8 Best Places for Authentic French Cheese Platters in Paris

I've found eight incredible spots in Paris where you'll discover the finest authentic French cheese platters! From La Fromagerie Danard's historic cave-aged selections to Barthélemy's elite offerings in the 7th arrondissement, each location offers a unique experience. Don't miss Chez Janou's wine pairings, Laurent Dubois's expert curation, or the traditional cheese cart at Chez L'Ami Louis. These establishments range from intimate bistros to prestigious shops, with options for every cheese enthusiast! Let's explore what makes each spot truly special.

La Fromagerie Danard: A Historic Haven in Le Marais

Nestled in the heart of Le Marais, La Fromagerie Danard stands as a tribute to traditional French cheese-making, having served discerning Parisians since 1895. This family-owned establishment has maintained its original Art Nouveau storefront and vintage wooden interiors, creating an authentic atmosphere that transports visitors back to the Belle Époque era of Paris.

Beyond its historical significance, La Fromagerie Danard distinguishes itself through its carefully curated selection of artisanal cheeses, many of which come from small-batch producers across France. The fromagerie's current owner, Marie-Claude Danard, represents the fourth generation of cheese affineurs (specialists who age and mature cheese), ensuring each cheese reaches its ideal flavor profile before presentation.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9:00-19:30, Sunday 9:00-13:00
• Price Range: €20-50 for custom cheese platters
• Reservation Required: Yes, for cheese tasting sessions (24 hours in advance)
• Languages: French, English
• Payment: Cash and major credit cards accepted
• Special Dietary Options: Vegetarian-friendly, some lactose-free options
• Peak Times: Saturday afternoons, avoid 12:00-14:00 on weekdays

The shop's signature offering is their curated cheese platter service, where experienced fromagers assemble personalized selections based on individual preferences and seasonal availability. The staff excels at creating balanced combinations that progress from mild to intense flavors, accompanied by detailed tasting notes and wine pairing suggestions. Insider tip: Request the "cave-aged" specials, which are stored in the shop's historic underground aging cellar and rarely displayed in the main counter.

Pro Tips:

Visit during weekday mornings for the most attentive service and freshest selections. The fromagerie receives new shipments on Tuesdays and Fridays, making these ideal days for discovering rare seasonal varieties. Consider joining their monthly cheese workshop, where Marie-Claude shares family secrets about cheese aging and proper storage techniques – these exclusive sessions are limited to eight participants and often feature special cheese varieties not available for regular retail.

Practical Advice:

Temperature considerations are vital when planning your cheese experience at Danard. During summer months, bring an insulated bag if you plan to purchase cheese for later consumption. The shop can vacuum-seal purchases for travel, but request this service when placing your order. For the best tasting experiences, avoid scheduling visits immediately after consuming strong flavors like coffee or spicy foods, as these can affect your palate's ability to appreciate subtle cheese notes.

Chez Janou's Wine & Cheese Experience

Nestled in the charming Marais district, Chez Janou has earned its reputation as one of Paris's most authentic wine and cheese destinations. This intimate bistro transforms the traditional French cheese platter experience into an unforgettable journey through France's rich dairy heritage, offering carefully curated selections that showcase the finest regional varieties alongside exceptional wines.

The establishment's rustic ambiance, with its exposed stone walls and vintage posters, creates the perfect setting for their renowned cheese service. Their expertly trained fromagers guide guests through an exploration of textures and flavors, from creamy Camemberts to aged Comtés, while sommeliers suggest perfect wine pairings from their extensive cellar of over 300 French wines.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €25-45 per cheese platter
• Reservation Required: Yes, especially for dinner (2-3 days advance)
• Best Times: Tuesday-Thursday, 7:00-9:30 PM
• Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly, no vegan options
• Languages: French, English-speaking staff available
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours recommended
• Dress Code: Smart casual

The Cheese Experience

Chez Janou's signature cheese platters feature 5-7 carefully selected varieties, accompanied by fresh baguette, dried fruits, and honey. The selections change seasonally, guaranteeing peak ripeness and quality. Located at 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, the bistro operates Tuesday through Sunday, 12:00-15:00 and 19:00-23:00. Insider tip: Request the "off-menu" aged Beaufort, which they reserve for cheese enthusiasts who specifically ask.

