Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, plateau de fromage au Lafayette Gourmet, Paris 2013

Top 5 unforgettable gastronomic experiences in Paris Region

Cooking classes with a top chef, a trip to Rungis market, or a tour around France through its cheeses…
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  3. Top 5 unforgettable gastronomic experiences in Paris Region

Discover the secrets of French cuisine, declared World Intangible Heritage by Unesco.

Visit the Capital of Gastronomy

Paris, the world capital of gastronomy, is best discovered through its flavors and its passionate artisans. Meeting the French offers unique culinary experiences designed to awaken the senses and reveal the secrets of French cuisine.

These smallgroup food tours invite you to savor Paris in a different way, uncovering its culinary treasures and the stories of those who create them. Meet exceptional bakers, chocolatiers, and cheesemongers who are eager to share their passion and expertise. The neighborhoods of SaintGermaindesPrés, La Madeleine, and Montmartre are filled with gourmet shops that will make your mouth water even before you step inside. An experience not to be missed for food lovers and the curious!

Balade Pâtisseries et Chocolats
Meeting the French

A touch of Cordon Bleu

Do you dream of mastering French cuisine?

To learn the tricks that guarantee the smoothest sauces, the most delicate macaroons, and the most unctuous éclairs?

Founded in 1895, Cordon Bleu Paris is one of the world's most prestigious private cookery schools, offering workshops that transform beginners into culinary experts.

Taught by professional chefs, you can learn the techniques and secrets of the best cooks, patisserie chefs and wine experts over the course of a 3-hour or 1-day workshop.

Le Cordon Bleu Paris
Le Cordon Bleu

Old-school French dining

At the end of the 18th century, "bouillons" - vast restaurants serving hearty French food at budget prices — began opening across Paris. By the 19th century there were more than 200. Almost all have since disappeared, replaced by the pricier, intimate brasseries.

The good news? Thanks to a group of passionate foodies, the tradition is back with the Bouillon Pigalle.

Here, you’ll find all the ingredients of a classic "bouillon" restaurant: unpretentious atmosphere, low prices, massive dining rooms holding hundreds of diners, red leatherette benches, bistrot-style chairs and a menu filled with classic French dishes (potato and herring salad, bœuf bourguignon, blanquette de veau) in a hip and trendy atmosphere. The first floor also includes a lovely covered terrace. Note, the restaurant doesn’t take reservations.

Bouillon Pigalle
Le Bouillon Pigalle

Travel through time to the sound of the accordion

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th century, " guinguettes" – establishments halfway between a village ball and a restaurant, located on the banks of the Marne – inspired painters, singers, cinematographers, and provided a joyful getaway for Parisians missing the countryside.

You can still enjoy these establishments, dedicated to dancing, drinking and simple French cooking, today. The Guinguette de l'île du Martin Pêcheur, surrounded by greenery, is set on an island accessible by a little bridge.

Here, served under a little arbour, the white wine flows freely, while you can enjoy fricassee of eel of and home-cooked terrine accompanied by the sounds of the accordion. Worthy of a Renoir painting!

Guinguette de l&%2523039;ile du Martin-Pêeheur
La Guinguette de l'Ile du Martin-Pêcheur

A paradise of cheeses

Soft-ripened or washed-rind; hard or semi-hard; raw, runny, melted or blue; cow, sheep or goat…

The world of cheese, that essential aspect of French gastronomy, can sometimes appear dizzyingly complex.

And when it comes to finding the right wine to pair with these marvels, many may decide to throw up their hands.

Three passionate cheese-lovers decided to create Paroles de Fromager as way to open up this elusive world to the general public.

In their beautiful, traditional style boutique and restaurant, you can taste more than 150 cheeses, all matured on site.

Plus, they hold discovery workshops in their vaulted 17th-century cellar, which will transform you into a cheese and wine expert in no time!

Cave d&%2523039;affinage de la Fromagerie Jouannault%252C Pierre Brisson proposant des ateliers "Paroles de Fromagers"%252C  Paris 2015
Paroles de Fromagers

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  • Copyright image: S.Adenot/Galeries Lafayette