With the cold weather hitting our country, we’d love to devour some comfort food, wouldn’t you? Traditional raclettes,fondues and tartiflettes are already on everyone’s tables, delighting palates and hearts alike. To prepare these delicious, comforting recipes, there’s no secret : you need good cheese. Just the thing, as we take you on a tour of the oldest cheese dairy in Paris. Located in the 16ᵉ arrondissement, La Fontaine artisanal cheese dairy is a local landmark. Since 1890, it has been delighting the whole of Paris, from Marcel Proust to Michelin-starred chefs!
La Fontaine: the oldest cheese dairy in Paris
Opened at 75 rue Jean de la Fontaine, in the 16ᵉ arrondissement, this store quickly built a solid reputation. For over 100 years, no fewer than 7 generations of cheese-makers have passionately succeeded one another, supplying several varieties of cheese as well as butter, cream and fresh eggs to the entire neighborhood. Listed as a Historic Monument, it welcomes regulars, connoisseurs and celebrities alike ! Legend has it that Marcel Proust, who lived at n°96, used to go there as a child.
Although Clara Solvit took over the store in 2017, nothing has really changed. You’ll still find its historic maturing cellar, which gives the cheeses prepared on the premises a unique taste. You’ll find nuggets that can’t be found anywhere else, as well as a magnificent selection of raw-milk cheeses. Clara makes a point of selecting her cheeses herself, going directly to the producers’ farms.
You’ll find Gorgonzola as soft as a cloud, Brillat-Savarin balls with zaatar prepared on the premises, exquisite Brie de Meaux and other varieties from the four corners of France and Europe. For your special events, Clara also offers cheese platters made according to your preferences: cow’s milk, ewe’s milk, goat’s milk or with a few pieces of charcuterie as well… the choice is yours! It’s a lovely place, and well worth a visit!
And if you love cheese, don’t miss the immersive Cheese Experience in Paris. A fun, gourmet exhibition where you can learn more about cheese while tasting a few carefully selected pieces.
📍 Location: 75 rue Jean-de-la-Fontaine, 75016 Paris