Patrick Oconnell
There are several cities around the world that are famous for their cheese. For instance, Somerset in the UK is known for its village of Cheddar, the birthplace of the eponymous cheese. In the US, Wisconsin is synonymous with cheese, and Vermont is known for its superior cheddar. In California, Modesto, San Francisco, and Los Angeles are some of the top cities for cheese lovers. In Europe, Italian cities like Parma, Reggio, and Pienza are known for their Parmigiano-Reggiano and pecorino cheeses, respectively. French cheeses are also renowned for their quality and variety, with over 400 distinct types produced across the country.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cities with the best access to cheese | New York City, Chicago, Modesto, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Madison, Milwaukee, Montreal, Tokyo |
| Cities with the best quality of cheese | New York City, Chicago, Modesto, Alkmaar, Pienza, Somerset, Cheddar, Oaxaca, Chihuahua, Jalisco, Michoacán, Baja California, Parma, New Orleans |
| Cities with the best affordability of cheese | N/A |
| Cities with the best community interest in cheese | N/A |
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What You'll Learn
- New York City, USA: Home of the King of Mozzarella
- Alkmaar, Netherlands: Traditional cheese markets and the Holland Cheese Museum
- Pienza, Italy: Known for its pecorino, a hard cheese made from sheep's milk
- Somerset, UK: Home of the village of Cheddar and Cheddar Gorge
- California, USA: The second-biggest producer of cheese among the states
New York City, USA: Home of the King of Mozzarella
New York City, or the Big Apple, is known for many things, and its pizza scene is certainly one of them. And what is pizza without cheese? It is only fitting, then, that the city boasts a hotspot for cheese lovers: Casa Della Mozzarella, the "house of mozzarella", in the heart of the Bronx's Little Italy.
The deli is owned by Orazio Carciotto, a Sicilian native, and his son, Carlo. The establishment is famous for its freshly made, traditional mozzarella. The father-son duo has been crafting this delicious cheese daily, supplying New Yorkers with the perfect base for their pizzas or sandwiches. Their store is not just about mozzarella, though; they also offer a range of Italian cheeses, including the ever-popular burrata.
New York City has a lot to offer cheese enthusiasts beyond Little Italy. Murray's in West Village is a must-visit destination, with a vast selection of cheeses that will satisfy any craving. As one of the largest cheese retailers in the country, they offer hundreds of selections, from familiar cheddars to exclusive Alpine-style cheeses. If you're looking for a cosy spot to indulge in cheese and wine, 8th Street Wine Cellar in Greenwich Village offers elegant cheese plates with a variety of selections.
For those seeking a unique, immersive cheese experience, the FCB is the place to be. It features a gallery of recently commissioned NFTs and a virtual reality lab, providing a modern twist to your traditional cheese shop. New York also has a worthy cheese shop in every borough, with excellent cheese programmes curated by local grocers. The Ideal Cheese Shop in Midtown East is another gem, offering a global selection of cheeses, including European delights like Swiss Vacherin and truffle Brie.
So, whether you're a New York local or just visiting, be sure to explore the city's diverse cheese scene. With options ranging from traditional Italian delis to modern immersive experiences, New York City truly is a haven for cheese enthusiasts, and it solidifies its reputation as the home of the King of Mozzarella.
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Alkmaar, Netherlands: Traditional cheese markets and the Holland Cheese Museum
The charming city of Alkmaar in the Netherlands is renowned for its traditional cheese markets and the fascinating Holland Cheese Museum. Located just 35 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Alkmaar offers a delightful experience for cheese enthusiasts and those seeking a glimpse into Dutch cheese culture.
The Alkmaar Cheese Market, held on the Waagplein in the heart of the city, is a time-honoured tradition that dates back centuries. This vibrant market takes place weekly from the last Friday of March until the last Friday of September, with an additional Tuesday evening market during the summer months. The square buzzes with activity as stacks of cheese, totalling 2,400 cheeses weighing 28,000 kg, are displayed for all to see. The famous cheese bearers, donning traditional attire, carry the cheeses with great pride and enthusiasm. The market is not just a commercial venture but a celebration of Alkmaar's rich cheese history, attracting thousands of visitors from around the globe.
The cheese market has a long and fascinating history in Alkmaar. In 1365, the city was granted weighing rights and initially had one weighing scale. By 1612, the number of scales had increased to four, indicating the growing importance of the cheese trade. While the exact origins of the market are shrouded in mystery, old documents confirm that the cheese market was definitely in existence by 1622, and there is evidence suggesting that the cheese carriers' guild was founded as early as 1593.
The Holland Cheese Museum, located near the Waagplein, provides a wealth of knowledge about the city's cheese heritage. Visitors can learn about the traditions, customs, and processes involved in cheese-making, gaining a deeper understanding of why cheese is so integral to Alkmaar's culture and identity. The museum also offers a special deal for those travelling by train, including admission to the museum and a return train ticket from any station in the Netherlands to Alkmaar Station.
For those travelling with children, Alkmaar offers a unique experience during the summer school holidays. The Children's Cheese Market allows kids aged 5 and older to participate in activities such as lifting and guessing the weight of cheese, as well as tasting some delicious samples. This interactive and educational experience is a fun way to introduce young visitors to the world of cheese and Dutch traditions.
In conclusion, Alkmaar, Netherlands, is a must-visit destination for cheese aficionados. With its vibrant traditional cheese market, the majestic Holland Cheese Museum, and the charming city surroundings, Alkmaar offers a delightful blend of culture, history, and, of course, delicious cheese.
