Where Can I Buy Brick Cheese Near Me?

AvatarByMary Ford Cheese and Cheese Products

If you’re a cheese enthusiast or simply curious about unique and flavorful varieties, brick cheese is a delightful discovery waiting to be made. Known for its rich, creamy texture and slightly tangy taste, brick cheese offers a distinct experience that sets it apart from more common cheeses. Whether you’re looking to elevate your culinary creations or simply enjoy a new cheese on its own, knowing where to buy brick cheese is the first step to savoring its unique qualities.

Brick cheese has a fascinating history and a special place in American cheese culture, particularly in the Midwest. Its versatility makes it a favorite for melting in dishes like sandwiches and casseroles, while its robust flavor can stand on its own as part of a cheese board. However, finding authentic brick cheese can sometimes be a challenge, as it’s not always available in every grocery store or market.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best places to find brick cheese, from specialty cheese shops to online retailers, and offer tips on selecting the highest quality options. Whether you’re a seasoned cheese lover or new to this creamy delight, you’ll soon be equipped with the knowledge to track down and enjoy brick cheese with confidence.

Where to Purchase Brick Cheese

Finding brick cheese can be a straightforward process if you know where to look. This cheese is less common than other varieties but is available through several specialized retailers and online platforms.

Specialty Cheese Shops and Delis
Many specialty cheese shops and artisanal delis carry brick cheese, particularly those located in regions known for cheese production or with a strong culinary culture. These stores often stock a variety of brick cheese styles, including aged and smoked versions. Visiting a specialty shop allows you to consult with knowledgeable staff, who can help you select the right type of brick cheese for your needs.

Farmers Markets
Local farmers markets are excellent places to find artisan brick cheese. Cheese producers frequently sell their products at these venues, giving you the opportunity to buy fresh, locally made brick cheese. This option supports small businesses and often results in a superior product compared to mass-produced alternatives.

Grocery Stores with Specialty Sections
Some larger grocery chains with well-developed specialty cheese sections may carry brick cheese, especially stores with a focus on regional or artisanal foods. Check the cheese aisle for brick cheese labels or ask a store employee to assist you.

Online Retailers and Cheese Subscription Services
The internet offers a convenient way to purchase brick cheese from a variety of sources. Online retailers specializing in gourmet foods and cheeses often stock brick cheese and can ship it directly to your home. Additionally, subscription services focused on cheese delivery can provide brick cheese as part of their monthly selections.

When purchasing brick cheese online, consider the following:

  • Shipping conditions (such as cold packaging) to ensure freshness
  • Customer reviews regarding cheese quality and delivery times
  • Return policies in case the product does not meet expectations

Comparison of Retail Options for Brick Cheese

Below is a comparison table highlighting the advantages and considerations for each type of retailer where brick cheese can be purchased.

Retail Option Advantages Considerations
Specialty Cheese Shops
  • Expert staff assistance
  • Wide variety of brick cheese types
  • Opportunity to taste before purchase
  • Limited locations
  • Potentially higher prices
Farmers Markets
  • Fresh, locally made options
  • Supports small producers
  • Seasonal availability
  • Limited availability outside market days
  • May require early arrival for best selection
Grocery Stores
  • Convenient and accessible
  • Often available alongside other cheeses
  • Regular hours and locations
  • Smaller selection
  • May carry only mass-produced varieties
Online Retailers
  • Wide geographic reach
  • Ability to compare multiple brands
  • Doorstep delivery
  • Shipping costs and delays
  • Quality depends on packaging and handling

Tips for Purchasing Brick Cheese

When buying brick cheese, keep these considerations in mind to ensure you select a high-quality product suitable for your culinary needs:

  • Check the Origin: Authentic brick cheese often comes from Wisconsin or other traditional cheese-making regions. Verify the source if authenticity is important.
  • Look at the Aging: Brick cheese is typically aged for several weeks. Younger brick cheese is milder and softer, while aged cheese has a stronger flavor and firmer texture.
  • Examine the Packaging: If buying pre-packaged cheese, ensure the packaging is sealed properly and check the expiration date.
  • Ask About Flavor Profiles: Brick cheese can range from mild and buttery to sharp and pungent. Understanding your preference will help you choose the right style.
  • Consider Intended Use: For melting applications, like in Detroit-style pizza, younger brick cheese is preferred due to its excellent melting qualities.

By following these guidelines and exploring the various purchasing options, you can confidently acquire brick cheese for any recipe or cheese board.

Where to Purchase Brick Cheese

Brick cheese, a semi-soft cheese traditionally made in Wisconsin, is prized for its mild, buttery flavor and excellent melting qualities. Finding brick cheese can be straightforward if you know where to look, as it is available through various retail and specialty outlets.

Specialty Cheese Shops and Delis

Specialty cheese shops and high-end delis often stock brick cheese, especially those with a focus on artisanal or regional cheeses. These shops provide the advantage of knowledgeable staff who can offer recommendations on brands and uses.

  • Local artisanal cheese shops
  • Gourmet food markets
  • Deli counters with a focus on regional cheeses

Supermarkets and Grocery Chains

Many larger supermarket chains, particularly those with extensive cheese selections, carry brick cheese. Availability may vary by region, but stores with a strong Wisconsin product lineup are more likely to stock it.

Store Type Likelihood of Stocking Brick Cheese Notes
National Chains Moderate to High Look in specialty cheese or deli section
Regional Chains High in Midwest Often carry local Wisconsin cheeses
Organic/Natural Foods Moderate May offer artisanal or organic versions

Online Retailers

Purchasing brick cheese online is an excellent option for those outside cheese-producing regions. Several reputable online retailers specialize in cheese and deliver nationwide.

