New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and nowhere is this more deliciously evident than in its diverse cheese boards. These creations are not merely assortments of dairy; they are galleries showcasing the artistry of taste, texture, and tradition. From artisanal creamery delights to rustic selections that evoke pastoral charm, each neighborhood offers its own interpretation. Below is a curated list of ten exceptional cheese boards across the city’s myriad neighborhoods, each one echoing the unique character and flavor palette of its surroundings.
1. Murray’s Cheese
Address: 254 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 243-3289
Website: murrayscheese.com
Step into Murray’s Cheese, and you’re greeted by the warm embrace of rich aromas and excited chatter. Known for its thoughtfully curated cheese boards that encapsulate global flavors, this Greenwich Village gem offers selections that range from creamy Brie to potent Roquefort. Each board is meticulously arranged, transforming cheese into a canvas for culinary artistry.
2. Beecher’s Handmade Cheese
Address: 900 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 466-3340
Website: beecherscheese.com
With a mission to revolutionize cheese and challenging the status quo, Beecher’s—a cozy nook in the Flatiron District—offers a cheese board that embodies the very essence of artisanal craft. Their renowned flagship cheese, Flagship, takes center stage, complemented by handmade crackers and seasonal accompaniments. The intricacies of flavor mimic the complex urban landscape surrounding it.
3. Casellula Cheese & Wine Café
Address: 401 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 691-0555
Website: casellula.com
Casellula, nestled in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, is a haven for cheese enthusiasts. Their cheese board tells a narrative, featuring a selection of new and old-world cheeses, complemented by house-made preserves and cured meats. It’s an ode to flavor pairing, where each bite harmonizes like musicians in an orchestral performance, transcending mere snacking.
4. The Cheese Store of Manhattan
Address: 2110 Broadway, New York, NY 10023
Contact: (212) 873-6400
Website: cheesestoreofmanhattan.com
At The Cheese Store of Manhattan, one finds an impeccable blend of local favorites and international treasures. Each cheese board is a medley of flavors, designed for the inquisitive palate. The knowledgeable staff curates stunning pairings, creating a sensory experience akin to wandering through a vibrant cheese market.
5. Murray’s Cheese Bar
Address: 264 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 924-2980
Website: murrayscheesebar.com
Murray’s Cheese Bar is where cheese dreams indeed come true. The selections on their cheese board are meticulously inspired by seasonal offerings and curated with a chef’s touch. Snacks to indulge in between bites include fresh figs and honey that weave a sweet narrative through the savory landscapes before you.
6. Fromage Fine Foods
Address: 353 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 757-0412
Website: fromagenyc.com
Fromage Fine Foods, a hidden gem in the bustling theater district, transforms a cheese board into a theatrical experience of taste. With cheeses sourced from artisanal producers, each platter is an encore of flavors and textures. The vibrant surroundings mirror the excitement of their cheese selections, creating an ambiance that teems with life.
7. Eataly NYC Flatiron – La Piazza
Address: 200 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10010
Contact: (212) 897-2895
Website: eataly.com
The cheese board at Eataly’s La Piazza serves as a gateway to the Italian countryside. With a selection that emphasizes regional Italian cheeses along with homemade focaccia and seasonal vegetables, each bite transports you through the rolling hills of Italy. Amidst the vibrant market atmosphere, this board becomes a shared experience of gastronomic wanderlust.
8. Artisanal Cheese
Address: 82 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 777-8700
Website: artisanalpremiumcheese.com
At Artisanal Cheese, the experience is akin to embarking on a culinary expedition. Their cheese board showcases a remarkable variety curated for the true cheese lover, featuring obscure selections alongside popular staples. Wines are expertly paired, elevating each board into a refined experience of exploration and delight.
9. Cheese & Cheers
Address: 50 E 25th St, New York, NY 10010
Contact: (212) 696-2550
Website: cheeseandcheers.com
Cheese & Cheers captures the essence of friendly conviviality, where each cheese board invites guests to gather and share. Using artisanal cheeses sourced from across the globe, the selections reflect a spirit of community. The thoughtful pairings with craft beers create an unparalleled harmony, encouraging laughter and spirited conversations.
10. The Bedford Cheese Shop
Address: 149 E 2nd St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (646) 200-7030
Website: bedfordcheeseshop.com
Finally, The Bedford Cheese Shop embodies the charm of a rustic charcuterie, where the cheese board reflects attention to small-batch producers and local farms. The result is a board rich in narrative and flavor depth—a local’s homage to the artistry around them. Each cheese selection is paired with thoughtful preserves and crunchy bites, painting a warms portrait of community spirit.
In conclusion, traversing the cheese board landscape of New York City is akin to savoring a culinary symphony. Each establishment not only presents a platter of artisanal cheese but curates an experience—an exploration of diverse cultural heritages and individual craftsmanship that enliven the ordinary with a splendid touch of creativity and imagination. Consider this list a veritable roadmap to sumptuous adventures waiting to unfold on your taste buds.
