You don’t need to cross the Channel to experience the magic of French cuisine. With the right ingredients and a little inspiration, you can create a genuine French dining experience right here in London.
So, how can you bring France to your London table? Let’s take you through a journey of flavours, rituals, and recipes that will transport you straight to Paris, Provence, or Normandy without leaving your home.
Setting the Scene: The French Way of Dining
In France, meals are more than just food — they are social events. The table is set with care, conversations flow, and dishes are shared slowly, savoured bite by bite.
To recreate this in London:
• Use a simple tablecloth, fresh flowers, and proper glassware.
• Serve meals in courses, even if they’re simple: a starter, main, cheese or dessert.
• Most importantly: put away distractions and enjoy the company.
This ritual of slowing down is as essential as the food itself.
The Perfect French-Inspired Menu at Home
Starter: The Charm of Simplicity
Begin with a cheese and charcuterie board — an easy yet impressive way to start. Combine soft brie or camembert with slices of saucisson, cornichons, olives, and a crusty baguette. Add a drizzle of honey or fig jam for a sweet note.
Main: A Classic with a Twist
For the main course, try coq au vin, a dish where chicken simmers gently in red wine with onions, mushrooms, and herbs. If that feels ambitious, a simple quiche Lorraine or ratatouille can also deliver authentic flavours with less preparation time.
Dessert: Sweet Memories of France
End on a sweet note. A tarte Tatin — caramelised apples atop buttery pastry — is a French classic. For something lighter, serve macarons or madeleines with coffee.
Drinks: A Toast to French Culture
No French-inspired meal is complete without the right beverage. Pair your starter with a crisp white wine, such as Sancerre, and your main with a Bordeaux or Beaujolais. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon served in a wine glass still captures the ritual.
And, of course, no French dining experience ends without coffee — a small, strong espresso to close the evening.
Everyday French Touches in London
You don’t have to host a three-course dinner to feel the French spirit. Incorporate little touches into your daily routine:
• Swap your breakfast cereal for a croissant or tartine (fresh bread with butter and jam).
• Enjoy a simple salad with vinaigrette for lunch.
• Savour cheese and fruit as a light evening snack.
These small rituals make French living feel accessible and enjoyable every day.
The Role of Ingredients: Authenticity Matters
The secret to recreating French flavours lies in quality ingredients. A good butter, a genuine baguette, or a fine cheese can elevate even the simplest dish. That’s why Mon Panier Latin is dedicated to sourcing authentic French products and delivering them straight to your door in London. From pantry staples like fleur de sel and Dijon mustard to indulgent treats like macarons and fine wines, each item carries the taste of France with it.
France Is Closer Than You Think
Living in London doesn’t mean you have to leave French cuisine behind. With a little imagination, the right ingredients, and a dash of passion, you can recreate the flavours and rituals that make French dining so beloved.
Whether it’s a casual breakfast, a cosy dinner, or a festive gathering with friends, you can savour the essence of France in every bite — without ever booking a Eurostar ticket.
