La Butte Fromagère Review

Just around the corner from Montmartre’s bustling market stalls, La Butte Fromagère quietly makes its mark. It’s not loud or showy, but once you notice the window filled with creamy rounds and aged wedges, it’s impossible not to walk in.

Owned and run by Sophie Cormerais, the shop is small, thoughtful, and full of personality, much like its neighborhood. This is not a tourist trap trying to look rustic. It’s a real Parisian cheese shop with a real story, shaped by someone who clearly knows her product and her clientele. Locals stop in for a weekly favorite, while newcomers linger in front of the glass cases, curious about pyramid-shaped goat cheeses or blue-veined wedges with bold labels.

Location and Ambiance

Set in the heart of Montmartre, La Butte Fromagère blends right into its surroundings. The shop is small but inviting, with a neat counter packed with beautiful cheeses. Locals pop in for their usual, but visitors like me are welcomed with the same ease. The atmosphere is peaceful inside, even when a few people are waiting. There’s something reassuring about the way the shop runs; quiet, precise, and deeply rooted in the neighborhood.

Cheese Selection and Specialties

Though small, the shop carries a deeply curated range of AOP and IGP cheeses, with a special focus on goat and sheep’s milk varieties. Whether you’re a seasoned cheese-lover or just starting to explore beyond Comté and Brie, the staff is happy to guide you through their selection. I found myself eyeing a particularly creamy chèvre that looked almost too perfect to disturb but I’m glad I did. There’s a strong sense that each item on offer is chosen with intention, not volume.

One of my favorite touches was the seasonal additions. On my visit, Sophie pointed out a Tomme aged with summer herbs and a raw-milk Brebis that was new to her rotation. She clearly takes pride in sourcing, and it makes the experience feel more like a guided tasting than a transaction.

Flavor and Quality

Everything I tasted was excellent. The soft cheeses were rich and perfectly ripe, while the aged ones had a satisfying texture and depth. One standout was a mild yet complex Tomme that paired beautifully with a spoon of fig jam I picked up alongside it.

It’s clear the cheeses here are selected with care, and you’re gently encouraged to discover something new, not just grab what’s familiar.

Service and Customer Experience

Sophie, the owner, brings a kind and attentive presence to the shop. She offered helpful suggestions and explained differences without being pushy. Even with a short line behind me, I never felt rushed. She speaks English well, making this a comfortable stop even if your French is limited. The space is small, so patience helps but the experience is worth that extra few minutes.

Pricing and Value for Money

For the quality, prices here are very fair. You’re not paying for flash or hype, you’re paying for well-made cheese, sourced with care, and sold by someone who truly understands the product. I walked away with three kinds of cheese for just under €15, which felt like excellent value considering the experience and quality.

They also offer pre-packed options that make for great gifts or picnic spreads, especially if you’re heading up to the nearby Sacré-Cœur for an afternoon with a view.

Best Time to Visit

Like most great Paris food spots, the shop sees the most traffic on weekends. Try weekday afternoons for a quieter moment, or go early on Saturdays before the neighborhood gets crowded. The shop is closed Mondays, but open the rest of the week, including through lunch hours.

Why Visit La Butte Fromagère?

La Butte Fromagère stands out not for flash, but for depth. The selection isn’t huge, but it’s meaningful. The service isn’t rehearsed, but it’s real. If you’re exploring Montmartre and want to step off the main path for a taste of local flavor, this shop is more than worth the detour. It’s the kind of place where cheese becomes more than food it becomes memory. You can experience this shop and other hidden gems by joining one of Eating Europe’s Montmartre food tours or browsing their Paris culinary itineraries.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

La Butte Fromagère is perfect for curious tourists, returning foodies, and anyone who enjoys the feeling of discovering something quietly excellent.

Tips:

Ask for recommendations, they know their stuff.
Don’t be afraid to try something unfamiliar.
Packaging is flight-safe, so it’s a great spot to pick up gifts for home.

And yes, I’d absolutely return.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does La Butte Fromagère ship internationally?

No, they don’t currently offer international shipping.

Can I bring cheese home on a flight?

Yes! Most of their cheeses are wrapped in a way that makes them safe for air travel.

Does the shop offer cheese and wine pairings?

Not officially, but they’re happy to suggest pairings based on your cheese choices.

Are there vegan or lactose-free options?

This shop focuses on traditional cheeses, so options are limited for vegans, but goat’s milk options may suit those who are lactose-sensitive.

Is it part of any local food tours?

Yes, it’s featured in Eating Europe’s Montmartre Food & Wine tour.

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Best cheese shop in Paris. Eating Europe. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/best-cheese-shop-in-paris/

Petits Commerces. (n.d.). La Butte Fromagère. Petits Commerces. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://www.petitscommerces.fr/page/la-butte-fromagere/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Montmartre food tour Paris. Eating Europe. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/paris/montmartre-food-tour-2-2/