Wine Pairing Program

Their innovative wine pairing program offers three levels of wine flights (€15-35) designed to complement specific cheese selections. Each pairing includes detailed tasting notes and regional information. The sommeliers are known for their ability to suggest unexpected combinations that challenge traditional pairing rules. Lesser-known tip: They offer a monthly wine club membership with priority reservations and exclusive tastings.

Pro Tips:

The ideal experience at Chez Janou comes with strategic timing and preparation. Book the first evening seating at 19:00 to receive the most attentive service and guarantee the freshest cheese selections. Request a table in the cave (cellar) area for the most authentic atmosphere and stable temperature for cheese tasting. Consider sharing one large platter between two people, allowing you to sample more wine pairings without overwhelming your palate.

Practical Advice:

To fully appreciate the experience, arrive 10 minutes early for an aperitif at the bar, where you can discuss your cheese preferences with the staff. Bring a method of payment other than American Express, as it's not accepted. For international visitors, the bistro can arrange shipping of selected wines to many countries, though cheese products cannot be exported. Photography is allowed but flash photography is discouraged to maintain the intimate atmosphere.

Barthelemy: The Elite Cheese Sanctuary

Tucked away in the charming 7th arrondissement, Barthélemy stands as Paris's most prestigious cheese boutique, where the city's elite have sourced their fromage for over half a century. This tiny shop, with its iconic blue facade and brass fixtures, has earned its reputation as the crown jewel of Parisian cheese merchants, serving discriminating customers including former French presidents and celebrated chefs.

The shop's intimate space showcases an expertly curated selection of France's finest cheeses, each aged to perfection in Barthélemy's own caves. Marie-Anne Cantin, the shop's proprietor, maintains the highest standards of quality and authenticity, offering an experience that goes beyond mere cheese shopping to become a cultural immersion in French gastronomic tradition.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Price Range: €€€-€€€€ (Premium pricing)
• Reservation Required: No, but arrive early for best selection
• Language: Limited English spoken
• Payment: Cash and major credit cards accepted
• Best Time to Visit: Tuesday-Thursday mornings
• Storage: Vacuum packing available for travel
• Special Orders: Available with 48-hour notice

The shop's crown jewel is its selection of aged Comté, with wheels personally selected from the finest producers in the Jura mountains. Barthélemy ages these wheels in their own caves, offering different maturation periods ranging from 18 to 36 months. These exceptional cheeses are available nowhere else in Paris, making them a genuine collector's item among cheese connoisseurs.

One of the shop's lesser-known specialties is their house-aged Roquefort, which undergoes additional aging in their caves to develop a creamier texture and more complex flavor profile than typically found elsewhere. The shop's location at 51 Rue de Grenelle positions it perfectly for creating a gourmet picnic to enjoy at the nearby Champ de Mars.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate experience, visit during mid-morning on weekdays when the shop is less crowded and the staff can provide more personalized attention. Ask about their seasonal specialties, as certain cheeses reach their peak during specific months. The staff can guide you through a customized selection based on your preferences and how soon you plan to consume the cheese.

Practical Advice:

Given the shop's premium pricing and exclusive nature, come prepared with a specific budget and be upfront about your needs. If traveling with cheese, inform the staff so they can properly wrap and package your selections for transport. For the best value, consider selecting one exceptional cheese rather than several lesser options, as Barthélemy's expertise lies in their carefully aged specialties rather than common varieties available elsewhere.

