9 Best Places for French Bread and Cheese in Paris

I've handpicked Paris's top 9 bread and cheese destinations where you'll find exceptional artisanal pairings! Start with Laurent Dubois's 250-cheese cave paired with Du Pain et des Idées's stone-oven baked goods, then explore Barthélémy's ripened Camemberts alongside Poilâne's famous sourdough. Don't miss Androuet's perfectly aged selections with Le Grenier à Pain's award-winning baguettes. From Saint-Germain to Montmartre, each neighborhood offers its own delicious duo. Let's explore these culinary treasures together!

Le Marais's Hidden Gems: Laurent Dubois & Du Pain Et Des Idées

The charming district of Le Marais harbors two of Paris's most exceptional artisanal establishments, where centuries-old French culinary traditions meet modern mastery. Laurent Dubois, a Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF), operates his legendary fromagerie while Du Pain et des Idées crafts some of the city's most celebrated breads and pastries. These two establishments represent the pinnacle of French gastronomic craftsmanship.

These complementary artisans, though not adjacent, create a perfect duet for food enthusiasts seeking authentic Parisian flavors. A visit to both locations offers an immersive journey into French food culture, where you can witness the meticulous care that goes into selecting perfectly aged cheeses and creating traditionally fermented breads using time-honored techniques.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM (both locations)
• Price Range: €5-30 for cheese selections, €1-6 for bread items
• Peak Times: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Payment: Credit cards accepted, cash preferred
• Languages: Basic English spoken
• Dietary Notes: Vegetarian options available; vegan limited

Laurent Dubois (47-51 Rue de Verneuil)

This fromagerie showcases over 250 varieties of carefully aged cheeses in temperature-controlled caves beneath the shop. Laurent Dubois's expertise has earned him the prestigious MOF title, and his shop offers both classic and rare French cheeses. The staff provides expert guidance in English and offers vacuum-sealing for travelers. Insider tip: Visit between 9-10 AM for the freshest selection and personal attention from the cheesemongers.

Du Pain et des Idées (34 Rue Yves Toudic)

Christophe Vasseur's historic bakery, housed in a stunning 19th-century building, produces exceptional organic breads and pastries. Their signature "escargot" pastries and pain des amis are legendary among locals and visitors alike. The bakery's stone oven dates from 1889 and contributes to the distinct flavor profile of their breads. Insider tip: Their pistachio-chocolate escargot sells out by mid-morning; arrive before 9 AM to secure one.

Pro Tips:

Plan your visit to Laurent Dubois first, selecting your cheeses with guidance from the staff. Ask for recommendations based on your travel plans and storage capabilities. For Du Pain et des Idées, visiting early ensures the best selection, but afternoon visits (after 3 PM) often mean shorter lines and still-warm second bakes of their famous breads.

Practical Advice:

Both establishments close on Sundays and Mondays, and during August holidays. Bring insulated bags for cheese purchases, especially during summer months. While both shops are in Le Marais, they're about a 15-minute walk apart – plan your route to include other neighborhood highlights like Place des Vosges or the Picasso Museum between visits. Consider bringing cash for smaller purchases, and remember that locals appreciate attempts to order in French, even if basic.

The Historic Heart: Barthélémy & Poilâne

For cheese and bread connoisseurs, no Parisian pairing is more iconic than the legendary duo of Barthélémy fromagerie and Poilâne bakery. Located in the charming 7th arrondissement, Barthélémy has been a cheese institution since 1952, with its distinctive blue awning marking the spot where cheese maestro Roland Barthélémy curates one of the finest selections in Paris. Just a short walk away, the historic Poilâne bakery continues its century-old tradition of crafting celebrated sourdough loaves in wood-fired ovens.

