9 Best Places for French Cheese and Wine Pairings in Paris
If you're searching for Paris's finest cheese and wine pairings, I've got nine incredible spots you can't miss! Start at La Fromagerie Danard's historic cave, then explore Le Verre Volé's natural wines and Chez Janou in Le Marais. Don't overlook La Cave Du Marché, Ô Chateau, Le Barav, La Cave À Michel, Fromagerie Laurent Dubois, and L'Affineur Affiné. Each venue offers unique tasting experiences ranging from €25-65 per person – and there's so much more to discover about each location's special offerings.
La Fromagerie Danard: A Historic Cave Experience
Nestled in the heart of Paris's 7th arrondissement, La Fromagerie Danard offers an unparalleled journey into traditional French cheese aging and tasting. This historic fromagerie, established in 1928, houses one of Paris's few remaining authentic cheese caves, where centuries-old aging techniques continue to enhance the flavors of carefully selected artisanal cheeses.
The cave experience at Danard transcends typical cheese shopping, immersing visitors in the art of affinage (cheese aging). Underground chambers maintain precise temperature and humidity levels, creating ideal conditions for developing complex flavors in hundreds of cheese varieties. Guests can observe master affineurs at work while learning about the delicate balance between science and tradition in cheese maturation.
Quick Facts:
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00-19:00
- Tasting Experience: €35-65 per person
- Reservation Required: Yes, minimum 48 hours in advance
- English Tours Available: Yes, twice daily
- Group Size: 2-8 people maximum
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian options available
- Payment Methods: Major credit cards, cash
The Cave Tour & Tasting Experience begins with a descent into the historic caves, where temperature-controlled chambers house thousands of cheese wheels in various stages of aging. The guided tour explains the aging process for different cheese families, from soft-ripened to blue-veined varieties. Visitors learn about the microorganisms responsible for developing distinctive flavors and textures. The experience concludes with a curated tasting of 6-8 cheeses, accompanied by paired wines. Insider tip: Request the "affineur's choice" option to taste rare seasonal cheeses not available in the main shop.
The Shop & Selection area features over 200 varieties of cheese, with expert fromagers offering personalized recommendations based on individual preferences and serving occasions. The shop specializes in small-batch productions from artisanal producers across France. Unique to Danard is their vacuum-sealing service, allowing travelers to transport cheeses safely for up to 72 hours. Insider tip: Visit during morning hours (9:00-11:00) when fresh deliveries arrive and selection is excellent.
Pro Tips:
For the ultimate experience, book a Thursday or Friday afternoon session when the caves are most active with aging operations. These days offer the best opportunity to observe the affineurs turning and caring for the cheeses. Consider requesting a wine-pairing upgrade to sample unique natural wines specifically chosen to complement the cheese selection. Photography is permitted in most areas, but flash photography is prohibited in the caves to protect the aging environment.
Practical Advice:
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring a light jacket, as the caves maintain a constant cool temperature (10-12°C). While the shop is accessible without reservation, the cave experience must be booked in advance. For international visitors, English-speaking guides are available but must be specifically requested when booking. The fromagerie can arrange shipping within the EU, and their vacuum-sealing service makes it possible to carry purchases abroad within most customs regulations.
Le Verre Volé: Natural Wines Meet Artisanal Cheeses
Tucked away in the charming 10th arrondissement, Le Verre Volé ("The Stolen Glass") represents the perfect fusion of Paris's natural wine movement and traditional cheese culture. This intimate wine bar and shop has evolved from a modest cave à vins in 2000 to become one of the city's most respected destinations for natural wine enthusiasts and cheese connoisseurs alike.
What sets Le Verre Volé apart is its commitment to small-batch, biodynamic wines paired with carefully curated artisanal cheeses from France's finest affineurs. The establishment's rustic wooden shelves lined with bottles and intimate table settings create an authentic Parisian atmosphere where wine lovers can explore unique pairings while engaging with knowledgeable staff who possess an encyclopedic understanding of both wine and cheese.
