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How to Order Food in Paris

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(3 Ratings)

Paris is known for its scrumptious food. Nothing can make a vacation in Paris more gratifying than an extraordinary dining experience. However, ordering at a restaurant in Paris can be intimidating if you're not prepared.

From Quick Guide: French Food Tips
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • French phrase book
  1. Step 1

    Familiarize yourself with common French dining phrases. To help you do this, purchase a French phrase book that has an extensive dining section.

  2. Step 2

    Determine what kind of meal you are in the mood to eat. Go to a bistro for a small family-owned restaurant. For a brewery with snacks or a full meal, visit a brassery. Visit a baby bistro if you want a reasonable spin-off of a deluxe restaurant. A cafe, which is often mistaken as just a place to go for a croissant, is really a restaurant with many options. For 3-star dining, go to a full-fledged restaurant where multiple courses are encouraged.

  3. Step 3

    Choose your beverage. You'll typically be asked to order a beverage before your meal. Water or wine are acceptable choices. There are three types of water you may choose: "carafe d'eau" (tap water), "gazeuse" (bottled sparkling water) or "plat" (bottled flat water).

  4. Step 4

    Decide if you want to order a la carte or off of a "le menu." A "le menu," is a set menu prepared that day. If you order from a "le menu," your food will be fresh and served quickly, but you will lack choices.

  5. Step 5

    Decide how you would like your meat cooked. Many French people order their meat "bleu," or rare. "Saignante" is medium-rare. "A point" is medium, and "bien cuit" is well-done.

  6. Step 6

    Order coffee after your meal. Coffee will be served black unless you specify "au lait."

Tips & Warnings
  • Parisians do not even consider having dinner before 7:30 p.m. Most people eat between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
  • Eat finger foods such as french fries with a fork and a knife.
  • Don't be embarrased to use your French phrase book when ordering.
  • Never ask for a doggy bag.
  • The tip will be included in the bill. You may leave an additional small tip if the service was astounding.
  • Always make a reservation for a high-end restaurant.
  • Your server will not present your bill until you ask him for it.

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