By ERICA MARTINEZ
The Key Difference Between A French Restaurant And A Brasserie
First-time visitors to France might be confused by the range of different eateries to choose from, and two of those options will likely be brasseries and restaurants.
While a restaurant will be more formal and perhaps more expensive than a neighborhood brasserie, the biggest difference between the two is the food they serve.
Brasseries feature traditional French dishes, served in a casual atmosphere reminiscent of British pubs. They are open all day, providing flexible, convenient dining options.
Originally brewers of artisan beers, brasseries evolved into places known for hearty dishes like coq au vin, moules frites, and crème brûlée served in simple, even rustic ways.
Restaurants, which vary considerably in formality and price range, often serve French food, but you might also find other cuisines, like Middle Eastern, Peruvian, and Japanese.
They have specific lunch and dinner hours, and the pricier restaurants offer a pristine atmosphere, exemplary service, food presentation, and perhaps even a dress code for patrons.