Queso. Fromage. Cheese. Any way you slice it, you’d better brie-lieve we love a gouda neighborhood cheese shop. We’ve rounded up a few grate spots — happy snacking, SD.

Venissimo Cheese | Mission Hills, North Park, and Del Mar

Owner Gina Freize opened her flagship store in Mission Hills in January 2004 with only 50 cheeses and a hearty appetite to create local buzz for the world of cheese. Today, the brand stocks 2,000+ varieties across its three locations, and Freize runs the Academy of Cheese, classes and events spotlighting “the goodness and glory of cheese.” Pro tip: Try the Full House Plate for picnics, with the Burrata Bowl.

Venissimo Cheese knows its stuff. | Photo via Venissimo Cheese

Cheese Shop | La Jolla Shores

John and Dorothy Schutz opened this seaside staple in 1972 with imported cheeses from all over the world. Today, the cheese is still the bee’s knees, but the family-owned shop is also beloved for its famous Flourless Oatmeal Almond Cookies and super-stacked sandwiches. Pro tip: Grab lunch here after a walk on the shoreline; try the Beachcomber with imported Swiss.

The Cheese Shop is a La Jolla Shores staple. | Photo via @down2ferment

Wine Garden Cheese Shop | Liberty Station

You can find this gem inside Carruth Cellars’ newest urban winery at Liberty Station, filled with gorgeous, rotating cheeses available by the ounce. We love ordering a mini charcuterie board while sipping on a glass of wine on the patio, and browsing through the shop’s selections of crackers, pickles, and olives. Pro tip: Join the Cheese Club to explore a new cheese every month.

A cheese plate at the shop inside Carruth Cellars' urban winery at Liberty Station. | Photo via Monica Garske + SDtoday

Le Charcuterie Bar | Downtown San Diego

This shop has everything you need to build the ultimate charcuterie board — artisanal cheeses, cured meats, olive oils, and other tasty trimmings. Pro tip: The YOLO Combo Board is perfect for casual sharing, but if you’re hosting a fromage feast, pre-order an event tray.

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