21 Traditional French Foods to Try

Step off the Métro and into the flow of a Paris morning, and the first thing you notice is the chorus of aromas; butter drifting from a corner boulangerie, onions caramelising in a tiny bistro, duck sizzling beside orange zest flecked sauce. France doesn’t simply cook; it choreographs, drawing on regional pride and centuries of disciplined technique to turn local harvests into enduring classics.

Across the country, dishes swing between the rustic and the regal. A steaming cassoulet echoes the warmth of farmhouse kitchens, while a feather‑light vol‑au‑vent recalls the grandeur of imperial banquets.

Each recipe balances restraint with indulgence, potatoes melting beneath ribbons of Reblochon, scallops bathed in cream yet lifted by a single splash of wine, proving that finesse thrives on respect for humble ingredients.

More than a collection of techniques, French cooking is an invitation to linger: to taste a region’s landscape in every bite, to pair conversation with crusty baguette, to let time slow while a stew deepens. As you explore the classics ahead, expect stories as layered as the pastries and flavours that reward patience, curiosity, and a generous appetite for tradition.

1

Vol-au-Vent

Vol-au-vent, this light, flaky pastry shell, often filled with a creamy, savoury mixture, has long been associated with refined dining and festive gatherings.

Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, it offers a perfect balance of crisp pastry and luscious filling, making it a favourite at holiday tables and formal events.

Though rooted in French haute cuisine, vol-au-vent has a versatility that allows it to adapt to countless variations, appealing to both classic and modern palates.

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2

Tartiflette (Potato and Cheese Casserole)

Tartiflette, a luxurious potato and cheese casserole from the French Alps, is the perfect example of comfort food. Rich, indulgent, and irresistibly satisfying, it’s a culinary ode to simple, hearty ingredients that come together to create something far greater than the sum of its parts.

With layers of tender potatoes, smoky bacon, caramelized onions, and melted Reblochon cheese, Tartiflette is the perfect meal for cold winter evenings or any time you’re craving something truly comforting.

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3

Tarte Tatin (Caramelized Apple Tart)

Tarte Tatin, the iconic French caramelized apple tart, is a dessert that captures the essence of rustic elegance. This upside down tart features tender apples, slow cooked in a buttery caramel, topped with a crisp, flaky pastry crust.

Served warm, with its golden caramel oozing over the sides, Tarte Tatin is a dessert that invites indulgence and comfort. While its flavours are simple, its combination of caramelized apples and buttery pastry creates an irresistible dessert that has earned a beloved place in French culinary tradition.

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4

Soupe à l’Oignon (French Onion Soup)

Soupe à l’Oignon, or French Onion Soup, is a dish that began as a humble peasant dish has evolved into a symbol of comfort and refinement, known for its deeply caramelized onions, savoury broth, and golden topping of melted cheese.

Whether served in a cosy bistro or made at home on a chilly evening, French Onion Soup offers a warming, satisfying experience with layers of flavour that are both simple and sophisticated.

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5

Salade Niçoise (Nicoise Salad)

Salade Niçoise is a French dish that effortlessly captures the flavours of the Mediterranean in every bite. Hailing from the sun soaked city of Nice, this salad is a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, briny olives, and tender tuna, all brought together with a simple, yet flavourful vinaigrette.

While it may seem like a humble dish, Salade Niçoise is anything but ordinary, each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to reflect the bounty of the region, making it a true celebration of Provençal cuisine.

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6

Pissaladière (Onion and Anchovy Tart)

Pissaladière is a savoury delight from the South of France that perfectly captures the flavours of the Mediterranean. Often compared to pizza, though distinctly its own dish, this onion and anchovy tart is a celebration of slow cooked caramelized onions, briny anchovies, and tangy olives atop a thin, flaky crust.

Originating from the region of Provence, Pissaladière is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can create something deeply satisfying and full of character.

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7

Gratin Dauphinois (Potato Gratin)

Gratin Dauphinois is a classic French dish that has stood the test of time, celebrated for its simplicity and rich, comforting flavours. Thinly sliced potatoes are slowly baked in cream until tender, creating a luxurious melt in your mouth experience.

It’s the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and homey, perfect as a side for special meals or as a main event when you’re in the mood for something warm and satisfying.

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8

Escargots de Bourgogne (Snails in Garlic Butter)

Escargots de Bourgogne, or snails in garlic butter, is a French delicacy that has captivated the curiosity of food lovers around the world. Originating from the Burgundy region, this dish turns the humble snail into a gourmet experience, bathing it in a rich, flavourful garlic-parsley butter.

For those new to the idea, Escargots de Bourgogne might seem daring, but the first taste often surprises with its simplicity and indulgent flavours, offering an authentic taste of French culinary tradition.

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9

Duck à l’Orange (Duck in Orange Sauce)

Duck à l’Orange is one of those iconic French dishes that manages to be both elegant and deeply comforting. The combination of rich, succulent duck with a vibrant, tangy orange sauce strikes a perfect balance between savoury and sweet.

It’s a dish that has long been associated with French fine dining, but its origins are humble, making it approachable and rewarding for home cooks as well.

Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply looking to explore classic French flavours, Duck à l’Orange is a dish that impresses with both its taste and its history.

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10

Croissants (Buttery Pastry)

Croissants, these golden, flaky pastries are more than just a breakfast item, they are a symbol of French culture and an indulgence enjoyed worldwide.

Made with layers of buttery dough that puff up to create a delicate crispness, croissants are the epitome of French patisserie, a delicious treat that brings elegance to the simplest meal.

