Explore the Culinary Riches of Toulouse
Capital of the southern French region of Occitania, the alluring city of Toulouse boasts broader gastronomic flair than most others in the country.
Ever since the Visigoths made it their own capital in the 15th century, outside influences have shaped Occitan culture, chiefly expressed through food. Moreover, a thriving aerospace industry (Toulouse is home to Airbus HQ) and an influx of tech companies have brought a worldly edge to the city, meaning global cuisine and modern food trends are well represented.
As is typical in France, locally sourced ingredients of the highest quality form the bedrock of Toulousain cuisine. Blue-veined cheese from Roquefort, black truffles from the woodlands of Occitania, and cocktails tinged with the sweet taste of violets engage the senses with every course.
Breakfast
A visit to Toulouse is incomplete without indulging in its culinary offerings. A recommended spot for breakfast is Peacock, right around the corner from the Pont Neuf. Its homemade pecan cookies offer a delightful light bite, while the granola and fresh fruit bowls are a healthy choice. The ambiance during Saturday brunches makes it even more delightful.
For a market breakfast, explore Marché Victor Hugo or the stalls on Place du Capitole on a Sunday morning. Here, savor fine cured meats and cheeses fresh from local gourmets. On weekdays, don’t miss Salon Cacao’T to try the delectable buttery kouign amann.
Coffee
For coffee aficionados, Café Papiche is a must-visit for its precise brews. Nearby, Le Café Cerise offers a lovely ambiance alongside excellent coffee and pastries. Enjoy a serene moment at The Flower’s Café, perfectly situated for people-watching with a delectable pear crumble.
Moreover, Toulouse boasts charming tea houses that provide a cozy alternative to its cafes. Bapz serves tea in a warm, inviting atmosphere, while L’estaminot across the Garonne River doubles as a trendy tea room amidst a library setting.
Lunch
Chefs at the five restaurants on the upper floor of Marché Victor Hugo craft lunches using the market’s fresh produce. Although tables fill quickly, the culinary experience here is unmatched. Au Bon Graillou is a standout, featuring a seasonal three-course menu at an affordable price.
For a quick meal, head to Rue Pargaminières, where you can find Vietnamese-fusion dishes such as bò bún. This area transforms into a vibrant late-night hub for students, thanks to its late hours and budget-friendly options.
Aperitivo
Known as the City of Violets, Toulouse incorporates these delicate flowers into its culinary scene, particularly in cocktails. Local bars like Le Loup Blanc utilize liqueur de violette for innovative drinks. A classic southern France tipple, pastis, is also popular and available at numerous local bars, including Chez Tonton, famous for its happy hour specials.
Dinner
In Toulouse, hearty regional classics, particularly cassoulet, reign supreme, especially during colder months. This classic dish combines local sausage and duck confit slowly cooked in its own fat, paired with white beans, lamb, and pork belly. You can find this dish at restaurants across all price points, including Restaurant Emile for a Michelin-rated experience.
For alternative dietary preferences, La Faim des Haricots provides an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring homemade savory tarts and diverse vegetarian options.
Bar
As a part-time musician, bars with good music are appealing. La Tireuse offers rock songs and an extensive selection of beers on tap. The vibrant atmosphere at Place Saint-Pierre features numerous pubs and bars with lively terrace seating. For a different vibe, Fat Cat provides a lounge with expertly crafted cocktails, particularly during live jazz nights. Le 5 Wine Bar is a prime location to sample local wines, showcasing the region’s rich viticulture.
