Lisbon is no stranger to good food, but when a true fromagerie sets up shop, you take notice. Especially when it’s run by three passionate French friends who know their cheese like the back of their hand. Maître Renard isn’t just a place to buy cheese — it’s a deep dive into the art of French cheesemaking, paired with natural wines, delicatessen delights, and a touch of storytelling.

Founded in 2017 by Léonie Benoist and Ulysse Jasinsky, the name Maître Renard comes from La Fontaine’s fable The Fox and the Crow — a tale where a cunning fox sweet-talks a crow into dropping its cheese. The moral? Always watch your cheese (or just eat it before someone else does).

The selection is all about the best farmhouse and raw milk cheeses, sourced from small French producers who respect terroir and aging techniques. With over 100 varieties rotating throughout the year, their refrigerated display is an ever-changing landscape of flavors, textures, and aromas.

Step inside, and you’ll find yourself guided by a team that treats cheese like fine art. They monitor, turn, and care for each wheel daily, ensuring the perfect maturation. They’ll talk you through the best pairings — maybe a bold Comté with a crisp French cider, or a creamy Brie with a glass of natural wine. And yes, they’ll happily let you taste before you take the plunge.

Beyond cheese, the shop is a treasure trove of French delicacies. Think small-batch mustards, duck terrines, foie gras, rich yogurts, and artisan butters. And for those who like their cheese with a cold drink, there’s a solid selection of craft beers from France, Portugal, and beyond — because yes, beer and cheese make a dream team.

With locations in Campo de Ourique and Cascais, Maître Renard is a must-visit for cheese lovers. Just be careful — once you get a taste, there’s no going back.