Le Marché Des Enfants Rouges Cheese Stall

Nestled within Paris's oldest covered market, the cheese stall at Le Marché Des Enfants Rouges represents a quintessential French cheese experience that has been delighting locals and tourists alike since the 17th century. The stall, operated by master fromager Laurent Dubois, showcases an impressive selection of artisanal French cheeses, from perfectly aged Comté to creamy Brie de Meaux.

This historic market's cheese stall stands out for its commitment to traditional cheese-making methods and its dedication to educating visitors about French cheese culture. Visitors can sample rare regional varieties and witness the careful aging process in the stall's dedicated cheese cave, while expert cheesemongers provide detailed information about each cheese's origin, production methods, and best consumption timing.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9:00-19:30, Sunday 9:00-14:00
• Price Range: €5-30 per cheese portion
• Best Visiting Time: Tuesday-Friday mornings for freshest selection
• Payment Methods: Cash and major credit cards accepted
• Languages: Staff speaks French and basic English
• Tasting Options: Sample plates available (€15-25)
• Storage: Vacuum sealing available for travel
• Location: 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris

The stall's specialty lies in its carefully curated selection of raw milk cheeses (fromages au lait cru), featuring over 150 varieties from different French regions. The knowledgeable staff expertly guides customers through the selection process, offering samples and pairing suggestions. Every cheese is stored at precise temperatures in specialized aging rooms, ensuring ideal ripeness when sold.

Insider Tip: Visit between 11:00 and noon on Thursdays when new cheese deliveries arrive from small-batch producers, offering access to rare seasonal varieties not typically available to the public.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate experience, ask for the "dégustation du moment" – a specially curated tasting plate featuring seasonal cheeses at their peak ripeness. Time your visit during off-peak hours (typically 2:00-4:00 PM) to receive more personalized attention from the cheesemongers. Consider purchasing a mix of cheese types (hard, soft, blue) to create a balanced cheese board, and don't hesitate to ask for specific aging preferences.

Practical Advice:

When planning to transport cheese, inform the staff about your travel plans. They can recommend varieties that travel well and provide proper packaging for different durations. For best enjoyment, allow purchased cheeses to reach room temperature before consuming (approximately 30-60 minutes), and consider purchasing a fresh baguette from the market's bakery to complete your cheese tasting experience. International shipping is available for certain varieties, but customs regulations should be checked in advance.

Laurent Dubois: Master Cheese Craftsman

Stepping into a Laurent Dubois fromagerie is entering the domain of French cheese royalty. As a Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) – the highest craftsman title in France – Laurent Dubois has established himself as one of Paris's most respected cheese affineurs, perfecting the art of aging and maturing cheeses to their peak flavor and texture.

With multiple locations across Paris, including the flagship store in the 5th arrondissement, Laurent Dubois offers an unparalleled selection of artisanal French cheeses. Each cheese is carefully sourced from small producers throughout France and aged in Dubois's own caves d'affinage (aging cellars), ensuring exceptional quality and authentic taste that draws both locals and international cheese enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €25-100 for curated cheese platters
• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 8:30-19:30, Sunday 8:30-13:00
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for personalized attention
• Language: Staff speaks English
• Payment Methods: Credit cards accepted, cash preferred
• Special Services: Custom cheese platters, vacuum sealing for travel
• Shipping: Available within EU, special arrangements for international

The Flagship Store (5th Arrondissement)

Located at 47-49 Boulevard Saint-Germain, the main shop showcases hundreds of perfectly aged cheeses in a sophisticated setting. The store's layout allows customers to observe the meticulous care taken in displaying and storing each variety. The knowledgeable staff offers sampling opportunities and can compose platters based on individual preferences and ripeness levels.

Insider Tip: Ask about the "cheese of the month" – often a limited-edition or seasonal variety not displayed in the main case.

The Aging Cellar Experience

By special arrangement, serious cheese enthusiasts can visit the aging cellars where Dubois works his magic. These temperature-controlled environments house thousands of cheeses at various stages of maturation. While not regularly open to the public, inquiring about cellar visits can sometimes result in an exclusive tour.

