I can't believe I've lived in Houston for this many years and never stopped by Houston Dairymaids. I learned that they're the backbones of many restaurants' cheese selections, and I had to trace it back to the origin. A small, discreet shop with a backyard-like parking lot, it's unassuming on the outside but full of character on the inside. Upon entering, you're welcomed with samples of the five cheeses of the week, generally going from soft to firmer and stronger. Their cheeses are displayed in a small fridge, but you can always request varietals ahead of time if you've got something in mind. We bought blue cheese they had on sample (the "Ewe Calf to be Kidding" from Wisconsin, a triple-milk (sheep, cow, and goat)) and the last of their Capricorn Goat Blue cheeses for about $10/piece. Since they rotate out their cheeses weekly, it may become a regular stop on our weekend grocery trips (they mention that many people do that). They also mentioned that their wines rotate out and they have a good relationship with local distributors to understand what pairs well with their cheeses. They also let you start an account so that you can keep a history of all the cheese you buy. You better bet that I signed up. They're celebrating their 20 year anniversary in Houston. I wish I had come earlier to experience some of those years. It's got to be a cornerstone of Houston cheese and probably the among the best cheesemongers in Houston. read more

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Stopped by Houston Dairymaids and had such a unique experience! They offer about five rotating samples each week, depending on what they're able to import, which makes every visit feel a little different. I ended up picking up two blue cheeses--penicillium-based cheeses are definitely my favorite. One of the highlights was discovering Shooting Star Creamery and their zodiac-inspired cheeses. I took home the Capricorn Blue and am excited to try it! I also learned what a quince fruit is for the first time and got to try their quince jelly, which they use as a palate cleanser after samples--such a thoughtful touch. Bonus: I found out that Blue Dorn and Navy Blue source their cheese from here, which makes perfect sense given the quality. Definitely a spot I plan to become a regular at! read more

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I've been fortunate to visit a second time now and still a 5 star experience! We stopped by on a Saturday afternoon and the small little store front was bustling with helpful staff. We were offered a tasting of their 5 cheeses of the week for Mother's Day. The lady helping us gave great explanations of the cheeses for novices like ourselves. We had the option to buy all 5 for $63 but opted to get the 3 we liked the most. Coincidentally, one was the same delicious June's Joy cheese I got a few years ago! We've been enjoying the cheeses over the past few days - they go so well with a plain water cracker. Highly recommend this spot for the try before you buy approach! read more

Houston Dairymaids - June's Joy Goat Cheese - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I love this place! We saw it outside of the Houston Farmers Market yesterday and had to stop by. We love their sampling concept of showing 5 different cheeses around the world for their spring collection and purchase it for $60 or purchase it separately if you'd like. They also had some jam some retired teachers make in Houston that you can purchase here. I love their promotion of small businesses here. The service was great and it is small to be prepared for that when you come in. It really is a friendly shop that loves to share their love of cheese with you. read more

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Welcome to cheese heaven! Didn't know much about this place until friend asked me to join on her journey to get cheese. Not far from downtown, Houston Dairymaids offers a wide selection of cheeses and wines and snacks for those charcuterie nights. Parking is on the side on gravel parking next to another business that makes it seem like it's not for parking, but there are signs indicating that's where to park. Once inside, you are welcomed by the scent of cheesy goodness. We were treated to a sampling of 5 of their current special cheeses. The cheesemonger gave us a quick insight to each cheese bite we were savoring. And honestly each one was distinct in it's profile that we almost bought all of them. They did have a special if you buy all 5 for $52 or of course you can buy by the piece. My favorites was the "OG Kristal" which is an aged gouda made from Hoistein and Brown Swiss Cows milk, which had flavor of boozy cherries, butterscotch, fudge and crystals which gave it a much welcomed crunch amongst the smooth and soft cheese. While there, I did notice some wine sampling going on too. For my next cheese & wine night, I will be returning here. Though it can get pricey, wine not treat yourself, after all we work hard. Once in a while indulgence doesn't hurt. read more

