27Jun

Inside Parisian Fromageries: Your Ultimate French Cheese Guide

Step into the world of Parisian fromageries. Learn how to choose, taste, and enjoy French cheese like a local—with confidence and curiosity.

Paris isn’t just about croissants and café terraces. Step into a fromagerie, and you enter a world where French cheese takes center stage. It’s funky, flavorful, and fiercely beloved.

But how do you navigate this delicious domain?

Know Before You Go

First things first—fromageries are not supermarkets. They’re shrines to cheese. Walk in, and you’ll be greeted by rows of perfectly aged rounds and wedges. Don’t just point and buy. Take your time. Let your senses lead. Soak it all in—the scent, the textures, the quiet hum of locals chatting with the fromager. This is a ritual, not a routine.

Ask The Fromager Questions

The cheesemonger is your guide. Want a creamy Brie or a sharp Roquefort? Just ask. Don’t be shy—they love helping curious eaters. Better yet, tell them what you’re eating it with. A picnic? Dinner party? They’ll tailor your cheese to the occasion. Even if your French isn’t perfect, a little effort goes a long way, most are happy to meet you halfway.

Taste The Cheese Before You Commit

Yes, you can try before you buy. Just ask: “Puis-je goûter ?”—Can I taste? You’ll often be offered a sliver to help you decide. This is where your French cheese journey gets fun.

Respect the Ritual

There’s a rhythm to buying cheese in Paris. Order by weight, not quantity. Let the expert cut it. And always, always say “merci.” It’s a small exchange—but a deeply cultural one.

Bring It Home

Once you’ve made your picks, you’ll get your cheese lovingly wrapped, often in breathable paper. Take it out an hour before eating—it needs to breathe, just like wine.