Cheese and "perfect companions" are... well... perfect. There's a lot to love about this shop and the up-scale items it sells. However, the staff members are as rude as they are knowledgeable. I've had enough bad customer service experiences now to say unequivically that it's not just that an employee was having an off day (which can happen to anyone). I've been ignored, condescended to, and flat out told that staff were too busy to help me. Too busy to help a paying customer? As much as it pains me to say (because I really, really want to love this place), I guess I'll make your job easier and take my money elsewhere. read more

I'm really shocked to see a negative review of Fromagination. In my experience, the staff has always had good suggestions and had been more than friendly. They have a really wide-range of cheeses for all tastes, (including my picky friends,) as well as tons of stuff to go with it. If you want some pre-packaged, shrink-wrapped stuff, go somewhere else. If you're looking for top-notch cheeses, served up by friendly people who know just about everything about them, Fromagination is your place. (Plus, you can and are encouraged to, try every cheese they have. I'm kinda working my way through myself.) read more

Unacceptable customer service. I approached the counter to ask for shipping information, holding a piece of cheddar as part of a Christmas present for my Father, and the woman behind the counter was busy with some packaging and asked me, "WHAT DO YOU WANT?" This was very rude. I did not buy the cheese, nor will I ever return. Support local cheese, but this store is not above treating you with blatant rudeness. I certainly hope that they make an attempt at improving customer service for every person who enters the store, but I doubt it. The cheese is selling itself here. read more

Amazing, fantastic cheese fantasy. I would go back to Madison just for this place.

One of the best small shops in all of Madison. Fromagination has an endless collection of cheeses along with a great selection of spices and honey. The staff is extremely friendly and willing to provide free samples and accommodate to whatever taste you may have. The place is an absolute must whenever friends and family come visit me in Madison and they always end up shipping the local cheeses that they fall in love with to their own hometown. My only complaint is that the prices are pretty expensive but in the end it's worth it and I would definitely recommend paying a visit! read more

Hands down, a great cheese shop loaded with other goodies to create a gift basket or take home for a special occasion. I was hoping to put together a gift of Wisconsin cheeses to send to relatives who hosted me when I recently traveled on the West Coast. Why I didn't give 5 stars: the staff could step up a bit on their communication with customers. We talked about what I wanted ( I was looking for particular ones, i.e., my hosts like wine, so a few cheeses to pair with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, etc.), that it was a gift for these relatives, etc. The cheese was sampled, we continued to talk, the cheese was cut -- and I was clear staff understood this was to be mailed. But, once all that was done, they did not understand that and I was told that it would cost $60.00 above the shipping to guarantee the quality of the cheese on its arrival. Oh. Can't do that, and how did we not cover that earlier in the conversation? It seems staff thought I was traveling with the gift, not mailing it. Lesson learned. Of course I'll return to Fromagination but will first look at their offerings online, and figuring it is not a place I can mail a gift with that extra cost applied. It would be best if, in dealing with a customer expressing interest in a gift box, the mailing costs were stated right away. read more

Disclaimer: I have two friends who work here, though I have done as much as possible not to let this affect my review. I have been going to Fromagination every holiday season for years to send the parents of my (then-)boyfriend a holiday cheese box as a Christmas gift. I appreciate that the options can be viewed online, and Fromagination has boxes for many price points. They have always seemed a tiny bit overpriced, but knowing the high quality contained within, I've found it fairly reasonable. (The parents mentioned above are now devotees of Potter's Crackers and a particular type of caramels they used to include (though not the La-Di-Da caramels they currently have.) Fromagination has helped me find presents for fellow expats who believe that, even though they live in California, the happiest cows come from Wisconsin. This may or may not have led to an infamous event in which I took Limburger (the only dairy that can produce it in the US is in WI) on a plane to San Francisco with a box of fennel crackers. The recipient was very grateful for a taste of home, no matter how smelly it might be. The employees have an encyclopedic knowledge of all things cheese, and will enthusiastically share their expertise with you, helping you to find whatever it is you need for any occasion, as well as whatever accouterments that might go well with your cheese, such as salamis, cornichons, and dried (or fresh) fruit. They also carry a number of non-cheese specialty items. Local distributors and creators are the primary focus, but products considered exceptional from around the world are present. I can testify to the enthusiasm of the staff; a friend who works there loves visiting family farms for tours and tasting, always learning more. This is a store where the employees love to pass on their passion for cheese to the customers, which is always a good thing to see. Though it is often bustling, lines move quickly and everyone is courteous. Every cheese in the store is up for sampling, which is encouraged. If you are vegetarian, they know which cheeses use synthetic rennet. Recently, they began to offer sandwiches, which are expensive but delicious and freshly-made with quality ingredients by an employee when you order them. They also have a selection of drinks (alcoholic and non-), which is great for a weekday lunch downtown or a trip to Concerts on the Square. They often have community education classes, too, which I appreciate. If it weren't for the often-hefty price tag, I'd be in here a lot more often. I look forward to my next visit! read more

