Paris, the birthplace of haute gastronomy, has seen a significant shift in its dining scene over the past decade. The influence of social media, globalization, and evolving dining habits have led to a more relaxed and accessible approach to food. This change has also opened up space for international cuisines to thrive in a city known for its traditional French fare.
One of the most noticeable changes in Parisian dining is the rise of all-day brunch spots. While the French typically start their day with a light breakfast, the concept of brunch has gained popularity in recent years. Saint Pearl, located in the 7th arrondissement, offers a charming setting with a menu featuring French brioche toast and bacon and eggs Benedict with a twist. Keopi, a Korean-inspired brunch spot in Passage Verdeau, serves up unique dishes like waffles topped with Korean fried chicken and eggs Benedict with bulgogi.
For those looking for a more traditional start to the day, Georges Ducet in the 12th arrondissement is known for its award-winning croissants. The bakery’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship has earned it the title of Best Croissant in 2024, as determined by a prestigious competition organized by the bakers union of greater Paris.
Coffee culture has also seen a surge in Paris, with a variety of artisanal coffee shops popping up across the city. Maison Fleuret, a literary coffee shop in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, offers a cozy atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee, homemade cookies, or a slice of lemon poppyseed cake surrounded by floor-to-ceiling bookcases filled with French literature. French Bastards bakeries, known for their contemporary twists on classic pastries, offer unique treats like cruffins and charcoal-blackened rolls with pink praline.
When it comes to lunch, Parisians often opt for savory buckwheat crêpes or galettes. La Crêperie de Josselin in the 14th arrondissement stands out for its double-layered galettes, with options like egg, ham, cheese, and mushroom. For a taste of Japanese cuisine, Carré Pain de Mie’s pork katsu sandwich is a must-try, featuring deep-fried pork cutlets on fluffy Japanese milk bread with shredded cabbage for added crunch.
In the evening, Paris offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual neighborhood bistros to upscale restaurants. Canard et Champagne, located in a historic passageway, specializes in duck and Champagne pairings, providing a unique dining experience in a charming setting. Jouvence in the 12th arrondissement offers contemporary French cuisine at affordable prices, with dishes like grilled Angus beef and potato-lemon gnocchi.
For a taste of Asian flavors, Paris has a variety of restaurants serving up authentic dishes. Mr Zhao is known for its biang biang noodles, while TranTranZai offers noodle soups with customizable spice levels. These spots provide a welcome break from traditional French cuisine and cater to those craving familiar and comforting flavors from Asia.
To end the day, Paris boasts a vibrant bar scene with options ranging from historic wine bars to trendy cocktail lounges. Cravan, located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is the largest cocktail bar in Paris, offering a wide selection of drinks including Champagne-based cocktails. Little Red Door is another popular spot known for its creative and sustainable drinks list developed in collaboration with local French farmers and producers.
Overall, Paris’s evolving dining scene reflects a shift towards more relaxed and accessible food experiences, with a mix of traditional French fare and international cuisines. Whether you’re looking for a casual brunch spot, a cozy coffee shop, or a sophisticated dinner venue, Paris has something to offer for every palate.