These two establishments represent the pinnacle of French artisanal craftsmanship, drawing both locals and international food lovers seeking authentic flavors. Their proximity to each other in Saint-Germain-des-Prés creates the perfect opportunity to experience the quintessential Parisian ritual of selecting perfectly aged cheese and freshly baked bread for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM (both locations)
• Price Range: €5-30 for cheese selections, €4-12 for bread
• Peak Times: 11 AM-2 PM and 4-6 PM
• Payment: Credit cards accepted, cash preferred
• Language: Basic French appreciated but not required
• Vacuum-sealing available for cheese transport
• Pre-ordering recommended for special bread items

Barthélémy (51 Rue de Grenelle)

This intimate fromagerie houses over 200 varieties of cheese, expertly aged in their own caves. The shop's specialty lies in their perfectly ripened Camemberts and rare regional cheeses unavailable elsewhere. Madame Barthélémy herself often assists customers, offering invaluable advice on selection and storage. Insider tip: Visit on Thursday mornings when fresh shipments arrive from small producers across France.

Poilâne (8 Rue du Cherche-Midi)

Famous for their signature wheat flour sourdough (pain au levain), Poilâne creates bread using methods unchanged since 1932. Their wood-fired ovens produce approximately 2,500 loaves daily, each marked with the distinctive "P" signature. The bakery's apple tarts and punitions (butter cookies) are hidden gems. Insider tip: Request a tour of the basement bakery – while not advertised, it's occasionally possible with advance arrangement.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to visit both establishments is between 9-10 AM when the morning rush has subsided but selections are still abundant. Build your perfect cheese plate by selecting three varieties: one soft (like Époisses), one hard (like aged Comté), and one blue (like Roquefort). For bread, the miche Poilâne is best purchased in the morning when still slightly warm, and the quarter-loaf option provides the perfect amount for 2-3 days of eating.

Practical Advice:

Both shops can vacuum-seal purchases for travel, but plan to consume within 48 hours for best flavor. During summer months, consider bringing an insulated bag for cheese purchases. Most importantly, don't hesitate to ask for recommendations – the staff's expertise is part of the experience, and they take pride in helping customers discover new favorites.

Left Bank Legends: Androuet & Le Grenier À Pain

The Left Bank of Paris has long been a haven for food artisans, and nowhere is this more evident than in the storied establishments of Androuet and Le Grenier à Pain. These two institutions represent the pinnacle of French cheese and bread craftsmanship, carrying forward centuries-old traditions while embracing modern excellence in their respective crafts.

Located in the heart of the 7th arrondissement, these legendary establishments offer visitors an authentic taste of Parisian gastronomy. Androuet, with its carefully curated selection of artisanal cheeses, and Le Grenier à Pain, known for its award-winning baguettes, create an essential Left Bank food pilgrimage that captures the essence of French culinary culture.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00-19:00 (Androuet); Daily 7:00-20:00 (Le Grenier à Pain)
• Price Range: €5-30 for cheese selections; €1.20-6 for bread items
• Best Visiting Time: Early morning for fresh bread, mid-morning for cheese
• Payment: Both accept credit cards and cash
• Language: Basic French appreciated but English is understood
• Peak Times: Saturday mornings are busiest
• Special Orders: Available with 24-48 hours notice

Androuet

Established in 1909, Androuet stands as Paris's premier cheese affineur. Their shop at 37 Rue de Verneuil showcases over 200 varieties of perfectly aged cheeses. The knowledgeable staff expertly guides customers through seasonal selections and regional specialties. Insider tip: Visit between 2:00-4:00 PM for the most attentive service and ask about their cave-aged exclusives not displayed in the main case.

Le Grenier à Pain

Located at 38 Rue de Cherche-Midi, this bakery has earned multiple "Best Baguette in Paris" awards. Beyond their famous baguettes, their pain au levain and specialty loaves demonstrate masterful breadmaking. Their viennoiserie selection rivals the best in Paris. Insider tip: Their pain aux cereales sells out by mid-morning; arrive before 9:00 AM to secure this local favorite.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Left Bank cheese and bread experience, coordinate visits to both establishments in the morning. Start at Le Grenier à Pain when the bread is freshest, then proceed to Androuet once they've opened their doors. Consider asking Androuet's experts to recommend specific cheese pairings for your bread selections. During summer months, these purchases make for perfect Luxembourg Gardens picnic provisions.