Quick Facts:
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-15:00 and 19:30-22:30
- Price Range: €25-45 per person for wine and cheese pairings
- Reservations: Essential for dinner, recommended for lunch
- Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly, limited vegan options
- Payment: Credit cards accepted, cash preferred
- Languages: Staff speaks English and French
- Location: 67 Rue de Lancry, 75010 Paris
The Wine Selection
Le Verre Volé's constantly rotating selection features over 200 natural wines, focusing on small French producers and occasional international gems. The shop portion allows visitors to purchase bottles at retail prices, while in-house consumption includes a modest corkage fee. The staff particularly excels at introducing lesser-known wine regions and varieties that perfectly complement their cheese offerings.
The Cheese Program
The carefully curated cheese selection changes weekly, featuring approximately 15-20 varieties from top artisanal producers. Each cheese is aged to perfection and stored in ideal conditions. Many selections come from small-batch producers who supply exclusively to Le Verre Volé, making it impossible to find these specific varieties elsewhere in Paris.
Pro Tips:
The best experience at Le Verre Volé comes from trusting the staff's expertise. Rather than arriving with specific wines or cheeses in mind, share your preferences and let them guide you to unexpected discoveries. Visit during the shoulder hours (14:00-15:00 or right at opening) for the most attentive service and best chance of securing a walk-in spot. The shop's temperature can fluctuate to maintain ideal conditions for the wines and cheeses, so consider bringing a light layer.
Practical Advice:
Book at least two weeks in advance for dinner service, especially on weekends. While the shop welcomes walk-ins for retail purchases, the small seating area fills quickly. Consider joining their wine club for priority reservations and exclusive access to limited-production wines. For the fullest experience, allow at least 90 minutes for a proper wine and cheese tasting session, and don't hesitate to ask for detailed tasting notes – the staff delights in sharing their knowledge with interested customers.
Chez Janou: The Hidden Gem of Le Marais
Nestled in the charming streets of Le Marais, Chez Janou stands as a symbol of authentic French wine and cheese culture, offering an intimate setting where centuries-old culinary traditions come alive. This beloved neighborhood bistro, located at 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, has earned its reputation among locals and discerning tourists alike for its exceptional selection of French cheeses and over 300 varieties of wine.
What sets Chez Janou apart is its commitment to creating an authentic Parisian experience, combining the casual atmosphere of a neighborhood wine bar with the expertise of seasoned fromagers and sommeliers. Visitors can expect carefully curated cheese plates featuring selections from various French regions, paired thoughtfully with wines from both well-known and boutique vineyards.
Quick Facts:
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00-23:00 (closed Mondays)
- Price Range: €25-45 per person for cheese and wine pairings
- Reservations: Strongly recommended, especially for dinner
- Languages: French, basic English
- Payment Methods: Cash, major credit cards
- Dress Code: Smart casual
- Special Considerations: Limited outdoor seating available
The Cheese Experience:
Chez Janou's cheese selection rotates seasonally, featuring 15-20 varieties at any given time. The signature "Plateau de Fromages" offers five carefully selected cheeses, ranging from creamy Brie de Meaux to robust Roquefort. An insider tip: ask for the "fromager's secret selection" – an off-menu assortment featuring rare regional cheeses not listed on the regular menu.
Wine Selection:
The extensive wine list emphasizes small producers and lesser-known regions alongside classic appellations. Most wines are available by the glass (€6-15) or bottle (€28-200+). The hidden gem here is their collection of natural wines from emerging French vintners, which pairs exceptionally well with their stronger cheese selections.
The Space:
The intimate dining room features exposed stone walls and vintage wine posters, creating an ambiance that transports visitors to old-world Paris. The small bar area accommodates 6-8 guests, perfect for impromptu tastings. Lesser-known fact: the cellar room can be reserved for private tastings for groups of 6-12 people.
