The Ultimate Cheese Lover’s Guide to Paris

The Ultimate Cheese Lover’s Guide to Paris

Welcome to the City of Love, where romance and cheese are deeply intertwined. Paris, the capital of France, is not only famous for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum but also for its rich cheese culture. If you're a cheese enthusiast, Paris is a paradise you must explore. In this ultimate cheese lover's guide, we'll take you on a delectable journey through the cheese scene in the heart of France.

1. The Fromageries (Cheese Shops)

Paris boasts an array of fromageries that will make your cheese-loving heart skip a beat. These charming cheese shops offer a wide variety of French cheeses, from creamy Brie to pungent Roquefort. Don't miss visiting places like Fromagerie Quatrehomme and Laurent Dubois, where you can sample and purchase artisanal cheeses.

2. Outdoor Markets

Strolling through the vibrant outdoor markets in Paris is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local cheese culture. Visit the Marché Bastille or Marché Raspail, where you'll find stalls brimming with cheese wheels, along with freshly baked bread and other delicacies to complement your cheese selection.

3. Cheese Tasting Tours

If you want an in-depth experience, consider joining a cheese tasting tour. Knowledgeable guides will take you to hidden gems and introduce you to the art of pairing wine with cheese. It's an educational and delicious adventure that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

4. Classic French Cheese Varieties

Paris offers a chance to savor some of the most iconic French cheeses. Here are a few you simply must try:

Cheese	Flavor Profile
Brie	Creamy, buttery, and mild
Camembert	Rich and earthy with a soft, edible rind
Roquefort	Sharp, tangy, and blue-veined
Comté	Nutty and slightly sweet

5. Cheese and Wine Pairing

No guide to French cheese is complete without mentioning the art of pairing cheese with wine. In Paris, you can indulge in exquisite wine and cheese pairings at specialty wine bars. Try the classic combination of red wine with Camembert or a crisp white wine with fresh goat cheese for a true gastronomic delight.

6. Cheese Museums

For a dose of history and cheese education, visit cheese museums like the Musée du Fromage (Cheese Museum) in Paris. Here, you can learn about the cheese-making process, the various types of French cheese, and even witness cheese artisans at work.

7. Cheese-Infused Dishes

Parisian cuisine incorporates cheese into a variety of dishes. Don't miss out on classics like French Onion Soup topped with melted Gruyère cheese, Croque-Monsieur with its luscious béchamel and ham, or a plate of savory Raclette where cheese is melted and scraped onto your plate, served with potatoes and pickles.

8. Cheese Festivals

If you're lucky enough to be in Paris during the right season, be sure to attend cheese festivals like the Fête du Fromage. These events celebrate cheese in all its glory, with tastings, cheese-making demonstrations, and more.

Conclusion

Paris is a dream destination for cheese lovers. Whether you're savoring a baguette with creamy Camembert by the Seine River or exploring the city's cheese shops, the cheese culture here is an integral part of the Parisian experience. So, pack your appetite and embark on a cheesy adventure in the city that knows how to do cheese like no other!

Paris: Food and Wine Tasting Walking Tour in Le Marais

Experience the culinary delights of Paris' Le Marais neighborhood, a blend of traditional and modern French cuisine.

About this activity

Discover the rich flavors of Le Marais with a local guide, savoring 11 food samples and 2 drinks across 8 eateries. Begin with a buttery croissant and sourdough bread from a beloved local bakery. Indulge in exquisite macarons from a master chocolatier, known for their exceptional quality. Delight in chickpea pancakes at a local food market and explore the historic Jewish quarter. Visit a century-old shop teeming with regional delicacies and relish unique pastries from a family-run bakery. Taste French onion soup made from locally sourced ingredients, and experience a fusion of Syrian and French patisserie techniques with delectable pastry nests. Conclude your gastronomic adventure with a glass of natural wine at a specialized spot, learning from the owner about this intriguing world.

Highlights

• Enjoy 11 food samples and 2 drinks across 8 eateries
• Visit the oldest covered market in Paris
• Explore the heart of Paris's old Jewish quarter
• Lunch like a Parisian at a classic bistro
• Visit the last few family-run businesses in the Marais

Includes

• Local English-speaking guide
• Guided walking tour
• 11 food tastings and 2 half glasses of wine across 8 family-run establishments in Le Marais
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Tips

Meeting Point

Meet your guide in front of Les Succulents Cactus Store. Your guide will be holding a red Devour tote bag.

