The Alliance Française de San Francisco's blog

Recipe : Pork and citronella omelette

Recipe : Pork and citronella omelette

Let's go for a recipe inspired by a country shared between Asian and French gastronomy: the pork and lemon grass omelette from Laos!

Laos, the Land of a million elephants

Laos, the Land of a million elephants

Head to Southeast Asia to discover Laos, a country shared between the French and Buddhist culture!

World Music day : a French-American friendship story

World Music day : a French-American friendship story

A review of the French and American origins of an international festival!

Recipe : Provencal Turkey

Recipe : Provencal Turkey

Head to the land of sunshine: Provence! This small region in the south of France is THE destination for Mediterranean-style aperitifs!
A few olives, a glass of rosé, and let's go for the menu's day : turkey à la provençale!

Recipe : the Berawecka

Recipe : the Berawecka

This week we make you try a speciality called Berawecka, a small bread made of dried fruits and tasted with Brandy!

Thomas Sankara, the Che Guevara of Burkina Faso

Thomas Sankara, the Che Guevara of Burkina Faso

On October 15, 1987, Thomas Sankara, an icon of the struggle against colonial imperialism, was assassinated in a coup d'état organized by his own comrades in arms.A brief look at the life of Thomas Sankara, father of the struggle against colonial imperialism.

Recipe : Banforas

Recipe : Banforas

Let's go to Burkina Faso for a gourmet recipe halfway between the doughnut and the cookie! Discover the Banforas, the little sugar and pineapple sweets!

Recipe : The Parisian Financier

Recipe : The Parisian Financier

Discover this week a classic French pastry: the Financier! Head to Paris to taste this sweet treat!

World Health Day in France: from patient to citizen-user

World Health Day in France: from patient to citizen-user

Every year, on April 7, hundreds of organizations celebrate World Health Day throughout the world with the aim of better informing public opinion about the political and economic mechanisms surrounding public health. This approach is the result of a long term work, especially in France, where the issue of health has emerged during the political and economic history of the country. We tell you everything in this article!

Recipe : Malagasy gambas flamed with rum

Recipe : Malagasy gambas flamed with rum

If rum is part of the most popular preparations of Madagascar, the alcoholic beverage is as much an aperitif as an essential seasoning of the Malagasy cuisine! Discover the recipe of the gambas with rum arranged with orange, lemon and cinnamon!

8 customs and traditions only Malagasy people can understand

8 customs and traditions only Malagasy people can understand

You probably know the movie Madagascar, but do you really know the island it is based on? Have you heard of the Vodiontry, or the Famadihana? Head to the Indian Ocean, we tell you all about Malagasy customs and traditions!

French woman portrait: Marguerite Yourcenar, or the entry of poetry in the French Academy

French woman portrait: Marguerite Yourcenar, or the entry of poetry in the French Academy

Marguerite Yourcenar, born as Marguerite Cleenwerk de Crayencour, is the very first woman to have entered, not without difficulty, the French Academy. Learn more about this talented and yet unknown poetess!

Recipe: Apple, endive and walnut salad

Recipe: Apple, endive and walnut salad

Spring is finally here, and with it comes fresh fruits and vegetables! Discover a light and tasty recipe typically French: the endive, apple and walnut salad!

5 things to know about Seychelles

5 things to know about Seychelles

Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands is THE paradise in the middle of the Indian Ocean! Known for its beautiful white sand beaches, these islands are full of cultural and culinary secrets of the most amazing!

Recipe : Seychelles sweet potato cake

Recipe : Seychelles sweet potato cake

Head to Seychelles for a sweet and original specialty: the sweet potato cake! More commonly known as "Gâteau di patate", this light and fragrant sweetness is a treat for young and not so young!

March, Women's History Month

March, Women's History Month

March is Women's History Month! On the occasion of the celebration of Women's Rights Day, here are 10 portraits of women who have marked French history in all fields: war, fashion, politics, writing, art, we tell you everything!

Recipe : Mini chocolate-hazelnut puffs

Recipe : Mini chocolate-hazelnut puffs

Mini chocolate-hazelnut puffs! Here is an idea for a gourmet snack very easy to prepare! There is plenty for everyone: with jam, with another filling, or even in a salty version with pesto or cheese!

5 things to know about French Guiana

5 things to know about French Guiana

Welcome to French Guiana! France's largest department located in South America is home to as many culinary and cultural treasures! Here are 5 things to know about French Guiana!

Recipe : Guyanese chicken colombo with pineapple and grapes

Recipe : Guyanese chicken colombo with pineapple and grapes

An irresistible need to travel? No need for a plane ticket, the traditional dishes of Guyanese cuisine will take you on an excursion with Creole, Amerindian, Brushingue or even Chinese, Indian and Brazilian influences. We have found a sweet and sour recipe for you: chicken colombo with pineapple and grapes!


