France Food Guidance dos and don'ts for Indians

Traveling to France as an Indian can be a delicious adventure but it also comes with a few surprises when it comes to food, dining culture, and daily eating habits. Whether you're a vegetarian, follow specific dietary restrictions, or just looking for a taste of home abroad, this guide is here to help.From understanding French food etiquette to finding vegetarian meals or Indian stores, this all-in-one guide will make sure you feel more confident, comfortable, and well-fed during your time in France!

DOs

Try Local French Cuisine (Vegetarian Versions Too!)

Explore dishes like ratatouille, quiche, crêpes, baguettes, and pastries. Many French meals can be vegetarian or adapted.

Be Polite: Say Bonjour & Merci

Always greet and thank restaurant staff. It’s expected and appreciated.

Learn a Few Food-Related French Phrases

Key phrases like “Je suis végétarien” and “Sans viande” will be very helpful.

Eat Slowly & Enjoy Your Meal

French meals are meant to be savored. Expect a relaxed pace.

Use Cutlery the European Way

Fork in the left hand, knife in the right. Eating with hands is uncommon.

Scout for Indian or Vegetarian Restaurants

Use apps like Google Maps or TripAdvisor to find Indian, Vegan, or Halal spots.

Try Bread & Cheese Varieties

Often vegetarian and delicious—great for snacks or light meals.

Visit Local Markets

Fresh produce, baked goods, and snacks are easy to find.

DON’Ts

Don’t Expect Free Water

Ask for "une carafe d’eau" to avoid bottled water charges.

Don’t Expect Spicy Food Like India

French food is mild—carry spices if you need them.

Don’t Eat With Hands in Formal Settings

Use cutlery, even for casual foods unless appropriate.

Don’t Assume Vegetarian Means No Egg/Fish

Double-check ingredients before ordering.

Don’t Assume Dishes Are Pork/Beef-Free

Even soups or salads can contain hidden meats.

Don’t Request Too Many Customizations

French cuisine is served as designed; heavy changes may not be accommodated.

Don’t Skip Courses or Rush Meals

Prix fixe menus are common; enjoy the full experience.

Vegetarian-Friendly French Dishes

Dish	What It Is
Ratatouille	Stewed vegetables – fully vegan
Crêpes	Sweet or savory – ask for veggie options
Tarte aux légumes	Vegetable tart – check for egg
Soupe à l’oignon	Onion soup – confirm broth type
Omelette	Eggs with herbs – simple & filling
Goat cheese salad	Salade de chèvre chaud – ask to skip meat
French fries	Pommes frites – safe and tasty

Where to Buy Indian Ingredients

 Indian/Asian Grocery Stores

Cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseille have strong Indian grocery options.

Look for:

Passage Brady (Paris)

Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis (Little India in Paris)

Stores like Velan, VS Cash & Carry, Krishna Bhavan Grocery

 Supermarkets

Chains like Carrefour, Lidl, Monoprix, Auchan offer:

Basmati rice, dals, sauces, ready meals, yogurt, frozen parathas, etc.

Café & Restaurant Etiquette

Sitting costs more than takeaway at cafés.

Tipping is optional but appreciated.

French breakfasts are light—coffee, croissant, and maybe fruit.

Travel Food Kit Ideas for Indians

Bring:

Instant Poha / Upma / Pasta

MTR or Haldiram’s meals

Maggi / Cup noodles

Dry snacks (khakhra, namkeen, thepla)

Masala chai sachets / Tea bags

Small electric kettle or induction if needed

Cultural Sensitivity Tips

Avoid strong-smelling home food in public places.

Respect mealtime timings:

Lunch: 12–2 PM

Dinner: 7:30 PM onwards

A simple smile + merci goes a long way.

Need More Help?

Let me know if you’d like:

A list of Indian/vegetarian restaurants in Paris, Lyon, Nice, etc.

A printable or PDF version of this guide

A mini French phrasebook for food ordering

Google Maps list of Indian grocery stores & restaurants

France offers a beautiful blend of culinary culture and refined food experiences but it can feel unfamiliar, especially for Indian travelers. With a little preparation, openness to new tastes, and a few key phrases, you can enjoy authentic French cuisine while sticking to your food preferences.

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