What Exactly Is a Tartine?

One of the all-encompassing truths of life is that bread is fabulous. Slice that bread and toast it, and you’ve got yourself a blank culinary slate, beckoning creativity in how you top it. If those toppings you choose tend to branch beyond peanut butter and jelly, you’ve noticed elaborate toasts coming out of restaurant kitchens called tartines. Learn all about this fancy toast with European roots right here.

What Is a Tartine?

If looking at a tartine reminds you of an open-faced sandwich, you’re spot on. Tartine is a French term that describes just that. That avocado toast that’s all the rage? It’s a tartine. The crave-able Southern tomato sandwich, slathered in mayo and covered in ripe tomatoes, salt, and pepper? Also, a tartine. 

Tartines (and various versions of them) are held in high regard in Europe, where they’re done to perfection. Many Parisian breakfast menus have tartines served with butter and jam meant for dipping in hot coffee or chocolate, and at lunch, the sweet is replaced with savory and a spread of pate.

In Scandinavia, tartines are called smørrebrød and are beautifully elaborate piles of ingredients, usually savory and affectionate toward fish, but occasionally sweet. Elsewhere, and especially in the US, tartines are thick, rustic affairs, though they’re also known to be.

Tartines have come into quite the popularity here. In fact, there are bistro-type places building their entire menus around this singular dish. They come in all sizes, small to large and can be served any time of day, but most often for breakfast or lunch. 

What Is the Difference Between a Tartine and a Sandwich?

The most obvious difference between a tartine and a sandwich is the amount of bread. A tartine lacks the top slice of bread that a sandwich is known for and is instead served open to draw attention to its presentation. What could be a mere filling is instead on full display in an artful manner. 

What Goes on a Tartine?

To list everything that could go on a tartine would be impossible — the combinations are endless. Options include sweet or savory jam, mayonnaise, pesto, or hummus. Try topping your toast with soft cheeses like burrata, goat, or Gruyere for a creamy bite.

Ham, duck confit, chicken salad, and sliced steak make great protein toppings, while flourishes like honey, herbs, and saved vegetables make the meal both delicious and fun.

What Type of Bread Is Best for Tartines?

When you encounter a tartine, you’ll find it utilizes sturdy bread like a country loaf or sourdough to hold up what’s on top of it. The famous bakery Tartine, located in San Francisco and named after the dish, uses a thick bread they call country but is actually part sourdough.

You can make a tartine using any type of bread, but it should hold up to what you’re topping it with. Smørrebrød uses a flat, heavy bread, in various shades and varieties, but most often dark rye.

 Related:

• Avocado Toast Recipes to Take Breakfast to the Next Level
• 5 Ways To Mix Up Your Tomato Toast All Season Long
• Our 15 Best Melts Will Make Your Mouth Water