Tucked away in a lane by the Maharaja Signal in Koramangala is this new gourmet store, 10 Cuts of Cheese. On a Saturday afternoon, an unassuming staircase leads us to the store, chock full of all things cheese. “I’ve worked in a corporate job all my life, but my passion always lay with food” reveals the owner Christopher Albuquerque. A trip to Ooty’s cheesemaking farm, Acres Wild sparked an idea in him which lead to this venture.
Christopher imports the cheeses at the store from various vendors across Europe. As he takes us through the store we spot Parmigiano from Italy, Manchego from Spain, Cheddar from Wyke Farms in Somerset (“That’s the birthplace of Cheddar by the way”, Christopher adds), Gorgonzola from Italy and Edam from Holland. “We also source cheese from local producers,” Christopher points out. So you can find Cheese from Indian brands such as Caroselle Cheese from Kodaikanal, makers of the best Camembert in the country, we’re told, and Jammu-based Himalayan Cheese.
But the store is not just a place to buy cheese. “I also offer advice on what and how to pair cheese with. We keep some unusual pairing options in stock,” explains Christopher. For example, we tried the Spanish Manchego with some Dark Gondhoraj Lemon and Apricot from Earth Loaf. The citrusy flavours paired well with the creamy flavour of the cheese. They have olive oil from Dolce Vita, Terra Kettle Chips, Italian balsamic and even choices such as jams and mustard.
The space also has a few curated books which customers can purchase. A bookshelf in the corner holds titles from Anthony Bourdain, Julia Child, Marco Pierre White and other famous chefs and authors.
Going further, Christopher is planning to host more pop-ups at events and farmer’s markets and even host some pairing and tasting events at the space.
Rs. 200 upwards. At Koramangala, 4th Block. Details: 8197188590
anagha@newindianexpress.com
Twitter: @anaghzzz