Food and cafe life

Watch the video above for a glimpse of typical conversation at a French restaurant. Note the key phrases used by both the patrons and servers.

This page will help you understand the basics of how to interact with French restaurants, cafes, brassieres, and more.

The world of French food is vast and diverse, so not all common food items or vocabulary will be covered. For additional information on key consideration when dining in France, helpful words and phrases, and more, click here.

Navigating A Restaurant or Cafe

A table for two, please. Une table pour deux, s'il vous plait.

Where is the restroom? Où est la toilette?

Can I sit on the patio? Puis-je prendre une place à la terrasse?

May I see a menu? Une carte, s'il vous plait?

I have a reservation. J'ai une réservation .

How to Order Food like a Local in FranceFeeling confused when eating out in France ? Read our helpful guide to get ordering like a local in no time!

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Ordering Food

I would like.. Je voudrais...

Do you have any recommendations? Est-ce que vous avez des recommendations?

I am allergic to... Je suis allergique à...

I can't eat... Je ne peux pas manger...

What are your vegetarian options? Quels sont vos plats végétariens?

France's Famous Foods

Croissant: A flaky pastry made with butter. Sometimes served with jam or other spreads.

Baguette: A common bread often consumed with butter, cheese, or jam.

Pain Au Chocolat: Literally "chocolate bread." A flaky pastry filled with chocolate.

Pain Perdu: "Lost bread," also known as French Toast.

Tartine: A general term used to describe an open-faced sandwich. May be topped with spreads, meats, cheeses, etc.

Jambon et Fromage: A ham and cheese sandwich, typically served on a baguette.

Croque Monsieur: A hot sandwich of ham and cheese, typically topped with a bechamel sauce..

Croque Madame: The same as a croque monsieur with an egg on top.

Quiche: A savory egg custard encased in pie crust.

Nicoise Salade: A salad typically served with tuna, hard boiled egg, olives, haricot verts, potatoes, and other vegetables.

Crepe: A thin pancake that can be filled with sweet or savory fillings.

Moules Frites: Steamed mussels and french fries.

Steak Frites: Steak and french fries.

Cassoulet: A hearty stew typically containing beans, sausage, and some form of poultry.

Boeuf Bourguignon: A hearty stew of beef and vegetables, typically potatoes, carrots, and onion.

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