Paris is a haven for cheese lovers, and I’m excited to share some of my favorite spots to indulge in this culinary delight.
Whether you’re a fan of creamy Brie, tangy Roquefort, or artisanal goat cheese, the city’s fromageries offer something for everyone. Knowing the best places to buy cheese can elevate your Parisian experience.
As I wandered through the charming streets, I discovered a few standout shops that truly capture the essence of French cheesemaking.
Each place has its own character and a mouthwatering selection that showcases the rich tradition of cheese in France.
By exploring these top five locations, you’ll not only enjoy delicious bites but also gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved staple.
1) Fromagerie Laurent Dubois
At Fromagerie Laurent Dubois, cheese is taken seriously.
This place exemplifies the passion for gastronomy, showcasing a range of raw and crafted cheeses.
It’s not just about selling cheese; it’s about sharing a deep appreciation for the diverse flavors that each region of France offers.
The store is located in iconic neighborhoods, making it a convenient stop while exploring Paris.
I love how the knowledgeable staff is eager to guide you through their selection, whether you’re building a cheese plate or pairing it with wine.
What really stands out to me is their commitment to cheese aging.
They use precise techniques for optimal maturation, ensuring each cheese develops its unique character.
The variety in textures and flavors is impressive, making every visit an adventure for my taste buds.
If you’re in Paris and craving good cheese, this spot is a must-visit.
Rating: 4.5 (413 reviews)
Location: 47Ter Blvd Saint-Germain, 75005 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 43 54 50 93
Website: Visit Website
2) Androuet
Androuet is a charming cheese shop that celebrates the art of cheese refinement.
The experts here truly know how to bring out the full aroma of each cheese.
It’s fascinating to see how much care goes into maturing these products.
The atmosphere in the shop reflects a deep respect for the craft.
I appreciate how the cheese selection changes based on the season, highlighting different regions and producers.
It’s an experience to explore their curated cheese boards, showcasing a personal touch with each sample.
The team at Androuet fosters supportive relationships with local producers.
This connection adds richness to their offerings and enhances the whole cheese experience.
You can feel the passion for quality in every bite.
Visiting Androuet feels like stepping into a world of flavors and traditions.
Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or a newbie, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Rating: 4.7 (124 reviews)
Location: 37 Rue de Verneuil, 75007 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 42 61 97 55
Website: Visit Website
3) COW – Cheese of the World
COW – Cheese of the World is a hidden gem in Paris where I can explore an impressive variety of cheeses.
The selection changes frequently, so every visit feels fresh and exciting.
I love discovering unique cheeses from around the globe, each with its own story and flavor profile.
This place prides itself on quality.
I appreciate that they focus on sourcing cheeses that highlight originality and craftsmanship.
From classic French varieties to artisanal selections from other countries, there’s always something to please my palate.
In addition to in-store shopping, I can also order cheeses for delivery.
Whether it’s a cheese platter or a charcuterie box, they make it easy to enjoy gourmet products at home.
Their partnership with Epicery ensures that I get my favorites delivered during their business hours.
With a welcoming atmosphere, COW is perfect for both cheese aficionados and those new to cheese tasting.
It’s a spot I recommend if you’re looking for quality and variety in Paris.
Rating: 4.9 (108 reviews)
Location: 30 Bd Saint-Germain, 75005 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 88 33 54 00
Website: Visit Website
4) La Fromagerie
La Fromagerie is a charming cheese shop located in the heart of Paris.
I always find it filled with an impressive selection of cheeses, making it a must-visit spot for any cheese lover.
The atmosphere feels warm and inviting.
I appreciate how the staff is knowledgeable, offering helpful recommendations based on my tastes.
They take the time to explain the different varieties and even share pairing suggestions.
I often stop by to pick up a fresh baguette and some cheese for a picnic.
Their assortment ranges from classic French options to more unusual finds.
It’s a great place to discover new flavors and textures.
If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth checking out.
You’ll leave with delicious cheese and some great culinary ideas.
Rating: 4.6 (177 reviews)
Location: 31 Rue Cler, 75007 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 47 05 48 95
Website: Visit Website
5) Paroles de Fromagers – La Ferme du Faubourg | Fromagerie & Ecole du Fromage
At Paroles de Fromagers, I found a true haven for cheese lovers.
This place combines a fromagerie with a cheese school, offering the best of French cheese culture.
Their team is passionate about both cheese and wine, making it an inviting space for anyone looking to learn or taste.
The space itself is impressive, spanning 160 square meters right in the heart of Paris.
They offer a variety of workshops, including cheese-making classes and tastings that pair cheese with carefully selected wines.
It’s a perfect spot for both novices and seasoned cheese aficionados.
What stands out is their commitment to quality.
Many cheeses are aged in their own cellar, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.
