Westchester County

Restaurants - French Cuisine

 All Bedford Village Listings10506, hamlets, bedford hills, bedford village, katonah, history of bedford, about bedford village, bedford village memorial park, biking, hiking, fishing, ward pound ridge reservation,  largest park, fun day, out with the kids, historic sites | Westchester
 

Bedford Village Restaurants10506, hamlets, bedford hills, bedford village, katonah, history of bedford, about bedford village, bedford village memorial park, biking, hiking, fishing, ward pound ridge reservation,  largest park, fun day, out with the kids, historic sites | Westchester - French Cuisine

10506, Restaurant, charming, French Country, restaurant, farmhouse, Bedford, Westchester NY, romantic, historic, French restaurant, Award Winning Wine Cellar, Wonderful French food, romantic setting | Westchester La Cremaillere

914-234-9647
  La Crémaillère, a charming French country restaurant nestled in a 1750 white clapboard farmhouse, is located at 46 Bedford-Banksville Road, Bedford, NY 10506 in Westchester County.

From La Cremaillere: "This romantic, historic and venerable French restaurant, with an Award Winning Wine Cellar and highly reputed cuisine, has been delighting a local and cosmopolitan clientele for five decades." La Cremaillere | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Croton-on-Hudson Listings10520, village of croton-on-hudson, history, croton landing, croton and new croton dams, new croton aqueduct, croton dam, about croton-on-hudson, activities, attractions, things to do, places to go, fishing, children, kids, picnic at a croton-on-hudson | Westchester
 

Croton-on-Hudson Restaurants10520, village of croton-on-hudson, history, croton landing, croton and new croton dams, new croton aqueduct, croton dam, about croton-on-hudson, activities, attractions, things to do, places to go, fishing, children, kids, picnic at a croton-on-hudson | Westchester - French Cuisine

10520, Restaurant & Wine Bar, Moroccan-French Bistro, Croton-on-Hudson, NY, casual French, seasonings of North Africa, Restaurant Review, The word is, delicious dishes of Moroccan - French cuisine | Westchester Tagine Restaurant & Wine Bar "Moroccan-French"

914-827-9393
  Tagine Restaurant & Wine Bar, a Moroccan-French Bistro, is located at 120 Grand Street, Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520 in northern Westchester County.

From Tagine Restaurant: "The foundation of any successful restaurant venture is a secure, affordable location. When the 120 Grand Street lease became available, Jonathan and Craig ran out of excuses for not doing this restaurant which had been in their thoughts for so long. So here it is– a blend of casual French with the surprising seasonings of North Africa – their long anticipated restaurant venture, Tagine." Tagine Restaurant & Wine Bar  "Moroccan-French" | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Eastchester Listingsabout the town of eastchester, southern westchester county, bronxville, tuckahoe, grand central station, bronxville or tuckahoe stations, town government, eastchester town hall, neighborhoods of eastchester, school district, history | Westchester
 

Eastchester Restaurantsabout the town of eastchester, southern westchester county, bronxville, tuckahoe, grand central station, bronxville or tuckahoe stations, town government, eastchester town hall, neighborhoods of eastchester, school district, history | Westchester - French Cuisine

Bistro Parisien, French cuisine, Eastchester, NY, The word is, bistro in Paris, food is delicious, the atmosphere is French | Westchester Bistro Parisien

914-337-8447
  dBistro Parisien, serving French cuisine, is located at 434 White Plains Road, Eastchester, NY 10709 in Westchester County.

The word is Dining at Bistro Parisien will transport you back to a bistro in Paris. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is French, and the host is gracious. Bistro Parisien | Westchester restaurant review, more . . .
 All Harrison Listings10528, 10577, purchase, northeastern, history, about purchase, purchase college suny, manhattanville college, cultural attractions, performing arts center at purchase college, neuberger museum of art, sculpture gardens at pepsico, mta to harrison | Westchester
 

Harrison Restaurants10528, 10577, purchase, northeastern, history, about purchase, purchase college suny, manhattanville college, cultural attractions, performing arts center at purchase college, neuberger museum of art, sculpture gardens at pepsico, mta to harrison | Westchester - French Cuisine

10528, French cafe, Bistro, Harrison, NY, Restaurant Review, Outdoor dining, Sunday Brunch, The word is, French cafe, Parisian bistro tables | Westchester Rue Des Crepes

914-315-1631
  Rue Des Crepes, a French cafe and Bistro serving crepes, desserts, and more, is located at 261 Halstead Ave., Harrison, NY 10528 in Westchester County.