Insider Tip: Book cellar visits at least two months in advance and be prepared to communicate in French or arrange for a translator.

Pro Tips:

For the finest Laurent Dubois experience, visit between 10:00 and 11:30 AM when new shipments arrive and selections are freshest. Weekday mornings also offer the best opportunity to engage with the cheese experts who can guide you through the selection process. Consider asking for a mix of cheese ages – young, medium, and fully mature versions of the same variety – to understand the affineur's art.

Practical Advice:

When planning your visit, bring a cooler bag if you intend to purchase cheese for later consumption. The staff can recommend which cheeses travel well and provide proper packaging for transport. For those staying in Paris, request your selections be cut fresh rather than pre-wrapped, and consume soft cheeses within 48 hours of purchase for best flavor. Always inform the staff about when you plan to serve the cheese, as they can select pieces at the perfect point of ripeness for your intended consumption date.

La Cave À Fromage Saint-Germain

Nestled in the historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés quarter, La Cave à Fromage Saint-Germain stands as one of Paris's most revered cheese destinations. This artisanal fromagerie combines the expertise of master affineurs with an intimate tasting experience, offering visitors an authentic journey through France's celebrated cheese heritage.

The establishment's rustic charm and vaulted stone cellar create the perfect ambiance for discovering exceptional French cheeses. Whether you're a connoisseur or a curious novice, the knowledgeable staff guides visitors through carefully curated selections, featuring both rare regional specialties and beloved classics, each aged to perfection in their temperature-controlled caves.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:30, Sunday 10:00-13:00
• Price Range: €25-45 for curated cheese platters
• Reservation Required: Yes, for cheese tasting experiences
• Languages: French, English
• Payment: Credit cards accepted (except American Express)
• Dietary Notes: Vegetarian options available; not suitable for vegans
• Location: 17 Rue Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris

The Cave Experience

The shop's crown jewel is its intimate tasting room, accommodating up to 8 people, where expert fromagers present carefully selected assortments of 5-7 cheeses paired with artisanal bread and wine. Each tasting session lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes detailed explanations of cheese origins, production methods, and aging processes. Insider tip: Request the "off-menu" seasonal cheese selection, featuring limited-edition regional specialties not displayed in the main shop.

The Retail Selection

The front shop offers over 200 varieties of cheese, with a rotating selection based on seasonal availability and ideal ripeness. The affineurs age many varieties on-site in temperature-controlled caves, ensuring peak condition. The shop also offers vacuum-packing services for travelers wanting to transport cheese internationally.

Pro Tips:

Book tasting sessions at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist season (June-September). For the best experience, schedule your tasting for late afternoon when the shop is less crowded and the cheese selection is at ideal serving temperature. Ask about their wine pairing service – they collaborate with local wine merchants to create perfect matches for their cheese selections.

Practical Advice:

When visiting, bring a small cooler bag if planning to purchase cheese for later consumption. The shop provides ice packs for a small fee. For international visitors, staff can provide detailed documentation about which cheeses are permissible for import to specific countries. Consider visiting on weekday mornings when locals shop, as this is when the freshest selections arrive and the atmosphere is most authentic.

Fromagerie Quatrehomme: A Family Legacy

Nestled in the charming 7th arrondissement of Paris, Fromagerie Quatrehomme stands as a representation of French cheese-making excellence and family tradition. Since 1953, this prestigious establishment has been carefully curating and aging some of France's finest cheeses, earning its place among the most respected fromageries in the capital.