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11

Crêpes (Thin Pancakes)

Crêpes are one of France’s most iconic dishes, these thin pancakes can be sweet or savoury, making them a versatile favourite for any meal.

Whether enjoyed with a sprinkle of sugar, a rich chocolate spread, or filled with ham and cheese, crêpes are a culinary canvas that allows endless creativity.

Originating in the Brittany region of France, crêpes have become a beloved part of French culture, enjoyed at home, in cafés, and during festive occasions.

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12

Coquilles Saint-Jacques (Scallops with Cream Sauce)

Coquilles Saint-Jacques is a classic French dish that elevates the natural sweetness of scallops with the richness of cream, butter, and a delicate hint of wine. It’s a dish that feels luxurious, yet rooted in the traditions of French coastal cuisine.

Served in their own shells or baked gratin style with a crisp topping, Coquilles Saint-Jacques is an elegant celebration of fresh seafood and indulgent flavours, often enjoyed as a starter at festive dinners or special occasions.

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13

Coq au Vin (Chicken Braised in Wine)

Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that showcases the art of slow cooking and the beauty of simple, rustic ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

This dish, which translates to “rooster in wine,” traditionally uses older, tougher poultry, braised slowly in red wine to create a rich, deeply flavoured stew.

Its long, slow simmering allows the chicken to absorb the flavours of wine, herbs, and aromatics, turning it into a dish that is as comforting as it is elegant.

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14

Clafoutis (Baked Fruit Dessert)

Clafoutis is a French dessert that beautifully combines simplicity and elegance. It’s a baked fruit dish, traditionally made with cherries, where a silky, custard like batter is poured over the fruit before baking to perfection.

The result is a dessert that’s both rustic and refined, perfect for showcasing the flavours of fresh, seasonal fruit. Often served warm, clafoutis offers a taste of French country cooking that feels comforting yet sophisticated, making it a beloved treat at tables across France.

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15

Chateaubriand (Centre-Cut Beef Fillet)

Chateaubriand, a classic of French cuisine, is a dish that speaks to the elegance and simplicity of perfectly prepared beef.

Known for its tenderness and rich flavour, Chateaubriand is made from the centre-cut of beef fillet and often served with a decadent sauce like béarnaise, along with seasonal vegetables.

It’s a dish that captures the essence of French dining, refined yet accessible, with a focus on high quality ingredients prepared with precision.

Whether enjoyed at a fine dining restaurant or made at home for a special occasion, Chateaubriand delivers a dining experience that’s both luxurious and deeply satisfying. Centre

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16

Cassoulet (Bean and Meat Stew)

Cassoulet is more than just a hearty French stew, it’s a dish steeped in tradition, a slow cooked celebration of rich flavours and rustic comfort.

Originating from the southwest of France, Cassoulet is a culinary masterpiece of tender beans, savoury meats, and a blend of spices that come together in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is comforting.

Whether enjoyed in the heart of the French countryside or recreated in your kitchen, Cassoulet brings warmth, tradition, and the soul of French cuisine to the table.

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17

Boeuf Bourguignon (Beef Stew in Red Wine)

Boeuf Bourguignon, a rich beef stew simmered in red wine, is one of the most iconic dishes in French cuisine. Originating from the Burgundy region, this dish combines tender chunks of beef with the earthy flavours of mushrooms, carrots, and onions, all bathed in a deeply flavourful wine sauce.

It’s the kind of meal that captures the essence of French comfort cooking, rustic, satisfying, and imbued with an elegance that elevates it beyond your typical stew.

Whether served at a family gathering or a special occasion, Boeuf Bourguignon offers a culinary experience that is both hearty and refined.

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18

Baguette (French Bread)

Few foods are as iconic as the French baguette. This long, golden loaf of bread is synonymous with French culture, bringing to mind images of bustling Parisian bakeries and early morning markets.

With its crisp, crackling crust and soft, airy interior, the baguette is more than just bread, it’s a symbol of tradition, simplicity, and craftsmanship. Whether paired with cheese, used for sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on its own, the French baguette is a culinary staple that has stood the test of time.

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19

Quiche Lorraine (Savoury Tart)

Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish known for its savoury flavours and rich, creamy texture. This dish has transcended borders to become a staple in kitchens and cafes worldwide, admired for its simplicity and elegance.

Quiche Lorraine is a baked tart, filled with a luscious custard of eggs and cream, mixed with smoky bacon or lardons. Whether served as a light lunch, a brunch highlight, or a satisfying dinner, this dish offers warmth and comfort in every bite.

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20

Ratatouille

French Ratatouille is one of France’s most beloved dishes, a hearty vegetable stew that has become iconic both for its rustic charm and its ability to elevate simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.

Hailing from the Provence region, ratatouille celebrates the flavours of sun kissed vegetables, transforming them into a dish that is both comforting and healthy. Whether served as a side dish or the star of a meal, ratatouille offers a vibrant taste of southern France.

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21

Bouillabaisse (Fish Stew)

French Bouillabaisse is a classic French fish stew that hails from the sun soaked shores of Marseille, offering a taste of the Mediterranean in every spoonful.

This dish, bursting with the flavours of the sea, is more than just a stew, it’s a cultural symbol, rooted in the fishing traditions of Southern France.

Known for its complex broth, fragrant with herbs, garlic, and saffron, Bouillabaisse is an elegant, yet rustic celebration of the sea’s bounty, offering a truly unique culinary experience.

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