The mouthwatering sights and smells of a traditional French boulangerie (bakery) are enough to make any traveler’s stomach growl. With rows of croissants, baguettes, and pastries neatly displayed behind glass counters, the boulangerie is a staple that no visit to France is complete without.
However, the etiquette and flow of ordering in one can seem unfamiliar, especially for first-time visitors. In this article, I’ll walk you through the process and key phrases step-by-step, so you can confidently order like a local.
With a little preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy this quintessential French experience even if you don’t speak the language fluently. So grab your appetite and let’s learn how to order at a boulangerie in France!
Ordering at a boulangerie in France can be a delightful experience with a little preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you!
Most boulangerie staff in Paris are used to speaking English so don’t worry too much if you don’t feel comfortable speaking French!
Greet the staff
Start with a polite greeting, such as “Bonjour” (hello) or “Bonjour Madame/Monsieur” (hello ma’am/sir).
Ask for what you want
When you’re ready to order, just say “Je voudrais” (Juh voo-dray) followed by the items you want. If you order a baguette, be sure to specify which kind of baguette as there might be several different cooking styles and even sizes available for purchase.
I always get a baguette tradition which makes things easier.
Here are some common phrases to help you order popular boulangerie items:
- “Je voudrais…” (I would like…)
- “Je voudrais acheter du pain, s’il vous plaît.” (I would like to buy some bread, please.)
- Specify the type of bread you’d like, for example:
- “Une baguette, s’il vous plaît.” (A baguette, please.)
- “Un pain de campagne, s’il vous plaît.” (A country-style loaf, please.)
- “Des croissants, s’il vous plaît.” (Some croissants, please.)
Quantity
Mention the quantity you desire. For instance:
- “Une baguette, s’il vous plaît.” (One baguette, please.)
- “Deux croissants, s’il vous plaît.” (Two croissants, please.)
Politeness
It’s customary to be polite, so always add “s’il vous plaît” (please) at the end of your request.
Payment
After your order is prepared, the staff will tell you the total amount to pay. You can then say:
- “Combien est-ce que ça fait?” (How much is it?)
- “Voilà” (Here you go) when handing over the money.
Thank them
Always remember to say “Merci” (thank you) as you receive your items.
Here are some additional phrases that you might hear:
- “Avez-vous des recommandations?” (Do you have any recommendations?)
- “Est-ce que c’est tout?” (Is that all?)
- “Est-ce que vous avez des pains spéciaux aujourd’hui?” (Do you have any special breads today?)
Remember, being polite and respectful by using phrases like “Bonjour” (hello), “s’il vous plaît” (please), and “Merci” (thank you) goes a long way in French culture. Enjoy your visit to the boulangerie!
