France is one of those countries that you just keep coming back to, not just for the art, the architecture, or the scenic countryside, but for the food. I’ve had the chance to visit a couple of times, and while I did experience a few issues in Paris (mostly petty theft and tourist-related nuisances), those moments were minor compared to the overall magic of the trip. One thing that consistently stood out without hesitation, was the food.

If you’re planning a trip to France, I highly recommend immersing yourself in the culinary experience. French cuisine is not just about fine dining, it’s deeply rooted in tradition, local ingredients, and a true appreciation for every meal. In French, food is called “la nourriture” and a dish is referred to as a “plat.” Knowing these simple words might even earn you a few smiles from locals when ordering at a café or bistro.

Let me share a few of the dishes that left a lasting impression on me. Some were classics I’d heard about for years, others were pleasant surprises I hadn’t expected to enjoy as much as I did.

One of the more famous (and admittedly controversial) dishes is foie gras. It’s made from the liver of a duck or goose and usually served with toast or brioche, often as an appetizer. I was a little hesitant at first, but the flavor and texture are unlike anything else, rich, buttery, and indulgent. You’ll often find it paired with fruit chutneys or as a garnish to more complex dishes.

Another favorite of mine is Soupe à l’oignon, or traditional French onion soup. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that layers deep flavors of caramelized onions with a savory broth, topped with melted cheese and toasted croutons. On a chilly evening, it’s the perfect way to warm up.

If you’re a meat lover, you absolutely must try Boeuf Bourguignon. It’s a slow-cooked beef stew braised in red wine with onions, mushrooms, and bits of bacon. The flavors are bold and earthy, and each version I tried had its own twist depending on the chef or region. It’s a dish that really showcases the French love for slow, thoughtful cooking.

For seafood fans, Bouillabaisse is a must. Originating from Marseille, this traditional fish stew is made with a variety of fish and shellfish in a saffron-infused broth. Served with rouille and crusty bread, it’s an unforgettable meal, especially if you enjoy the layered, briny flavors of the sea.

On the vegetarian side, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed Ratatouille. Yes, it’s more than just the name of an animated movie! The dish itself is a celebration of Mediterranean vegetables, eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, all cooked together with herbs and olive oil. Light, flavorful, and comforting, it’s the kind of dish that feels both rustic and gourmet at the same time.

And of course, no culinary journey through France would be complete without dessert. One that I kept coming back to was Crème Brûlée. It’s a simple custard, usually vanilla-flavored, topped with a caramelized sugar crust you crack with your spoon. It’s creamy, sweet, and satisfying without being overly heavy, a perfect way to end a meal.

French cuisine is so much more than what I’ve listed here, but if it’s your first trip, these are great starting points. What I love most about eating in France is how much value they place on quality ingredients, balance, and presentation. Even a simple lunch at a sidewalk café feels like an experience.

If you’ve been to France, I’d love to hear what dishes stood out to you. Were there any you didn’t expect to like but ended up loving? Or any regional specialties that are worth traveling for? Let’s swap stories, I’m always looking for new food adventures for my next trip!

Bon appétit!