Whether you're French, a Francophile, or just looking for a great excuse to indulge in fabulous food and drink, Bastille Day is the perfect opportunity to throw a celebration. Here's how to bring a little joie de vivre to your table with delicious dishes and drinks inspired by the best of French cuisine.
Savoury Stars of the Bastille Day Table
Baguettes and Artisan Breads
You can’t celebrate France without a crusty baguette! Serve it warm with rich French butter, a selection of cheeses, or for mopping up sauces.
French Cheese Board
Put together a cheese board featuring favourites such as Brie de Meaux, Roquefort, Comté, and Camembert. Pair with grapes, nuts, and a drizzle of honey for a truly magnifique platter.
Coq au Vin
This slow-cooked dish of chicken, red wine, bacon, and mushrooms is comforting, flavourful, and a real centrepiece for a sit-down Bastille Day dinner.
Quiche Lorraine or Niçoise Salad
Opt for a rustic quiche with smoky lardons and cheese, or a summery Niçoise salad with tuna, olives, and hard-boiled eggs for a lighter bite.
Croque Monsieur/Madame
These toasted ham and cheese sandwiches are easy to make but deliciously indulgent. Add a fried egg on top for a Croque Madame!
Sweet French Treats
Perfect for a Bastille Day breakfast or brunch, these buttery pastries are best served with jam and coffee.
Tarte Tatin or Clafoutis
Tarte Tatin is a caramelised upside-down apple tart, while Clafoutis is a baked custard dotted with cherries. Both are classics and crowd-pleasers.
Macarons and Madeleines
Elegant and colourful, macarons are a lovely addition to any Bastille Day spread. Pair with dainty madeleines for afternoon tea vibes.
Raise a Glass: Drinks to Toast the Day
French Wines
Choose a red Bordeaux, a crisp Sancerre, or a refreshing Rosé from Provence. Champagne, of course, is the ultimate celebratory tipple.
French Beers Although not widely known for their beers there are some decent French beers in most supermarkets these days
Kir Royale
This chic aperitif combines crème de cassis with Champagne for a sparkling toast to liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Citron Pressé
This classic French lemonade is refreshing and perfect for those looking for a non-alcoholic option.
Calvados or Cognac
Round off the evening with a glass of French brandy, ideal for sipping slowly after a big meal.
Tips for Hosting a Bastille Day Party
Decorate with blue, white, and red. Think napkins, bunting, or even flowers in the colours of the French flag.
Play French music. Classic chanson or a bit of Edith Piaf sets the mood beautifully.
Consider a picnic. A Bastille Day celebration in the garden or a local park with French picnic staples can be très charmant.
Bastille Day is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy French culture, cuisine, and company. Whether you’re planning a full feast or a casual gathering, these food and drink ideas will help you celebrate with style et goût.
Bon appétit et joyeux 14 juillet!