Under the stewardship of Marie Quatrehomme, who became the first woman to receive the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France title in cheese aging, this fromagerie has transformed from a neighborhood cheese shop into a gastronomic destination. Visitors can expect an expertly curated selection of over 200 varieties of cheese, each aged to perfection in their specialized caves beneath the shop.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
• Price Range: €5-€50 per cheese selection
• Best Time to Visit: Tuesday-Thursday mornings for shortest wait times
• Payment Methods: Cash and major credit cards accepted
• Language: Basic French appreciated but English-speaking staff available
• Special Services: Custom cheese plate assembly, vacuum sealing for travel

The Shop Experience:

The striking Art Nouveau storefront at 62 Rue de Sèvres welcomes visitors into a cheese lover's paradise. The main counter displays an impressive array of carefully arranged cheeses, from rare regional specialties to beloved classics. The shop's temperature-controlled environment guarantees ideal conditions for cheese preservation, while the knowledgeable staff offers personalized recommendations based on individual preferences and ripeness levels.

Insider Tip: Visit during the afternoon cheese cutting demonstration (typically around 3 PM) to witness the artisanal techniques used to portion and present different cheese varieties.

Signature Services:

Quatrehomme's expertise shines in their custom cheese plate assemblies. Customers can specify preferences, occasion, and budget, and the experts will create a perfectly balanced selection. The shop also offers specialized aging services for regular customers who want their cheese matured to specific preferences.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Quatrehomme experience, visit early in the week when new cheese shipments arrive from regional producers. Express your interest in learning about the cheeses, and the staff will often offer samples of seasonal specialties. For those planning to transport cheese home, request vacuum sealing and ask about the ideal ripeness timing for your intended consumption date.

Practical Advice:

While Quatrehomme caters to international visitors, having a basic understanding of French cheese categories (chèvre, bleu, pâte molle, etc.) will enhance the experience. Bring an insulated bag for purchases, especially during warm months, and consider the shop's proximity to several notable wine merchants for perfect pairing opportunities. Remember that French culture values expertise – trust the fromager's recommendations and don't hesitate to specify your preferences for ripeness and intensity.

Chez L'Ami Louis: Traditional Cheese Cart Service

Nestled in the 3rd arrondissement, Chez L'Ami Louis has been delighting Parisians and visitors alike with its traditional cheese cart service since 1924. This institution represents one of the last bastions of classic French restaurant cheese service, where a dedicated fromager wheels an elaborate wooden cart laden with perfectly aged specimens to your table for a truly personalized selection experience.

The restaurant's cheese cart service embodies the French philosophy that cheese consumption is both an art and a ritual. Unlike modern establishments that simply present a pre-selected cheese board, Chez L'Ami Louis maintains the time-honored tradition of showcasing up to 30 different varieties daily, each at its ideal ripeness, allowing diners to engage in detailed discussions about their preferences and receive expert guidance on cheese combinations.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €25-45 for cheese course
• Reservation Required: Yes, minimum 2 weeks in advance
• Service Hours: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian options available
• Languages: French, basic English
• Payment Methods: Major credit cards, cash
• Seating Capacity: 48 guests

The Cheese Cart Experience:

The heart of Chez L'Ami Louis's cheese service lies in its magnificent wooden cart, crafted from aged oak and equipped with climate-controlled compartments. The cart typically features 15-30 varieties, ranging from young, fresh cheeses to perfectly aged blues and complex aged varieties. Each cheese is accompanied by detailed information about its origin, aging process, and ideal wine pairings. Insider tip: Request to meet the fromager before your main course to discuss your preferences and guarantee the best selections are reserved for your table.

Pro Tips:

Timing is significant when experiencing Chez L'Ami Louis's cheese service. Book the 8:30 PM seating for the best experience, as this allows enough time for the cheese cart to make its first round and confirms the selections are at their peak temperature. Consider sharing your cheese course with a companion to sample more varieties, and always accept the fromager's suggestion for at least one cheese you've never tried before – their expertise in selecting perfectly ripened specimens is unparalleled.

Practical Advice:

To fully appreciate the cheese cart experience at Chez L'Ami Louis, arrive with an appetite but save room for the cheese course. Make your reservation well in advance and specify any dietary restrictions or preferences when booking. While the restaurant accepts credit cards, having some cash on hand for gratuity is appreciated. During warmer months, request a table away from the windows as temperature can affect the ideal cheese-tasting experience.