What Is the Main Dish for Thanksgiving in France?

For many Americans living abroad, one question often comes up in November: what is the main dish for Thanksgiving in France? While France doesn't officially recognize Thanksgiving as a national holiday, that hasn’t stopped expatriates, international communities, and even curious French citizens from embracing this festive occasion.

Let’s explore how Thanksgiving is interpreted in France, what typically graces the French Thanksgiving table, and how tradition meets French gastronomy.

Does France Celebrate Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is not a public holiday in France. French schools and workplaces operate normally, and most people are unfamiliar with its historical roots. However, the American expat community keeps the tradition alive, especially in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Strasbourg.

In recent years, French restaurants, cooking schools, and cultural organizations have also started offering Thanksgiving experiences, making the holiday more visible and inclusive.

What Is the Main Dish for Thanksgiving in France?

The primary question—what is the main dish for Thanksgiving in France—has an interesting answer. Although Americans traditionally roast a large turkey, French adaptations are often more refined and tailored to local tastes.

Popular Main Course Options in France:

• Free-range Roast Turkey (Dinde Fermière Rôtie)
  Still the most common choice among American expats, but often smaller and locally sourced. It's usually seasoned with garlic, shallots, and French herbs.
  
  

• Stuffed Capon (Chapon Farci)
  A luxurious poultry dish that’s often reserved for Christmas in France but also finds its way onto Thanksgiving menus.
  
  

• Duck Breast (Magret de Canard)
  Especially popular in the southwest regions, duck brings a deep, flavorful twist to the traditional meal.
  
  

• Guinea Hen (Pintade)
  A smaller bird with rich meat, frequently served with wine-based sauces.
  
  

Instead of opting for sheer size, the French approach Thanksgiving with a focus on flavor, quality, and elegant presentation.

How French Cuisine Puts a Spin on Traditional Thanksgiving

France’s reputation for culinary sophistication adds a new layer to traditional American dishes. While honoring the spirit of Thanksgiving, French chefs and home cooks often reinterpret recipes using local ingredients and techniques.

Notable Adaptations:

• Stuffing (Farce de Pain aux Marrons)
  Made with rustic bread, chestnuts, leeks, and sometimes foie gras.
  
  

• Gravy (Sauce au Vin Rouge)
  A wine-based reduction replaces the traditional turkey gravy.
  
  

• Fruit Compotes
  In place of cranberry sauce, many use fig, plum, or blackcurrant compotes.
  
  

These reinterpretations offer a fresh yet familiar taste for those seeking comfort food with a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes: What Complements the French Thanksgiving Main Dish?

The sides are as essential as the main course. French Thanksgiving meals often highlight local vegetables and cheeses in creative ways.

Common Side Dishes:

• Gratin de Pommes de Terre – Layers of sliced potatoes baked in cream and cheese.
  
  

• Ratatouille – A bright vegetable medley of eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and peppers.
  
  

• Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Lardons – A savory twist using bacon and shallots.
  
  

• Baguette & Brie Board – Bread and soft cheeses often precede or accompany the meal.
  
  

These dishes are typically lighter and more refined, focusing on seasonal produce and regional specialties.

Where Do You Buy Thanksgiving Ingredients in France?

Many American ingredients aren't readily available in standard French supermarkets, but specialty stores and online retailers bridge the gap.

Where to Shop:

• Thanksgiving Paris – A grocery store in Le Marais offering American staples like canned pumpkin, stuffing mix, and cranberries.
  
  

• La Grande Épicerie de Paris – Upscale food hall that stocks international holiday products.
  
  

• The Real McCoy – Another well-known expat food store in Paris.
  
  

• Amazon.fr – Offers seasonal products like pecans and marshmallows during the holidays.
  
  

Ordering ingredients in advance is essential, especially for whole turkeys, which may need to be reserved weeks before.

French Restaurants Offering Thanksgiving Menus

If cooking isn't your thing, don’t worry. Several restaurants across France serve traditional or fusion-style Thanksgiving dinners.

Recommended Spots:

• Breakfast in America – Serves roast turkey with all the trimmings in a diner-style setting.
  
  

• Ellsworth – A modern Parisian bistro that offers a refined multi-course Thanksgiving menu.
  
  

• Hard Rock Café – Features a classic American Thanksgiving spread in multiple French cities.
  
  

• Hotel de Crillon – For those seeking a five-star experience with wine pairings.
  
  

Many of these places fill up quickly, so making a reservation well in advance is recommended.

Tips for Hosting Your Own French Thanksgiving

Bringing Thanksgiving to your French home doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of planning, you can create a meaningful and delicious holiday.

Helpful Tips:

• Plan early – Whole turkeys and stuffing ingredients sell out fast.
  
  

• Blend traditions – Pair American dishes with French wines or cheeses.
  
  

• Invite friends – Whether they’re French or international, Thanksgiving is better shared.
  
  

• Make it interactive – Share the story of Thanksgiving to enrich the experience for local guests.
  
  

The goal isn’t to replicate every detail perfectly, but to create a warm and grateful atmosphere.

Conclusion: What Is the Main Dish for Thanksgiving in France?

In the end, what is the main dish for Thanksgiving in France depends on who’s celebrating. For American expatriates, roast turkey often stays at the heart of the table. Yet, with French culinary influence, options like duck, guinea fowl, and stuffed capon are equally celebrated. Side dishes and desserts evolve too—combining French flair with American tradition.

Whether you're hosting a traditional dinner or embracing French reinterpretations, Thanksgiving in France is a celebration of culture, food, and gratitude.