Hosting a memorable party just became a lot easier in the Jersey Shore area. C’est Cheese has officially opened after much anticipation since the sign went up about two months ago in the window of the former location of Marigold Jewelry on 516 Summerfield Avenue in Asbury Park. Featuring cheese from small American farms to more well-known Italian meat curators, the store carries a variety of specialty items that appeal to all palates. Read on to find out more about what we know about this new Asbury Park cheese shop.

The Details

After a decade in the food industry, C’est Cheese owner Tina Haskopoulos, with the support of her mother, Eileen, took a leap of faith and decided to bring her expertise in cheese, meat, and specialty foods to the shore. Her vision was to create an inviting space where anyone could feel comfortable, even with minimal knowledge of these products, and leave with exactly what they were hoping for. It is important to note that the samples here are not what you find at a shopping mall food court; they are freshly cut, full-sized pieces of whatever patrons would like to taste.

^ owner Tina Haskopoulos

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Each case is adorned with handwritten notes highlighting the name, age, type, and origin of each meat or cheese. Tina places a strong emphasis on supporting women-owned and operated creameries, as well as small-batch producers, recognizing that these artisans often receive less attention in the industry. Meats range from locally sourced options such as Larchmont, NY, to storied Italian meats from Bologna, Italy, displayed in a smaller case beside the cheeses.

Beautiful boards crafted by a woman from India, who supports impoverished women through her program, are displayed and can be purchased. Across from the meat and cheese displays lining the rest of the store, are shelves full of specialty foods, including traditional items like jams, mustards, and biscuits, alongside unique finds such as plant-based “seafood” from Seed to Surf. And for dog parents, there are treats just for pups (and yes, they are even welcome to come in and sample)!

Patrons can expect more options as the store grows such as sandwiches featuring products from the cases. Rumor has it there may be a sandwich with pesto, freshly sliced cheese, and mortadella on a piece of rustic bread. Tina is also planning on providing her charcuterie board-making skills to people looking for a ready-made platter or gift basket for their next party or hosting event.

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Keep up to date on what is new at C’est Cheese on the store’s Instagram and the website. As always, head to @thejerseyshoregirl_ on Instagram to keep up on all of the Jersey Shore news and happenings.