Metro Detroit’s Cheese Scene

October 8, 2024
grilled cheese sandwiches

Photo courtesy of Dolcetto, Cheese, & Specialty Goods

Cheese lovers in Metro Detroit have a lot to celebrate. From independent shops to restaurants offering decadently cheesy dishes, Metro Detroit is home to a variety of cheese offerings that span local makers, specialty retailers, and gourmet eateries. Whether you’re looking to create a perfect charcuterie board or indulge in a delicious cheese-forward meal, these businesses offer some of the best in town…

DEVRIES & CO.

2468 Market Street, Detroit

DeVries & Co. is a historic Eastern Market staple that has been serving Detroiters for over a century. The shop is known for its vast selection of cheeses, alongside specialty coffee blends, groceries, and locally made products. DeVries offers both domestic and imported cheeses, making it a one-stop shop for anyone looking to add some gourmet flair to their meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic like Swiss or something more adventurous, like Huntsman, an English double Gloucester cheddar layered with blue Stilton, DeVries provides a taste of tradition and quality that has been cherished for generations. Since originating in 1887, DeVries & Co. has been a Metro Detroit must-stop.

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THE ROYCE

76 West Adams Avenue, Suite A, Detroit

The Royce is a wine bar located in downtown Detroit, offering a well-curated cheese selection alongside its extensive list of wines. The restaurant has a selection of artisanal cheeses that are expertly paired with their wines, making it an ideal spot for an elevated wine and cheese experience, along with charcuterie meats, snacks, and seafood. From chocolates to hot honey, the knowledgeable staff can help you find a perfect cheese and wine pairing experience. With a focus on high-quality ingredients, The Royce is a cozy, sophisticated place to enjoy an evening with friends or to stop by for a light, cheese-focused meal. Whether you’re an experienced wine connoisseur or just exploring, The Royce provides an elevated time for cheese lovers.

THE CHEESE LADY

121 1st Street, Fenton

302 West University Drive, Rochester

With two locations in Metro Detroit and more across the state, The Cheese Lady has built a reputation as one of the top spots for cheese lovers. Each location offers over 100 types of cheesy goodness from around the world, ranging from classic varieties like Asiago and Cheddar to more international finds like Cantar de Covadonga and Cambozola. What sets The Cheese Lady apart is their commitment to educating customers—staff members are always ready to offer suggestions for pairing cheeses with wines, crackers, and charcuterie. Accompaniments here range from artisanal jams, dried fruits, and nuts to saucisson and pate. For a truly immersive experience, they also offer boards for parties and cheese-tasting events to help customers explore new flavors and pairings.

DOLCETTO, CHEESE, & SPECIALTY GOODS

33041 Grand River Avenue, Farmington

Dolcetto, Cheese, & Specialty Goods is an independent cheese and wine shop located in the heart of Farmington, specializing in a carefully curated selection of cheeses and wines for all tastes and occasions. “All of our cheeses are cut fresh to order and available to sample. Our offerings for cheese range from inexpensive to special occasions to accommodate all guests,” shares Owner Lindsay Kennedy. Cheeses range from boozy options like Basil Hayden Bourbon Cheddar and Merlot BellaVitano to smoked choices like Jalapeño Gouda and Smokin Goat. There are a plethora of vegetarian and lactose-free cheeses, as well as raw ones. This shop is also known for its curated wine selection, featuring “only unique and exciting wines.” Whether you’re new to fancy cheeses or a seasoned connoisseur, Dolcetto, Cheese, & Specialty Goods has something for you.

cheese board from dolcetto
Photo courtesy of Dolcetto, Cheese & Specialty Goods

ROYALE WITH CHEESE

4163 Cass Avenue, Detroit

This casual eatery takes its name and inspiration from Pulp Fiction, but its food is no joke. At Royale with Cheese, the burgers range from being topped with fondue to roasted pepper chili queso, and the All Up In Your Grill Cheese sandwich combines fondue, smoked gouda, and parmesan cheeses with a fried egg and turkey bacon to be paired with roasted tomato basil soup for a comforting delight. As for sides, you’ve got to check out the Nacho Cheese Ravioli, with handmade pasta stuffed with jalapeño nacho sauce and covered in Doritos, or the Fried Mac & Cheese bites served with fondue and signature Royale sauce. For those looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this spot delivers both flavor and fun.

MONGERS’ PROVISIONS

4240 Cass Ave, Detroit

3127 12 Mile Road, Berkley

Known for its handpicked selection of cheeses, chocolates, and charcuterie, Mongers’ Provisions has become a key player in Metro Detroit’s cheesy-good selections. Co-owner Zach Berg shares his excitement for Metro Detroit’s evolving cheese culture: “We have been proud to be part of the growing cheese scene in Metro Detroit for the last 7+ years. I believe the scene to be far more robust than it gets credit for.” Crediting local producers like Zingerman’s Creamery and Gus and Grey Jams, Zach also acknowledges how the space has evolved. “I think the coolest and newest innovation is having cheese-focused restaurants. Now with The Rind, Alpino, and Le Supreme, I believe we have reached a fun ‘critical mass’.” If the passion doesn’t speak for itself, the products certainly do. At Mongers’ Provisions, you can grab your favorite cheeses, order a delicious grilled cheese or a delightful sandwich for lunch, or gather with friends for an evening charcuterie board and a bottle of wine at their associated restaurant, The Rind. 

grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup from mongers' provisions
Photo courtesy of Mongers’ Provisions

CHEESE SHOPPE

20551 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods

The sister-owned Cheese Shoppe in Grosse Pointe Woods is the perfect place to find unique and delicious cheeses. This specialty store offers a variety of domestic and imported cheeses that cater to all tastes. Daily, you can find a variety of charcuterie grab-and-go boxes, all including freshly cut artisan cheeses, olives, cornichons, and more. Among the dishes, Cheese Shoppe offers a delicious soup of the day, elevated grilled cheese sandwiches, and freshly baked breads, all changing daily. From soft, spreadable varieties, to hard, aged cheeses, you should definitely be able to find a new favorite.

ROAST

25070 Woodward Avenue, Royal Oak

525 East Brown Street, Birmingham

Roast is known for its elevated breakfast and lunch specials, and offering a variety of delicious coffee, smoothies, and more. As for cheesy dishes, you can find a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese amongst the sandwiches, featuring garlic-encrusted sourdough, along with parmesan, romano, gruyère, provolone, and cheddar for an excellent grilled sandwich taken to new heights. At the Royal Oak location, you can also order the Garlic Bread Ribeye sandwich, with grilled ribeye, spicy mayo, red onion, and provolone on their garlic-encrusted sourdough bread. Pair your lunch with a fresh smoothie, a tea, or a signature latte, like the Honey Rose or Golden Joy for an afternoon pick-me-up.

This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on August 29, 2022, and was authored by Katie Goncalves.

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