France has long been seen as the Mecca of the culinary world. Many cooking techniques were invented (or perfected) by the French, and so it's become commonplace to use their terms no matter where in the world you are. The French have had such a strong influence over cuisine across the globe that chefs from countries on every continent choose to study there. According to lore, the world's first restaurant opened in Paris in 1765, so it's no wonder the French have such a hold on the food industry.