Food & Drink

A Culinary Overview of France

French cuisine is built on a foundation of fresh, seasonal ingredients, meticulous preparation, and time-honoured traditions. Core flavours come from staples like butter, cream, and herbs de Provence, balanced by a generous use of wine in sauces and marinades. Classic dishes such as coq au vin, escargot, and ratatouille have earned global fame, while desserts like crème brûlée and tarte Tatin showcase the sweet side of French cuisine.

Regional diversity is at the heart of this culinary heritage. Burgundy is known for hearty meats and deep, complex wines, while Provence celebrates sun-kissed vegetables and olive oil. Bordeaux pairs robust reds with rustic fare, and coastal regions offer seafood dishes brimming with Mediterranean freshness. 

“Lyon is the gastronomic heart of France,” says Destination Specialist Teresa Dahl. “It’s where French cuisine truly began, and the sauces there are unforgettable,” 

Unique French Dining Experiences

Dining in France is about slowing down and savouring the moment. Start your mornings  in Paris at a café terrace, where locals sip café au lait while watching the city come alive. Wander through bustling food markets in Provence, sampling olives, cheeses, and fresh-baked breads, before heading to a vineyard for a wine tasting in Bordeaux or Champagne. In Lyon, explore the famed bouchons, traditional eateries where recipes have been passed down for generations.

“Don’t expect speedy service in France—slow dining is part of the culture, so relax and enjoy the experience,” says Destination Specialist Alex Colici.

For more practical advice on dining etiquette, explore our France travel tips and etiquette guide.

French Wine and Spirits

France is a paradise for wine lovers, home to some of the most celebrated vineyards and varietals in the world. Chardonnay, Merlot, and Pinot Noir are just the beginning of a rich tapestry of flavours that change with every region. In and around Bordeaux, explore sprawling vineyards and learn the art of blending in historic wine estates. Champagne, just an hour east of Paris, offers sparkling perfection in its birthplace, while Burgundy tempts visitors with bold reds and elegant whites, often paired with hearty, rustic dishes.

Venture to the Rhône Valley for complex reds and aromatic whites, or head to Alsace for crisp, refreshing Rieslings. Each region has its own terroir, traditions, and pairings, making every tasting a journey through history and culture. 

“Wine touring in Burgundy, Bordeaux, and the Rhône Valley is a dream for any wine lover,” says Destination Specialist Teresa Dahl. Vineyard tours, private tastings, and exclusive cellar visits create unforgettable experiences for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. For an authentic touch, join a harvest event or dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant where local wines shine alongside exquisite cuisine.

Dining Etiquette in France

Dining in France is more than eating; it’s a cultural ritual rooted in pleasure and respect for food. Meals unfold slowly, often across multiple courses, with fresh, seasonal ingredients taking centre stage. From a simple salad niçoise to a decadent duck à l’orange, every plate reflects balance and artistry.

In France, lunch is often the most important meal of the day, with dinner starting later than in North America, typically around 8:00 p.m. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory, with small change or rounding up the bill being customary.

Wine and cheese hold a special place at the table, often served toward the end of a meal to savour flavors fully. For deeper insights on French food customs, check out our guide to French cultural traditions.

Accommodating Dietary Needs in France

French cuisine traditionally celebrates meats, cheeses, and rich sauces, but it has evolved to embrace diverse dietary preferences. Vegetarian travelers will find plenty of options, particularly in Mediterranean regions like Provence, where fresh vegetables, herbs, and olive oil dominate. Vegan and gluten-free dishes are increasingly available in cosmopolitan centers like Paris and Lyon, with many bistros and markets catering to modern diets.

Travelers with allergies or specific restrictions should inform restaurants in advance, as French chefs take pride in adapting menus without compromising quality. According to Destination Specialist Teresa Dahll, markets are a fantastic resource for those who prefer to self-cater with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether plant-based, gluten-free, or simply health-conscious, France offers a culinary landscape where everyone can indulge without missing out on flavour.

Plan Your French Culinary Adventure

France is a food lover’s dream, and Goway can curate an itinerary that brings this culinary heritage to life. Imagine joining a private chef for a hands-on cooking class in Lyon, strolling through Provençal markets to select fresh ingredients for a farm-to-table lunch, or savouring multi-course dinners paired with rare vintages in Bordeaux. For those seeking something extraordinary, consider a Champagne tasting in its birthplace or a truffle-hunting excursion in the Dordogne followed by a decadent feast.

“Converted domaines and chateaus make for unforgettable stays—they offer so much character and history,” says Destination Specialist Teresa Dahl. Book your custom French food and wine journey with Goway today and let us transform your culinary dreams into reality.

FAQs

What is France's national dish?

Many consider pot-au-feu (a slow-simmered beef stew) the national dish, though coq au vin and duck à l’orange are iconic classics

What is France's national drink?

Wine is deeply tied to French identity, but pastis (an anise-flavoured aperitif) and Champagne are also traditional favourites.

What are stereotypical French foods?

Think baguettes, cheese, wine, escargot, and rich sauces, though regional specialties vary widely across the country.

What is the most French thing to eat?

A fresh croissant with coffee in a Parisian café is quintessentially French, as is a platter of cheese paired with wine.

What are the three main meals in France?

Breakfast (petit déjeuner) is light, lunch (déjeuner) is the main meal of the day, and dinner (dîner) is typically later in the evening.

What is the etiquette for eating in France?

Meals are leisurely and social. Keep hands on the table (but not elbows), wait for the host to begin, and savour each course slowly.

Do the French drink a lot of coffee?

• Yes, but usually in small, strong servings like espresso. Coffee is often enjoyed in cafés as part of daily social life.