Paris, renowned for its culinary delights, is a haven for cheese enthusiasts. The city’s streets are lined with an impressive array of cheese shops, each offering a unique selection of premium cheeses. From classic Camembert to lesser-known Cathar, these cheesemongers cater to all palates, making it impossible not to fall in love with the French cheese experience.
A Cheesemonger’s Dream
Fromagerie Laurent Dubois, a Meilleur Ouvrier de France awardee, is a true treasure trove for cheese lovers. This airy and bright shop, located near the Seine River and Notre Dame, is a feast for the eyes, boasting fully stocked shelves brimming with premium cheeses. Their 36-month-aged Comte, with its firm texture and nutty, smokey notes, is a must-try.
A Quaint Cheesemonger with a Touch of Elegance
Barthélémy, a charming cheesemonger just steps from the Musée Maillol, offers an eclectic selection of cheeses. With its marble shelving and old-school tiles, the shop exudes an upscale yet welcoming ambiance. The artisanal bread and homemade spreads complement the cheese selection perfectly. The truffle-infused Brie, a rare find, adds an earthy dimension to the classic cheese.
Seasonal Delights and Expert Wine Pairings
Saisons, located in the 3rd arrondissement, is a chic fromagerie with a focus on seasonal cheeses and natural wines. The shop’s sleek and compact design offers a welcoming space to sample their local cheeses, paired with delicious charcuterie boards. Their Tomme, a semi-soft cheese made from a blend of sheep and goat’s milk, is a complex cheese with nutty, salty, and herbal notes.
A Warm and Inviting Cheesemonger with a Wide Selection
La Fermette, a local favorite, is a cozy and inviting shop with a vast array of cheeses. From Savoie to Coulommiers, the shop offers a comprehensive selection of cow’s, goat’s, and sheep’s milk cheeses. Their Livarot, a strong-smelling cheese from Normandy, is a unique combination of citrusy and spicy flavors.
Raw Milk Delights and International Favorites
Fromagerie Chez Virginie, nestled in the Montmartre district, specializes in raw milk cheeses, hand-picked for their exceptional quality. They also offer a selection of international cheeses, including Italian pecorino and Swiss truffle d’été. Their Ossau-Iraty, a hard cheese with grassy, briny, and hazelnut notes, is a must-try for those seeking a lighter cheese experience.
A Cheese Lover’s Guide to Paris
Whether you’re a cheese novice or a connoisseur, these Parisian cheese shops offer an unforgettable experience. From intense goat cheeses to buttery Brie, the French cheese scene will tantalize your taste buds. So, plan your visit to these exceptional cheese shops and indulge in the best cheeses Paris has to offer.
