How To Dine In France!
Getting ready for your trip to France? Dine like a pro with these tips and tricks!
If you’re like me you plan your vacations and trips around experiencing fantastic food and drinks. It’s the best way to immerse yourself in the culture of a city. And while exploring your neighborhood and stumbling upon a place to eat can be exciting, it’s essential to understand the different dining experiences you will encounter while traveling in Europe!
From France to Italy, each country has its own take on restaurants, their specialties, and how best to experience the cuisine. Learn how to dine in France like a pro with these tips and tricks!
TYPES OF DINING
There are four main dining establishments you will notice when visiting France: Cafes, Bistros, Brasseries, and Restaurants. Each space has its own style, etiquette, and purpose in the French dining experience.
CAFES
Think of this as the most casual dining experience you will have in France. Cafes typically serve coffee and light food all day long. Think salads, sandwiches, and easy-to-go options. You will notice a lot of outdoor seating available as well so take advantage if the weather is nice!
BISTROS
The original fast food of France with a very limited menu. Think hearty meals with a cozy atmosphere! Some have more elaborate or modern vibes, but they are never fussy. These spots are wonderful lunch options.
BRASSERIES
Meaning brewery, these restaurants once brewed their own beer! Now, the word has become synonymous with a casual dining experience, which for the French includes serving oysters, fish, simple steaks, and other grilled foods. More elaborate than a Cafe, Brasseries serve food all day with no break in between and are usually open later into the evening.
RESTAURANTS
The creme de la creme of dining experiences in France! Generally, establishments that fall within this category have trained chefs, elaborate menus, and the finest dishes. Perfect for special occasions as they’re more expensive.
LIST OF DO’S & DON’TS
Now that you know the types of dining experiences you’ll be having it’s important to understand proper etiquette. Keep these Do’s and Don’ts in mind before you venture out!
MAKE RESERVATIONS - Specifically for Brasseries and Restaurants, it’s important to make reservations ahead of time. These establishments are often extremely busy and book up quickly so planning ahead will save you a ton of time and headaches. Most reservations should be made prior to your arrival. Popular establishments can sometimes book out 2-6 weeks, especially on the weekends or around holidays, so give yourself plenty of time. For The Story Vacations will take care of all your lunch and dinner reservations prior to arrival, but don’t hesitate to ask your hotel concierge to make reservations as well!
DON’T EXPECT A TABLE - While you may stumble upon a cute place you want to check out for dinner don’t just expect a table to be available. If they’re booked for the evening inquire about making a reservation for the next day!
GIVE YOURSELF TIME - The French enjoy their meals and are rarely in a rush. I recommend giving yourself at least one hour for lunch and about 2+ hours for dinner depending on your dining experience.
DON’T RUSH - If you expect your waiter to have you in and out in 30 minutes or less you will be very disappointed. Waiters like to give their guests space and will not come up to your table every five minutes unless asked over. If you’re in a hurry try a more relaxed cafe or grab something to go!
ASK QUESTIONS - Most restaurants have menus that change based on the season or availability of food which means they’re mostly made in French. Don’t be afraid to ask your waiter questions or for an English menu if one is available!
DON’T EXPECT ENGLISH - Remember, you’re in a country where the national language is French, not English. And while most French speak English it will go a long way if you greet your waiter in their native language. Asking if they speak English in French is also a sign of respect so keep that in mind!
DID YOU KNOW…?
The French eat later than we do in America with most dinner services starting at 8:00 PM or later.
In France, the Chef knows best. Substitutions are typically frowned upon. If you have dietary or allergy restrictions let the restaurant know ahead of time!
Portions are smaller in France and you will notice that meals are done in courses. A lot of Restaurants will also have pre-fixed menus and are often a better value in terms of budget and taste.
When you’re finished with your meal ask your waiter for the bill. They will rarely bring it over to you unannounced so you don’t feel rushed.
You are not required to tip in French restaurants. Waiters are paid a fair wage and are not reliant on tips. However, if you feel service has been exceptional or above par, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated.
Ready to dine like a pro in France?? For The Story Vacations is now booking clients for trips in March 2023 and beyond! Schedule your complimentary consultation by clicking here!