I’ve been lucky enough to visit Paris during the festive season and found it hard to leave, knowing I’d be returning home to hot weather and food that was definitely not French. When I wrote my latest book, Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel, it felt like a bit of an ode to that time, that feeling of being in a city that really puts on a show at Christmas. Like me, my characters spend a lot of time meandering around the Christmas markets because there is so much on offer with activities like ice skating and rides on Ferris Wheels, which I duly participated in, knowing the food would come next…
There is an abundance of Christmas markets in Paris, and it should be no surprise they’re packed with gastronomic delights that are a feast for the senses and have the added bonus of being kind on the budget. It’s almost impossible to choose what to eat so make sure you go when you’re hungry as you’ll be spoilt for choice. Here’s a selection of my favourite delectable morsels you’re likely to encounter…
- Vin Chaud. Aromatic spicy mulled wine that also serves to warm the hands as you wander the market.
- Châtaignes grillées. Roasted chestnuts. The smoky, nutty snack are a must and you’ll find them everywhere during the festive season.
- Tartiflette, originating from the French Alps, is essentially a potato bake on steroids. It’s layered with reblochon cheese, salty lardons, onions and creamy potatoes.
- Choucroute Garnie, an Alsatian sausage dish served with sauerkraut, salted meat and potatoes.
- Chocolat chaud, hot chocolate is next level in Paris!
- Crêpes au sucre, thin and delicate, served simply with sugar and butter.
- Galettes, oh so good! Crispier than a crepe and filled with sweet or savoury delights.
- Raclette, ooey gooey melted cheese served over charcuterie, cornichons, or potatoes. A must for any food lover.
- Beignets, deep fried donut-like balls of goodness. One is never enough.
- Canelés, a small pastry filled with rum custard and has a crunchy sweet caramelised outer shell. They might look unassuming but they’re a taste explosion.
- Bretzels, another Alsatian classic, hot soft and buttery, best enjoyed when still warm.
- Pain d’épices, spiced bread that is so comforting it conjures the very essence of Christmas.
Parisian Christmas markets are an experience in themselves. There’s so much to see and do and taste! If you’re holidaying there I recommend trying to visit as many markets as you can. The food on offer is high quality and you’re truly spoiled for choice. Bonne Journée!
Get your copy of Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel 🇫🇷❤️