From Rue Des Crepes: "Remember those incredibly delicious crêpes you had in Paris? We have carefully recreated that time-tested recipe and are delighted to serve you closer to home. Come visit Rue des Crêpes at 261 Halstead Ave. in Harrison, NY. With crêpes for every palette, it’s hard to choose just one. The cobble-stone dining area evokes a quaint street in Paris, setting the stage for a terrific meal to come." Rue Des Crepes | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Hastings-on-Hudson ListingsWestchester
 

Hastings-on-Hudson RestaurantsWestchester - French Cuisine

10706, New American cuisine, Hastings-on-Hudson NY, Hudson River Towns of Westchester County, Charming bistro, delicious food, chef in full sight of diners | Westchester Juniper Restaurant

914-478-2542
  Juniper, serving French New American cuisine, is located at 575 Warburton Ave., Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 10706, one of the River Towns of Westchester County. Juniper Restaurant | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .

10706, Bistro, French cuisine, Hastings-on-Hudson, River Towns of Westchester, New-French Bistro, restaurant, raw bar, charcuterie, steak frites, Harper's Restaurant, Meritage, Restaurant Review, Saturday and Sunday Brunch, The word is, Rave reviews | Westchester Saint George Bistro

914-478-1671
  Saint George Bistro, serving French cuisine, is located at 155 Southside Ave., Hastings-on-Hudson NY 10706, in one of the quaint River Towns of Westchester County.

From Saint George: "Saint George is a New-French Bistro offering reworked classics, local seafood, fine meats, seasonal veggies, and French wine. Our namesake is Chef’s beloved pet rabbit, George. George is one lucky rabbit. Not because he has a restaurant named after him, but rather because he’s not a stew. Saint George Bistro | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Irvington-on-Hudson Listings10533, irvington-on-hudson, about irvington, things to do, about activities, attractions, matthiessen park in irvington, golfer, play golf, restaurants in irvington, southwestern, history of irvington, washington irvington | Westchester
 

Irvington-on-Hudson Restaurants10533, irvington-on-hudson, about irvington, things to do, about activities, attractions, matthiessen park in irvington, golfer, play golf, restaurants in irvington, southwestern, history of irvington, washington irvington | Westchester - French Cuisine

10533, French Bistro, Irvington-on-Hudson NY, Restaurant Review, Live Music, Organic, line caught, sustainable raised, Waterfront dining, The word is,  Beautiful restaurant, waterfront views, food is excellent | Westchester Red Hat on River

914-591-5888
  Red Hat on River, billed as a French-American Bistro, is located at One Bridge Street, Irvington-on-Hudson, NY 10533 in one of the Westchester County River Towns.

From Red Hat on River: "Nestled on the waterfront in Irvington, New York, Red Hat on the River is a French-American modern bistro which has been serving satisfied diners for nearly 7 years. There's hardly a seat in the house that does not offer a spectacular view of the beautiful Hudson river. Banquettes and a pewter bar accent the space while the walls of this 100-year old renovated factory building are adorned with WPA-era art evoking a feeling of a turn of the century Parisian bistro." Red Hat on River | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Mount Kisco ListingsWestchester
 

Mount Kisco RestaurantsWestchester - French Cuisine

10549, French bakery and café, Mount Kisco, NY 10549, Restaurant Review, 
Serving breakfast, lunch, early supper, The word is, Wonderful patisserie, chocolate mousse cake | Westchester L'Anjou Patisserie Francaise

914-242-4929
  L'Anjou Patisserie Francaise, a French bakery and café, serving cakes and savories, is located at 130 North Bedford Road, Mount Kisco, NY 10549 in Westchester County.