Pro Tips:
For the ultimate experience, visit between 17:00-19:00 during weekdays when the crowd is thinner and the fromager has more time to discuss selections. Request a seat at the bar for the most interactive experience, where you can watch the cheese preparation and receive personalized pairing recommendations from the staff. The best value comes from ordering the "Dégustation Complete" – a curated journey of three wines paired with five cheeses.
Practical Advice:
Make reservations at least three days in advance, especially for weekend evenings. While walk-ins are accepted at the bar, table seating is limited. For the best value and experience, consider visiting during their "Happy Hour Fromage" (Tuesday-Thursday, 17:00-19:00), when select cheese and wine pairings are offered at reduced prices. Bring a small notebook to record your favorite combinations – the staff is happy to help you locate the cheeses at nearby specialty shops for purchase.
La Cave Du Marché: Market-Fresh Pairings
Nestled in the heart of the 7th arrondissement, La Cave Du Marché stands as a reflection of Paris's enduring love affair with cheese and wine. This charming establishment combines the traditional elements of a French wine cave with the dynamic energy of a neighborhood market, offering visitors an authentic experience in artisanal cheese and wine pairing.
What sets La Cave Du Marché apart is its unique approach to sourcing and pairing. The proprietors work directly with local market vendors and regional producers, guaranteeing that their cheese selection evolves with the seasons and reflects the finest offerings available. This market-fresh philosophy creates an ever-changing tasting experience that keeps both locals and tourists coming back for more.
Quick Facts:
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00-19:30; Sunday, 10:00-13:00
- Price Range: €25-€75 for tasting experiences
- Reservation Required: Yes, for guided tastings (24 hours in advance)
- Languages: French, English, Spanish
- Group Size: Maximum 8 people for tastings
- Dietary Notes: Vegetarian options available; limited vegan selections
- Payment: Major credit cards accepted, cash preferred
The Tasting Experience
The cave's signature tasting program features five carefully selected cheese and wine pairings, with selections rotating based on market availability. Located at 12 Rue Cler, the intimate tasting room accommodates small groups, creating an exclusive atmosphere perfect for learning and savoring. Insider tip: Request the "off-menu" regional focus tasting, where you can explore pairings from a specific French region of your choice.
The Shop
Beyond guided tastings, La Cave Du Marché functions as a premium cheese and wine shop. The knowledgeable staff assists customers in creating their own pairings, with prices ranging from €5-€30 per cheese selection and €15-€200 for wines. Unique feature: They offer a "Picnic Perfect" service, where they'll assemble a market-fresh selection ideal for Luxembourg Gardens or Champ de Mars enjoyment.
Daily Market Selections
The shop's relationship with the adjacent Rue Cler market guarantees fresh arrivals daily. Specialty items often include limited-production cheeses from small-batch producers and exclusive wine selections from boutique vineyards. Secret tip: Visit early Thursday mornings when new cheese shipments arrive from regional producers.
Pro Tips:
The best time for tasting experiences is mid-afternoon (15:00-17:00) when the cave is less crowded and the cheese selections are at perfect serving temperature. For the fullest experience, combine a morning market walk with an afternoon tasting session. Consider booking the "Meet the Maker" sessions held monthly, where local cheese artisans and vintners share their expertise and latest creations.
Practical Advice:
Temperature control is essential for both cheese and wine purchases. The shop provides special insulated bags for cheese (€5) and professional-grade wine carriers (€15) for safe transport. For international visitors, they can arrange shipping to select countries, though it's recommended to consume market-fresh selections within Paris. During summer months (June-August), morning visits are advised to secure ideal cheese conditions.
Ô Chateau: Expert-Guided Tasting Sessions
Located in the heart of Paris's 1st arrondissement, Ô Chateau stands as one of the city's premier destinations for wine and cheese education. This elegant establishment has earned its reputation through expertly curated tasting experiences that combine centuries of French wine tradition with modern educational approaches.
