Xavier: A Temple of Cheese in the Heart of Toulouse
Nestled in the heart of Toulouse, adjacent to the vibrant Marché Couvert Victor Hugo, lies a cheese lover’s haven - Fromagerie Xavier. This illustrious establishment, established in 1976 by master cheese ager, Xavier, is the pinnacle of artisanal cheese mastery in the city. Today, the shop is helmed by Xavier's son, François, who has upheld the family tradition and enhanced it with a touch of modernity.
Discover Fromagerie Xavier's enchanting façade at 6 Place Victor Hugo, Toulouse - the gateway to cheese heaven.
Xavier, a young man with roots in farming, ventured from Haut-Doubs to Toulouse, blending tradition and modernity. He set up a boutique with his wife Marie, which quickly gained fame for its exceptional cheese selection. Today, the shop boasts an assortment of over 300 cheeses, sourced and meticulously aged by the skilled team at Xavier.
One unique aspect that sets Xavier apart is that they are affineurs. But what does this mean? In France, affineur is a distinct profession from cheesemaking. An affineur expertly ages the cheeses, a crucial process that elevates their flavors and textures. Xavier's cheese aging happens in their own cellars, adhering to the highest hygiene standards.
The star of Xavier is the Comté AOP - 'Selection 2021', a beloved cheese in France and a specialty of the shop. With a uniform yellow, supple texture and flavors varying with seasons, their Comté is known for its rich taste.
The caliber of Xavier’s offerings is evident in the awards it has received. François, who took over in 2004, has been honored with the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France (Best Craftsman of France) title in 2011, a testament to his excellence in the domain of cheese. In Toulouse, Xavier is the only cheese shop to hold this accolade.
François, fromager, affineur and holder of the MOF title (Meilleur Ouvrier en France).
The Fromagerie Xavier team not only provides cheese but educates and guides customers, including esteemed restaurateurs. They also engage in community events, debates, educational campaigns, and tastings, making them ambassadors of cheese culture.
Finally, for those embarking on the Toulouse Traditional Food Tour, Xavier is a must-visit stop. The tour includes sampling regional premium cheeses, including an extensive selection of soft goat and sheep milk cheeses, pressed paste cheeses, soft paste cheeses with washed and bloomed rind, blue cheeses, and more.
For an unforgettable gastronomic experience, make your way to Xavier at 6 Place Victor Hugo, 31000 Toulouse. Here, tradition meets innovation, and every cheese tells a story that awaits to be savored.
