French cuisine is extremely diverse, with only the Chinese having similar variety in their food. This variety is supported by the French passion for good food in all its forms, France's extraordinary range of different geographies and climates which support the local production of all types of ingredients, and France's long and varied history. In many ways, an understanding of the culture of French food is an understanding of France itself.

Meals range from the very basic, such as the traditional baguette plus cheese plus inexpensive wine, to very elaborate affairs than can involve a dozen courses and different wines consumed over several hours. Obviously, the latter type of dining is exceptional for most people. However, it is this more sophisticated dining which is typically found in "French restaurants" outside France, giving many foreigners the mistaken impression that French food is heavy and complicated. In fact, much of the French cuisine is fairly simple, relying on high quality fresh ingredients and loving preparation rather than complex recipes .

French food is extremely different, only China has a similar variety of food. The variety is supported by France's passion for good food in all its forms, France's extraordinary variety of different geographical and climatic conditions, its support for local production of all types of ingredients, and France's long and varied history. In many ways, understanding the food of French culture is an understanding of France itself.

Meals range from the very basic, such as traditional bread and cheese with cheap wine, to extremely complex affairs that may involve 12 courses and different wine consumption over several hours. Obviously, the latter category is a special diet for most people. However, it is this more advanced dining that is usually found in "French restaurants" outside of France that gives many foreigners the wrong impression that French food is heavy and complicated. In fact, many French dishes are simple, relying on high-quality fresh ingredients and hobby rather than complex preparation of recipes.