For most people in France, the day begins with breakfast, which is known as le petit déjeuner. This usually consists of coffee or hot chocolate which is drunk from a bowl, and pehaps a freshly-baked croissant which is made of a flaky, butter-based pastry or bread. Pain au chocolat is similar but has a chocolate filling.

Lunch is traditionally a leisurely affair, and can have several courses. The first course, or hors d'oeuvre, is often a salad, or in winter a bowl of soup. A main dish of meat or fish follows, and the meal ends with cheese, fruit, or sometimes a dessert.

At around four o'clock, children who have just returned from school might have some bread with jam or chocolate, and a glass of milk. This afternoon snack is known as le goûter.