If you’re seeking delicious fall recipes, pâté tartines are the answer. These popular and impressive open-faced sandwiches are a visual feast, and a vehicle for your favorite pâtés and accompaniments.

At Alexian, we love making pâté tartines for their simplicity and sophistication. It’s a tasty way to add French flair and comfort to your meal rotation with surprisingly little effort. The first step is choosing the right elements to balance the tartine’s taste and stunning presentation.

What is a Tartine?

A tartine is a classic French comfort food comprised of just a few key elements: good bread, a flavorful spread, and a balance of sweet or savory ingredients. In essence, it’s an open-faced sandwich that feels both rustic and refined.

The beauty of a tartine is its versatility. You can whip one up for an impressive breakfast, a light and satisfying lunch or snack, or even a more casual breakfast-for-dinner style meal. Think of it as France’s rustic predecessor to avocado toast: simple, beautiful, and endlessly adaptable.

Building the Perfect Tartine

Simply put, there isn’t one way to make a tartine. It’s an endlessly customizable food, but there are a few consistent elements: a base, contrasting textures, and for us, incredible pâtés.

Bread: All tartines begin with good bread. It’s up to you whether to toast it or not; fresh bread works just as well! Crusty loaves like sourdough or baguettes make a sturdy tartine base, though softer breads work too. Toast a soft brioche for breakfast or opt for a hearty, seedy loaf, whichever makes your flavors shine.

Spreads: Traditionally, tartines were made with a swipe of butter, soft cheese, or fruit preserves — simple, satisfying, and very French. Today, there’s more room to play. A creamy Alexian pâté mousse (like Truffle, Duck Liver and Cognac, or Goose Liver Mousse) adds a rich, savory take on the classic spread. Or, try a coarser pâté such as Pâté de Campagne or Pheasant & Rosemary for a more rustic depth of flavor.

Toppings: Toppings add contrast and interest. Think about texture and taste; bites are better with elements of crisp, sweet, or earthy flavors. Fresh fruit like apples, pears, or figs brings brightness, while roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms add warmth and depth. For a more indulgent layer, add slices of cheese such as Brie, blue, or goat cheese, or a touch of sweetness with jam or preserves. Whether you’re layering over butter, cheese, or pâté, the toppings are what make your tartine feel complete.

Final touches: A tartine is all about small details that make a big impact. A drizzle of honey or olive oil, a pinch of flaky salt, or a crack of fresh pepper can transform the whole bite. Fresh herbs like thyme, chives, or parsley add color and fragrance, while a drizzle of truffle honey or a squeeze of lemon juice ties all the flavors together. These little flourishes make every tartine, pâté or otherwise, feel restaurant-worthy.

Pâté Tartines

Goose Liver Mousse Tartine
Pipe or spread goose liver mousse onto a fresh slice of sourdough and top with crisp apple slices, crumbled blue cheese, cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of truffle honey. It’s savory, sweet, and beautifully aromatic, the kind of bite that feels cozy yet elevated.

Duck Rillette and Roasted Pear Tartine
Spread duck rillette onto a baguette and top with thinly sliced roasted pears. Finish with a touch of Dijon or whole-grain mustard and a few thyme leaves. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and perfect with a glass of wine.

Pâté de Campagne with Wild Mushrooms Tartine
For something hearty and rustic, spread pâté de Campagne over warm, toasted country bread and top with sautéed wild mushrooms. Add a light sprinkle of thyme and sea salt, then finish with a touch of olive oil. It’s earthy, comforting, and tastes like France in every bite.

The best thing about tartines? You can make them however you like. Whether you stick with classic flavors or mix in something new, every bite is an opportunity to enjoy good bread, great pâté, and a little bit of culinary fun.

Want more recipes and food inspo?

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for future bites, meals, and inspirations!