Paris: Food Journal

I’ve been going to Paris since 2013, and it’s one of those cities that never gets old. Every time I go back, I find something new to obsess over — a bakery on a side street, a perfect steak frites, or just a really good glass of wine with no rush to finish it. As a pastry chef, it’s basically the capital of the world. The technique, the pride, the way food is part of everyday life — it hits different there.

Montmartre View from Musée d’Orsay

My partner and I are both total food people, and we love being in Paris together. It’s one of those cities that just brings out our best selves — we eat nonstop, walk for miles, and somehow always manage to find room for another pastry. Our latest trip was New Year’s Eve 2025, and it reminded me why I keep going back. The energy, the food, the whole vibe — I could live off it for months.

Eiffel Tower

This journal is just a way to capture some of what we ate and loved this time around. No ranking — just good food and good memories in one of our favorite cities.

1. Joe’s Dough

   23 Rue d’Odessa, 75015 Paris, France

   
   

Sandwich shop in Montparnasse serving up New York–inspired subs with a gourmet French touch. The focaccia sandwiches are generously filled, layered with ingredients like slow-roasted meats, house-made sauces, and vibrant seasonal veg. I really enjoyed their savory crepes as well!

2. Barbac Paris

   119 Bd de Sebastopol, 75002 Paris, France

   
   

   If there was a Michelin star for a sandwich shop this place would win it for me in both food quality and design. A lovely gentleman (the owner) greets you as you enter this charming, vintage inspired shop. There is only a handful of items to choose from the menu, but each ingredient is carefully selected and has it’s own story. It all comes together into one of the most beautiful sandwiches I’ve had in my life. Don’t walk, run here!

   
   

   

   At Barbac

   
   

3. Le Voltaire

   27 Quai Voltaire, 75007 Paris, France

   
   

   You need to book this place ahead!! Some of the most authentic and best french food I’ve had in my life. Your meal here is a journey; it’s not rushed, the portions are large and every single thing is incredibly tasty. I don’t think we’ve ever tasted a better Mille-feuille—it’s assembled fresh and almost brought tears to my eyes.

   
   

4. Les Deux Magots

   6 Pl. Saint-Germain des Pres, 75006 Paris, France

   
   

   This is one of the most iconic cafes in Paris. There’s usually always a line, but moves fast. We love to stop by in the early afternoon for a coffee and croissant.

   
   

5. Hugo & Victor Paris Patisserie

   40 Bd Raspail, 75007 Paris, France

   
   

   Hugo & Victor is a sleek patisserie that does the French classics right without overcomplicating them. Nothing too flashy—just beautifully made tarts, éclairs, and viennoiseries.

   
   

   

   Opera Cake

   
   

6. Le Tout-Paris at Hotel Cheval Blanc

   8 Quai du Louvre, 75001 Paris, France

   
   

   We absolutely love this place for a drink and snack before dinner. There is a full restaurant, but we prefer to sit at the bar or in the summer the terrace is open and views of the Eiffel Tower are stunning.

   
   

7. Le Procope

   13 Rue de l’Ancienne Comedie, 75006 Paris, France

   
   

   Le Procope is Paris’ oldest cafe, rich in history and full of charm. It’s a classic spot for traditional French fare in a setting that feels straight out of the 18th century. The coq au vin is my go-to—deeply flavorful and comforting in the best way.

   
   

8. Le Chardenoux Cyril Lignac

   1 Rue Jules Valles, 75011 Paris, France

   
   

   Cyril Lignac’s bistro brings together elegant plating and feel-good French cooking for me. The dishes are familiar but elevated, with generous flavor and beautiful presentation. So much was good here and I was impressed by the burger!

   
   

9. Nonos & Comestibles par Paul Pairet

   6 Rue Boissy d’Anglas, 75008 Paris, France

   
   

   Nonos is kinda like playful luxury, classic brasserie dishes are reimagined with bold, indulgent flair. Set in the stunning Crillon hotel, it’s somehow both opulent and unpretentious. Don’t miss the steak —an absolute standout flavor-wise, and one of the best I’ve had in Paris.

   
   

   

   Crab Salad at Voltaire