Croque Madame in Paris: 5 Must-Try Spots for this Iconic French Sandwich

Craving a taste of Parisian comfort food? Look no further than the beloved croque madame. This classic French sandwich is a must-try when visiting the City of Light. The best croque madame in Paris combines crispy bread, gooey cheese, savory ham, and a perfectly fried egg on top.

You’ll find this delectable treat in cafes and bistros across Paris. From touristy spots to hidden gems, there’s no shortage of places to satisfy your croque madame cravings. Some top picks include Les Deux Magots, Café Marguerite, and La Comète. Each puts its own spin on this timeless dish.

Want to elevate your croque madame experience? Pair it with a green salad and a glass of French wine. You’ll feel like a true Parisian as you savor every bite in a charming cafe. Don’t forget to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere – it’s all part of the experience!

Key Takeaways

• Croque madame is a must-try sandwich in Paris, featuring ham, cheese, and a fried egg
• You can find great croque madames at cafes and bistros throughout the city
• Pair your croque madame with a salad and wine for the full Parisian experience

The Origin of Croque Madame

The croque madame, a beloved French sandwich, has an interesting history rooted in Parisian cafes. It evolved from its simpler cousin and got its unique name in a rather charming way.

Evolution from Croque Monsieur

The croque madame started as a variation of the croque monsieur. You might’ve tried a croque monsieur before – it’s a tasty ham and cheese sandwich that’s been around since the early 1900s. Paris cafes came up with it as a quick meal for busy city folks.

But someone got creative and thought, “Why not add an egg?” That’s how the croque madame was born. It’s basically the same yummy sandwich, but with a fried egg on top. This little addition made a big difference in taste and looks!

Name and History

Ever wonder why it’s called a “madame”? It’s a fun story! The name croque madame showed up around the 1960s. People say the egg on top looked like a fancy lady’s hat. Can you picture it?

The name stuck, and soon you could find croque madames all over Paris. Cafes started putting them on menus alongside the original croque monsieur. They became a hit with locals and tourists alike.

Today, you can enjoy this tasty treat in Paris and beyond. It’s a great example of how a simple change can create something new and exciting in food!

Key Ingredients of Croque Madame

A croque madame is more than just a sandwich. It’s a tasty French treat that combines savory ham, melty cheese, and creamy sauce. Let’s look at what makes this dish so special.

Prince de Paris Ham

Prince de Paris ham is the star of a great croque madame. It’s a special kind of ham made in Paris. Butchers cook it slowly and carefully. This makes it super tender and full of flavor.

The ham is cut into thin slices. These slices are perfect for layering in the sandwich. They add a salty, meaty taste that goes well with the other ingredients.

Some shops in Paris still make this ham the old-fashioned way. They use recipes that are over 100 years old. This attention to detail makes the ham extra yummy.

Gruyère and Comté Cheese

Cheese is key in a croque madame. Two kinds are often used: Gruyère and Comté. Both are French cheeses that melt really well.

Gruyère has a nutty, sweet flavor. It gets all gooey when heated. This makes it perfect for spreading on top of the sandwich.

Comté is similar but a bit stronger. It adds depth to the flavor. Some chefs mix the two cheeses for the best taste.

These cheeses aren’t just tasty. They also get nice and stretchy when melted. This makes the sandwich extra fun to eat.

Bechamel Sauce

Bechamel sauce is what makes a croque madame special. It’s a creamy white sauce that goes on top of the sandwich.

To make bechamel, you start with butter and flour. Then you add milk and cook it until it’s thick. Some chefs add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

The sauce should be smooth and velvety. It adds moisture to the sandwich and helps all the flavors blend together.

A good bechamel takes practice to make. But it’s worth it. It turns a simple sandwich into something amazing.

Quality Bread

The bread in a croque madame is important too. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold all the other ingredients.

Many chefs use pain de mie. This is a soft white bread with a fine texture. It toasts well and doesn’t fall apart when you add the wet ingredients.

Some places in Paris make their own bread just for croque madames. They might add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor.

The bread should be toasted until it’s golden brown and crispy. This gives the sandwich a nice crunch that contrasts with the soft, gooey inside.

Finding the Best Croque Madame in Paris

Paris is full of amazing spots to grab a tasty croque madame. From classic cafes to trendy new joints, you’ll find plenty of places serving up this cheesy, eggy sandwich. Let’s check out some top spots to get your croque fix in the City of Light.

