Food History of Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, the capital city of the Alsace region in France, offers a rich and varied gastronomic history deeply rooted in both French and Germanic cultures. Strasbourg's culinary identity has been shaped over the centuries by the area's geopolitical changes and its position on the Rhine river, which has facilitated trade and cultural exchange.
The region is known for its unique and hearty fare, often featuring locally sourced ingredients such as fresh produce, dairy products, and, notably, white Alsatian wines. Influences from German cuisine are evident in the prevalence of dishes like sauerkraut and pretzels. Strasbourg’s Christmas markets also contribute to its fame, where festive treats like bredele biscuits are celebrated.
Now, let us dive into the top 10 food dishes that visitors to Strasbourg, excluding dishes derived from cow, should make a point to try.
Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Strasbourg for Tourists
- Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche) - A thin crust pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons. (Non-Veg)
- Choucroute Garnie - This Alsatian take on sauerkraut is served with various types of pork meats and potatoes. (Non-Veg)
- Baeckeoffe - A traditional casserole with marinated meats (usually lamb, pork, and chicken) and vegetables, slow-cooked in white wine and juniper berries. (Non-Veg)
- Spätzle - Soft egg noodles that can be served with cheese or as a side dish with meat-based meals. (Veg)
- Coq au Riesling - A variation of Coq au Vin, this dish sees chicken braised with Riesling wine, mushrooms, and cream. (Non-Veg)
- Quiche Lorraine - An open pie with a filling of custard with smoked bacon, a classic from the neighboring Lorraine region often enjoyed in Strasbourg. (Non-Veg)
- Alsace Bredele - Small, festive cookies found in various shapes and flavors, particularly popular during Christmas. (Veg)
- Munster Cheese - A strong-smelling but mild-tasting soft cheese, often served with cumin seeds. (Veg)
- Knack d'alsace - These are Strasbourg sausages, typically made of a mixture of pork and spices. (Non-Veg)
- Foie Gras - While controversial, Strasbourg is known for its locally produced foie gras. (Non-Veg)
Top Famous Restaurants in Strasbourg, France
- Au Pont Corbeau
- Address: 21 Quai Saint-Nicolas, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Famous Food: Choucroute Garnie (Non-Veg)
- La Cloche à Fromage
- Address: 27 Rue des Tonneliers, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Famous Food: Munster Cheese platter (Veg)
- Le Clou
- Address: 3 Rue du Chaudron, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Famous Food: Tarte Flambée (Non-Veg) and traditional Alsatian fare
- Le Gavroche
- Address: 4 Rue Klein, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Famous Food: Upscale French cuisine, deviating from the traditional Alsatian palette (Veg/Non-Veg)
- Meiselocker
- Address: 39 Rue des Frères, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Famous Food: Coq au Riesling (Non-Veg)
- Le Bistrot des Cocottes
- Address: 6 Rue du Saumon, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Famous Food: Traditional Alsatian casseroles and Baeckeoffe (Non-Veg)
- La Hache
- Address: 11 Rue de la Douane, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Famous Food: Elevated Alsatian cuisine, with both vegetarian options (Veg) and local meat specialties (Non-Veg)
Visitors will find that Strasbourg's culinary landscape is a treasure trove of tastes waiting to be discovered, with an array of options suitable for carnivores and vegetarians alike.