"It's a rock! ... It's a cape! ... What am I saying? It's a pinnacle!" We all know this famous line from the play Cyrano de Bergerac, but have you heard of his author? We tell you all about Edmond Rostand, 19th century playwright and poet, and father of the famous Cyrano! …


Zouglou is THE Ivorian music par excellence! This popular variety was born in the 80s, and today mixes Nouchi, French, and brings up to the present day some wild traditional rhythms. Although mainly Zouglou known for combining tradition and modernity, the history is very closely linked to that of Ivory Coast, we tell you everything in this post! …

The secrets of Ivoirian gastronomy

The secrets of Ivoirian gastronomy

What would Ivory Coast be without its gastronomy? From the meat of the bush to the most popular alcohols, we tell you everything about the flavors of the Ivory Coast!

The story behind the Chandeleur

The story behind the Chandeleur

Do you know the history of Candlemas? Every year, February 2nd is the date when pancakes delight young and old gourmets. But do you know the history of Chandeleur? What is the origin of this day, and especially why do we eat French crepes ? We tell you everything!

Recipe : French Crepes

Recipe : French Crepes

The French crepe is not only an emblematic culinary preparation from Brittany, it is also certainly one of the easiest French meals to prepare. Whether with brown sugar, chocolate, cheese or served with a salad, this fine milk-based preparation delights young and not-so-young all year round.

Recipe : The Ivorian Fufu

Recipe : The Ivorian Fufu

Head to West Africa, to discover one of the emblematic dishes of the Ivory Coast : the Fufu !
Whether it is made of cassava, plantains, or potatoes, this tasty dish is a must-try with a light salad, a chicken soup or a sauce, depending on your tastes.

Exploring Senegalese Literature, Music and Science

Exploring Senegalese Literature, Music and Science

Did you know that this year’s Prix Goncourt went to a Senegalese novelist, making him the first writer from sub-Saharan Africa to be awarded France’s oldest and most prestigious literary prize? Would you be surprised to learn that Senegal is among the 11 African countries working on the Great Green Wall  project to plant trees across the African continent, creating a natural barrier to hold back the Sahara Desert from climate change?

Recipe: Roasted Camembert cheese with honey

Recipe: Roasted Camembert cheese with honey

 Camembert, one of the cheeses that symbolize the French heritage. With its fluffy rind and creamy, melting center that we sometimes just like to eat with a crusty baguette... Enjoy this comfort-food recipe, ultra-gourmet and so simple that it is impossible to miss! 

Recipe : The Basque Cake

Recipe : The Basque Cake

Discover the Basque cake, the culinary emblem of the Basque Country. This small golden and soft cake filled with pastry cream will delight your taste buds on long spring Sundays! 

Recipe : Senegalese Tuna Pastels

Recipe : Senegalese Tuna Pastels

Head to Senegal with this delicious recipe for tuna pastels. Ideal for the aperitif, this recipe is easy to make and will surprise your guests! Serve them with a spicy sauce to follow the Senegalese tradition.

5 things to know about Senegal!

5 things to know about Senegal!

Located on the west coast of the African continent, Senegal is a country bordered by Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau. Renowned for the hospitality of its people, Senegal is a crossroads of ethnicities and traditions, as well as a popular tourist destination!
Discover 5 things to know about Senegal!


Get to know: Antoine de Saint-Exupéry and the Little Prince, or one the most famous French stories to this day.  …

Catherine Deneuve: An icon of French cinema with  an international reputation!

Catherine Deneuve: An icon of French cinema with an international reputation!

Born in 1943 in Paris, Catherine Deneuve is a French actress as well as an occasional singer, model, and producer considered one of the greatest French actresses of her generation. In numerous movies such as "The Umbrellas of Cherbourg", "The Young Girls of Rochefort", "Donkey Skin" or "Belle de jour", she has marked generations of moviegoers...
Here is all you need to know about  Catherine Deneuve! 

Recipe: Potato Rösti

Recipe: Potato Rösti

An express and simplistic dish that will delight young and old for sure! Discover the recipe for potato rösti, a recipe from Switzerland, ideal for this winter period.

Celebrating Belgian Francophone Authors

Celebrating Belgian Francophone Authors

Did you know that the worlds two most translated French authors are Belgian? Francophone authors Hergé and Georges Simenon honor their Belgian heritage with their French-language literature translated around the world. But the list doesn’t stop there of celebrated Belgian authors who have made their mark on French literature.

5 things to know about Belgium!

5 things to know about Belgium!

Belgium is a country in Western Europe. It is bordered by the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France and the North Sea. Belgium is a developed country, with an advanced high-income economy. It also ranks as one of the safest or most peaceful countries in the world.

Discover here 5 things you probably don't know about Belgium!