From L'Anjou Patisserie: "Since 1996 chef-owner Patrice Yvon has brought the taste of France to Westchester. Lace curtains, marble-topped tables, a cupboard filled with jams and treats, entering L'Anjou transports you to a French café. From luscious tartes, delicate butter cookies, cakes beautifully decorated for all occasions, to hors d'oeuvres and savories, L'Anjou has it all and more. L'Anjou never compromises on ingredients, as consistency and excellence are it's hallmarks. Exceptional quality, artfully presented, L'Anjou Patisserie Francaise, The Flavor of France. L'Anjou Patisserie Francaise | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All North Salem Listings10560, northeastern corner, horse country, croton falls, grants corner, north salem, purdys, train stations, public schools, hiking trails in mountain lakes park, birding, boating, camping, cross-country skiing, fishing, restaurants in north salem | Westchester
 

North Salem Restaurants10560, northeastern corner, horse country, croton falls, grants corner, north salem, purdys, train stations, public schools, hiking trails in mountain lakes park, birding, boating, camping, cross-country skiing, fishing, restaurants in north salem | Westchester - French Cuisine

10560, Restaurant, French cuisine, North Salem, NY, Outdoor dining, patio, charming French bistro, favorite restaurant, excellent food, dine outside on the patio, Restaurant Review | Westchester VOX Restaurant & Bar

914-669-5450
  VOX Restaurant, serving fine French cuisine, is located at 721 Titicus Road (Route 116 & 121) North Salem, NY 10560 in northern Westchester County.

From VOX: "VOX is the rebirth of a great Westchester restaurant tradition originally begun in the same location by Auberge Maxime. Maxime was classic French cuisine and Vox follows that same tradition but with some surprising twists served in the stylish manner of the French countryside. VOX has been well-received by both our customers and the food critics. The New York Times and Westchester Magazine among others, have praised presentation, taste and delivery, but VOX is more than just great food, it's a charming destination for casual dining during the week or a dressed up, adult soirée on the weekend. Great service and fantastic food in a relaxed country location." VOX Restaurant & Bar | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All City of Peekskill Listings10566, history, american revolution, activities, underground railroad, art district, artist studios, galleries, peekskill art lofts, about peekskill, things to do, places to visit, activities, attractions, dining, restaurants, buying a home | Westchester
 

City of Peekskill Restaurants10566, history, american revolution, activities, underground railroad, art district, artist studios, galleries, peekskill art lofts, about peekskill, things to do, places to visit, activities, attractions, dining, restaurants, buying a home | Westchester - French Cuisine

10566, American tavern, Farm-To-Table, 20-tap draft system, local brews, Peekskill, NY, craft beer, locally sourced cuisine, Beer Garden, patio dining, Live Music schedule, menu, Restaurant Review, Happy Hour, Late Hours, Live Music | Westchester Birdsall House

914-930-1880
  Birdsall House, an American tavern serving Farm-To-Table cuisine and a 20-tap draft system specializing in local brews, is located at 970 Main Street, Peekskill, NY 10566 in northern Westchester County. Birdsall House | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Pelham Listings10803, dining out, excellent restaurants in pelham, buying a home in pelham, oldest town, thomas pell, village of pelham manor, village of pelham, history, history of pelham, huguenots, history of westchester county, about pelham manor | Westchester
 

Pelham Restaurants10803, dining out, excellent restaurants in pelham, buying a home in pelham, oldest town, thomas pell, village of pelham manor, village of pelham, history, history of pelham, huguenots, history of westchester county, about pelham manor | Westchester - French Cuisine

10803, French Bistro, Pelham NY, good restaurants, Restaurant Review, Local, grass-fed, and organic, Outdoor dining, Small Plates, Sunday Brunch, WiFi = Free, The word is, Attractive, warm and cozy space,  very good food | Westchester Bistro Rollin

914-633-0780
  Bistro Rollin, a French Bistro, is located at 140 Fifth Ave., Pelham NY 10803 in Lower Westchester County.