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Good food. Great short ribs! Great white rice (far from minute rice) and meats. I love Hawaiian food, but I think their mac salad could use some tweaking to the recipe. All of the BBQ and Katsu is really good. read more

Love the Saturday cheese tasting! Everyone's so helpful and cheeses are delicious. Bonus: they save your past purchases in case you decide you want to come back and buy the same cheese in the future. read more

On your first visit, go straight to the 5 cheese to-go bag (their description online for this states: "Every week we select five cheeses to create a balanced board, made up of a variety of flavors, textures, milk types and intensities. We include a soft cheese, semi-hard and hard cheeses, and a blue...") and sample what they have that day/week. I am a repeat customer now, so I appreciate the rewards system. They have some wines in stock. As well as other snacks and items that work well with cheese, or to make your own tray/Charcuterie boards (which they also make for purchase if you don't want to do it yourself.) If you follow them on social media, they have pop-ups for foods that complement cheese, and other events (such as wine & cheese pairings). It's well worth the drive, and I look forward to my next visit. read more

We loved this little shop, and have certainly heard of its local importance. The monger was eager to give us a taste of the cheeses on display that day, and to suggest her favorites according to my cow milk allergy. We went home with a Magnol baguette and the jar of herby goat cheese in olive oil. It was eaten by our group of four in a single evening! Their cheeses are lovely. There are only a small selection of them, but each are high quality. I do think their shop is limited by its size, and I wish I could find a wider variety of cheeses in one shop in Houston, but for what it is, Houston Dairymaids is simply lovely. Also, if you're into Lambrusco, this shop has like five different bottles, along with a selection of other good wines. read more

Houston Dairymaids - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas

Delicious cheeses, like always. Good selection and friendly staff. We will definitely be back, Thank you! read more

Houston Dairymaids - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Cool idea for beginners in the cheese world. But in my opinion there is too much coddling being done. There isn't that much variety nor selection. The service was good but like I said, a little too hands on. I would like to see more options in the fridges and being able to see what the cheeses look like. Cut from the block samples are definitely better for both pros and beginners. Very tight in the store as well. Made it seem uninviting read more

Cute shop for everything to build a beautiful and delicious cheeseboard. Stop inside to taste the samples of the day and you may bring home a to-go tote full of cheeses, crackers, breads, honey and wine. The samples match what is in the cheese to-go bag special. Love how they start with the mildest and then move to the strongest to enjoy the subtle changes as you move along the tasting board. The cheeses come from throughout the US and Europe. There may be a variety of flavors, textures, and milk types, like cow, goat, sheep or a blend of milks. Marcus explained each cheese as we tasted the samples and offered suggestions for serving. Favorites included the Holiday Cheer, Los Cameros and Marieke Gouda with Cranberry. The Holiday Cheer is a limited-edition goat cheese from Blakesville Creamery in Wisconsin. Their goat cheese is wrapped in Japanese Sakura (cherry blossom) leaves soaked in Korbel Brandy and infused with fleck of citrus. Amazing. The Los Cameros is a Spanish blend of cow, sheep and cow's milk. It is so smooth and balanced. The rind is rubbed with olive oil during the aging process. The Marieke Gouda with cranberries comes from a small dairy farm in Wisconsin, but Marieke and Rolf grew up on a dairy farm in Holland. Their farmhouse goudas have won awards since 2007. Thanks to Marcus for the cheese tasting. They have a frequent shopper's card. Make sure to bring the cheeses to room temperature by bringing out of the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to serving to enjoy thoroughly. read more

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We love this local Houston Dairymaids. Everyone is always friendly, plenty of parking and they have cheese samplings! We wanted to do a charcuterie board and were able to buy several different cheeses, baguettes and even got a good chocolate croissant for the road. Pricing is reasonable and we will definitely be back! read more

Houston Dairymaids - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas

A MUST stop whenever I'm in Houston (from L.A.) visiting my daughter! This is the VERY BEST cheese anywhere! The tasting part is the best even though I have my favorites. read more