Led by certified sommeliers who speak fluent English, these tasting sessions offer an intimate journey through France's most celebrated wine regions and cheese varieties. Whether you're a novice seeking to understand the basics of wine appreciation or an experienced enthusiast looking to deepen your knowledge, Ô Chateau's programs cater to all expertise levels.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €65-€195 per person
- Session Duration: 1-3 hours
- Reservation Required: Yes, at least 24 hours in advance
- Languages: English and French
- Group Size: 4-20 people
- Dietary Options: Vegetarian available upon request
- Cancellation Policy: 48 hours notice required
The Tasting Experience
Ô Chateau's signature cheese and wine pairing sessions take place in their 17th-century wine cellar, featuring exposed stone walls and perfect temperature control. Participants typically sample 5-6 wines paired with carefully selected French cheeses. Each session includes detailed tasting notes, regional maps, and professional guidance on wine appreciation techniques. The intimate setting guarantees personal attention and ample opportunity for questions.
Location and Details
Address: 68 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 75001 Paris
Hours: Sessions available daily from 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Insider Tip: Book the last session of the day (usually 8:30 PM) for a more relaxed, extended experience as sommeliers often share additional wines and stories after hours.
Pro Tips:
For the most enriching experience, arrive 10 minutes early to acclimate to the cellar's atmosphere and temperature. Consider taking the "French Wine Regions" session before the cheese pairing class to build a strong foundation in wine knowledge. The sommeliers can provide detailed purchasing recommendations for wines tasted during the session, including where to find them locally at the best prices.
Practical Advice:
While walk-ins are occasionally accepted, booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak tourist season (June-September). Wear comfortable clothing and avoid strong perfumes or colognes that might interfere with the tasting experience. For photography enthusiasts, the cellar's lighting is dim but atmospheric – bringing a camera with good low-light capability will help capture memorable moments without disrupting the experience.
Le Barav: Street-Side Cheese and Wine Culture
Le Barav epitomizes the quintessential Parisian wine and cheese experience, combining a charming wine shop with an intimate street-side café in the vibrant Marais district. This dual-concept establishment has become a local institution, where wine enthusiasts can select bottles from the shop and enjoy them at outdoor tables alongside expertly curated cheese plates.
The venue's unique approach breaks down the formal barriers often associated with French wine culture, creating an approachable yet authentic environment where both novices and connoisseurs can explore exceptional wine and cheese pairings. The bustling street atmosphere and knowledgeable staff create an immersive experience that captures the essence of Parisian food culture.
Quick Facts:
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00-23:00
- Price Range: €25-50 per person for wine and cheese
- Reservation Status: Recommended for evening service
- Payment Methods: Cash and major credit cards
- Languages: Staff speaks French and English
- Seating: Indoor and street-side tables available
- Cheese Plate Options: 3, 5, or 7 varieties
The Wine Shop Experience
The front shop houses an impressive selection of over 400 French wines, with helpful staff who guide customers through regional varieties and price points. Bottles can be purchased for take-away or enjoyed on-premise for a modest corkage fee of €7. The shop's organization by region makes it easy to explore different French wine territories, while regular tastings offer opportunities to expand wine knowledge.
The Cheese Service
Cheese plates are thoughtfully assembled using selections from artisanal producers, with options changing seasonally. Each plate comes with detailed tasting notes and suggested wine pairings. An insider tip: request the "fromager's choice" option, which often includes limited-quantity cheeses not listed on the regular menu.
The Street-Side Experience
The outdoor seating area along Rue Saint-Martin provides an authentic Parisian atmosphere, with tables perfectly positioned for people-watching. During peak hours, these coveted spots offer views of local life while enjoying expert wine and cheese pairings. The covered awning guarantees year-round service, regardless of weather.
Pro Tips:
Visit between 17:00-19:00 for the best experience – this sweet spot offers ideal cheese selection availability while avoiding the dinner rush. Consider starting with a glass of champagne and a light cheese before moving to fuller-bodied wines and stronger cheeses. The staff can create a progressive tasting experience that builds in intensity and complexity.
