The first Beecher’s Handmade Cheese shop was opened in the heart of Seattle’s Pike Place Market in 2003 by Kurt Beecher Dammeier. On June 24th, a second location opened in the Flatiron District of NYC: a 8,000-square-foot store/factory/cafe/restaurant.
Stepping foot inside the entranceway, I was excited to see what cheese was available for sale, especially since The New York Times mentioned it would have a counter with 75 American cheeses. No, not your ordinary yellow American cheese, but a wonderful variety, like Cabot Clothbound from the Cellars of Jasper Hill in Vermont, Detroit Street Brick from Zingerman’s Creamery in Michigan, and Beecher’s signature Flagship cheese.
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| Cheese case Photo courtesy of Beecher’s Handmade Cheese |
As soon as I entered the shop, I was greeted by a woman who handed me a sample of the Flagship cheese. It had a rich, nutty flavor, and was absolutely delicious. I wish I had a glass of wine to pair with it. Resisting another sample, I perused the store. At the front of the store was the cheese case displaying wheels – whole, halved, and quartered from across America. Also available were condiments to pair with the cheese, including crackers, pickles, dipping sauces, as well as domestic charcuterie.
Another item I recommend trying at the cafe is the Strata, which varies daily. I tried the Vegetable and Cheese Strata, and I did let out a loud Mmm as soon as I had some. The flavors of the cheese, vegetables, and bread married perfectly in every bite. I can’t wait to try the other version, Salmon, when it’s available.
Other items available at the café are a variety of baked breakfast goods, soups, salads, and grilled sandwiches made fresh daily. I haven’t tried any of their grilled cheese sandwiches, but that is on my to-do list.
When you’ve placed your order at the café, grab a seat in front of the glass-in room where you can watch the cheesemongers at work. Or go upstairs to the mezzanine, and watch the folks down on the first floor.
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| Assorted breakfast items, starting at $2.25 |
At 5pm, The Cellar, Beecher’s restaurant on the lower level, opens offering a selection of cheese, charcuterie, mac and cheese and more to pair with wine and craft beer. I haven’t dined at The Cellar yet, but will definitely share a review when I do.
Beecher’s Handmade Cheese
900 Broadway (on the corner of 20th and Broadway)
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 466-3340
Twitter: @BeechersNY
Facebook: www.facebook.com/beecherscheese
beechershandmadecheese.com
Hours
Store and Cafe
Monday – Sunday 8am-8pm
The Cellar
5pm til Close