I enjoyed exploring their selection of artisanal cheeses, each showcasing the richness of French dairy traditions.
Whether I was taking a class or simply enjoying a tasting, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.
It feels like a community hub for cheese enthusiasts where sharing knowledge is just as important as sharing cheese.
Rating: 4.8 (276 reviews)
Location: 41 Rue du Faubourg du Temple, 75010 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 48 03 98 18
Website: Visit Website
History Of Cheese In Paris
Cheese in Paris has a rich history that intertwines with French culture and culinary traditions.
The evolution of cheese-making in the city showcases its artisanal roots and the deep appreciation Parisians have for quality dairy products.
Origins and Traditions
The origins of cheese in France date back to prehistoric times.
Early French farmers began domesticating goats and cows, leading to the first cheese production.
Regions like Normandy and Auvergne played significant roles due to their ideal climates and dairy farming traditions.
By the Middle Ages, cheese became a staple in the French diet.
Monasteries were pivotal in refining cheese-making techniques.
Many classic French cheeses emerged during this period, laying the foundation for popular varieties still enjoyed today.
In Paris, local fromageries emerged, offering unique cheeses that showcased each region’s characteristics.
The cheese-making tradition passed down through generations has remained strong.
Parisian Cheese Culture
Paris is renowned for its vibrant cheese culture, characterized by its fromageries.
These cheese shops are more than just places to buy cheese; they are cultural hubs.
I love visiting spots like Henri Androuet and Paroles de Fromagers, where the staff often share history and tasting notes.
The Parisian preference for raw milk cheeses reflects a commitment to traditional methods.
Events like cheese festivals and artisan fairs celebrate this passion.
Cheese pairing events with wines or breads highlight the art of culinary combinations.
Cheese plays a vital role in social gatherings, enhancing meals and creating shared experiences.
Paris truly embodies the essence of cheese appreciation.
Pairing Cheese With Wine
When it comes to enjoying cheese, the right wine can elevate the experience.
Here, I’ll cover how to select the perfect wine and some useful pairing tips to enhance flavors.
Choosing the Right Wine
Selecting wine to complement cheese can be a delightful journey.
Here are a few guidelines to help me choose wisely:
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White Wines: Typically pair well with soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert. The acidity of a Sauvignon Blanc brightens these cheeses.
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Red Wines: Great for aged cheeses such as Cheddar or Gouda. A robust Merlot can highlight the complex flavors.
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Sparkling Wines: Champagne or Prosecco can pair beautifully with a variety of cheeses, refreshing the palate with each sip.
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Sweet Wines: Dessert cheeses like blue cheese go wonderfully with a sweet Sauternes. The contrast brings out unique flavors.
Understanding the style of cheese I’m working with will make all the difference.
Perfect Pairing Tips
Here are some simple tips to master the art of pairing:
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Texture Matters: Match the cheese with the weight of the wine. Heavier cheeses need fuller-bodied wines.
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Regional Pairing: Local cheeses and wines often complement each other. For example, a Loire Valley goat cheese with a Sancerre is a classic French pairing.
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Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try unconventional combinations. For instance, pairing a creamy cheese with a spicier red wine can surprise me.
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Temperature: Serve cheese and wine at the right temperature. For example, whites are best chilled, while reds are often better at room temperature.
By following these tips, I can enhance my cheese and wine experiences, making them even more enjoyable.
Famous Cheese Shops
When exploring the cheese scene in Paris, it’s essential to recognize the quality and expertise behind famous fromageries.
Each shop has its unique offerings, from artisanal selections to the passion of cheesemongers that can help you navigate the vast options available.
Understanding Quality
In Paris, cheese quality varies significantly, and the best fromageries prioritize fresh, artisanal products.
I look for shops that source their cheese locally and provide a well-curated selection, often featuring around 150 varieties.
Shops like Paroles de Fromagers stand out for their commitment to craftsmanship and education—handing down age-old cheesemaking traditions.
Additionally, many of these shops age their cheeses to perfection in-house, enhancing flavors. Fromagerie de Paris Lefebvre, for instance, is renowned for superb cheeses that achieve balanced taste and texture.
Whether it’s creamy Brie or tangy Roquefort, knowing the attributes of quality cheese helps in making informed selections.
Meeting the Cheesemongers
Cheesemongers add a personal touch to the cheese-buying experience.
They often share insights that enhance my understanding of each product.
For instance, at Fromagerie Cantin, Marie-Anne Cantin herself could give me stories about her family’s history in cheesemaking since 1950.
Engaging with these experts can lead to discovering unique pairings and recommendations tailored to individual tastes.
Often, they are more than willing to offer samples, allowing me to explore diverse flavors.
This one-on-one experience is what makes visiting a famous cheese shop in Paris special.