Definitely an unexpected GEM at the tail end of the HOOD. Came across HD while driving down Airline Dr. and saw people coming out with bags so I pulled over and dropped in. I was overwhelmed with the smell of aged cheeses and snacks abound. The customer service was EXCELLENT... everyone was so friendly and helpful. Don't get me wrong the place definitely pricy but definitely well worth it. So let it be written.... So let it be AGED!! read more

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Cute spot! Staff: friendly very knowledgeable Location: airline Parking: lots as well as street parking Price: low- average They have different cheese sample each week @4-5 different type of cheese with the option of buying a Togo bag. I really enjoyed tasting the different type of cheese as well as understanding where they come from. They have a good size wine selection at a great price. Their bread is delicious and great price. read more

Houston Dairymaids - Cheese sample to go bag - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas

Super friendly staff The cheese is super delicious They will answer all the questions you have Although the store is very small and simple But I love being here They will have a small sampler for you And there are plenty of options The vibe is casual and they have wine as well read more

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I'm so glad I stopped into Houston Dairymaids today! We walked in and were immediately greeted and offered a free cheese-tasting. The cheeses themselves were delicious, and they had a wonderful variety to choose from. The folks here were clearly very knowledgeable and passionate about their cheeses. I was also pleasantly surprised to find that the pricing of a lot of their cheeses is fairly comparable to the nicer cheeses at grocery stores, but of course the quality and uniqueness is much better at Houston Dairymaids! I will absolutely be back again soon! read more

CHEESE! Literally cheese. You can order a charcuterie board, taste cheese and pick up what you love. They are a true cheese monger. Walk you through the choices and help you decide what you like. Nice, neat place and be sure to catch the parking lot just before the place on your right. read more

One stop shop for cheese and wine. The cheese tastings were great! The staff was so knowledgeable and friendly. I would definitely make this a weekly stop if I lived closer. read more

Houston Dairymaids - two men behind the counter - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Fantastic assortment of cheeses and other savories. Quaint shop! Feels like somewhere in Europe

I love this place! We were greeted and offered a cheese tasting as soon as we walked in. The lady who did the tasting was really knowledgeable and had a great personality. I recommend buying their weekly cheese box. It is worth every penny!!! read more

Love the dairymaids! I love sampling their cheeses and taking a bag home for a charcuterie and cheese date night. They have such an awesome variety that appeals to all tastes! read more

Houston Dairymaids - Cheese assortment - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas

The cheeses for Father's Day were amazing. 6 yr cheddar was amazing along with all of the other cheeses. Nice presentation.

We bought a small wedge of buttermilk blue cheese and it was pretty good. The people working here seem to know their cheeses. It would be nice to sample some of the cheeses, I might buy more if I knew I liked it. You can get snacks or stuff that pairs well, they even have wine. read more

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so awesome. they welcome you in like family. they help you pick out cheeses. no judgment. just help. clean and calming. i do recommend.

This place is shady AF. They push their cheese samples HARD. If you ask for anything that's not a sample or in their refrigerated cabinet they will say NO. They refuse to look for whatever you may request and they always steer you to a few of their prepackaged options. It gets old, fast! For a business that claims to have more than 150 varieties, it seems like they are focused on selling that week's 'top 5'. Their management should rethink that approach because it's off putting and unlike any other cheese monger. I've stopped shopping there and really prefer the selection and experience at Montrose Cheese & Wine. read more

If you're hosting a party / en route to a party and need some unique cheeses to share with others - or you just want to mix up date night with a quick cheese tasting - Houston Dairymaids is a great place to pop into. My friends and I dropped in after lunching at the neighboring Tampico, and after a quick tasting of about five cheeses, we each walked out with cheese and wine to take to a pool party later that day. The tasting is free, and the wine tasting is limited (they ran out by the time we got there). Definitely experience Houston Dairymaids if you have a few minutes to spare. The tasting is quick - a little too quick - and you can be in and out the door within minutes with your new favorite cheese, bread, wine and other artisanal snacks. read more