From Bistro Rollin: "Service is at the core of what any good restaurants must do: greet you as soon as you arrive, get your food to the table on time, make sure your expectations are met. But hospitality is more. Hospitality is the personal relationship between the guest and each member of the staff. Hospitality requires that we make sure every guest has a memorable, wonderful experience. Hopelessly lost one day trying to find Paul Bocuse’s restaurant, outside of Lyon, we arrived hours late for our reservation and were almost afraid to enter. But when the Maitre D’ came to the door apologizing that the restaurant was located in such a ridiculously difficult to find spot, we knew we had found a truly unique place. This is what we strive for at Bistro Rollin." Bistro Rollin | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Pleasantville ListingsWestchester
 

Pleasantville RestaurantsWestchester - French Cuisine

10570, Cafe, Patisserie, French cuisine, Pleasantville, NY, catering, Bakery, breakfast, lunch and dinner, Restaurant Review, Cakes and Pastries Menu, Easter and Passover Menus, Outdoor dining on patio, Sunday Brunch, The word is, self-service café | Westchester Jean-Jacques Café

914-747-8191
  Jean-Jacques, a Cafe & Patisserie serving French cuisine, is located at 468 Bedford Road, Pleasantville, NY 10570 in Westchester County.

From Jean-Jacques: "In addition to catering in the tri-state area, we operate a Café with Patisserie/Bakery and retail store in Pleasantville, NY, offering casual dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner and everything in between. We are open from early morning to late night, seven days a week. Our Café features an abundance of tempting quiches, sandwiches, wraps, paninis, soups, salads, entrees, specialty items, and exquisite French cakes, tarts, and pastries. All of our gourmet foods and desserts are created on-premise and prepared with only the purest, natural ingredients. Our complete catering menu of party fare for pick-up or delivery is designed for easy entertaining in your home or office." Jean-Jacques Café | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .

10570, Mumbai Market, Indian cuisine, crepes, Pleasantville, NY, world-famous street foods, French crepes and Indian chaat, Restaurant Review, Serving lunch and dinner, Vegetarian and Vegan options, The word is, Rave reviews | Westchester Little Mumbai Market

914-773-0500
  Little Mumbai Market, offering Indian cuisine and a wide range of French crepes, is located at 475 Bedford Road, Pleasantville, NY 10570 in Westchester County.

From Little Mumbai: "The streets of Paris meet the streets of Mumbai. Stop by and taste world-famous street foods, including French crepes and Indian chaat." Little Mumbai Market | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Port Chester Listings10573, history, restaurants, multiplex movie theater, about, attractions, things to do, places to see, children, parks in port chester, activities for children, kids can play, antique stores, movies | Westchester
 

Port Chester Restaurants10573, history, restaurants, multiplex movie theater, about, attractions, things to do, places to see, children, parks in port chester, activities for children, kids can play, antique stores, movies | Westchester - French Cuisine

10573, Bistro, modern French cuisine, locally sourced ingredients, Port Chester, NY, Modern French Dining, Restaurant Review, Cuisine = Modern French, Saturday and Sunday Brunch, 
Serving lunch and dinner, The word is, Rave reviews, small French bistro | Westchester Appetit Bistro

914-690-2000
  Appetit Bistro, serving modern French cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, is located at 540A Willett Ave., Port Chester, NY, 10573 in Westchester County.

From Appetit Bistro: Modern French Dining Appetit Bistro | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All City of Rye Listings10580, history of the city of rye, new york, schools, rye school districts, historical landmarks, about rye, hiking, golf courses in rye, antique stores, birding in rye, place for children, kids, time to eat, rye restaurants, buying a home in rye | Westchester
 

City of Rye Restaurants10580, history of the city of rye, new york, schools, rye school districts, historical landmarks, about rye, hiking, golf courses in rye, antique stores, birding in rye, place for children, kids, time to eat, rye restaurants, buying a home in rye | Westchester - French Cuisine

10580, New French cuisine, Rye, NY,  hear their own conversation, The word is, first class service, charming country French, food was impeccable, special occasion diner | Westchester La Panetiere

914-967-8140
  La Panetière, serving New French cuisine, is located at 530 Milton Road, Rye, NY 10580 in Westchester County.

