Use of parfum?

Question

Is it usual in French to use “parfum” to describe the taste of food?  Or is the speaker describing the smell of the food?  If the speaker is speaking of the good smell of food, is this a usual expression concerning food as well?

Accepted Answer

Bonjour Erlene,
Good question. 
The word, "parfum (m.)"  has several meanings: "perfume" (as in the product we put on ourselves); "a scent or aroma"; and also "flavor". Collins dictionary gives the example of: "Je voudrais une glace. - Quel parfum veux-tu ?" ("I would like an ice cream. - What flavor do you want?")
So, in this case Emilie is talking about her favorite flavor of cake - chocolate, rather than vanilla, lemon, or some other kind.
 
Hope this helps.
Bonne Continuation,
Hilary