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Farmstead Cheeses and Wines
Categories: Food Specialty Food Cheese Shops Food Beer, Wine & Spirits Cheese Shops, Beer, Wine & Spirits [Edit]
1650 Park St(between Buena Vista Ave & Pacific Ave)
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 864-9463
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 8 pm
Sun 10 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
113 reviews for Farmstead Cheeses and Wines
Review Highlights
"As my friend Lisa say, Jeff knows his wines."
(in 26 reviews)
"Also, they have a great selection of wines under $20."
(in 12 reviews)
"These folks know their stuff."
(in 3 reviews)
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113 reviews in English
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Review from Justine R.
Oakland, CA
7/31/2011 1 Check-in Here
I became a fan of Farmstead on facebook probably about two years ago, without even having any of their product. I think I saw some feature on them and knew I wanted to keep up with them and would eventually get around to it. Well yesterday was my lucky day! While hanging out at the Alameda Art & Wine Festival, we decided to stop in.
Brian was quite welcoming, giving us samples of cheese and then brought us over to the wine tasting area. We tried six different wines and then he made some recommendations, based off the cheese we were getting which I can't recall the name of but it was soft, creamy and stinky. Yum! The first two wine suggestions sounded so good that we stopped him from making any more so we didn't go nuts. I also got a cheddar with caramelized onions that had just the right amount of sweetness too it. This was my personal favorite.
So far, we've had the one that we were told was a "beer lover's wine," naturally. What an apt description that was. It was very similar to a sour beer and was well enjoyed!
Thanks for a great experience, Farmstead! I'm eager to go back.Listed in: Libation Hydration
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Review from Kim D.
Updated - 5/21/2010 1 photo
Got an invite for some foodage @ Susan C.'s Casa, and since I've been shopping manically for the Black and White Ball, had no time to cook.
Fortunately, Mr. DP was in the hizzouse and as usual, going to treat us to a multi-course meal. My humble contribution to this get together was dessert... So naturally I hit Farmstead for a some triple creme brie to complement the organic apricots.
I spied several tubs of what I *thought* were cocoa dusted hazelnuts, but was informed that they were in fact "chocolate covered CORN NUTS". The proffered sample was not turned away and the first thing that burst out of my mouth was, "Oh, my gawd!"
The perfectly unexpected accompaniment to your next get together is chocolaty, light and crisp and salty. Sure: they haven't managed to work bacon into the mix yet, but it's totally forgivable and Kim D. approved.
BELIEVE.Listed in: Too Fabulous to Cook
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/24/2007
I have never left this little shop empty handed. Jeff and Eric are extremely personable and while I… Read more »
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Review from LYNN W.
Alameda, CA
6/13/2011
Got a delightful assortment of pre-selected wines for my family's Christmas party, and another just this week -- all delish, fun variety, good value, & so easy. Shop local!
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Review from Drue C.
San Francisco, CA
2/15/2008
Cheese, chocolate and wine are easily three of my favorite things. Farmstead sells all three. I have never actually set foot in this store.
Wait, what??
Well, I am still walking around in a happy daze after probably the most amazing Valentines Day I have ever had. The party involved in providing this memory knows I love cheese, chocolate and wine. So this wonderful man went to Farmstead and, with the help of a very knowledgeable staff member, picked out a fantastic selection of all three.
Everything I had was absolutely delicious and unique and memorable. Farmstead has just secured one more loyal customer, which is saying a lot since this customer has declared her loyalty blindly. Sometimes you just know. -
Review from Eric B.
12/11/2008
I happened to be in Alameda a few days ago, as my son needed to be picked up from school. We had a little time to kill, so we decided to stop into the Alameda Marketplace on Park Street. He was interested in malted milk balls and I figured on a scone for my next breakfast.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, but Farmstead Cheeses and Wines (and 8 tiny reindeer?)! And at the counter, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be Jeff the Cheesemonger!
As my friend Lisa say, Jeff knows his wines. I left with a very nice Touraine Cabernet Franc within my $10 - $15 price point. I would have lingered longer to look and chat with Jeff more, by my son had decided on his candy selection and was in a hurry to pay for it and go.
Coincidentally when I was in Chicagoland last month, I had a conversation with my friend's cousin who wanted a recommendation for a really good Kosher wine. Man O Manischewitz! I emailed Lisa, who recommended Covenant, which indeed is one of the wines that Farmstead sells.
Farmstead also has a store in Montclair which is a very handsome space and perhaps has a bit larger selection (including refrigerated). This store has lots to offer too and fits in more architecturally with the surrounding shops in the Alameda Marketplace. Both stores are worth a look and a return visit. One of these days I'll even buy some cheese.Listed in: Wine
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Review from Alissa W.