Practical Advice:

Bring an insulated bag for cheese purchases, especially during warmer months. Both establishments can vacuum-seal items for travel, but request this service specifically. While both shops are within walking distance of each other, consider plotting your route through the charming streets of the 7th arrondissement to discover additional gourmet shops along the way. Remember that many French shops close for lunch (typically 13:00-15:00), so plan accordingly.

Saint-Germain Standouts: La Fermette & Eric Kayser

The historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood has long been a epicenter of Parisian food culture, with La Fermette and Eric Kayser standing as two of its crown jewels. These establishments have perfected their craft over decades, offering visitors an authentic taste of French culinary excellence in one of Paris's most charming districts.

While Paris boasts countless bakeries and cheese shops, these two locations represent the pinnacle of their respective specialties. La Fermette's carefully curated cheese selection and Eric Kayser's artisanal breads have earned loyal followings among locals and food critics alike, making them essential stops for anyone seeking the quintessential French bread and cheese experience.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €3-30 for bread, €5-50 for cheese selections
• Peak Hours: 10am-1pm and 4pm-7pm
• Best Days: Tuesday-Saturday (avoid Mondays when many shops are closed)
• Languages: Basic French appreciated but English widely spoken
• Payment: Credit cards accepted, cash preferred for small purchases
• Timing: Allow 30-45 minutes for each shop

La Fermette

This family-owned fromagerie has operated since 1952, offering over 200 varieties of carefully aged cheeses. Located at 86 Rue de Seine, La Fermette opens Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00-19:30. The shop's cave d'affinage (cheese aging cellar) produces some of Paris's finest aged Comté. Insider tip: Ask for the "secret" 48-month aged Comté, which isn't displayed but available to those in the know.

Eric Kayser

Situated at 8 Rue de l'Ancienne Comédie, this artisanal bakery produces some of Paris's finest traditional breads using natural leaven. Open daily 7:00-20:00, the bakery is renowned for its baguette Monge and pain aux céréales. The lesser-known afternoon baking schedule (16:00) offers the chance to get perfectly fresh bread for evening meals. Insider tip: Their walnut bread pairs exceptionally well with blue cheeses and is often overlooked by tourists.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Saint-Germain cheese and bread experience, visit La Fermette first to select your cheeses, then head to Eric Kayser for fresh bread. The fromagers at La Fermette can recommend specific bread pairings, and timing your visit around 16:30 means catching both fresh afternoon-baked bread and avoiding the main cheese shop rush. Consider purchasing a small wooden board from La Fermette (they sell them discreetly under the counter) for an impromptu picnic at nearby Luxembourg Gardens.

Practical Advice:

While both establishments are accustomed to tourists, showing basic French courtesy (bonjour/merci) goes a long way. Bring a secure shopping bag or basket, as proper storage is essential for both cheese and bread. Remember that cheese shops can be warm and crowded; plan to transport your purchases quickly to their final destination, whether that's your accommodation or a picnic spot.

Montmartre Must-Visits: Fromagerie Goncourt & Le Moulin De La Vierge

Nestled in the charming cobblestone streets of Montmartre, Fromagerie Goncourt and Le Moulin De La Vierge represent the pinnacle of Parisian cheese and bread craftsmanship. These two establishments have become legendary among locals and food enthusiasts for their unwavering commitment to traditional French culinary arts and exceptional quality.

While Paris boasts countless fromageries and boulangeries, these Montmartre institutions stand apart for their authentic atmosphere and artisanal approach. Fromagerie Goncourt's carefully curated selection of aged cheeses and Le Moulin De La Vierge's crusty baguettes tradition exemplify why this neighborhood remains a gastronomic destination for those seeking the true taste of Paris.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00-19:30 (both establishments)
• Price Range: €4-25 for cheese selections, €1.20-3.50 for bread
• Best Times: Early morning for fresh bread, mid-morning for cheese
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted (minimum purchase may apply)
• English-speaking staff available at both locations
• Cheese vacuum-sealing available for travelers

Fromagerie Goncourt

This family-owned cheese shop offers over 150 varieties of carefully aged cheeses, with special emphasis on raw milk varieties from small French producers. Located at 22 Rue des Abbesses, the shop features a temperature-controlled aging cave where cheeses develop their finest flavors. Insider tip: Visit between 3-5 PM on Thursdays when new cheese deliveries arrive, and the selection is at its peak.