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Pienza, Italy: Known for its pecorino, a hard cheese made from sheep's milk
The small town of Pienza in Tuscany, Italy, is known for its pecorino, a hard cheese made from sheep's milk. Pecorino is one of the world's oldest cheeses, and it comes in various forms all over Italy. The name "pecorino" comes from the Italian word for sheep, "pecora". Pienza is a UNESCO-protected Renaissance town filled with palaces, churches, and piazzas. It is a hub for pecorino cheese, with charming little cheese shops dotted around the town.
Pecorino di Pienza is made from pasteurized sheep's milk, salt, selected lactic ferments, and rennet. It is aged for three months and rubbed with olive oil and tomato paste, giving it a salty-sweet flavour. This young cheese is best enjoyed fresh, as the complex flavours and aromas of good cheese can change and degrade over time.
There are several varieties of pecorino, including stagionato, which is harder and crumbly with buttery and nutty flavours; semi-stagionato, which has a drier texture and a slightly nutty note; and fresco, which is softer and milder. Pecorino di Pienza is considered a semi-stagionato pecorino.
The production of pecorino in Pienza has evolved over time. The landscape of the region, with its rugged terrain and aromatic herb meadows, once covered in wild pastures, has largely remained the same. However, the methods of cheesemaking have undergone changes. In the 1960s, as young people migrated to cities, the Italian government encouraged shepherds from Sardinia to relocate to Pienza. They brought their own traditions and sheep breeds, such as the Sardo breed, which is known for its superior milk production.
Today, the traditional methods of cheesemaking in Pienza are facing new challenges. Some makers are introducing new sheep breeds from France, Spain, and Israel, which can produce milk while cooped up in barns. This shift towards industrial production using imported milk concerns artisans, who believe it compromises the flavour of the cheese. To ensure an authentic taste of Pienza, it is recommended to buy from small producers who use milk from local valley sheep.
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Somerset, UK: Home of the village of Cheddar and Cheddar Gorge
Somerset, UK, is a county nestled along the Bristol Channel coast, known for its crisp air, sandy beaches, and historic market towns. It is also famous for its cheese, specifically the village of Cheddar, the birthplace of the eponymous cheese, and Cheddar Gorge.
Cheddar is a village in Somerset that has a long and rich history, dating back to the Roman and Saxon eras. The village was an important centre during these periods, hosting a royal palace that was used to receive the Witenagemot, or council of wise men, on three occasions in the 10th century. Cheddar was also a source of wealth through farming and cheese-making, for which it became famous as early as 1170 AD.
Cheddar Gorge, located near the village, is a spectacular natural landmark. At almost 400 feet deep and 3 miles long, it is England's largest gorge. The gorge has been recognised as one of the "Four wonders of England" as early as 1130 AD. Visitors can hike, climb, or drive through the gorge, taking in the memorable views and spotting wildlife, including the famous feral goats.
The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company offers visitors the opportunity to taste local cheeses, and there are also several Slow Food-authorized Somerset cheddar makers in the region, including Montgomery Cheese, Westcombe Dairy, and Trethowan's Dairy. The annual Frome Agricultural & Cheese Show in autumn is another attraction for cheese lovers.
In addition to its cheese-related offerings, Cheddar has a thriving sports community, with clubs such as Cheddar A.F.C., Cheddar Cricket Club, and Cheddar Rugby Club. Tourism is also a significant source of employment in the village, with many visitors attracted by the natural beauty of the gorge and the historic sites, such as the ruins of the Saxon palace and the 14th-century chapel dedicated to St. Columbanus.
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California, USA: The second-biggest producer of cheese among the states
While Europe is the largest cheese producer in the world, the United States is not far behind in second place, with approximately 6.35 million metric tons of cheese produced. Within the US, Wisconsin is the top cheese-producing state, often referred to as "America's Dairyland". However, California is a close second and has made significant contributions to the country's cheese industry.
California has fostered a thriving artisan cheese culture, with a wide array of award-winning artisanal cheeses. The state is particularly known for its mozzarella and Monterey Jack. From Sonoma County to Humboldt County, California's lush pastures and rolling hills provide the ideal setting for dairy farming.
The state's cheese-making expertise is not limited to traditional varieties but also extends to innovative creations. California's diverse landscape and climate contribute to the unique characteristics of its cheeses, reflecting the state's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
California's cheese industry is an essential part of the state's economy and cultural identity. The state has established itself as a prominent player in the global cheese market, with its products enjoyed by consumers both domestically and internationally. The state also counts the highest number of milk cows among all US states, contributing to its high cheese production levels.
While California may be known for its sunny beaches and innovative tech industry, its cheese-making prowess adds another layer to its diverse and dynamic culture, attracting tourists and food enthusiasts alike.
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Frequently asked questions
The state of Wisconsin is synonymous with cheese, and two of its cities, Madison and Milwaukee, are in the top 10 cheese cities in the US. California is the second-biggest producer of cheese in the US, and three of its cities, Modesto, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, are in the top 10.
Somerset in the UK is home to the village of Cheddar, the birthplace of the eponymous cheese. The town of Alkmaar in the Netherlands has one of the few traditional Dutch cheese markets still in existence. Pienza in Italy is known for its pecorino cheese.
New York City is known for its pizza, as is Chicago, the birthplace of deep-dish pizza. Istanbul is famous for its pide, a type of flatbread topped with lots of cheese. Tokyo has recently become known for its pizza, which often features a thick and gooey Provel cheese.
