An excursion into French cuisine – Bon appétit
French cuisine is known worldwide for its sophistication, variety and culinary innovation. From elegant haute cuisine to cozy bistros, France offers a wealth of taste experiences to delight every palate. French food culture is deeply rooted in history and has even been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This article takes you through the history and importance of French gastronomy, gives practical tips for visiting French restaurants and explains how to enjoy a typical French menu. We also show you some typical French dishes and how you can recreate them at home.
The French food culture
French cuisine is more than just food – it is a central part of French culture and identity. The attention to detail, the art of preparation and the celebration of sharing food make French cuisine a global symbol of culinary excellence.
History and importance of French cuisine worldwide
The history of French cuisine goes back centuries and is closely linked to the history of France. In the Middle Ages, the cuisine was characterized by heavy meat and rich, often strongly spiced sauces. With the Renaissance and the influence of Italian cuisine, French cuisine became more refined. Chefs such as François Pierre La Varenne and Marie-Antoine Carême introduced innovations and refined techniques that laid the foundations for modern French cuisine.
In the 19th century, Auguste Escoffier perfected the French art of cooking and laid the foundations for haute cuisine – the fine art of cooking. He systematized kitchen organization and standardized recipes, which contributed to the worldwide spread of French cuisine. Today, French cuisine is considered the benchmark for culinary excellence and influences kitchens all over the world. From New York to Tokyo, the principles and techniques of French cuisine can be found in restaurants and cooking schools around the world.
UNESCO World Heritage: French gastronomy
French gastronomy was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2010. It was the first time that a national cuisine had received this recognition. UNESCO emphasized that French gastronomy is more than just food – it is a social practice that encompasses the celebration of life events, the promotion of community and the passing on of traditions.
The typical French meal is a carefully thought-out sequence of courses that delight the palate and create a harmonious overall experience. It often begins with a starter (entrée), followed by a main course (plat principal), cheese (fromage) and ends with dessert. The meal is accompanied by suitable wines that underline and complement the flavors of the dishes.
This recognition by UNESCO underlines the importance of French cuisine as a cultural asset that is valued not only for its variety of flavors, but also for its role in social life. It celebrates food as an art form and an expression of the French way of life.
All in all, French cuisine is a living heritage that combines tradition and innovation. It invites everyone to discover and enjoy the diversity and richness of this food culture.
Traditional French dishes
Boeuf bourguignon
Quiche Lorraine
Ratatouille
Fondant au Chocolat
A crowning glory for any celebration: French dessert
French desserts are the crowning glory of every meal and a highlight of French cuisine. From delicate, airy macarons to sumptuous, chocolatey fondants – every dessert embodies the art and passion of French patisserie.
Crème brûlée, with its crunchy caramel crust and creamy filling, is a classic that is appreciated all over the world. Equally tempting are tarte tatin, an upside-down apple pie, and éclairs, a pastry filled with sweet cream. These desserts are not only tasty, but also a visual delight, often artfully decorated and arranged.
In France, dessert is an essential part of the meal ritual, pampering the palate and rounding off the culinary experience perfectly. Here are some of our favorite recipes:
Crêpes with pear compote & amaretto
Crêpes Suzette with flambéed orange liqueur
Sweet crêpes with caramelized cinnamon apples
Tips for visiting French restaurants
Recommendations for typical restaurants and co.
- Brasseries: These lively restaurants are ideal for a relaxed meal. Here you can enjoy traditional French dishes such as onion soup, steak frites and mussels. Example: La Coupole in Paris.
- Bistros: Small, cozy and often family-run, bistros offer an authentic atmosphere. The food on offer is usually seasonal and regional. Example: Le Comptoir du Relais in Paris.
- Gourmet restaurants: For a special culinary experience, restaurants with Michelin stars are the best choice. Example: Le Meurice in Paris.
- Bakeries and patisseries: Ideal for a quick breakfast or a sweet break. Here you will find fresh croissants, baguettes and a large selection of pastries. Example: Poilâne in Paris.
- Cafés: perfect for a coffee and a light meal. The Parisian café culture is world-famous and offers a good opportunity to observe the hustle and bustle of the city. Example: Café de Flore in Paris.