Fremont, CA
2/22/2008 ROTD 4/25/2008
The Cheesemonger has impeccable taste - especially in employees.
The woman who guided us in our search for delicious cheese fondue components was stunning: beauty, brains, the whole package. It is so very rare and wonderful to find retail employees who REALLY know their product and as a fine cheese newbie, I could not have been more grateful (is that a pun?)
At the same time, there was never a moment I felt she was imposing her tastes on me - she listened to the relatively vague information I was able to give about what I like and then served up several options from which to choose. Interacting with this cheese goddess was easily the best part of a hectic "preparing for a dinner party for 12" day.
The only thing I did not love, and this applies to the entire Alameda Marketplace, is the scarcity of posted pricing. Sure, I understand the whole "If you have to ask, you can't afford it" or maybe its more "Lets not sully this beautiful epicurian relationship with dirty dollars," but it would have been nice to have some idea of how much we were about to spend before the somewhat surprising announcement of our total at the register.
Could I have asked the lovely cheese goddess about the price? Yep I certainly could have and that is my own problem: thus, no reduction in stars.
Cheesmonger - ya done good! Count me among your fans.
Update:
The Cheesemonger informed me 1) that the Goddess' name is Molly (Thanks again, Molly!) and 2) that there are little signs with a description AND the price near each displayed cheese. Doh! Guess I missed that - probably because Molly so comptetently attended to us that I didn't have a chance to get too absorbed in the printed signs.
Rock on, Cheesemonger (and Molly) -
Review from luis m.
Oakland, CA
12/28/2008
I am a cheese whore and sometimes I'm a drunk, so what better shop could I walk into than this place?
One of the dishes I'm making for NYE is a baked mac n cheese and so it was that I came here to get my hands on some gruyere and white cheddar that would help me make a mighty fine tasting creation. I am horrible with names but I received some great help picking out the right cheese for my dish. I got an excellent cave aged gruyere and an irish cheddar that is perfectly creamy. I'm not one to work with recipes so I had no idea how much of these cheeses I needed, so the gentleman who assisted me asked for the opinion of another person working at the shop that was a chef. He asked me about how much I was going to make and suggested I use about half a pound of each cheese. Little did he know that in my head I was hoping that he would say I needed ten pounds of each. I settled for 1 pound of each cheese though and went on my way.
Not only is this place great on it's own but it's location in the indoor marketplace is great. You have lots of other great items just a short walk away.
They just need to get their hands on some gub'ment cheese for that 5th star, but if they did that I would be lining up before they open on the 1st and 15th. -
Review from andy r.
San Francisco, CA
4/19/2007
At the urging of an innocent little thread mentioning wine and cheese tasting by the honorable Cheesemonger Jeff D. hisself, we made the trip to the exotic island of Alameda.
Jeff, to no surprise, turned out to be the perfect tour guide. His expertise and intuition are perfectly attuned, like a profiler. You describe one or two things know you like, and he'll find you a dozen that you'll love - in any price range. I bet he kicks ass at twenty questions.
For us, the two words were sheep and goat. I also love the moo-moo, but wifey can't stomach it. Within 10 min. of tasting and pleasant conversation, we came away with a variety including a delicious little number called 'Ewephoria' (how could we not?) A bag full of turophilic treats for under $30.
Farmstead is a must-stop for our island-hops. -
Review from Tam F.
6/26/2009
Last Friday, I attended the orientation for a class I am taking online at the College of Alameda. On the way, I noticed the infamous Farmstead and decided to stop on my way off the island to see if they had a cheddar cheese I had tasted at The Girl and the Fig in Sonoma. I was also hoping for the chance to meet "The Cheesemonger".
Sadly, I was told Jeff was on vacation and I was helped by a very nice and knowledgeable cheese guy named Paul. I couldn't remember the name of the cheese, just that it was from Modesto and had won some awards. Paul knew what I was talking about AND gave me a taste to confirm it was the cheese I was looking for. Since I was using it for a mac and cheese recipe, I just needed about 1/3 lb. and it was perfect. Someday, when a cheese need arrives for me again, I will be back here and hopefully will get to met Jeff. -
Review from MissMaryAnn D.
Seattle, WA
12/23/2006
The jewel in the crown of Alameda Marketplace.
Stopped in on my latest trip home for some wine and a snack to share with my hosts before dinner.
Jeff recommended a lovely German Riesling and a rich and creamy La Tur cheese to go along with it.
Just tell them your budget and preferences, and let them choose something wonderful.
A lovely little shop, I'll definitley be back whenever I'm in town.
(You know it's good if it'll get ME to set foot in Ala-fuckin-meda again)! -
Review from Rinky N.
East Bay
12/22/2007
Yay for Jeff! He has created a fabulous business! It is hard work to have your own business and Jeff has plenty to be proud of. During my visit I noticed there were a lot of regulars, all were greeted by name.