Practical Advice:
Book ahead for groups larger than two, especially for evening service. While walk-ins are welcome, securing a reservation guarantees access to preferred seating and full cheese selection. Bring a light jacket for outdoor seating, as evening temperatures can drop considerably, even in summer. The shop can arrange shipping for wine purchases to most international destinations, making it convenient for travelers to send their discoveries home.
La Cave À Michel: Contemporary Pairing Excellence
Tucked away in the vibrant 10th arrondissement, La Cave à Michel represents the exciting evolution of Paris's wine and cheese culture. This modern cave à vin (wine cellar) has revolutionized traditional French wine and cheese pairings by incorporating contemporary techniques while maintaining deep respect for classical French gastronomy.
Under the guidance of owner-sommelier Michel Tolmer, this establishment has earned a reputation for its thoughtfully curated selection of natural wines and artisanal cheeses. The intimate space serves as both a retail shop and tasting venue, offering visitors the opportunity to experience carefully crafted pairings that challenge conventional wisdom while delivering exceptional flavor combinations.
Quick Facts:
- Price Range: €25-60 per person for tasting experiences
- Reservations: Required for evening tastings; 48-hour advance booking recommended
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00-22:30
- Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian options available; limited vegan alternatives
- Languages: French, English
- Payment Methods: Major credit cards accepted, cash preferred
- Group Size: Maximum 8 people for guided tastings
The Tasting Experience:
La Cave à Michel's signature offering is their guided tasting sessions, where experts lead guests through a selection of 4-6 wines paired with complementary French cheeses. Sessions typically last 90 minutes and include detailed explanations of each wine's origin, production method, and why it pairs particularly well with specific cheeses. Insider tip: Request the "Carte Blanche" experience, where the sommelier creates a completely personalized tasting based on your preferences.
The Wine Selection:
The cave specializes in natural and biodynamic wines from small French producers, with a rotating selection of approximately 300 references. Most bottles range from €15-80, with rare selections available at higher price points. The shop maintains strong relationships with innovative winemakers across France, often securing exclusive allocations not found elsewhere in Paris.
The Cheese Program:
Working with select local affineurs (cheese agers), La Cave à Michel offers an evolving selection of 15-20 artisanal cheeses. Each cheese is carefully chosen to complement the wine collection, with special attention paid to seasonal variations and prime ripeness. Unique feature: The shop offers monthly cheese aging workshops where participants can learn professional techniques.
Pro Tips:
Early evening tastings (17:00-19:00) offer the best experience, as the shop is less crowded and the sommeliers can provide more personalized attention. For the fullest experience, book a Thursday session when new wine selections typically arrive, and the cheese selection is at its peak. Consider joining their monthly wine club for access to exclusive tastings and first rights to limited-allocation bottles.
Practical Advice:
While walk-ins are welcome for retail purchases, the full pairing experience requires advance planning. Schedule tastings at least two days ahead, especially during peak tourist season (May-September). The shop's location in the 10th arrondissement means it's slightly removed from the main tourist areas, so plan for a 10-15 minute taxi ride from central Paris, or take Metro line 4 or 5 to Gare de l'Est station.
Fromagerie Laurent Dubois: Grand Cru Selections
Located in the heart of Paris's 5th arrondissement, Fromagerie Laurent Dubois stands as a temple to French cheese craftsmanship, earning its prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France distinction. This renowned fromagerie specializes in carefully curated grand cru cheese selections, offering connoisseurs and curious visitors alike an opportunity to experience the finest French cheeses paired with exceptional wines.
The shop's grand cru selection represents the pinnacle of French cheese production, featuring perfectly aged specimens from every major cheese-producing region in France. Each cheese is carefully matured in Laurent Dubois's own aging cellars, ensuring ideal ripeness and flavor development before being presented to customers alongside thoughtfully selected wine pairings.
