Here’s a detailed guide on what to eat in Besançon, highlighting local specialties, traditional dishes, and where to try them:
What to Eat in Besançon
Besançon, located in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of eastern France, offers a rich culinary heritage influenced by both French and Swiss traditions. The city is known for hearty regional dishes, artisanal cheeses, and delicious pastries. Here’s a guide to the foods you should try when visiting Besançon:
1. Comté Cheese
Comté is the star of Franche-Comté cuisine and a must-try in Besançon. This hard cheese is made from cow’s milk and aged for several months to develop a nutty, savory flavor.
Where to try it:
- Local cheese shops in the Old Town (La Boucle)
- Markets like Besançon Comtois Market
- Paired with regional wines or in traditional dishes like fondue
2. Morteau Sausage
The Saucisse de Morteau is a smoked pork sausage from the Franche-Comté region. It has a distinct smoky flavor, often cooked slowly in stews or served with potatoes.
Where to try it:
- Traditional bistros in La Boucle
- Regional restaurants specializing in Franche-Comté cuisine
3. Poulet au Vin Jaune
This classic dish features chicken cooked in Vin Jaune, a distinctive yellow wine from the Jura region, often with mushrooms and cream.
Why it’s special:
- Unique nutty flavor of Vin Jaune enhances the richness of the dish
- Signature of eastern French culinary tradition
Where to try it:
- Fine dining restaurants and specialty bistros in Besançon
4. Tarte Comtoise
A sweet pastry from the region, Tarte Comtoise is a custard tart flavored with sugar and a touch of vanilla. It’s a perfect dessert or afternoon treat with coffee.
Where to try it:
- Local patisseries and bakeries
- Market stalls during festivals
5. Gratin de Macaroni
This comforting dish is a baked macaroni and cheese variant typical to the region, often topped with breadcrumbs and Comté cheese.
Where to try it:
- Family-run restaurants and traditional brasseries
- Cozy cafés in the Old Town
6. Jura Wines
Besançon is close to the Jura wine region, so trying a local wine is a must. Popular options include Vin Jaune (yellow wine) and Vin de Paille (straw wine).
Where to enjoy:
- Wine bars and tasting rooms in the city
- Restaurants pairing local dishes with regional wines
7. Local Pastries and Chocolates
Besançon has excellent patisseries offering French classics like croissants, pains au chocolat, and regional specialties like galettes comtoises.
Where to try them:
- Bakery shops in La Boucle
- Street markets and small cafés
Tips for Food Lovers
- Visit local markets: Try fresh regional produce, cheeses, and cured meats.
- Try a traditional bistro: For authentic French dining, bistros in La Boucle serve hearty Franche-Comté dishes.
- Pair with wine: Regional wines enhance the flavors of local dishes and cheese.
- Don’t rush dessert: Tarte Comtoise and other pastries are highlights of a Besançon meal.
Conclusion:
A visit to Besançon is incomplete without sampling Comté cheese, Morteau sausage, Poulet au Vin Jaune, Tarte Comtoise, and enjoying local wines and pastries. The city offers a delightful blend of hearty regional flavors and classic French cuisine, giving first-time visitors an authentic taste of eastern France.
