France is certainly famous for it's most obvious French delicacies, such as snails and frogs legs...but let's face it, there is obviously more to French cuisine that these stereotypes!
Let's take a look at the specialties in each region of France, and see if you can tick off the ones you have tried and tasted. Do you have a favourite? Here's our guide to some of the must-try regional dishes and experiences that will make your taste buds sing.
Île-de-France: The Heart of French Cuisine
Start your tasting journey in the heart of France, Paris, where the cuisine is as sophisticated as the city itself. Here, you can indulge in classic dishes such as:
Croissants and Pain au Chocolat: Perfect for breakfast, these flaky pastries are a staple in Parisian cafés.
Coq au Vin: A hearty dish of chicken braised in red wine, mushrooms, and bacon, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Crème Brûlée: End your meal with this creamy dessert topped with a layer of caramelized sugar.
Normandy: A Taste of the Sea and Orchards
Moving northwest to Normandy, the cuisine is heavily influenced by the sea and the rolling green countryside. Key specialties include:
Camembert: This famous soft cheese is a must-try, especially when paired with fresh baguette.
Moules à la Normande: Mussels cooked in cider with cream and onions, reflecting the region’s dual love of seafood and apples.
Tarte Tatin: An upside-down apple tart that beautifully showcases Normandy’s apples.
Brittany: Seafood and Crêpes
Further west in Brittany, the focus is on the fresh seafood that is shipped into the ports on the south coast, plus other hearty, rustic dishes:
Galettes: Savory buckwheat crêpes filled with ham, cheese, eggs, and other ingredients.
Kouign-Amann: A buttery, sugary pastry that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Seafood Platters: Fresh oysters, clams, and mussels. Head to ports such as Concarneau for a fresh seafood dinner.
Provence: Mediterranean Flavours
Heading south to Provence, you’ll enjoy the typical 'Mediterranean' diet, filled with fresh vegetables, crusty breads and more seafood:
Ratatouille: A colorful vegetable stew made with tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.
Bouillabaisse: A traditional fish stew from Marseille, flavored with saffron and served with rouille sauce.
Tapenade: A savory spread made from olives, capers, and anchovies, perfect with fresh bread.
Lyon: The Gastronomic Capital
Lyon, often considered the gastronomic capital of France, offers rich, hearty dishes that reflect its status:
Quenelles: Light dumplings made from creamed fish or meat, served in a rich sauce.
Saucisson de Lyon: A flavorful cured sausage, often enjoyed with a slice of fresh baguette.
Cervelle de Canut: A creamy cheese spread made with herbs, garlic, and shallots, typically served as an appetizer.
Alsace: A Fusion of French and German Influences
In the northeast, Alsace offers a unique blend of French and German culinary traditions:
Choucroute Garnie: Sauerkraut served with sausages, pork, and potatoes, showcasing the region’s German influence.
Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche): A thin crust topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon, similar to a pizza.
Kugelhopf: A yeasted cake with raisins and almonds, perfect for dessert or breakfast.
Bordeaux: Wine, wine, wine and some great steak!
No culinary tour of France would be complete without a visit to Bordeaux, known for its world-class wines and refined cuisine:
Entrecôte à la Bordelaise: Rib steak cooked in a rich red wine sauce, often served with bone marrow.
Canelé: A small pastry with a caramelized crust and soft, custardy center, flavored with vanilla and rum.
Oysters: Fresh from the nearby Arcachon Bay, they are best enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a glass of local white wine.
France remains famous for it's great food and you can be sure of some great food experiences when staying at one of our Siblu holiday parks in France. From the quality restaurants on the site, to the huge number of cafes, bistro's and restaurants in the nearby resorts, you'll always enjoy a brilliant meal out in France.