Le Moulin De La Vierge

A historic boulangerie dating back to 1876, Le Moulin De La Vierge stands out for its traditional wood-fired oven and time-honored baking techniques. Situated at 83 Rue Lepic, this bakery produces some of the city's finest baguettes tradition and pain au levain. The original Belle Époque décor remains intact, making it as much a visual treat as a culinary one. Insider tip: Their pain aux noix (walnut bread) is only available on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and sells out quickly.

Pro Tips:

For the ideal Montmartre cheese and bread experience, time your visits strategically. Arrive at Le Moulin De La Vierge when it opens to secure fresh-from-the-oven baguettes, then head to Fromagerie Goncourt around 10 AM when the cheese selection is freshly arranged and before the lunch rush begins. Consider purchasing a selection of both to enjoy at the nearby Place du Tertre or Sacré-Cœur steps for an authentic Parisian picnic.

Practical Advice:

During summer months, request vacuum-sealing for any cheese purchases and bring an insulated bag if planning to walk around with your selections. Both establishments can be quite busy on weekends, so weekday visits are recommended for a more relaxed experience. Ask the fromager at Goncourt about current cheese aging stages to select the perfect ripeness for your intended consumption date, and don't hesitate to request samples before purchasing.

Canal Saint-Martin Favorites: Liberté & Paroles De Fromagers

The historic Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood has emerged as one of Paris's most vibrant food destinations, with Liberté and Paroles de Fromagers standing out as must-visit establishments for authentic French bread and cheese experiences. These artisanal shops represent the perfect marriage of traditional craftsmanship and modern culinary innovation, offering visitors a genuine taste of Parisian food culture.

Located along the picturesque canal-side streets, these two establishments have become local institutions, drawing both neighborhood residents and food enthusiasts from across the city. Liberté's award-winning baguettes and Paroles de Fromagers' carefully curated cheese selection exemplify the area's transformation into a gastronomic hub while maintaining its working-class charm.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00-19:30 (Liberté), 9:30-19:30 (Paroles)
• Price Range: €1.20-€4.50 for bread, €5-€30 for cheese selections
• Peak Times: Weekday mornings and Saturday afternoons
• Payment: Credit cards accepted, contactless available
• Language: Basic French helpful but not required
• Best Visit Time: Early morning for fresh bread, mid-morning for cheese

Liberté

This modern bakery revolutionizes traditional French bread-making while respecting classical techniques. Located at 39 Rue des Vinaigriers, Liberté's signature sourdough baguettes have earned multiple awards. The shop's minimalist design creates an inviting atmosphere for both quick visits and leisurely bread selection. Insider tip: Visit between 11:00-12:00 to catch the second batch of fresh baguettes coming out of the oven.

Paroles de Fromagers

Situated at 41 Rue du Faubourg du Temple, this artisanal cheese shop offers an expertly curated selection of French regional cheeses. The passionate fromagers provide detailed information about each cheese's origin and aging process. The shop offers vacuum-packing services for travelers. Insider tip: Ask about their weekly cheese rotation and special seasonal selections not displayed in the main case.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Canal Saint-Martin cheese and bread experience, time your visits strategically. Purchase your bread first at Liberté when it's fresh, then head to Paroles de Fromagers. The fromagers can recommend specific cheese pairings for your bread selection. Consider visiting on weekday mornings to avoid the weekend crowds and guarantee the best selection.