Cheese, glorious cheese! A little disconcerting to smell the stink upon entering, but I like the sticker on the door that warns "the stink is good" and natural. They had a ready made trays of 5 cheeses to try, all fantastic and so fresh! I bought 4 for a party cheeseboard for a very reasonable price and was out of the door in 10min. So easy, high quality, and it was a hit at the party. read more

One time I got this cheese subscription for Christmas and that's when I knew I had found my cheese match. I finally went to the store last year and we walked out with over $100 worth of cheese. This time we did the beer pairing with St Arnold's and tasted some really delicious cheese. They have a great selection and people who will guide you to what you like. Don't miss out on a great cheese AND snacks AND wine shop. read more

Houston Dairymaids - The loot - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas

This is hands down THE place to get cheese. This place has expanded my palette and given me a true appreciation for cheese. They always have little cheese tastings every week. We've bought several different cheese from here and they've all been fantastic. My personal favourites are Midnight Moon (Gouda), La Tur (Brie) and the Rush Creek Reserve. read more

If you really love cheese - like I do - this is the place for you! It is located in a small wooden building off Airline Drive. Plenty of off street parking. I don't want to knock the cheese selection at some of the grocery stores around town, but none of these match the selection found here. The staff is very knowledgeable and will let you sample many of the cheeses before you buy. Don't know what you want or are looking for something a bit different? I bet they have some good suggestions. Every month they put together a cheese bag (selection of five cheeses) that generally offer a range from young and mild to bold and aged. These are generally a good value. There is even a card they will punch every time you buy their cheese bag. Tenth bag is free! Need something to go along with your cheese purchase? They have wine and most of the other items you would want. They also will put together a cheese tray for parties or events. My only complaint is that it is about a 30 minute drive from the house. (Maybe that is a good thing as my doctor would not approve of weekly visits.) read more

Great cheese selection. I also really appreciated that they give you a sample when you arrive. It allows you to try cheeses you would have never thought otherwise. Today, I left with the Cheddar and Brie they were sampling. Also, noteworthy, this is a shop, not a sit-down restaurant. read more

This place always has new cheeses, and if you like, they have new wines for you to sample. They will even suggest the appropriate pairing of the two. You may buy straight from the refrigerator or by special order. They even have meat that compliments the cheese and/or wine. I like their bread and cracker selections, as well as the jelly, jam, or honey selections, too. They will prepare a tray for special events for you, as well. Whether you have lived in Houston or are new, you must visit the shop. read more

Wonderful little place with fresh cheeses, French bread, jams. So great, try this little gem

Houston Dairymaids is delightful! In addition to the quality products Houston Dairymaids offered, what really impressed me was how knowledgeable and enthusiastic its team was. Right when you walk in, the enthusiastic cheese expert welcomes you to have a complementary cheese tasting. And if you ask for recommendations on anything from cheese to wine to the crackers that would go best with your cheese, there's someone there to nerd out and provide a great recommendation. I bought a few cheeses, a bottle of wine, a baguette sourced from Slough Dough and a few cracker selections--all have been given a thumbs up by my friends so far. While the outside of Houston Dairymaids may not be as attractive, it's the place to be if you want a wide variety of high-quality selections. read more

A great place for a nice selection of cheeses. They also offer tasting when you arrive of their latest cheeses. I go back again.

My buddy and I stopped by here and had a lovely experience. The staff were very informative and helped us select a couple cheeses. The atmosphere was cute and I can't wait to go back for more! Highly recommend this place! read more

Houston Dairymaids - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas

Super cute cheese shop. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. Free cheese samples are offered as soon as you walk in.

Excellent service! Delicious cheeses and edible goodies suggested by Dairy Maids. I don't know a lot about cheeses, but they were very patient and helpful. Everyone raved about the cheese board. The display was done on my own magnificent bread board made by Scotsman Co. Of Laurel, Ms. It was a total success! read more

Houston Dairymaids - Cheese Shops Near Me - Houston, Texas