If I could live on cheese, I would. But since that isn’t possible or advisable I try not to overdo it and instead, treat myself to the good stuff. Lucky for me (and all other cheese lovers in the city), there are several great places to stock up on unique and delicious cheeses from both near and far. Cheese lovers take note - here are a few of my favourite cheese shops in the city.

Global Cheese

Knowledgeable cheesemongers move quickly slicing, wrapping and getting through the lines that often form at this popular cheese shop in Kensington Market.


They carry over 300 types of cheese and if you’re not sure what you want staff are happy to work with you to narrow down the best option. Sampling is encouraged so don’t be shy about asking to try before you buy and there’s always something on sale here so it’s a great place to put together a budget-friendly cheese plate.

Cheese Boutique

Also located in Kensington Market, Cheese Boutique is much smaller than its similarly stocked neighbour but that doesn’t mean it’s any less worthy of your cheese money. What the store lacks in size they make up for in knowledge and a well-curated selection of cheeses. Friendly staff are happy to guide you and make good suggestions based on the cheeses you already love.

Cheese Magic

Cheese lovers who visit this store in Etobicoke may never want to leave – I know I didn’t the first time I made my way here. Start with a peek into the cheese vault where you can learn about the aging process of cheese. The vault here contains some of the longest-aging wheels of cheese on earth, including a wheel of Parmigiano that has been aging since 2002.

But this sprawling space isn’t just about cheese. You’ll also find prepared foods, pastries baked in-house, fresh fruits and vegetables and other gourmet goodies you likely won’t find anywhere else.

Leslieville Cheese Market

Leslieville Cheese Market has three locations in Toronto: Queen St. East (the original location), Donlands and one in north Toronto. Here you’ll find both local and global cheese as well as cured meat and gourmet food. They are known city-wide for their deliciously gooey grilled cheese sandwiches and also offer many events, classes and tastings if you want to learn more about cheese than the simple fact that it tastes good.

The Village Cheesemonger

Tucked away in Liberty Village is where you’ll find the Village Cheesemonger. They carry over 150 varieties of cheese from around the world as well as many of Canada’s award-winning cheeses. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable and it’s easy to end up staying longer than anticipated chatting about cheese and sampling what’s on offer. The store also carries a small selection of gourmet pantry items such as olive oils, aged balsamic vinegars, chutneys, crackers and more.

Olympic Cheese

Located in St. Lawrence Market, this specialty cheese shop has been in business for 50 years – so they obviously know their stuff. They carry a mind-boggling array of cheese including many hard-to-find varieties. It’s easy to get overwhelmed in here thanks to the sheer amount of cheese staring back at you but you’re in good hands. Samples are available and you’re bound to find something you love, likely more than one (or at least that’s what happens when I visit).

Thin Blue Line

This intimate shop on Roncesvalles specializes in artisan cheese and charcuterie from Quebec and Ontario. They also carry really nice bread to go with your cheese (is there any better combination than bread and cheese?) as well as cheese boards for serving your selections.