Ratafia

At Ratafia, the food program centers on exceptional French cheeses sourced with the expertise of Alexandre Renault from COW. The selection rotates based on seasonality and availability, but you can expect to find outstanding examples of French fromage including creamy, pungent Langres from Champagne, classic Brie de Meaux with its rich, buttery character, the delicate Trèfle du Perche, and tangy Pérail des Cabasses from the Cabasses farm. The founders also venture beyond French borders occasionally, offering selections like Shropshire Blue at €49 per kilo for those seeking something different.

The cheese boards are composed with the same attention to detail that Robin Madeline and Valentin François once applied to architectural projects. Each selection is carefully considered for flavor progression, texture contrast, and seasonal appropriateness. Accompanying the cheeses are quality charcuterie options that complement rather than compete with the fromage, along with appropriate accompaniments like bread, preserves, and nuts.

Beyond the boards, Ratafia has developed a reputation for its "dwichs canaillous"—playful, indulgent sandwiches that showcase the same commitment to quality ingredients. The signature offering is the Grilled Cheese featuring tender shredded beef (effiloché de bœuf), a decadent creation that elevates the humble grilled cheese into something memorable. These sandwiches are available at lunch Tuesday through Saturday, providing a perfect midday option for those seeking something more substantial than a simple cheese plate.

The approach to food at Ratafia is refreshingly straightforward: source the best possible ingredients, treat them with respect, and let their inherent quality shine. Whether you're enjoying a carefully composed cheese board with natural wine in the evening or grabbing a sandwich at lunch, you're experiencing the founders' commitment to authenticity and excellence in every bite.