This is the stuff locals won’t explain—but they’ll definitely notice when you get it wrong. From why you don’t touch the bread basket before the meal starts, to when it’s OK to leave your napkin on the chair, these are the unspoken dining secrets that turn a good meal into something French.
Some are etiquette. Some are instinct. Some are just pure cultural rhythm. But they all make a difference—and once you learn them, you’ll never dine the same way again.
It’s not just about food—it’s about breath. About not rushing. About eating with people, not through them. That’s the magic.
The French don’t eat to get full. They eat to feel something. These secrets? They’re how it all makes sense.
No beret, Gauloise or moody frown needed to eat like a Parisian—but you do need sharper instincts. We asked chefs, locals, and professional eaters for their bluntest advice on how to avoid tourist food in Paris. Because trust us—it’s not just about overpaying. It’s about missing out on what makes Paris taste like Paris. The … Read more
France’s reputation as the land of gourmet food, crusty baguettes, and leisurely bistro lunches still holds romantic appeal—but it no longer tells the full story. In 2025, French eating habits are shifting in surprising ways. From rising fast-food sales and frozen meal dependence to the growing dominance of global food giants, how the French actually … Read more
Looking for the most trusted Paris restaurant guide in 2025? With the internet drowning in AI-written listicles and tourist-driven hype, it’s never been more important to seek out human-curated lists created by people who actually live and eat here. As a chef living in Paris, I constantly get asked where I eat, who I trust, … Read more
If you want to shop at a French market like a local, you’ve got to do more than carry a linen tote and mutter bonjour. You’ve got to show up with heart, hustle, and just enough charm to make a fruit seller blush. French markets aren’t just places to buy food. They’re slow, sensual cathedrals … Read more
Let’s face it—eating out in Paris is one of the greatest joys of visiting the city. But it’s also where things can go wildly right or terribly wrong. With tens of thousands of restaurants, it’s a food-lover’s paradise—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to navigate. Even as a chef and lifelong foodie, I’ll admit: you … Read more
Ah, Paris—the land of buttery croissants, slow-cooked duck confit, and sauces so good you’d sell your own mother for the recipe. But here’s the dirty little secret: Not all Parisian restaurants are actually cooking. That melt-in-your-mouth boeuf bourguignon you just forked out €25 for? It might have arrived in the kitchen vacuum-sealed from a factory, … Read more
Traveling to Paris with kids can feel like a logistical nightmare—jet lag, picky eaters, and the constant need to keep everyone fed without blowing the budget. But trust me, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. I’ve dragged my family through enough tough food situations to know what works and what doesn’t. From backpacking across … Read more
Ah, terroir—the word that’s impossible to translate but defines everything exquisite about French food and wine. For the French, it’s not just a romantic notion; it’s the lifeblood of their culinary identity. This is after all a country that grows and eats it’s own food, improving less than 10% of its food supplies in 2023 … Read more
Navigating a Parisian dinner invitation can be a delightful yet daunting experience. From the moment you receive that coveted invite, the excitement and nerves intertwine. Imagine stepping into an elegant soirée, where every detail from RSVP etiquette to dining decorum plays a crucial role. Whether you’re an avid traveller, a curious foodie, or living here … Read more
Ever wonder how the French turn every meal into an event to remember? It’s no secret that dining in France is an art form, characterised by a blend of tradition, precision, and a touch of je ne sais quoi. I’m Chef Tris. I trained as a chef here in France and have lived here for … Read more