Deciding on cheeses in Paris might seem like an overwhelming task with over 500 different varieties to choose among. But with just a few different tips and tricks in mind, starting with finding the fromagerie, you’ll be picking cheeses like a pro!
How to Shop for Cheese in Paris like the French:
- Find a fromagerie
- Say “Bonjour”
- Decide on the number of different cheeses you’d like
- Know how many people you’re buying for
- Know when you plan to eat your cheese
- Ask what’s in season
- More tips
Pick the Fromagerie
Yes, you can buy cheese just about anywhere in Paris, but we recommend skipping the grocery store and even specialty food shops in favor of a cheese shop, a fromagerie. It’s even better if you see the word affineur on the awning or sign for the shop. An affineur is someone who ages cheese and it’s a major indicator of quality. After you’ve found your fromagerie, be sure to confirm the opening hours—a lot of cheese shops are closed on Monday. A good bet for Monday is Androuet on Rue de Verneuil, which is open in the afternoon.
Check out our list of our Top 7 Cheese Shops in Paris for more recommendations.
Start with Bonjour
This is kind of the golden rule whenever you go anywhere in France whether it’s a cheese shop, a restaurant or café, or a clothing store. A cheerful “Bonjour!” when you walk through the door will go a long way. Even better if you can say Bonjour Madame/Monsieur!
Know How Many Cheeses You Want
It doesn’t have to be exact, but have an idea of how many cheeses you’d like to try. If you’re putting together a platter, odd numbers usually look better, so think three or five (or seven plus).
We like to try cheeses from different regions and different milks (cow, sheep, and goat). It can also be interesting to dive deep into one specific region, like exploring the cheeses of Normandy.
As a note, the smaller cheese rounds or crottins are sold whole. As the cheeses get bigger, it’s possible to have half or a quarter, or even just une tranche (a slice). The label next to the block of cheese usually lets you know whether it’s sold by the kilogram or à la pièce.
Know How Many People Will Be Eating Cheese
It’s helpful to be able to give the fromager an indication of how many people will be eating the cheeses, and even for what occasion, so they can give you a more accurate estimation of the amount per cheese. Their recommendations are usually pretty spot-on and they’ll always show you the size of the slice before cutting. Don’t be afraid to ask for a little more or a little less, they aren’t going to be offended!
Know When You Plan on Eating the Cheese
Most fromagers are going to assume you’re eating the cheese that same day. If you’re not, be sure to tell them. They’ll pick a cheese that will be perfectly ripe for when you plan to eat it. And don’t worry about eating the cheese a little too early or if you have leftovers for another day. Cheeses don’t expire, they only reach peak ripeness. Many French people don’t even refrigerate their cheeses (with the exception of goat cheeses).
Ask What’s in Season and What’s a Specialty
There are special cheeses according to the season, so if you’re interested be sure to ask. In the spring and summer goat cheese is generally the best. Summer is known for soft cow’s cheeses like Saint-Nectaire. Fall turns to stronger flavored blue cheeses like Fourme d’Ambert and winter is a personal favorite with creamy, oftentimes served hot Mont d’Or and Raclette. Likewise, cheese shops oftentimes will have specialties of the house, and they’re generally very excited to show them off. It’s a great opportunity to try something new and special.
Never tried raclette? Here’s what to know about this classic French winter dish.
Other General Tips for Choosing Cheese in Paris
Sometimes the fromagers will offer pieces of cheese for you to taste. If they don’t, you can still ask, but make sure it’s a cheese that’s sliceable. Hard cheeses are a safe bet for tasting, especially if you’d like to see the differences between ages in cheeses. Cheese shops will also sometimes have special promotions on the weekends when they have higher traffic and will have little pieces of cheese cut to taste. Speaking of pre-cut cheeses—we recommend staying away from buying pre-cut and wrapped pieces of cheese unless you know the cheese shop. You usually want them to cut and package the cheese for you on the spot!
We hope these tips will help you choose your cheeses in Paris!
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