Local Business Spotlight: The Cheese Plate |
Meet the Main Street shop that is become a community hub |
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LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: THE CHEESE PLATE Walk into The Cheese Plate on Main Street, and you immediately know this is not your average shop.
The smell of aged cheddar mingles with the earthy aroma of truffled brie. Wooden shelves line the walls, stacked with over 150 varieties of cheese from around the world and right here in the Hudson Valley. Sarah Chen opened this shop three years ago with a simple mission. She wanted to create a space where cheese lovers could discover new favorites and beginners could learn without intimidation.
MORE THAN JUST CHEESE The Cheese Plate has become a community hub in New Paltz.
Every Saturday, locals gather for free tastings featuring a rotating selection of artisanal cheeses. Sarah pairs each sample with wines, jams, and honey from neighboring businesses. But here is what regulars know that tourists miss. The hidden sandwich menu.
Ask for the "Off the Board" sandwich, and you will get a grilled masterpiece stacked with your choice of three cheeses, house-made fig spread, and arugula on fresh-baked sourdough.
LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS Sarah sources many of her cheeses from Hudson Valley creameries.
Featured local producers: • Sprout Creek Farm - aged goat cheese These partnerships keep money in the local economy and ensure the freshest products for customers.
COMMUNITY EVENTS The Cheese Plate hosts monthly events that bring people together.
From cheese-making workshops to wine pairing classes, there is always something happening. The shop also donates platters to local fundraisers and school events. "I wanted to build more than a store," Sarah says. "I wanted to build a community around good food."
VISIT THE CHEESE PLATE The shop is located at 123 Main Street in New Paltz.
Hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 10 AM to 7 PM. Closed Mondays. Whether you are a cheese connoisseur or just cheese-curious, stop by and say hello to Sarah. She will help you find your new favorite. |