Le Petit Cler and Les Deux Magots

Le Petit Cler is a cozy bistro that makes a mean croque madame. Their version is super cheesy with a perfectly runny egg on top. The bread is crispy and buttery – just how you want it.

Les Deux Magots is an iconic cafe that’s been around forever. Writers and artists used to hang out here back in the day. Their croque madame is a classic take on the sandwich. It’s simple but delicious.

Both spots have a great atmosphere for people-watching while you eat. Sit outside if it’s nice and soak up that Parisian vibe.

Brasserie Bellanger by Thierry Breton

Thierry Breton knows his way around French cuisine, and it shows in the croque madame at Brasserie Bellanger. The sandwich here is extra decadent.

They use high-quality cheese and ham. The bechamel sauce is rich and creamy. And the egg on top? Perfectly cooked every time.

The brasserie has a cool, modern feel. It’s a great spot for lunch or a casual dinner. You might want to save room for dessert too – their pastries are amazing.

Fric-Frac and La Comète

Fric-Frac is all about the croque. They have a whole menu of different versions. The classic croque madame is great, but try one of their creative twists too.

They even have veggie options if that’s your thing. The “Winnie” and “Le mise en vert” are both meat-free and tasty.

La Comète is another solid choice for a croque madame fix. Their sandwich is huge and super filling. The bread is thick and crusty, piled high with toppings.

Both places have a laid-back vibe. They’re perfect for a quick, casual meal that won’t break the bank.

Trendy Spots for Modern Takes

If you want to try something a bit different, check out some of Paris’s trendier cafes. They’re putting new spins on the classic croque madame.

Faste – Croque Monsieur Paris does fun variations like a truffle croque or a salmon version. The ingredients are top-notch.

Café Madame gets creative with their toppings. Think sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions.

These spots tend to be a bit pricier, but the unique flavors are worth it. Plus, the hip decor makes for great Instagram pics of your fancy sandwich.

Variations and Related French Dishes

The humble croque madame has inspired many tasty variations and alternatives. Let’s explore some creative twists on this classic French sandwich.

Truffle Croque Monsieur

Fancy up your croque with a touch of luxury. Truffle croque monsieur adds an earthy, aromatic twist to the traditional recipe. Chefs mix truffle oil or shaved truffles into the béchamel sauce. Some even sprinkle truffle salt on top for extra flavor.

The rich, umami taste of truffles pairs perfectly with the gooey cheese and salty ham. It’s a decadent treat that’ll make you feel like royalty. You’ll find this upscale version in high-end Paris cafes and bistros.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making it at home. Just a tiny bit of truffle goes a long way!

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Can’t eat meat or dairy? No worries! Creative chefs have come up with plant-based versions of the croque madame. Vegetarian options often swap the ham for grilled veggies or mushrooms. Some use meat substitutes like seitan or tempeh.

For vegan croques, dairy-free cheese and plant-based béchamel sauce do the trick. Coconut milk or cashew cream make great bases for vegan “cheese” sauces. Top it off with sliced tomato instead of an egg.

These meat-free versions keep the satisfying crunch and gooey goodness of the original. You won’t even miss the ham!

Croque Monsieur Alternatives

Looking for something similar but different? Try these tasty French sandwiches:

• Croque provençal: Adds tomato and herbs for a taste of southern France
• Croque tartiflette: Swaps the ham for bacon and Reblochon cheese
• Croque norvégien: Features smoked salmon instead of ham

For a sweet twist, sink your teeth into pain perdu. It’s like French toast, but even better. Thick slices of bread are soaked in custard, fried, and topped with powdered sugar. Yum!

These alternatives offer familiar flavors with unique twists. Give them a try next time you’re craving a hot, cheesy sandwich.

Dine-In and Takeaway Options

Paris offers a great mix of places to enjoy a croque madame, whether you want to sit and savor or grab one on the go. You’ll find cozy spots with outdoor seating and quick service options to satisfy your craving.

Cozy Cafés with Outdoor Seating

Nothing beats enjoying a croque madame al fresco in Paris. Au Petit Suisse has a charming terrace where you can watch the world go by. Their classic version comes with a perfectly runny egg and crispy ham. Café Madame offers a more modern twist, with seasonal ingredients and homemade bread.

