Do you have an affinity for cheese and are in search of premium, flavorful varieties for your charcuterie arrangements, gourmet platters, or custom-made burgers? If so, fortune is on your side! Southern California is home to numerous renowned cheese stores. These neighborhood gems offer a wide array of palate-approved and meticulously selected cheeses guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. Here’s a list of cheese shops you won’t want to miss:
1. DTLA Cheese – Downtown L.A
Nestled in the vibrant Grand Central Market, DTLA Cheese is the brainchild of sisters Lydia and Marnie Clarke, who also own the Cheese Cave in Claremont. This shop, boasting a collection of over 100 cheese varieties, is more than equipped to address any cheese-related inquiries you may have. Their cut-to-order cheese counter doubles as a dining spot, featuring a kitchen with a lunch menu that includes items like avocado and herbed ricotta toast.
2. Wally’s Cheese Shops
At Wally’s cheese emporiums, a vast array of cheese and charcuterie awaits, catering to all your gourmet desires. When it comes to cheese shops, Wally’s is well-versed in the backstory of each cheese, boasting an impressive collection that includes elusive varieties. Noteworthy highlights include cheeses made from Buffalo milk and Andante’s Rondo, a unique blend of cow and goat’s milk. Additionally, they offer an array of gourmet accompaniments like sweet pistachio butter and wines to perfect your cheese board experience.
3. Vromage – West Hollywood
What makes Vromage stand out? As L.A’s singular vegan cheese shop, Vromage brings to the table an extensive range of expertly aged, plant-based cheeses, crafted from nuts and seeds. But that’s not all! Youssef Fakhouri, the shop’s owner, extends his vegan cheese expertise to an array of salads, gluten-free sandwiches, and Crunch Pizzas, all featuring his signature vegan cheese.
4. Andrew’s Cheese Shop – Santa Monica
Andrew Steiner, a passionate connoisseur, owns this store brimming with artisanal cheeses and impeccably curated accompaniments. These include house-made jams, spreads, tapenades, and roasted macadamia nuts. The shop keeps things fresh and intriguing for local cheese enthusiasts with rotating multi-course menus and chic events like the beloved grilled cheese and beer night. Don’t forget to visit their website for a comprehensive list of available cheeses and their descriptions, as well as information on their cheese classes.
5. Artisan Cheese and Wine – Studio City
Located in Studio City, this abundant cheese and wine shop is renowned for its notable selection of delectable cheeses, perfect for social gatherings or picnic outings. They also dish out freshly-prepared sandwiches and soups, made using top-tier domestic and imported cheeses and often garnished with in-house pestos, aioli, and dressings. In addition to their acclaimed ‘fondue for two’ served on Friday and Saturday evenings, this place also serves as an ideal spot for a relaxing Sunday brunch with friends.
6. Cheese Mongers of Sherman Oaks
Operating from Thursday to Sunday, this cheese shop delivers an array of meticulously chosen artisan cheeses from across the globe. In addition to cheese, the shop showcases an enticing array of robust charcuterie assortment featuring prosciutto, pâté, and more. Other cheese-compatible sidekicks, like pepper pickles and olives, are skillfully incorporated into their famous picnic boards. The proprietors also offer a constantly changing lineup of courses and a cheese club. Members get a taste of top-picked cheeses each month.
7. Gourmet Cheese Shop– Thousand Oaks
Gourmet cheese shop presents a vast selection of cheeses from various corners of the globe. The friendly staff is always eager to provide suggestions and assist you in discovering your ultimate cheese preference.