From La Panetière: "La Panetière Restaurant has perfected the gourmet experience of Provence with the best local ingredients, refined and elegant French cuisine, freshly made breads and pastries and the quintessential wine cellar. Join us for a casual prix fixe $32 lunch, a la carte meals or for an eventful $82 Tasting Menu and enjoy a unique dining experience without traveling to South of France... or choose from our calendar of specials events such as Wine Tasting Dinners, Holiday Menus and more, to taste our renowned French cuisine." La Panetiere | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Scarsdale Listingssoutheast southeastern south southern | Westchester
 

Scarsdale Restaurantssoutheast southeastern south southern | Westchester - French Cuisine

10583, Patisserie Francaise of Scarsdale', retail bakery, center of Scarsdale, éclair, croissant, fresh fruit tart, richest chocolate confections, daily pastry, savory offerings, La Renaissance cakes, pastries, breads, The word is, French treats | Westchester La Renaissance

914-472-0702
  La Renaissance 'Patisserie Francaise of Scarsdale', a retail bakery, is located at 9 Harwood Court in the center of Scarsdale, NY 10583 in Westchester County.

From La Renaissance: "The patisseries of Paris are filled with the most extraordinary creations - the éclair, the croissant, the fresh fruit tart, and the richest chocolate confections one could ever imagine. These staples of Parisian daily life inspired us to open La Renaissance, and we are proud to be serving the Westchester community for over 20 years. La Renaissance | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All Tarrytown Listingsriver town, river towns, hudson river, southern, tourist towns, visit, vacation, holiday, sightsee, south, southern, southwest, southwestern | Westchester
 

Tarrytown Restaurantsriver town, river towns, hudson river, southern, tourist towns, visit, vacation, holiday, sightsee, south, southern, southwest, southwestern | Westchester - French Cuisine

10591, New American, French, beautiful, historic, Castle on Hudson, hotel, Tarrytown, NY, historic landmark, luxury hotel, Restaurant Review, Outdoor dining, seasonal terrace, beautiful views, Sunday Brunch, The word is, veranda, stunning views | Westchester Equus - Castle on the Hudson

914-631-1980
  The Equus, serving French-New American cuisine, is located in the beautiful and historic Castle Hotel & Spa at 400 Benedict Ave., Tarrytown, NY 10591 in Westchester County.

From Equus: "Equus Restaurant is located in the Castle Hotel & Spa in Tarrytown, New York. This fine dining restaurant features menus inspired by local, artisanal farmers in the Hudson Valley region. Equus uses local and organic products whenever possible. Equus - Castle on the Hudson | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .
 All City of White Plains Listingscentral mid south southern southeast southeastern central mid whiteplains | Westchester
 

City of White Plains Restaurantscentral mid south southern southeast southeastern central mid whiteplains | Westchester - French Cuisine

10605, Forty Carrots, La Provence, White Plains, NY, low-calorie, healthy entrees, active yogurt cultures. The word is, Lovely restaurant in Bloomingdales, best frozen yogurt, wonderful salad  bar. | Westchester La Provence at Bloomingdale's

914-684-6300
  Forty Carrots and La Provence at Bloomingdale's is located at 175 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains, NY 10605.

From Forty Carrots: "Bloomingdale's opened Forty Carrots in 1975 to appeal to its fashion-conscious customers with low-calorie, healthy entrees served in an upbeat casual environment. To go along with its featured salads, sandwiches, homemade carrot and bran muffins, Bloomingdale's unveiled a new dessert it had discovered in New England, "frozen" yogurt. It was an instant hit . . . The healthful mixture is made unique by its abundance of active yogurt cultures." La Provence at Bloomingdale's | Westchester restaurant review, website and more . . .