Yay for me! I finally got to meet Jeff! Being the non-drinker I am, I asked for some wines for a gift for some friends who love Italian food and another bottle for me to cook with. Jeff asked my price range and found two excellent choices for me.
Jeff shared some stories about his wife cooking a dyno-mite brisket! Even though we are veg-heads I can always appreciate hearing about a great cook!
Please stop on by Farmstead when you are in Alameda, or better yet make it a destination spot. It's located in the Marketplace which also is home to a fabulous natural foods market, wonderful bakery and several other nice shops!Listed in: GREAT Customer Service
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Review from Lise L.
Oakland, CA
3/17/2007
This review is loooong overdue. A couple of months ago my fiance and I decided we want to choose our cheese selection for our reception ourselves. So, we wanted to find a cheesemonger to give us a private tasting of sorts. I thought, cheesemonger, I know of someone named Cheesemonger! I'll ask him! So, I PMed and tried to talk Jeff into letting us pay for his time and cheese. He was all for giving us a tasting, but just wouldnt let us pay for it. The nerve! ;-)
After a lot of back in forth about timing, Jeff remained unflappable and friendly. I finally got over my cold and my fiance and I headed over. When we first walked in, I was shocked at how small the place was (I would say 1/3 the size of Cheeseboard). I wondered how they could stock enough cheese to show us a full range and thought 'oh shit he's been so nice, what if I cant give him a good review?!'
This is where the brilliance of Farmstead comes in - the place is small and beautiful and somehow manages to look neat while being absolutely packed with great cheese and wine. Jeff and his cohort behind the counter (sorry I suck at names) were wonderful at telling us about the cheeses and how they would do on a table for a few hours (complete with apt sound effects!) They gave us a great range of samples and we came up with a full list of cheese for the event, including the name of the distributors for the caterer.They went waaay above and beyond.
When we were done I had thought I would be cheesed out. Instead, I wanted MORE. We bought a great bottle of red and a couple of cheeses and went home and had bread wine and cheese for dinner. Heaven!
I am also really impressed with Farmstead for the wine tastings. I need to get over working every weekend so we can come have a sip or two. Of course I know we will go home with another wine, cheese and baguette dinner!
Thank you Jeff for creating such a wonderful space in the East Bay.
UPDATE: We had lots of yummy food at our reception, but what EVERYONE raved about was the cheese selection thanks to Jeff et al. Simply put - Farmstead rocks.Listed in: Wedding Marathon
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Review from Jenn N.
Updated - 4/9/2009
I was just informed by the owner:
"Our policy is simple - cork it and bring back any flawed wine; we'll replace it with a bottle and a smile."
How do you beat that??Listed in: Wine is the answer.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/8/2009
We purchased two bottles of wine here. $15 each.
A 2006 Zin by Sobon - 10 stars out of 10.
A 2005… Read more »
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Review from Ann L.
10/31/2010
Went to Farmstead Cheeses & Wine - had no coupon, but I love cheese. Wine I can do without. It's in the Alameda Marketplace same place as Feel Good Bakery & Alameda Natural Grocery.
I asked for recommendation on cheese with my Feel Good Bakery bread. He let me try:
Quebec Cheddar $18/lb - I liked it.
Brillat Savarin $25/lb - very creamy, like butter. Yummy.
Things I got:
Quebec Cheddar 0.29 lb - $5.22 - I liked it.
Brillat Savarin 0.19lb - $4.75 - very creamy, like butter. Yummy.
Chestnut honey from Italy $12.50 - Skip this unless you like bitter, stinky honey.
Vosges Black Salt Caramel - this is NEW $8.50 - Yum!
My total $30.97. Credit cards taken. I forgot to buy the 2 burrata I saw there. $3.50/ea - a small round ball.
Low cost wine tasting every Saturday from 2:30-5. Haven't tried - saw on Yelp.
Bathroom: outside their shop, down the hallway. Separate men/women's.
Marketplace hrs:
M-Sat 8-8
Sun 8-7Listed in: Alameda Marketplace, Alameda
Comment from Jeff D. of Farmstead Cheeses and Wines 10/31/2010
Glad you had a good time and enjoyed the cheese. we carry… More » -
Review from ChubbyBunny I.
Oakland, CA
11/2/2006
I've always found this tidy store to be a peak shopping experience and a bit of an oasis from the rest of the market (of which I've probably shot off my mouth loud and clearly enough). Rather than overloading you with everything ever created, the selections are focused, well rounded, and fab.u.lous.
For many, when they consider walking into a wine and cheese specific shop, it can be a daunting experience. Let me reassure anyone who is worried they might receive the high hat or an upturned nose that you won't find it here.