Important Information

For this tour, please wear outdoor clothing. The tour includes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible. Guests with wheelchairs should contact the provider beforehand for a suitable itinerary. This tour is not suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance, but it is adaptable for vegetarians, pescatarians, gluten-free (not celiacs), dairy-free, non-alcoholic, and pregnant women. If you have a dietary requirement or food allergy, please mention it when booking. Guests with serious food allergies will need to sign an allergy waiver at the start of the tour. Due to the risk of gluten cross-contamination, this tour is not adaptable for those with celiac disease.

Why Paris is a Haven for Cheese Lovers

Paris, often referred to as the "City of Love," is not just renowned for its romantic ambiance and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum. It is also a paradise for cheese lovers, offering a diverse and delectable array of cheeses that can tantalize the taste buds of any connoisseur.

France, in general, is famous for its cheese, and Paris, as its capital, takes this reputation to a whole new level. Here are some compelling reasons why Paris is an irresistible destination for cheese enthusiasts:

The Cheese Shops

One of the primary reasons why Paris is a cheese lover's haven is its abundance of specialty cheese shops, known as "fromageries." These quaint and charming stores are scattered throughout the city, offering an impressive selection of local and imported cheeses. From creamy Camembert to pungent Roquefort, you can find cheese varieties to suit every palate.

Visiting a fromagerie is a sensory experience like no other. The knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations, allow you to sample different cheeses, and even pair them with wine or bread to enhance your tasting adventure.

The Markets

Paris boasts vibrant outdoor markets where cheese vendors proudly display their wares. One such market is the renowned Marché Bastille, where you can explore stalls brimming with artisanal cheeses, each with its own unique flavor profile and history.

Strolling through these markets, you'll encounter not only traditional French cheeses but also global varieties, reflecting the multicultural nature of Paris. Be sure to try some local favorites like Brie de Meaux, Comté, and Époisses, which are celebrated throughout France.

Cheese and Wine Pairing

Parisians have mastered the art of pairing cheese with wine, creating an exquisite culinary experience. Many wine bars and restaurants in the city offer curated cheese and wine pairings, allowing you to savor the harmony between the two. Whether you prefer a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with a fresh goat cheese or a robust Bordeaux with a rich, aged cheese, Paris has you covered.

Exploring these pairings is not only delicious but also an educational journey into the world of gastronomy. You'll gain insights into the complexities of flavors and aromas that different cheeses and wines can offer when enjoyed together.

The Cheese Festivals

Paris hosts several cheese festivals throughout the year, celebrating this beloved dairy product in all its forms. One notable event is the Salon de l'Agriculture, where cheesemakers from all over France converge to showcase their finest cheeses. It's a fantastic opportunity to taste an incredible variety of cheeses in one place.

Additionally, the Fête du Fromage in the charming town of Coulommiers, just outside of Paris, is a must-visit for cheese enthusiasts. This festival pays homage to the famous Coulommiers cheese, known as the "King of Bries." You can savor this creamy delight and many other cheeses while enjoying live music and cultural performances.

Cheese in French Cuisine

Parisian cuisine incorporates cheese in countless delightful ways. From the classic Croque Monsieur, a grilled ham and cheese sandwich smothered in béchamel sauce, to the elegant Quiche Lorraine, a savory pie filled with cheese and bacon, you'll find cheese used in both traditional and innovative dishes.

Don't forget to try the legendary French onion soup, crowned with melted Gruyère cheese, or the Raclette, where cheese is melted and scraped onto potatoes and charcuterie. These dishes exemplify the French passion for cheese and its integration into their culinary heritage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paris is undeniably a haven for cheese lovers. Its fromageries, markets, wine pairings, cheese festivals, and diverse cheese-infused cuisine make it a top destination for those who appreciate the art and flavors of cheese. A visit to the City of Love would be incomplete without indulging in its cheesy delights, providing a truly unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Paris: Wine and Cheese Lunch Experience

Indulge in a delightful Parisian lunch featuring a diverse selection of French wines and cheeses. Hosted by O Chateau - Paris Wine Tasting, this experience promises an enriching exploration of France's culinary heritage.

