A new study of 2,000 Americans has found that the French way of life is the most admired – and it’s down to these top 20 things
Over half of Americans are fans of the French lifestyle, praising their devotion to fresh ingredients, arts, culture, and a good work/life balance. A poll of 2,000 adults found a third of French-admirers love their preference for fresh food over processed items, and their love of arts and culture.
Many Americans also look up to French work habits, with two-thirds stating that the French have a better work-life balance than Americans. A fifth commend the French dedication to ending work on time and for protecting their lunch breaks.
It emerged a fifth would love to adopt certain aspects of the French lifestyle into their own lives – with the most envied areas being food, time for hobbies and interests, and taking longer lunch breaks. While 21 percent have taken onboard their attitudes to romance.
A spokesperson for bakery brand St Pierre, which commissioned the study, said “The French lifestyle is often admired and romanticized worldwide and for good reason.
“There’s something timeless and deeply alluring about the French way of life that continues to captivate Americans.”
Americans believe the French protect their lunch breaks better then they do(Image: Adam Gray)
To inspire more appreciation for the French lifestyle, the team offered Venice Beach goers a taste of France during their lunch, promoting the call to ‘Eat Avec Respect’.
“Whether it’s the art of slowing down, prioritizing quality over quantity, or the effortless sense of style, France offers a rhythm of life that feels both sophisticated and grounded,” the spokesperson added.
“It’s a culture that places value on experiences – a morning coffee at a sidewalk café, a leisurely stroll through a local market, or an afternoon spent with family around the table.”
St. Pierre surprise Americans during their lunch break with a French dining experience in Venice Beach(Image: Adam Gray)
The study also revealed that 29 percent of Americans think it’s ‘unlikely’ that French folks have any admiration for aspects of the American way of life.
However, when it comes to showcasing American cuisine abroad, many citizens from the US would proudly dish out a hefty cheeseburger or some crispy fried chicken. Barbecue ribs and the classic US apple pie also make the list of American culinary pride.
Moreover, a quarter of the survey participants, confess their insights into the French way of life are mostly taken from social platforms like Instagram or TikTok.
The spokesperson added: “Many Americans admire how the French approach balance – not just in food and fashion, but in work and rest.
“There’s a deep respect for boundaries when it comes to time off, and a national understanding that taking proper breaks isn’t laziness – it’s essential to wellbeing and productivity.
“Good food is good for the soul, which is why we believe that lunchbreaks – and any other meal time – is a time to ‘eat avec respect’.”
Top 20 things Americans admire about French lifestyle:Eating fresh ingredientsLove of the arts and cultureThe ideal work/life balanceMaking time to enjoy mealsEnjoying the best moments in lifeBeing romanticsAppreciating fine cuisineOverall better diet than the AmericansBetter food and drink standards than AmericaSense of styleDitching processed foodsLiving humblyTaking in their surroundings rather than rushing through the cityMaking time for hobbies and interestsMaking time for cookingBetter food and drink options than AmericaBeing authenticPassionate about interestsGood etiquette skillsMaking every mealtime an occasion