On sunny days, snag a table outside and pair your sandwich with a glass of wine. Many cafés have heat lamps so you can enjoy outdoor seating year-round. Just be sure to arrive early to get a prime spot – Parisians love their terraces!

Fast Service and Delivery

Need a quick croque fix? Monsieur Madame specializes in speedy service. They have several locations around the city where you can get a fresh, hot sandwich in minutes. Their menu has classic and creative options to suit every taste.

For days when you don’t want to leave your hotel or Airbnb, delivery apps like Uber Eats and Deliveroo have you covered. Many local spots offer their croque madames for delivery. You can enjoy a taste of Paris from the comfort of your room.

Some places even have drive-through windows for the ultimate convenience. But let’s be honest – eating a gooey, cheesy croque while driving through Paris traffic might be a bit messy!

Pairings and Side Dishes

A croque madame is a delicious sandwich, but it’s even better with the right sides. Let’s look at some tasty options to round out your meal.

Classic French Fries

You can’t go wrong pairing your croque madame with crispy French fries. This combo is basically the French version of a burger and fries. The salty, crunchy fries are perfect for dipping in any extra béchamel sauce that oozes out of your sandwich.

In Paris, you’ll often see croque madame served with a small pile of fries on the side. Some cafes even do a fun twist on steak frites by swapping the steak for a croque madame. The rich, cheesy sandwich balances nicely with the light, crispy potatoes.

If you’re making this at home, try cutting your potatoes into thin matchsticks for extra crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley adds a nice touch too.

Green Salad Complement

For a lighter option, go for a simple green salad. The fresh, crisp greens provide a nice contrast to the rich, creamy sandwich. Plus, it helps you feel a little less guilty about all that cheese and butter!

Most Parisian cafes will serve a small side salad with their croque madame. It’s usually just mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the sandwich.

At home, try mixing some peppery arugula with butter lettuce. Add a few cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices for extra crunch. A light lemon vinaigrette works great here. It’s refreshing and won’t overpower the flavors of your croque madame.

The Ambience of Parisian Bistros

Stepping into a Parisian bistro is like entering a cozy time capsule. The warm lighting, vintage decor, and lively chatter create an atmosphere that’s uniquely French. You’ll find yourself surrounded by locals and tourists alike, all enjoying good food and company.

Latin Quarter Favorites

The Latin Quarter is home to some of Paris’s most charming bistros. You’ll love wandering down narrow cobblestone streets and stumbling upon hidden gems. Cafe de Flore is a must-visit spot. It’s been around since the 1880s and was a favorite hangout for writers and artists.

The tables are small and close together, perfect for people-watching. Don’t be surprised if you end up chatting with your neighbors! Order a croque madame and a glass of wine, then sit back and soak in the vibrant energy.

Another great option is Le Petit Cafe. It’s tucked away on a quiet side street but always bustling inside. The red checkered tablecloths and chalkboard menus add to its classic bistro charm.

The Charm of Established Eateries

Paris is full of bistros that have stood the test of time. These places have been serving up delicious food for decades, sometimes even centuries. La Palette is one such spot. It’s been around since 1905 and still has its original zinc bar.

The walls are covered in artwork, giving it an artsy vibe. You might spot a few local characters who’ve been coming here for years. Try their croque monsieur – it’s said to be one of the best in the city.

Bistro des Campagnes is another old-school favorite. It’s a bit off the beaten path but worth seeking out. The wooden beams and vintage posters make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The staff is friendly and always ready with a wine recommendation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Croque madame is a beloved Parisian dish that sparks curiosity among visitors. Let’s dig into some common questions about this tasty treat and dining in Paris.

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1 Comment

1. 

   Sylvie January 25, 2025, 12:10 pm Reply

   Oh man, I’m drooling just thinking about a perfect croque madame! Has anyone tried the ones at Café de Flore? I’ve heard it’s a classic spot, but I’m wondering if it’s worth braving the crowds. And what about some lesser-known cafes – any hidden gems that serve up an amazing croque madame without the tourist markup? I’m headed to Paris next month and determined to find the ultimate cheese-ham-egg combo. Any tips on the best time of day to indulge? I’m thinking a late breakfast might be ideal, but then again, isn’t anytime a good time for a croque madame in Paris?