cheese shop on the north side

[turkob]

I am looking for a great place to buy cheese on the north side. I have been to the Whole Foods on Ashland (I live near there) a couple times and I was hoping to find a place with a better layout (read: less crowded) and more knowledgeable staff to help me out with recommendations.

[jesteinf]

Check out Pastoral. It's a small space, but they've got a great selection and an exceptionally knowledgeable staff. There's a location in the Loop (which is a bit larger), but I usually go to the one in Lakeview (linked below).

-----
Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine
2945 N Broadway, Chicago, IL

[turkob]

Thanks, one is walking distance from work and one is walking distance from home, and they both have good hours! I'll definitely check it out.

[abbycooks]

A strong second for Pastoral--they're so nice in there and I'm never disappointed with any of their products.

I also like the folks at the Goddess and the Grocer (http://www.goddessandgrocer.com/) although their selection is pretty small for cheese.

[cilantro72]

I am not sure what exactly constitutes the North side.

I would have suggested The Cheese Stands Alone, but they are on hiatus.

I have had pretty good experiences with Sams Wine (roughly at North and Clyborn). The real problem it has is that if you go in the middle of the day on a weekend, it is going to be pretty crowded. First thing in the morning, or evenings during the week and you are in the clear. I have found the folks working the cheese counter to be particularly helpful as well as generous with the tastes to help hone in on what I like.