 More Hudson Valley  Restaurants - French Cuisine


Restaurants - French Cuisine | Dutchess Dutchess County
      [9 listings over 4 locations]


Restaurants - French Cuisine | Orange Orange County
      [2 listings over 2 locations]


Restaurants - French Cuisine | Putnam Putnam County
      [2 listings over 2 locations]


Restaurants - French Cuisine | Rockland Rockland County
      [4 listings over 2 locations]



Related Categories:
 Cuisines F-I


French Restaurants
Westchester County
Hudson Valley, New York

Find French restaurants and places to eat that serve French cuisine in Westchester County, New York. If you are dining out in Westchester NY, check this list of French restaurants. Read The word is reviews about a French restaurant's food, decor, service, and features. The Westchester Restaurant Guide lists restaurants in Westchester by restaurant features such as Outdoor Dining, Waterfront Dining, Sunday Brunch, Catering & Receptions, Live Music, Family Restaurants, Small Plates (Tapas), Healthy Restaurant Options, and Local, Natural, and Organic ingredients.

The Westchester Restaurant Guide also lists French restaurants by hamlet, town, village, and city. Find excellent restaurants in Armonk, restaurants in Bedford, restaurants in Bronxville, Chappaqua, NY, Larchmont in Southern Westchester, Mamaroneck in Southern Westchester, Scarsdale in Southern Westchester and restaurants in White Plains.Checkout The word is reviews for restaurants before you book.

About French Cuisine
Most people agree that one of France's most important attractions is its cuisine. The French are often said to have a "love affair" with food. French food is cooked to be enjoyed and savored, without being rushed. Traditional family meals, especially the Sunday mid-day meal, are prepared with great pride and attention. The French dine slowly and with appreciation, often pairing courses with a number of wines.

Modern French cuisine is characterized by its diversity. French cuisine is considered to be one of the world's most refined and elegant styles of cooking, and is renowned for both its classical "haute cuisine" and provincial styles. Many of the world's greatest chefs include Eugénie Brazier (first woman chef to receive six Michelin stars), Alain Ducasse, Paul Bocuse and Julia Child (famous for teaching America all about the art of French cuisine). French cooking techniques have been a major influence on virtually all Western cuisines. Most culinary schools use French cuisine as the basis for all other forms of Western cooking.

Origins of French Cuisine
In the early 15th century, the Renaissance flourished in Florence. Culture included not only art and music, but also the "art of cooking". French Cuisine originated from the cooking styles of Italy which were brought to the French court by Catherine de Medicis, wife of King Henri II of France. It is said that she was so disappointed by the cooking methods of the French that she brought her own entourage of Italian chefs to the French court. Catherine's Italian chefs taught the French the importance of enhancing various foods and fresh ingredients rather than smothering the ingredients and "hiding" food that was going bad. In addition to the new skills in preparing food, Italian chefs also brought more modern methods of food preparation and more elegant dining practices.

Regions of France
Each region of France is known for its own distinctive cuisine. French regional cuisine uses locally grown vegetables and ingredients helping to ensure a fresh and tasty meal. Local street markets are held on certain days in most localities; towns of a certain importance generally have a more permanent covered market in which food shops, especially meat and fish retailers, sell their fresh produce. French wine and French cheese are an integral part of French cuisine, both as ingredients and accompaniments.

The French, a nation of gourmets, know that the best food is made from local ingredients. Therefore, coastal regions (such as Brittany and Normandy, on the northwest coast of France) will favor sea fish, using it creatively and more often than areas further inland. Likewise, areas where fruit or herbs grow easily, will incorporate these into their local cuisine. Each region, in addition to boasting local specialities, also has a general style of cooking and choice of ingredients.

Regional Styles of French Cuisine

    - Cuisine from northwest France uses butter, cream (crème fraiche), and apples.
    - Cuisine from southwest France uses duck fat, foie gras, porcini mushrooms, and gizzards.
    - Cuisine from southeast France uses olive oil, herbs, and tomatoes, influenced by Spanish and Italian.
    - Cuisine from northern France uses potatoes, pork, endives and beer, influenced by Flemish cuisine.
    - Cuisine from northeast France uses lard, sausage, beer, sauerkraut, influenced by Flemish cuisine.

