic Place de la Bastille. This is a vibrant market famed for its exceptional fresh oysters. For seafood lovers, it provides a truly Parisian experience, where you can sample oysters straight from the shell, savouring their briny freshness in the heart of the city. The market, with its fun atmosphere and colourful stalls, is the perfect spot to indulge in this French delicacy. It does not matter if you are a seasoned oyster enthusiast or trying them for the first time, enjoying a few oysters at Marché d'Aligre is a must-do for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Paris!
Your own culinary journey through Paris!
We are pretty sure your mouth is watering after reading about all these delectable treats, right? We recommend you take your Parisian food journey to the next level and join a guided culinary tour, to truly experience the rich culinary heritage of Paris. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you will be introduced to hidden gems and authentic flavours that might not be found in the guidebooks. From secret pastry shops to lesser-known markets, these tours offer an insider’s look at the best of Parisian cuisine.
Ready to embark on this unforgettable adventure? Book through us and we will help organize your trip and tours, ensuring you make the most of every delicious moment in Paris!
