Exploring the culture behind slow meals and meaningful food moments
In France, eating is never just about feeding the body — it’s about feeding the soul.
Whether it’s a long lunch with family, a quiet goûter at 4pm, or an elegant apéritif with friends, the French approach every meal with intention. It’s not uncommon for a weekday dinner to include three courses, or for a Sunday lunch to last hours — not because of extravagance, but because food is considered sacred time.
So, what’s behind this love for long, slow meals?
Eating = Quality Time
In French culture, meals are a moment to pause. They’re about connection — to loved ones, to tradition, and to pleasure. Phones go away. Conversations flow. Food is savoured, not rushed.
It’s no surprise that in France, lunch breaks are often longer than in the UK — sometimes up to 1.5 or 2 hours. Even at school, children sit at the table for proper meals (no rushed sandwiches allowed!).
The Ritual of Courses
A classic French meal has a clear rhythm:
• Starter (entrée) – often something light like a soup or salad
• Main course (plat principal) – meat, fish or vegetarian with sides
• Cheese and/or dessert – because meals should end beautifully
But don’t worry — even a simple dinner can follow this flow. It’s about creating a moment, not about extravagance.
At Mon Panier Latin, we love how our customers recreate these rituals at home. Whether it’s opening a jar of tapenade to start, or sharing a biscuit with herbal tea to finish, every product invites you to slow down and enjoy.
The Goûter: A Snack with Soul
In France, goûter (around 4–5pm) is a national tradition, especially for children — but also secretly loved by adults. Think buttery madeleines, chocolate biscuits, or a quick slice of cake with herbal tea.
It’s not just about eating — it’s a pause in the day, a return to comfort and joy.
Looking for goûter inspiration? Try our selection of French biscuits, mini brioches, or herbal teas — perfect for your own little afternoon break.
L’Apéro: A Moment Between Day and Night
Another beloved French tradition is l’apéritif, often shared before dinner. It’s more than a drink — it’s a relaxed social moment to enjoy savoury nibbles, unwind, and transition from the workday into the evening.
Whether it’s olives, terrines, crunchy crackers or a spread of cheese, apéro is a symbol of French balance: celebration without excess, connection without pressure. With our carefully curated apéritif products, you can bring this relaxed ritual to life — any day of the week.
A Philosophy of Pleasure
At its heart, the French way of eating is about pleasure without guilt. There’s no rush, no counting calories at the table — just enjoyment, quality ingredients, and a respect for tradition. This is perhaps the greatest lesson we can take from France: to make space in our busy lives for the simple act of eating well.
At Mon Panier Latin, we believe food should be more than fuel. It should tell a story, spark a memory, and turn even the smallest moment into something meaningful. With our selection of French pantry favourites, sweet treats and savoury pleasures, you can rediscover the joy of slow, intentional eating — the French way.
