Paris: Dining the French Way

 Paris—home of brasseries, boulangeries, and cafés—truly knows how to eat. During my time in the city, I made it a personal goal to experience as much authentic, high-quality French cuisine as possible. Along the way, I encountered both memorable meals and forgettable ones, but that contrast is part of the journey and, in many ways, part of the charm.

What struck me most was not just the food, but the pace at which it’s enjoyed. In Paris, dining is unhurried. Unlike in the United States, where servers often hover and rush to turn tables for tips, French waiters give you space. You wait—sometimes longer than expected—and in that waiting, something interesting happens. Conversations unfold. People linger. Phones stay tucked away. More often than not, diners are fully present, talking with friends or family rather than scrolling.

That rhythm forced me to slow down. Meals became less about consumption and more about participation, being aware of the people around you, the strangers sharing the room, and the atmosphere of the place itself. Eating in Paris isn’t just about enjoyment; it’s about connection. Connection to the table, to conversation, and to the moment. It reminded me that food is not meant to be rushed, but lived in.