Best place in Madison to buy cheese. They have a very large selection to choose from so no matter what you are looking for I'm sure you will find it here. Another nice thing is the bit size pieces to try. Or if there is something not already cut up just ask and they will give you a sample. Lot's of gourmet oils, vinegars and spices as well and the potter's crackers are wonderful!! It is pricey but well worth it!! read more

This stop on my trip was amazing ! They have an entire case dedicated to Wisconsin Cheese ! YUM ! The staff here was super helpful in helping me make my selections ! I loved everything I tried and ended up coming out of there with plenty of goodies ! read more

What a wonderful experience!!! The selection was mind boggling and thr warmth and hospitality was truly remarkable thanks to Rachel!! We walked away with almost 200$ in cheese And sooo much more! Definitely a place to visit again before i leave the midwest! read more

I have a deep love for cheese and this shop couldn't make me happier. Second visit to Madison and second visit to the shop. This time I made it my last visit of the trip so that I could bring home even more yummy cheeses. We also picked up some sandwiches and ate those on the road which I highly recommend. read more

amazing products. They have the best cheese I've ever tasted. The staff is super friendly. They have bite size pieces to full wheels of cheese you could buy. Also, they have wine connoisseurs, which helped for our cheese & wine party. read more

The place has a wonderful selection of cheeses as well as things to go with them- bread, crackers, ect. The best thing is the wonderful staff. Everyone is so helpful and knowledgeable about everything in the store. read more

Great artisan cheese shop with great sandwiches. My favorite sandwich is the turkey and cranberry, it is one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. Also the sandwiches are moderately priced at 7.50 which isn't too much more than a chain sub. read more

Loved this place! So many great things to check out. They have plenty of cheeses of course but also sandwhiches, drinks, ice cream, meat products, sauces, seasonings, sweets, crackers, the list goes on! Check this out if you want something special for yourself or if tou are looking for a gift for the foodie in your life. read more

Great selection of cheeses, but what really gives this place 5 stars is the customer service. The staff are extremely attentive, friendly, resourceful, and generous on the samples! They also do some great assortments or gift baskets for someone looking to buy a gift or bring a beautiful platter to a party. In addition to cheese, they also have some great chocolates (i do love Gail Ambrosius chocolates which are sold here) and other packaged items. If you're feeling lazy and don't feel like making your own, buy their crostinis---soooo good! read more

It's not cheap - tough to get out of here without losing $12 for a sammich, drink, and bag 'o chips - but I've been back time after time due to the quality, the view, the bonus samples, and the great service. DELICIOUS cheese shop making its own French style cheeses in the back - and selling a wide variety of treats in the deli cases. read more

oh fromagination... aka cheese heaven. i love you so. this is definitely one of those places where it's easy to drop a lot of money, so proceed with caution. you will try delicious cheeses, spreads and crackers from wisconsin and abroad. you will ogle elegant and useful kitchen gadgets. and you will probably leave with a bag full of all these things. i really love the cheese orphan basket near the register. it's a great way to try a new cheese without spending a lot. the staff is always very friendly and helpful. it can get crowded due to the prime location on the square, so it's best to avoid during farmer's markets, etc. read more

LOVE this place! Great assortments of so many delicious things, not just cheese--- and the staff is fantastic. I want to stay here!

Cheese heaven! I visit Fromagination whenever I come to Madison. A fabulous and varied selection of cheese with a focus on Wisconsin cheese. The owner and her staff are very knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. Also an eclectic selection of housewares and condiments. Get a glass of wine and enjoy the store. Or order wine and cheese plate and sip on the patio. This shop is a must for anyone who enjoys food! read more

A great place to take people from out of town. Excellent selection of artisan cheeses. A bit pricey, but worth it. Giselle always has excellent wine recommendations. read more

When you enter the store, the smell of cheese hits you like the potpourri at Victoria's Secret. Heavenly! We wandered around sampling, ohhhing, and ahhhing over all the delectable's. Then settled on a bottle of Prosecco and a cheese platter at the tables out front overlooking the Capital. Seriously, does it get any better than this? Make sure you talk to Priscilla while you are there. She is a wealth of knowledge and really fun too! read more

We love cheese, so we decided to give Fromagination another try... I am so glad we did! Our experience this time was completely different than our first one. The staff was extremely helpful and pleasant - in spite of that fact that the place was packed. They have a great selection of cheeses from outside of WI. read more

The first time I visited Fromagination, I was overwhelmed...so many, many, many wonderful cheeses! I could have spent a day's wages in a few minutes. The fellow behind the counter saved me from bankruptcy and put together a sweet sampler with half a dozen Wisconsin cheeses, about 2 oz. each. Not a huge investment, and they were excellent, every single one. We've been back several times since. Fromagination has the potential to be intimidating, but the staff keeps it real...they know their cheeses, and genuinely want you to leave with something you'll love. read more

This is hands down the best cheese shop I have EVER been to! The staff is super knowledgable and friendly but it's their products that are insanely good! read more

Great place to shop or pick up a sandwich. Staff are knowledgable about the products. Free tastes!

