Savor Summer with 5 Delicious Local Cheeses for Your Al Fresco Feast
In the heart of New York City, the culinary world is bustling with excitement, and one of the most intriguing developments is the growing interest in local cheese. From artisan farms to specialty shops, the city is brimming with opportunities to explore and enjoy locally-produced cheeses.
Meghan Keneally, a reporter based in Manhattan and a passionate food enthusiast, has been documenting her gastronomic adventures on her restaurant review blog, Let's Eat Out. Keneally, a graduate of the Columbia University School of Journalism, has also written about food for Gothamist and Food Republic.
One of the standout cheeses in the city is the More Beer cheese, produced by Valley Shepherd Creamery, based in New Jersey. This cow milk-based cheese features an earthy undertone, thanks to the vegetable ash used in its formation. Valley Shepherd Creamery is planning on opening a second store in New York, focusing on the More Beer cheese and a special selection of microbrews.
For those who prefer a softer, rind cheese, The Flatiron Cheese, developed in the store by cheesemaker Dan Utano, is a fantastic choice. This cheese pairs wonderfully with a dry Riesling. The Flatiron Cheese is produced locally in New York City at Beecher's Handmade Cheese on Broadway and 20th Street.
Picnic season is upon us, and for summer outings in NYC, artisan varieties from regional farms are highly recommended. Jasper Hill Farm in Vermont, relatively close to the city, is celebrated for its flavorful and versatile cheeses, such as Whitney. This creamy, slightly oniony, and highly meltable raclette-style cheese is perfect for picnic enjoyment.
For those seeking locally-produced cheese near NYC, Bloomy Cheese & Provisions in Dobbs Ferry, NY, is an excellent choice. This shop emphasizes artisanal cheeses crafted by farmers and cheesemakers connected to the Northeast’s local food traditions, providing a reliable source of fresh, locally-produced cheese.
For those who appreciate full flavors, the Shushan Snow cheese from Three Corner Field Farm is a key choice. Mettowee goat cheese from Consider Bardwell Farm, only available in the summer months, and the Fresco pecorino from Dancing Ewe Farm, aged for just two months before being sold, are also worth trying. The Fresco pecorino pairs well with a fruity white wine like Vermentino or Ansonica, while the Shushan Snow cheese pairs beautifully with hard ciders.
For a more seasonal experience, the Fresco pecorino is great for adding on top of green or bean salads, and Mettowee goat cheese pairs wonderfully with juicy fruits like strawberries or crisp green vegetables.
As the summer unfolds, take advantage of the city's thriving local cheese scene. Resources like Cheese Trail (though focused on California) offer directories of artisan cheesemakers and specialty shops, suggesting that similar Northeast-focused cheese trails or local markets around NYC provide a good starting point to find unique, locally-made cheeses for your summer outings. Happy picnicking!
[1] Gothamist article about summer picnic cheeses [2] Food Republic article about Bloomy Cheese & Provisions [4] Cheese Trail directory
- Meghan Keneally, intrigued by the thriving local cheese scene in New York City, recommends exploring artisan varieties from regional farms, such as Jasper Hill Farm in Vermont, for a unique picnic experience.
- For those who prefer a lifestyle centered around food-and-drink, home-and-garden enthusiasts may enjoy exploring local cheese recipes, pairing cheeses with wines or ciders, and following cheese-focused trails or markets around New York City.