Practical Advice:

Both shops provide tasting opportunities before purchase, so don't hesitate to ask for samples. Bring a sturdy bag for carrying purchases, and consider picking up a bottle of wine from nearby wine shops to complete your French picnic experience. For cheese purchases intended for travel, inform the staff, and they'll help select and package items appropriately for your journey.

Latin Quarter Treasures: La Fromagerie & Le Petit Grain

Nestled in the heart of Paris's historic Latin Quarter, La Fromagerie and Le Petit Grain represent the pinnacle of French cheese and bread craftsmanship. These neighboring establishments have become legendary among locals and tourists alike for their exceptional quality and authentic Parisian atmosphere, offering visitors a genuine taste of French culinary tradition.

The combination of these two artisanal shops creates the ideal synergy for assembling an unforgettable French picnic or casual meal. La Fromagerie's carefully curated selection of aged cheeses pairs brilliantly with Le Petit Grain's crusty baguettes and specialized bread varieties, making this duo an essential stop for food enthusiasts exploring the Latin Quarter.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00-19:00 (La Fromagerie closes for lunch 13:00-15:00)
• Price Range: €4-15 for cheese selections, €1.20-6 for bread
• Best Visiting Time: Early morning for freshest bread selection
• Payment Methods: Cash and cards accepted (minimum purchase may apply)
• Language: Basic French helpful but not required
• Dietary Notes: Vegetarian options available; vegan limited
• Peak Times: Saturday mornings and weekday afternoons

La Fromagerie

This family-owned cheese shop offers over 200 varieties of artisanal French cheeses, carefully aged in their historic cellar. Located at 12 Rue Mouffetard, the shop features expert cheesemongers who can guide you through their selection and suggest perfect pairings. Insider tip: Ask about their "cheese of the month" – usually a seasonal specialty offered at a special price and often not displayed in the main case.

Le Petit Grain

Situated just steps away at 16 Rue Mouffetard, Le Petit Grain has earned numerous awards for their traditional baguettes and specialty loaves. Their pain au levain (sourdough) is particularly remarkable, using a starter that's been maintained for over 50 years. Unique feature: They offer bread-making workshops twice monthly, but these must be booked at least three months in advance.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate experience, visit both shops between 9:00-11:00 when the bread is freshest and before the cheese shop gets too warm from afternoon sun. Request vacuum-sealed packaging for cheese if you plan to transport it for more than an hour. The shops' owners recommend allowing cheese to reach room temperature before serving and consuming bread on the same day of purchase for optimal taste and texture.

Practical Advice:

When visiting these establishments, bring a sturdy bag for carrying purchases and consider a small cooler bag if planning extensive cheese shopping. Both shops can get quite crowded during peak hours, so practice patience and proper queue etiquette – locals take their bread and cheese shopping very seriously. It's also worth noting that the nearby Place de la Contrescarpe offers perfect picnic spots to enjoy your purchases immediately.

Bastille's Best: La Grande Épicerie & Maison Landemaine

Best Places for French Bread and Cheese in Paris: Bastille's Best

La Grande Épicerie & Maison Landemaine

The historic Bastille district has evolved into one of Paris's most vibrant culinary neighborhoods, with La Grande Épicerie and Maison Landemaine standing as cornerstones of authentic French bread and cheese culture. These establishments represent the perfect marriage of traditional craftsmanship and modern gastronomy, offering visitors an unparalleled taste of Parisian food artistry.

Located just steps from Place de la Bastille, these two culinary landmarks attract both locals and tourists seeking the finest French bread and cheese selections. La Grande Épicerie dazzles with its carefully curated cheese collection, while Maison Landemaine's artisanal breads have earned it recognition as one of the city's premier boulangeries.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 8:00-20:00, Sunday 9:00-19:00
• Price Range: €3-8 for bread, €5-30 for cheese
• Best Visiting Time: Early morning for fresh bread (8:00-10:00)
• Payment Methods: Credit cards accepted, contactless payments available
• Language: Basic French helpful but not required
• Cheese Storage: Free cold storage bags available for purchases
• Accessibility: Both venues wheelchair accessible

La Grande Épicerie

This gourmet food hall showcases over 200 varieties of French cheese, including rare regional selections and seasonal specialties. Located at 38 Rue de Sévigné, the store features a temperature-controlled cheese room and expert fromagers who offer sampling and pairing advice. The hidden gem is their cheese-aging cave in the basement, which visitors can view through a special window installation.