In addition to French Regional styles of cooking, there are many local cuisines. Unique and wonderful flavor abounds in the food of the Loire Valley, Basque cuisine, Roussillon and Catalan cuisine, and other local areas in France.

What is often known outside of France as French cuisine is the traditionally elaborate haute cuisine, served in restaurants at high prices. Haute cuisine is mostly influenced by the regional cuisines of Lyon and northern France. Average French people do not eat or prepare this cuisine in their everyday life.

As a general rule, elderly people tend to eat the regional cuisine of the region where they are located, while younger people often eat dishes from other regions including foreign dishes. Exotic cuisines, particularly Chinese cuisine and Vietnamese cuisine and some dishes from former colonies in Northern Africa have made inroads into France.

Typical Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

    Breakfast The day begins with a light breakfast in the morning, generally consisting of bread with jam and spreads, often replaced nowadays by breakfast cereals, a hot drink such as coffee, tea or chocolate flavored milk, some fruit or fruit juice. Hotel breakfasts often contain croissants, but it is uncommon for French people to eat croissants at every breakfast; they may be replaced with other kinds of viennoiserie such as pains au chocolat, madeleines, etc.

    Lunch and Dinner Lunch is usually eaten between noon and 2:00 p.m. Dinner is usually served after 7:30 p.m. However there are large variations depending on the local regional cultures. Dinner is usually between 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the Alsace region while it is usually served after 8:30 p.m. in southern France. A typical dinner starts with an appetizer (crudités or salad), the main course is usually fish or meat served with vegetables, pasta, rice, or fries. The main course is followed by salad, cheese, fruit or a sweet such as cake. Espresso is often served after the noon meal.

    Drinks and Wine
    Although the legal drinking age in France is 16, there seems to be infrequent incidences with alcoholic beverages. Traditionally, France has been a culture that enjoys wine daily. Recently, wine seems to have been replaced with beer (among the youth). Other alcoholic drinks include pastis, an aniseed flavoured beverage or cider. However, many of the French still enjoy wine daily.

Brasseries
Brasseries often serve the following dishes - often with fries:

    Steak with fries.
    Poulet frites-chicken with fries.
    Croque-monsieur (grilled Swiss cheese and ham sandwich).
French Dishes - Or are they French?
Although the following dishes are considered typical of French cuisine in some foreign countries, they are rarely eaten in France:
    Frog legs
    Escargots

French Desserts

    Crêpes
    Chocolate Mousse
    Pastries
    Mille-feuille
    Choux a la creme
    Baba au rhum
    Tarts

French Restaurant Cuisine
Restaurant cuisine in France can be divided into three categories.

    Cuisine Bourgeoise
    Cuisine bourgeoise includes all the classic French dishes that have become popular over the whole of France, especially among the affluent classes. These dishes focus mainly on rich, cream-based sauces and involve some complex cooking techniques that are generally associated with French cuisine. This category makes use of haute cuisine, a very complex approach to food preparation and kitchen management. This type of cooking is often served abroad as "French cuisine" and is viewed by many (outside of France) as typical French cuisine. The French may eat "Cuisine Bourgeoise" for special occasions, while everyday meals are much simpler in preparation.

    Cuisine du Terroir
    Cuisine du terroir consists mostly of regional specialties, using quality local products in addition to traditional recipes. Many dishes that are included in this category aren't considered to be typically French. In many cases regional cooking styles are quite different from the dishes served in French restaurants all over the world.

    Cuisine Nouvelle
    Cuisine nouvelle originated around 1970. The characteristic features of this category are: shorter cooking times, lighter sauces and dressings and smaller portions offered in a decorative manner. Cuisine nouvelle is a modern style that is inspired by techniques and combinations from other countries, such as Asia.

Food Culture
It is common in much of France to take a two hour break for lunch, with many working parents (particularly in villages and smaller towns) returning home for lunch. In some areas, mainly in the south of France, even longer lunch breaks are taken. Due to the long lunch break, businesses often close from noon to 2:00 p.m. and then stay open until 7:00 p.m.




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