8 Views
Fromagerie Barthélemy is a type of locations that feels quietly iconic. Opened in 1959 and now run by Claire Griffon, a third-generation cheese monger and the daughter of Champagne farmers, the store is each deeply conventional and proudly unbiased.
It is a family-owned and female-led fromagerie the place each element, from the handpicked cheeses to the polished retro facade, speaks of care and heritage. Claire’s fame as a inventive affineur is well-known amongst locals and cooks alike, and lots of come right here not only for the cheese, however for the expertise of getting into an area that has stayed true to its values for over sixty years.
Location and Ambiance
Barthélemy is tucked away on a facet road, simply off the principle movement of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It’s a tiny, considerably hidden store, however it has a really inviting vibe just like the witch’s home in Hansel and Gretel, solely made from cheese. Step inside and also you’re instantly a part of one thing particular. The house is small, perhaps 5 folks match comfortably. However it by no means feels cramped. As an alternative, it seems like strolling into somebody’s pantry. It’s peaceable in a approach that almost all retailers simply aren’t anymore. And actually, I like that.
Cheese Choice and Specialties
Should you’re a cheese lover, this place is paradise. Even when you’re not, you’ll in all probability depart with one thing in your bag. The Fontainebleau is a should. It’s a whipped cheese with a texture so gentle it practically disappears in your tongue. I often take it dwelling with a little bit of berry compote or native honey.
One other favourite is the Ossau-Iraty, a sheep’s milk cheese from the Basque area. They typically have a properly aged model that’s nutty and wealthy with out being heavy. After which there’s the wild card “the Cherry Bibi”. It’s blue cheese layered with morello cherries, and sure, it sounds unusual. However belief me, it really works. And when you don’t know what to get the workers are completely satisfied to assist. I’ve walked in earlier than and simply mentioned, “What’s good as we speak?” and at all times walked out with one thing memorable.
High quality and Craftsmanship
High quality at Barthélemy speaks for itself. Each cheese is dealt with with respect and precision. The growing older course of is rigorously monitored, and the store has a long-standing fame for ripening cheeses to perfection. Claire’s hands-on model ensures that every wedge or spherical reaches its peak taste earlier than it hits the counter.
Barthélemy has quietly served as an official provider to the French presidency since 1970, although you’d by no means realize it from the modest decor. There aren’t any awards or pictures on the partitions, simply wonderful cheese, fantastically offered.
Buyer Expertise
The environment is relaxed, even when the store is full. Claire typically works the counter herself, greeting regulars by identify whereas calmly guiding newcomers by way of the picks. The workers are useful and affected person, providing explanations and pairing concepts with out ever speeding you. Even when it will get busy, I by no means really feel pressured to rush. There’s a type of rhythm to how issues transfer right here, and it makes the entire expertise really feel considerate and real.
Pricing and Worth
Barthélemy is not cheap, however it’s additionally not attempting to be. Costs are truthful for the high quality and care behind every merchandise. Whether or not you’re spending €5 or €50, you get one thing that feels deliberate and nicely chosen. Portion sizes are versatile. You’ll be able to request only a small slice to style or refill for a full cheese board. This flexibility makes it straightforward to discover completely different flavors with out committing to giant portions.
Very best Time to Go to
Weekday mornings are the perfect time to go to if you wish to keep away from the crowds. The tempo is slower, the service extra targeted, and also you’ll have house to ask questions. Weekends could be a bit tight, particularly within the small store, however the workers by no means lose their calm. Should you’re touring, early visits additionally enable time for vacuum-packing or journey suggestions.
Why Go to Fromagerie Barthélemy
Paris has no scarcity of nice cheese retailers, however Barthélemy gives one thing extra private. It’s a spot that rewards curiosity and values custom. Should you take pleasure in gradual, well-made meals and a little bit of human connection together with your procuring, it is a must-visit.
There’s a quiet attraction right here that’s onerous to place into phrases. It doesn’t shout for consideration, it merely waits to be found. And while you do, it feels such as you’ve discovered one thing that belongs to the true Paris.
Last Ideas and Suggestion
Fromagerie Barthélemy isn’t flashy or trendy and it doesn’t have to be. It’s refined, heat, and grounded within the type of on a regular basis excellence that defines actual culinary tradition. Whether or not you’re grabbing a wedge for a riverside picnic or assembling a travel-ready cheese choice, you’re in good fingers. I at all times depart with one thing new to like. The Fontainebleau with honey is a favourite, however even the surprising finds like a slice of aged goat cheese or a brand new pairing suggestion make every go to particular. It’s a spot that quietly earns your belief and a must-visit on any Paris meals tour.
Often Requested Questions
Does Fromagerie Barthélemy supply worldwide transport?
- No, the store doesn’t at present supply worldwide transport. All purchases have to be made in particular person.
Are there choices for vacuum-sealing cheeses for journey?
- Sure, many cheeses could be vacuum-sealed upon request. That is particularly useful for vacationers trying to take merchandise dwelling safely.
Is it acceptable to pattern cheeses earlier than buying?
- Sampling is feasible, however remember the fact that the store operates with a quiet, respectful tone. Should you’re not sure a couple of product, politely asking for steerage or a small style is welcome.
Does the store supply non-dairy options?
- No, Fromagerie Barthélemy makes a speciality of conventional French cheeses and doesn’t supply non-dairy substitutes.
Is there a minimal buy requirement?
- There is no such thing as a formal minimal, and the group is completely satisfied that will help you construct a range that matches your wants and price range whether or not it’s a full cheese board or only a small tasting portion.
Sources:
Consuming Europe. (n.d.). Paris meals excursions. https://www.eatingeurope.com/paris/
Consuming Europe. (2022, September 29). The perfect cheese store in Paris. https://www.eatingeurope.com/weblog/best-cheese-shop-in-paris/
Fromagerie Nicole Barthélémy. (n.d.). Fromagerie Nicole Barthélémy [Facebook page]. Fb. https://www.fb.com/pages/Fromagerie-Nicole-BarthpercentC3percentA9lpercentC3percentA9my/190359770986133