Overview

Embark on a gastronomic journey at a charming tasting room near the Louvre. Sample 5 exquisite wines from different regions across France, expertly paired with delectable cheeses. This 'Tour de France' of wine and cheese is a celebration of France's finest culinary offerings.

Highlights

• Sample superb French cheeses in a delightful location near the Louvre.
• Enjoy Champagne and a selection of wines under the guidance of a knowledgeable sommelier.
• Learn to identify various French wine varieties and how to read a French wine label.
• Discover the art of pairing wine with food, enhancing your culinary expertise.

Experience Details

Commencing at noon, this 1.5-hour experience offers a deep dive into the world of French wines and cheeses. Your English-speaking sommelier will lead you through the tasting, providing insights into the cultural significance of each wine region. Delight in the ambiance of a 17th-century 'hotel particulier,' where renowned figures like Voltaire and Rousseau once gathered for exquisite French wine.

What's Included

• Expert guidance from an English-speaking sommelier.
• Access to a beautiful tasting room for your group.
• A curated selection of artisanal cheeses and bread baskets.
• Tasting of 5 French wines, including a Champagne variety.

Meeting Point

O Chateau is conveniently located at 68, rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 75001, Paris, just 3 minutes away from the Louvre Museum. The nearest metro stations are Louvre Rivoli (Line 1) and Etienne Marcel (Line 4).

Customer Reviews

Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 341 reviews, this experience has left visitors raving about the dynamic wine selection, delightful cheese pairings, and the expertise of the sommeliers. Guests particularly appreciated the educational aspect of the tour, enhancing their appreciation for French wines and cheeses.

Where to Find the Best Cheese in Paris

Paris, often referred to as the culinary capital of the world, is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Among the plethora of delicacies it offers, cheese stands out as a quintessential French delight. If you're a cheese connoisseur visiting Paris, you're in for a treat. Here's a guide to help you find the best cheese in the city of lights.

Cheese Shops and Fromageries

Paris boasts numerous cheese shops and fromageries, each with its unique selection of cheeses. One such renowned fromagerie is Fromagerie Laurent Dubois located in the Saint-Germain neighborhood. This fromagerie is celebrated for its diverse range of artisanal cheeses sourced from all regions of France.

Another gem is Androuet, one of Paris' oldest cheese shops. Established in 1909, Androuet offers a delightful variety of cheeses, from creamy Brie to pungent Roquefort. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the flavors and textures to help you find your perfect cheese.

Outdoor Markets

Exploring outdoor markets in Paris is a delightful experience, especially for cheese enthusiasts. Head to Marché Bastille where you'll find stalls adorned with wheels of Camembert, Comté, and Munster. The lively atmosphere enhances the joy of selecting your cheese directly from the producers.

Marché President Wilson is another excellent choice. This market is a haven for food lovers, offering a wide array of cheeses, both local and international. Take a leisurely stroll, savor the aroma, and indulge your taste buds in the world of French cheeses.

Cheese Tastings and Workshops

If you want to delve deeper into the art of cheese, consider attending a cheese tasting or workshop. La Cuisine Paris, located near Notre-Dame, offers cheese and wine pairing workshops. Here, you can learn about the subtleties of flavors and textures while enjoying the perfect combinations of cheese and wine.

Paroles de Fromagers is another venue that hosts cheese tasting events. Engage with expert fromagers who passionately share their knowledge about the origins, production, and tasting techniques. It's an immersive experience that will enrich your understanding of French cheeses.

Restaurants and Cafés

Parisian restaurants and cafés take pride in their cheese selections. When dining out, don't miss the opportunity to indulge in a cheese platter, often served as a dessert or appetizer. Pair your cheese with a glass of fine French wine for a truly authentic experience.

Some restaurants, like Le fromage et les vers à soie, specialize in cheese-centric menus. Here, you can relish fondue, raclette, and other cheese-based dishes prepared with the finest artisanal cheeses. The cozy ambiance adds to the overall charm of the dining experience.

Conclusion

In Paris, the quest for the best cheese is not just a culinary adventure; it's a journey through France's rich dairy heritage. Whether you prefer a mild Camembert or a robust Roquefort, Paris has something to offer every cheese lover. Explore the fromageries, savor the local markets, participate in tastings, and dine in cheese-focused restaurants – your taste buds will thank you for the delightful experience.