Some like it hard, others like it soft. Some even like it smelly and moldy. But regardless of your preference, you’ll find it at The Cheese Cave. Owners Owen and Sarah Watson have modeled the specialty store, which opened last Friday, on Parisian fromageries from their travels.

“Cave” is hardly the word to describe this Toorak corner shop. A white wall with characteristic arches divides the space down the middle. On one side is the custom-made cheese cabinet, on the other are ever-so-French circular tables and an espresso machine churning out Di Bella’s premium blend. The ceilings are high and sunlight drenches the black marble tiles. It’s an appreciated step away from the claustrophobic cheese rooms, where you have to close the door behind you and peg your nose.

Pop your head in the express window and grab a cheese-inspired muffin (mushroom, pinenut and parmesan today) or a sweet alternative baked fresh daily by chef Daniel Olszewski. Breakfast runs all day and includes Bircher muesli, eggs and French toast with orange, mascarpone and honeycomb. Grab a charcuterie board, cheese platter or a filled baguette from the display cabinet for lunch. There are also take-home meals and tiered cakes constructed from rolls of cheese, made to order.

Although The Cheese Cave is a fromagerie, the idea is that you can get everything you need for that perfect picnic platter. They stock Dench baguettes, quince paste, antipasto and oils. The Cheese Cave is the first fromagerie concept store and the owners hope to expand in the next couple of years. They’re also pending a liquor license, because let’s face it, you need a glass of red with that Camembert.

Location: 429-431 Toorak Road, Toorak
Open: weekdays 7am-5.30pm | weekends 7am-4pm (subject to change)
Phone: (03) 9826 1105
Details: thecheesecave.com.au