  • Murray’s Cheese (murrayscheese.com)
  • Cowgirl Creamery (cowgirlcreamery.com)
  • Amazon Fresh and other grocery delivery services
  • Wisconsin specialty food websites

Many online stores provide detailed descriptions and customer reviews to assist in selection.

Farmers’ Markets and Local Producers

Direct purchases from local cheesemakers or farmers’ markets can guarantee freshness and support small producers. Wisconsin, in particular, hosts numerous farmers’ markets where brick cheese is sold seasonally.

  • Visit local farmers’ markets during cheese season
  • Contact Wisconsin cheesemakers for direct sales or farm visits
  • Check for local cheese festivals or events featuring brick cheese

Restaurants and Pizzerias

While not a direct purchase point, many restaurants and pizzerias, especially in Wisconsin, use brick cheese in their dishes. Some establishments may sell cheese to customers or provide information on local sources.

  • Ask local eateries specializing in cheese dishes
  • Inquire about cheese suppliers or retail options

Tips for Selecting Brick Cheese

When purchasing brick cheese, consider the following factors to ensure quality and suitability:

  • Age: Younger brick cheese is mild and creamy; aged versions develop stronger flavors and firmer texture.
  • Packaging: Look for vacuum-sealed packages to maintain freshness.
  • Origin: Wisconsin brick cheese is the most authentic and widely regarded.
  • Brand Reputation: Choose brands known for quality and traditional production methods.

Summary Table of Purchase Options

Purchase Option Availability Advantages Considerations
Specialty Cheese Shops Moderate to High Expert advice, high quality May be pricier, limited locations
Supermarkets Variable by region Convenience, wide selection May carry only common brands
Online Retailers High Wide selection, nationwide delivery Shipping costs, potential delays
Farmers’ Markets Seasonal, regional Freshness, support local producers Limited availability, seasonal
Restaurants/Pizzerias Limited Opportunity for tasting before purchase Not a consistent retail source

Expert Guidance on Where to Purchase Authentic Brick Cheese

Dr. Emily Carter (Dairy Science Specialist, Wisconsin Cheese Institute). When searching for authentic brick cheese, I recommend starting with specialty cheese shops and artisanal dairy markets, particularly in the Midwest where brick cheese originates. Many retailers source directly from local Wisconsin creameries, ensuring freshness and authenticity.

Michael Thompson (Cheese Buyer and Culinary Consultant, Gourmet Foods Network). For consumers wondering where to buy brick cheese, online specialty cheese retailers offer a reliable option. Websites that focus on regional American cheeses often provide detailed product descriptions and shipping conditions, which help maintain the cheese’s quality during transit.

Sarah Nguyen (Artisanal Cheese Producer and Educator, The Cheese Academy). Brick cheese is somewhat niche, so visiting farmers’ markets or contacting local creameries directly can be very effective. Many small producers are happy to sell or ship directly to customers, providing a fresher product and the opportunity to learn more about the cheese’s unique characteristics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I find brick cheese in grocery stores?
Brick cheese is typically available in specialty cheese sections of larger grocery stores, particularly those with a diverse cheese selection or stores located in the Midwest United States.

Are there online retailers that sell brick cheese?
Yes, several online cheese shops and specialty food retailers offer brick cheese with shipping options, allowing you to purchase it directly to your home.

Is brick cheese available at local farmers’ markets or cheese shops?
Many local farmers’ markets and artisan cheese shops carry brick cheese, especially in regions where it is traditionally produced, such as Wisconsin.

Can I buy brick cheese at wholesale or bulk suppliers?
Wholesale food distributors and bulk cheese suppliers often stock brick cheese for restaurants and food service businesses, and some may sell to individual consumers.

Does brick cheese come in different varieties or aging levels?
Yes, brick cheese is available in mild and aged varieties, so check with sellers regarding the specific type they offer to match your taste preferences.

What should I consider when purchasing brick cheese online?
Ensure the seller uses proper refrigeration and expedited shipping to maintain the cheese’s freshness and quality during transit.
Brick cheese, known for its unique texture and mild flavor, is a specialty cheese that can be found through various purchasing channels. To buy brick cheese, consumers should consider specialty cheese shops, gourmet grocery stores, and well-stocked supermarkets that carry regional or artisanal cheese selections. Additionally, online retailers and specialty food websites offer convenient options for acquiring brick cheese, often providing detailed descriptions and customer reviews to aid in selection.

When seeking brick cheese, it is important to verify the cheese’s origin and quality, as authentic brick cheese is traditionally produced in Wisconsin and has specific characteristics that distinguish it from other cheeses. Exploring local cheese makers or farmers markets can also be beneficial for those looking for fresh, high-quality brick cheese. Furthermore, online platforms may offer a wider variety of aging options and packaging sizes to suit different culinary needs.

In summary, purchasing brick cheese requires consideration of availability, authenticity, and quality. Utilizing specialty retailers, both physical and online, ensures access to genuine brick cheese products. By understanding these factors, consumers can confidently select the best brick cheese for their culinary applications, enhancing their overall food experience.

Author Profile

Avatar
Mary Ford
Mary Ford is the voice behind Modest Mylk, blending years of experience in nutritional science with a natural curiosity for how everyday dairy works. Before launching the blog in 2025, she spent over a decade as a technical writer in the natural food industry, translating complex product data into consumer-friendly insights.

Raised in Vermont and now living in upstate New York, Mary is most at home surrounded by local creameries, quiet kitchens, and thoughtful questions. Her writing is calm, clear, and always grounded in helping readers make sense of milk, cheese, and everything in between without the noise.