Nice boutique cheese shop. Christie was extremely helpful and we sampled plenty as we added to our order. A must visit every time we come to Madison! read more

Fromagination is a lovely small business here in Madison. I recently ordered several cheese and charcuterie baskets as holiday client gifts, and working with the team at Fromagination was fantastic all around. Ken and Kate answered all of my questions promptly and politely, and they took extra care to hand write all the gift messages. They emailed me right away when the packages had been shipped and they even included a discount for my bulk purchase. I will definitely be shopping here again for homemade Wisconsin-themed gifts for friends and clients across the country. read more

Great shop for all of your cheese needs and more! Love the selection and the cheese orphans - nice little snack! Staff is very helpful and will help you pick out companions and wine to go with your cheese. read more

In town for a conference needing a quick lunch. Instead I stopped by this place- a wonderful slow browse through a wonderland of cheese and sandwiches and such. Plenty of samples and an option to sample cheese with a paired wine for very little money while I was browsing. Left with a great turkey sandwich, chips and lemonade. Only able to eat half the sandwich as it was well stuffed. Prices are higher than the Subway up the street but $11.00 gets you great and healthy food with amazing cheese, a drink, chips, and a bit of dark chocolate. I will return later in the conference. read more

By far the best place for buying amazing cheese in Madison. The selection of cheese is wide, and the employees are all well trained and helpful. Samples are also an added bonus. If you need to get cheese for a special occasion this is the place. Also for lunch their sandwiches are great. read more

Had a great experience! SOOO much good cheese and everyone there was so nice. Paul was super helpful and told me why cheese curds squeak! good sandwiches too! read more

I ordered the Pasture Harvest sandwich and for nearly $10 with tax it was definitely a disappointment. Don't know why I thought it was a good idea to drop $10 on food that is pre-made. The cheese wasn't outstanding, the "rustic roll" was stale bread, the "house-made maple mayonnaise" tasted like just regular Hellmann's or Miracle Whip. I've had better sandwiches at Panera bread. read more

When I lived in Madison, I frequented this place for lunch. After I moved, I'd even submit 1-2 online orders each year. I'm not one to typically write reviews, but I'm incredibly disappointed in this customer service. I'd ordered cheese December 7 to be delivered the week of the 14th. Because I'd had such great experiences in the past, I'd even recommended this to my dad who went and also placed an order for family. Something happened on the backend, and the online orders weren't completed. Frustrating - but I get it. Things happen. However, it was how they handled it that's been so disappointing. As a repeat customer, I'd have expected them to make this right. The only options they gave me were to get a complete refund or just have it delivered late - which she kept stating would have to be delivered after Christmas - I imagine this was to dissuade me as they would have had to waive delivery charges. Super disappointed they didn't try and make this right - especially given the same thing happened to my dads order. Fabulous little shop in person and delicious high quality cheese, but a lack on quality customer service. read more

Fantastic cheese shop! The staff is knowledgable and helpful plus they have a great selection. We got a bunch of little hunks of cheese from the 'orphan bin' to make a picnic. It's a great way to try something new. They also have a variety of honey, jams, salts and so on. Overall it was the best shop I visited in Madison. read more

This is THE ideal cheese shop experience. We had the pleasure of working with Shannon. She was genuine, hospitable, patient and helpful! A delightful experience, the cheese sampling process was like being a kid in a candy store. We left with large smiles on our faces and cheese in our hands. In this shop lives a true taste of Wisconsin culture, hospitality and Cuisine. read more

Expensive with limited selection. I asked ifthey hadany cheddar other than Hooks. I was told in a very snobbish tone that, no, and"what is wrong with Hooks?" I 'd rather go to Brennan 's which has a much more extensive selection of cheeses. And fewer snobs. read more

Although they have a good selection of cheeses, the store and their employees are definitely NOT kid friendly. A very bad experience 3 yrs ago with one of the owners was so bad that it caused us not to set foot in the store again. If you have kids, save your aggravation and don't bother going into the store. Fragile & glass items are set very low on the shelves and easily accessible from a stroller. The store is so tight that you will have a hard time keeping your stroller or kids away from the items. If there are other people in the store, you will have no choice but to move closer to the shelves which becomes too temping for kids no to want to touch something.... And if your kids do touch something, you may get a scolding from an owner by reminding you that items on the shelves are fragile and can break. Seriously, anyone telling me that a glass bottle or jar can break is just being rude... we get it... duh, glass can break! Maybe if glass items were not 2 ft off the floor, it wouldn't be such a big deal. Unfortunately our experience is not isolated. We have friends who experienced the same thing at Formagination. So take this review into consideration - if you are with young children and are coming from the toy store just a few doors down, think again about walking into this store with them. You may just walk right back out and thinking to yourself, is this store really worth the hassle? You may just find yourself going back to a local grocery store, co-op or cheese factory store for your cheese needs. read more

Great cheese and gift shop right across from the Capital. Friendly and knowledgeable cheesemongers. Lots of local and foreign options to choose from. The only downside is the limited wine selection. read more

Use to love this place. Walked in today and people working were so rude, won't go back. Wanted to buy quite a few things, but they literally acted like we were bothering them. No one was in the store but my husband and I. So wasn't busy. read more