Recipe :   Liège Waffle

Recipe : Liège Waffle

The Liège waffle is a specialty of the city of Liège in Belgium, that is based on pearl sugar which caramelizes while cooking. Crisp outside and soft inside, these delicious waffles can easily be made at home with a few simple ingredients... Bon appétit!

French Christmas Markets Tradition

French Christmas Markets Tradition

French Christmas markets – or marchés de Noël – are a popular French Christmas tradition. Christmas markets take place in many cities throughout France, often starting the last weekend of November and running until the end of December. The festive stalls sell handmade gifts, food and mulled wine (vin chaud) for all to enjoy.

Cameroon: Africa in miniature

Cameroon: Africa in miniature

Do you like a chill day on a beach or a hike in the mountains? Do you enjoy exploring the beauty of a green rainforest or a golden desert? If you answered yes to at least one of these, Cameroon is the right place for you to visit. 

Recipe: Peanut and coconut milk chicken

Recipe: Peanut and coconut milk chicken

How about a culinary trip? Discover this recipe from Cameroon and very popular in the country! With its peanut and coconut milk sauce, this chicken will please everyone and make you travel from the first bite!


There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than reading some treasured Christmas titles, listening to music of the season or checking out the latest holiday menu and décor ideas. Your AFSF Culturethèque e-library is stocked for the season and ready to help you find everything you need.  …

Recipe: Mousse au chocolat

Recipe: Mousse au chocolat

Discover the recipe for chocolate mousse, a delicious French dessert that is quick and easy to make. Perfect to end the meal with a touch of sweetness to please both the kids, and the adults! 

5 funny expressions you’ll hear only in Quebec

5 funny expressions you’ll hear only in Quebec

It is well known that many Quebecers use many funny expressions in their daily conversations. Indeed, Quebecois French is a dynamic language that offers a lot of unusual expressions, slang terms, and turns of phrase.
Discover here 5 funny Quebec expressions, their literal translations and their meanings! 

Recipe: Quebec Maple Syrup Pie

Recipe: Quebec Maple Syrup Pie

In the mood for a little sweetness? Discover the recipe for maple syrup pie, a traditional Canadian pie from Quebec. It will delight young and old alike!

Recipe : Hachis parmentier

Recipe : Hachis parmentier

Hachis Parmentier is a classic French recipe that is pure cold-weather comfort food. It's perhaps best described as the French version of Shepherd's Pie. It combines seasoned beef with a layer of potato puree and is topped with gruyere cheese.

All about French cheese!

All about French cheese!

It is well known that France is the country of cheese! It is even a national pride. Since when have we eaten it? How do we differentiate them? How many of them are there? Why is cheese so loved by the French?

Recipe: The Congolese Fumbwa

Recipe: The Congolese Fumbwa

Discover the recipe of Fumbwa, a lip-smacking, tasty dish from the Democratic Republic of Congo that is highly satisfying and nutritious! An ideal recipe for a nice culinary trip!


Understanding climate change  and how we can all make a positive impact has become a global discussion.  The  COP26 climate summit brings world leaders together to accelerate action towards the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. …

Recipe : Les "Rochers Coco"

Recipe : Les "Rochers Coco"

Les "Rochers Coco", are small, melt-in-the-mouth pastries deliciously flavored with shredded coconut. These gourmet bites can be prepared in just a few minutes and are perfect to accompany your tea or coffee break.

Get to know the Congo!

Get to know the Congo!

The Democratic Republic of the Congo , or simply Congo, is a country in Central Africa. It is, by area, the largest country in sub-Saharan Africa, and the second-largest in all of Africa (after Algeria). With a population of around 105 million, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is the most populous officially Francophone country in the world. 

Edith Piaf: everything you need to know about this internationally successful French singer!

Edith Piaf: everything you need to know about this internationally successful French singer!

Both singer and songwriter, Edith Piaf is a monument of French song, responsible for many classics such as La vie en rose, Milord, La foule, or Non, je ne regrette rien.


Beaujolais Nouveau Day is marked in France on the third Thursday in November with fireworks, music and festivals. Under French law, the new vintage of Beaujolais Nouveau is released to the world at 12:01 a.m., just weeks after the wine's grapes have been harvested. Parties are held throughout the country and further afield to celebrate the first wine of the season. …

Recipe: Quiche Lorraine

Recipe: Quiche Lorraine

Looking for a good comforting dish? Discover the recipe for Quiche Lorraine, a delicious pie filled with a mixture of beaten eggs, fresh cream and bacon. Originally from the Lorraine region, it has become a classic of French cuisine.




Contact Us

Alliance Française
1345 Bush Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
Tel: +1 (415) 775-7755
E-mail: afsf@afsf.com

Follow Us

                  



Copyright © 1889-2026. Alliance Française. All Rights Reserved.

Alliance Française is an American nonprofit public charity, tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Design by Monsieur Graphic