Restaurants across China join the Gout de France, an event that spreads French culinary traditions around the world at the start of spring.[Photo provided to China Daily]

Gout de France, organizers say, not only embraces the heartiness associated with the pleasures of eating, but celebrates the way food has become the symbol of France's positive values. That means healthy dishes prepared from fresh, seasonal and local produce, with low fat, salt and sugar content.

With 2,000 chefs participating this year, the event has doubled in size since 2016. Menus will feature meals for everyone, from bistro to gourmet dining. In Beijing, for example, Cafe de la Poste and New Seven Days Cafe & Club will offer more casual fare, while fine-dining spots like Heritage and Flo Maison will serve up fancier plates.

Gourdault-Montagne notes that the many facets of French cuisine－including wine－can seem overwhelming, but adds that events like Gout de France give curious diners a chance for a step-by-step introduction. At any time at a good restaurant, he says, you can ask your server, ask the chef, ask the sommelier for insight and suggestions.

Participating restaurants are located across China, including in Beijing, Changsha, Chengdu, Dalian, Guangzhou, Harbin, Hong Kong, Macao, Sanya, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Shenyang, Taipei, Taiyuan, Wuhan, Xiamen and Xi'an.

Contact the writer at michaelpeters@chinadaily.com.cn