French cuisine is often seen as the epitome of fine dining—sophisticated, rich, and sometimes intimidating. But how much of what we believe is actually true? Let’s take a closer look and bust five common myths about French food.
1. French cuisine is always fancy – FALSE
While France is famous for gourmet restaurants and Michelin stars, everyday French cooking is simple and comforting. Dishes like ratatouille, quiche Lorraine, and gratin dauphinois are family staples. Many French people cook at home with seasonal ingredients, relying on fresh produce and classic techniques rather than extravagance.
2. The French eat croissants every morning – FALSE
Croissants are indeed a beloved treat, but they’re not an everyday breakfast for most French people. A typical French breakfast is often a piece of baguette with butter and jam, or even just a coffee. Croissants are more of a weekend or café indulgence than a daily ritual.
3. French food is all about butter and cream – PARTIALLY TRUE
Butter and cream do play a role, especially in Northern France. However, Southern French cuisine leans towards olive oil, tomatoes, herbs, and seafood. The diversity of regional French food means there’s something for every taste—whether rich and creamy or light and fresh.
4. French portions are tiny – FALSE
The key to French dining isn’t tiny portions—it’s balance. Meals are usually structured: starter, main, cheese or dessert. But each course is moderate, allowing people to enjoy a variety of flavours without overindulging. And yes, the French do enjoy their bread and wine too!
5. French cuisine never changes – FALSE
While rooted in tradition, French cuisine is constantly evolving. Young chefs are reinventing classics, plant-based options are becoming more common, and international influences are reshaping the French dining scene. France respects its culinary past but isn’t afraid of innovation.
French cuisine is much more accessible, varied, and evolving than the clichés suggest. Whether you’re cooking at home or enjoying a meal out, the French approach to food is about enjoyment, quality, and sharing—values that go far beyond the myths.