Quick Facts:
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM, Sunday 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Price Range: €8-40 per cheese portion, wine pairings €15-50 per bottle
- Reservation Required: Yes, for guided tastings and special pairing sessions
- Languages: French, English
- Payment Methods: Major credit cards, cash
- Shipping: International shipping available for selected items
- Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian options available, unpasteurized options clearly marked
The Grand Cru Experience:
The shop's signature offering is their grand cru cheese tasting, featuring five to seven carefully selected cheeses paired with wines from small French producers. The tasting begins with lighter, younger cheeses and progresses to more complex, aged varieties. Each cheese is presented with detailed information about its origin, production method, and ideal wine pairing. A unique feature is their exclusive aged Comté, matured for a minimum of 36 months in their private caves.
Location and Details:
Situated at 47-49 Boulevard Saint-Germain, the shop is easily accessible from the Maubert-Mutualité metro station. The main shop features a temperature-controlled display room where cheeses are stored at perfect serving temperatures. An often-overlooked service is their cheese concierge program, where staff can create a customized aging program for specific cheese selections.
Pro Tips:
Visit during mid-morning (around 10:30 AM) on weekdays for the best selection and most attentive service. The shop's experts recommend allowing cheeses to rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before tasting to experience their full flavor profiles. For wine pairings, their sommeliers suggest starting with lighter whites and progressing to fuller-bodied reds as you move through stronger cheeses.
The shop can be quite busy during peak tourism seasons and afternoon hours. Consider making arrangements at least two weeks in advance for specialized tastings or pairing sessions. For those interested in purchasing cheese to take home, the staff can vacuum-seal selections for travel and provide detailed storage instructions. Be sure to mention if you're traveling with the cheese, as they can recommend varieties that travel well and comply with customs regulations.
L'Affineur Affiné: Aged Perfection in Saint-Germain
Nestled in the charming Saint-Germain district, L'Affineur Affiné stands as a proof of the art of cheese aging, offering an unparalleled experience for both connoisseurs and curious newcomers. This intimate fromagerie combines traditional aging techniques with modern presentation, creating a space where customers can discover the finest French cheeses alongside perfectly paired wines.
The shop's master affineur, Laurent Dubois, has transformed this corner of Paris into a destination where each cheese tells its own story through careful aging and precise temperature control. Visitors can explore over 150 varieties of artisanal cheeses, many exclusive to this location, while receiving expert guidance on wine pairings that elevate both the cheese and wine experience.
Quick Facts:
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM, Sunday 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Price Range: €5-30 per cheese portion, €20-80 for wine bottles
- Tasting Sessions: Available by appointment (48-hour notice)
- Languages: French, English
- Payment: Credit cards accepted, contactless available
- Shipping: Vacuum-sealed options for EU countries
The Cheese Cave Experience:
The shop's crown jewel is its temperature-controlled aging cave, visible through glass panels, where cheeses mature to perfection. Visitors can observe the aging process and even request specific aging periods for certain cheese varieties. The cave maintains different micro-climates for various cheese types, guaranteeing ideal maturation conditions. Insider tip: Visit between 3-5 PM on weekdays for personalized attention and the chance to see the afternoon cheese rotation.
The Tasting Room:
A dedicated tasting space accommodates intimate groups of up to six people, offering curated cheese and wine experiences. Sessions include detailed explanations of aging processes, regional origins, and seasonal variations. The room's temperature is precisely controlled to guarantee ideal tasting conditions. Insider tip: Book the "Midnight in Paris" evening tasting session for an exclusive after-hours experience with the shop's most prestigious selections.
Pro Tips:
For the ultimate experience, visit during the mid-week when the shop receives its fresh cheese deliveries, typically Wednesday mornings. Request to sample before purchasing, as the affineurs take pride in helping customers discover new favorites. The shop's wine expert can suggest pairings based on your cheese selections, often recommending unexpected combinations that highlight hidden flavor notes in both the cheese and wine.
Practical Advice:
When planning your visit, consider temperature and transportation. The shop provides insulated bags for purchases, but during summer months, bring a cooler if planning extensive cheese shopping. For ideal tastings, avoid visiting directly after heavy meals, as subtle flavor notes are best appreciated with a clean palate. The shop is a 5-minute walk from Mabillon metro station, making it easily accessible while exploring Saint-Germain.