Maison Landemaine

Specializing in traditional French bread-making techniques, this artisanal boulangerie produces some of Paris's finest baguettes and specialty loaves. Their signature pain au levain uses a 100-year-old sourdough starter, creating distinctive flavors impossible to replicate. The shop at 123 Rue de la Roquette offers bread-making workshops every first Saturday of the month (advance booking required).

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate experience, visit La Grande Épicerie first to select your cheeses, then head to Maison Landemaine for fresh bread. Time your visit around 11:00 AM when the second batch of baguettes emerges from the oven, and the cheese counter is fully stocked but not yet crowded. Ask the fromager about their "secret" aged selections, which aren't displayed but are available to knowledgeable customers.

Practical Advice:

Both establishments provide expert wrapping for travel, but be aware that soft cheeses must be consumed within 24 hours if not refrigerated. Request vacuum sealing for harder cheeses if planning to transport them. For the best experience, bring a reusable shopping bag and consider purchasing an insulated bag (available at La Grande Épicerie) if planning extensive cheese shopping in summer months.

Champs-Élysées Essentials: Marie-Anne Cantin & Maison Julhès

The historic Champs-Élysées district hosts two of Paris's most celebrated artisanal cheese and bread establishments: Marie-Anne Cantin and Maison Julhès. These venerable institutions represent the pinnacle of French cheese and bread craftsmanship, offering carefully curated selections that have earned international recognition and loyal local followings.

While the Champs-Élysées is known for luxury shopping and tourist attractions, these authentic fromageries and boulangeries provide a genuine taste of traditional French gastronomy. Both establishments have maintained their dedication to quality and tradition while adapting to modern tastes and requirements, making them essential stops for food enthusiasts seeking authentic Parisian experiences.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €5-50 for cheese selections, €2-8 for bread
• Best Visiting Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00-13:00 and 15:30-19:00
• Payment Methods: Major credit cards accepted, cash preferred
• Language: Basic French appreciated but English widely spoken
• Storage: Both shops provide vacuum sealing for travel
• Tastings: Available by appointment at Marie-Anne Cantin

Marie-Anne Cantin

This prestigious fromagerie has been aging and selling exceptional cheeses since 1950. Located at 12 Rue du Champ de Mars, Marie-Anne Cantin offers over 200 varieties of carefully aged cheeses in their historic caves. Their specialty lies in rare regional cheeses and perfectly aged Comté. The shop provides expert guidance for cheese selection and wine pairing. Insider tip: Ask about their cheese aging workshops, offered monthly to small groups.

Maison Julhès

Situated at 54 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, Maison Julhès combines traditional breadmaking with innovative techniques. Their sourdough baguettes have won numerous awards, and their cheese selection focuses on small-batch producers. The shop is known for its unique cheese-bread pairings, with staff trained to recommend perfect combinations. Insider tip: Visit during the morning bread-making sessions (around 7:30 AM) to taste fresh-from-the-oven specialties.

Pro Tips

For the ideal experience, visit these establishments during mid-morning on weekdays to avoid crowds and achieve the best selection. Consider joining a guided tasting session at Marie-Anne Cantin, which includes wine pairings and detailed explanations of cheese aging processes. For bread enthusiasts, Maison Julhès offers their best selection between 8:00-10:00 AM, when their signature loaves are freshly baked.

Practical Advice

Both establishments can vacuum-seal purchases for travel, but plan to consume bread products within 24 hours for maximum freshness. If you're planning to purchase multiple items, bring an insulated bag or request one from the shops. Many visitors combine these stops with a picnic at nearby Champ de Mars or Tuileries Garden. Remember that shops typically close for lunch (13:00-15:30) and observe traditional French holidays.