Paris, the City of Lights, is not just a haven for romance and art, but also a foodie’s dream. While croissants and steak frites steal the show, it’s the city’s cheese shops that truly elevate the culinary experience.
Imagine walking down charming Parisian streets, the aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the earthy fragrance of aged cheese. This is the magic that awaits you in Paris’ cheese havens.
Discovering Exquisite Cheeses
Let’s embark on a journey through some of the city’s finest cheese havens, where each shop offers a unique experience for the cheese aficionado.
Fromagerie Laurent Dubois: A Cheese Lover’s Paradise
Nestled near the Seine River and a short stroll from Notre Dame, Fromagerie Laurent Dubois is a cheese lover’s dream. This establishment, recognized with the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France award, is a true testament to the art of cheesemaking.
The shop is a visual delight, with brightly lit shelves brimming with premium cheeses. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are eager to share their expertise, even with a cheese novice like myself.
I always make it a point to savor their 36-month-aged Comte, a cheese that embodies the essence of time and tradition. The cheese’s firm texture gives way to a symphony of nutty and smoky flavors, leaving a long-lasting impression on the palate.
Fromagerie Laurent Dubois (€€€) – 47Ter Bd Saint-Germain, 75005 Paris, France – Closed on Monday. Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, and Sunday, 8:30 am to 1:00 pm
Barthélémy: A Treasure Trove of Cheese Delights
Just steps away from the Musée Maillol, you’ll find Barthélémy, a quaint cheesemonger that will make you feel like a child in a candy store. The shop’s charming ambiance, with its marble shelving and old-school tiles, is a feast for the senses.
Each corner overflows with a delectable array of cheeses, accompanied by artisanal bread and homemade spreads, creating a tempting symphony of flavors. From classic Camembert to the elusive Cathar, there’s something for every cheese enthusiast.
My most recent visit introduced me to their truffle-infused Brie, a truly unique experience. The truffle’s earthy notes, coupled with the Brie’s creamy sweetness, created a harmonious balance of flavors.
Barthélémy (€€€) – 51 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris, France – Closed Monday and Sunday, and Tuesday to Saturday, 8:30 am to 7:30 pm
Saisons Fromagerie: More Than Just Cheese
In the heart of the 3rd arrondissement, Saisons Fromagerie stands out not only for its exceptional cheese selection but also for its commitment to natural wines and delicious charcuterie boards. The sleek and compact space, adorned with elegant designs, even offers a few seats to enjoy your cheese experience.
The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share their expertise, especially for those who, like me, are not fluent in French. They offer a rotating selection of seasonal cheeses, all made with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring an ever-changing culinary adventure.
My recent discovery was Tomme, a semi-soft cheese made from sheep and goat’s milk. This cheese, with its complex flavors of nuttiness, saltiness, and herbal aromas, quickly became a favorite.
Saisons Fromagerie (€€) – 30 Rue du Grenier-Saint-Lazare, 75003 Paris, France – Closed on Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday to Friday, 11:00 am to 2:30 pm, and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Saturday, 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, and Sunday, 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
A Cheese Odyssey: From Classic to Unique
Parisian cheese shops offer an extraordinary journey through the world of cheese, from classic French favorites to lesser-known gems.
La Fermette: A Cozy Haven for Cheese Lovers
La Fermette, located in the 2nd arrondissement, is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists, known for its high-quality cheese selection and inviting ambiance. The cozy decor, with its warm tones and friendly staff, creates a welcoming atmosphere.
The shop boasts an impressive array of cheeses, ranging from semi-hard Savoie to the lesser-known Coulommiers. You’ll find a cheese to satisfy every palate here.
On my last visit, I was captivated by the Livarot, a strong-smelling cheese from Normandy. Its golden hue and striped exterior, paired with its citrus-like taste and subtle spiciness, create a unique sensory experience.
La Fermette (€€) – 86 Rue Montorgueil, 75002 Paris, France, Monday, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Sunday, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Fromagerie Chez Virginie: A Haven for Raw Milk Cheese
Tucked away in the Montmartre district, Fromagerie Chez Virginie is a haven for those seeking raw milk cheeses. Their selection is meticulously hand-picked, ensuring a high level of quality and freshness.
While they primarily specialize in French cheeses, they also offer a curated selection of international favorites, such as Italian pecorino and Swiss truffle d’été.
My recent purchase was Ossau-Iraty, a hard cheese with a delicate grassy flavor, briny olive hints, and subtle hazelnut notes. It opened my eyes to the world of cheese and its diverse flavors.
Fromagerie Chez Virginie (€€) – Fromagerie Chez virginie Damrémont, 54 Rue Damrémont, 75018 Paris, France – Closed on Monday and Sunday, Tuesday to Thursday, 9:30 am to 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm and 7:45 pm, Friday and Saturday, 9:30 am to 7:45 pm
A Cheese Journey Awaits
From the creamy richness of Brie to the tangy sharpness of goat cheese, Paris’ cheese shops offer a culinary adventure like no other. Each shop has its own unique charm and a story to tell.
Whether you’re a cheese novice or a seasoned connoisseur, a visit to these cheese havens is a must-do on your Parisian journey. So, indulge your senses, discover new flavors, and let the magic of Parisian cheese transport you to a world of culinary delight.
