What Not to Do in a French Bakery (9 No-No’s)
French bakeries often look very welcoming, but there’s an unspoken code. Break it, and you might get a cold stare instead of a warm croissant!
1. Don’t Say “Baguette” Without Specifying Which One
There are multiple types including baguette tradition (handmade, better quality, no additives) vs. baguette classique (cheaper, factory-made). Asking for just “une baguette” means you’ll likely get the latter by default – typically 1€ to 1.40€.
Likewise, don’t ask for “French bread”. It’s all French bread here. Instead, ask for a baguette tradition, une ficelle, un pain de campagne, etc.
2. Never Touch the Pastries
Even if they’re within reach, pointing is fine, but grabbing one yourself is a major faux pas. Some bakeries have signs saying Ne touchez pas aux produits!
3. Avoid Ordering “Croissants” After a Certain Hour
Many bakeries sell out of their morning viennoiseries by midday. If you order one in the afternoon, expect disappointment (or a reheated, sorry version).
4. Don’t Ask for a “Pain au Chocolat” in the South
In places like Toulouse or Bordeaux, it’s chocolatine, not “pain au chocolat”. If you say the latter, you’ll get a knowing smirk – or a playful debate.
5. Don’t Expect a To-Go Coffee With Your Pastry
French bakeries rarely sell coffee to go like American cafés. If they do, it’s usually from a pod machine and not their specialty.
6. Skip the “Hello” and You’re Toast!
Walking in and immediately saying Je voudrais un croissant without a proper Bonjour! is the fastest way to get cold service. Greeting first is non-negotiable.
7. Don’t Hesitate Too Long in Line
French bakeries often have quick-moving queues. If you pause too long at the counter, expect impatient sighs from before AND behind you.
8. Be Ready With Small Change
While credit cards are more accepted now, many bakeries still prefer cash, especially for small purchases under 5 euros. Having exact or small change speeds things up.
9. Don’t Expect Custom Orders
Unlike in the U.S., you can’t ask for “extra toasted” croissants or a sandwich jambon-beurre with mayo instead of butter. What’s on display is what you get!