Top French Drinks for the Summer

French cafés and bistros are known for their charm, ambiance, and, of course, their drinks. Whether you're stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a leisurely meal, knowing what to order can enhance your experience. Here's a guide to the top drinks to order in France, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. These drinks are especially great for summer, bringing a refreshing touch to the warmer months.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

1. Un Café

When ordering "un café" in France, keep in mind that you will get an espresso—a small, strong coffee served in a tiny cup. It's a classic French staple, perfect for a quick caffeine boost in the morning or after a meal. If you want something with more milk, you can ask for a "café crème" (similar to a latte) or a "café noisette" (espresso with a dash of milk or cream). And if you have a sweet tooth, try “un café gourmand”, an espresso served with a selection of mignardises (3 or 4 mini-desserts).

2. Un Thé à la Menthe

French bistros often offer a variety of teas, and one popular option is thé à la menthe, a sweetened green tea with fresh mint leaves. It's refreshing and soothing, ideal for warm summer days.

3. Un Diabolo

A diabolo is a non-alcoholic drink made by mixing French "limonade" (a lemon-flavored soda similar to a Sprite) with fruit syrup (Monin syrups are our favorite!). Popular flavors for diabolo include grenadine (pomegranate), menthe (mint), fraise (strawberry), or even banane kiwi - ask for “un DBK, s’il vous plaît (a Diabolo Banana Kiwi, please). It's a fun, bubbly drink that's great for a summer afternoon.

4. Une Menthe à l'Eau

A Menthe à l'eau is a simple and refreshing drink made by mixing water with mint syrup. It's light and cool, perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.

5. Un Lait Fraise

A Lait fraise is a delightful drink that combines milk with strawberry syrup. It's a sweet and creamy option, popular with children and those looking for a nostalgic treat. It's perfect for a summer day when you want something refreshing but not overly intense.

6. Un Perrier & Perrier Citron

Perrier is a popular brand of sparkling mineral water from France. You can enjoy it plain, or with a splash of lemon juice, known as "Perrier Citron." A great choice if you're looking for a light, refreshing drink that's not overly sweet.

7. Un Citron Pressé

Un citron pressé is a French take on lemonade, but with a twist. Instead of a pre-mixed drink, you're given a glass of water, some lemon slices, and sugar on the side, allowing you to mix it to your liking. It's a refreshing and customizable summer drink.

Alcoholic Drinks

1. Un Kir

A kir is a classic French cocktail made with white wine and crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur). It's a popular aperitif with a sweet, fruity taste. There's also kir royal, made with Champagne instead of white wine, or kir breton with cider.

2. Un Pastis

Pastis is an anise-flavored spirit typically mixed with water. It's a traditional aperitif, especially popular in southern France, and turns cloudy when water is added. Perfect for a warm summer evening or when playing “pétanque” (French Bocce). When ordering, ask for un 'Ricard' or un 'cinquante et un'.

3. Une Mauresque

Mauresque is a variation of pastis made with syrop d’orgeat (a sweet, almond-flavored syrup). It gives the drink a unique twist and a slightly sweeter taste. It's another excellent choice for a summer aperitif.

4. Un verre de Vin

French wine is a must-try at any bistro. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, there's a wine for everyone. Many bars and restaurants offer wine by the glass, but you can also get it by the bottle, or even sometime by the “pichet” (carafe). Don't hesitate to ask the server for recommendations to pair with your meal.

5. Une Bière

France has a rich beer culture. When ordering beer at a bistro, you might ask for a "demi" (half-pint) or a "pinte" (pint). A "blonde" is a light beer, while an "ambrée" is an amber beer. "Brune" is darker, often similar to a stout. Local craft beers are also gaining popularity.

6. Un Monaco

Monaco is a beer cocktail made by mixing beer with French “limonade” and grenadine syrup. It's sweet and fizzy, perfect for a light aperitif or a refreshing drink on a hot day, especially if you don’t care for the taste of beer.

7. Un Panaché

Panaché is another beer-based drink, made by mixing beer with carbonated limonade. If you like a beer shandy, you will enjoy this citrusy, light and refreshing drink.

Conclusion

These are some of the top drinks you can enjoy at a French bistro this summer. Whether you prefer non-alcoholic or alcoholic beverages, there's something for everyone. So, the next time you visit France, try one (or several) of these drinks to enhance your summer experience.

Santé !