See, I'm a fan of deliciousness and I don't care if it comes with snobbery but I have this blue collared partner who can't help but feel that he's too plebeian to know things about good cheese and wine and usually leaves me to do this shopping for us. When I sent him to Farmstead for a bottle of Viognier he was worried. He returned with an enormous smile on his face and a "that place is so great and now I know what Viognier is", which in my book rates all stars and then some.
Excellent service, pitch perfect advice from people who listen without upselling, happy to let you sample while working out your cheese selections.
Don't want a $40 wine? No problem, name your price range and desired flavors (or what you may be purchasing said bottle for) and you'll be fitted with an excellent match.
I've enjoyed purchasing wine from the friendly and knowledgeable proprietor, but I *must* compliment the employee who quite regularly mongers my cheeses. (hey... get your minds out of the gutter)
Seriously good customer service that has even included a less expensive but better tasting cheese, based on a conversation and comparison of flavors. This makes me a loyalist because it means they "get it" rather than simply looking to get your cash.
Customer service is a dying art, but it's alive and well here where they'd rather have you leave happy and educated than with the first thing you grabbed off the shelf. -
Review from Gilbert D.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 4/27/2009
Maybe Jeff YOU should do your homework!!! I've been to your store over a dozen times and I'm on your cheese database (which you can remove me TYVM ).
I've purchased over a dozen bottles from your store and your staff had very little to say in my decision. How can you or your staff make a recommendation when they haven't even tried the wine. That is always my first question when I shop for a wine. It would be nice if they can compare it to another similar wine that I may have tasted. To think I bought two bottles of Ridge from your store trying to help out the mom and pops shops when I could of saved $2 at Safeway. When I lived in Alameda I would get coffee on the weekend and try your "supposed" tastings. Not once did I find a wine drinkable. I gave up on my third tasting. Most of your tasting were very young wines, and again your staff couldn't even tell me what varietal or region without looking on the label. I would think you should put up some of your best wines to shine and not the one's that were collecting dust.
I'm most unhappy with you Jeff. I came out to one of your tastings and you ran out after 30 minutes. You basically told me you only had two bottles and that's it. How do you have a tasting from 6pm-8pm with two bottles? I should be thankful you ran out you didn't try to peddle one of your "boutique" wines. I'm also curious if you'll hold up your end of the deal Jeff. Another Yelper said if we didn't like the wine you'll give them a refund.
I'm giving you the one star for your arrogant comment to discredit me and your poor customer service. As for your cheese selection and your staff's knowledge, I'll give you guys three stars. Stick to cheese and let the professionals sell wine.
Most respectable business owners would try to respond to criticism by contacting the customer. It's obvious you don't care.
P.S. Have a nice day!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/6/2008
The cheese selection is good but a bit pricey. The staff is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to… Read more »
Comment from Jeff D. of Farmstead Cheeses and Wines 4/24/2009
I don't know when or even IF this customer ever visited our… More » -
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Review from Paul B.
San Francisco, CA
2/26/2008
I would like to thank Farmstead for helping make my most recent Valentine's Day a success.
I love cheese and chocolate, and I knew that my date also loved these, plus wine. I know enough about chocolate to go for something a little nicer than Ghirardelli; I have a few favorite upscale makers. But I don't know enough about cheese to make an educated choice on my own, and I don't drink wine, so I'm clueless in that regard.
Enter Farmstead.
I didn't catch the name of the young man who helped me select a range of cheeses, but all were as wonderful and appreciated as the samples he gave me in the shop. When I told him about the meal I had planned, he suggested a wine. And to top it off, which I didn't expect, Farmstead carries a few select chocolates, including the decadent Vosges.
Ultimately, the dinner was wonderfully successful, and my beautiful date was delighted.
I'm not a fan of "one-stop-shopping", because the vast majority of the time, you have to settle on some aspect. I was not going to settle; I had several other stops planned to take care of particular needs. I much prefer to handpick a little from here and there if I really want to put my best foot forward. But Farmstead delivered far more than I had reason to expect, in product, quality, and especially service. -
Review from Rene C.
4/19/2009
Champagne and cheese for dinner? Sure why not??
With the weather being as nice at is, my wife and I have decided to take full advantage and share a cheese course for dinner. We have a bottle of Billecart Salmon Brute Rose and were in need of three quality cheeses that would pair with our bubbles.
Thanks to Philip A and Charlotte S, they both recommended that we check out Farmstead Cheeses and Wine. I really wanted to try someplace that not only carried nice cheese but were also knowledgeable and could guide us into the perfect pairing. I did not get the persons name, but he certainly did an excellent job at describing each cheese and how they would be excellent options for us. We ended up choosing a Brillat Savarin, Bucheron and Fleur Verte. All of these were soft cheeses and according to our cheese expert would not over power our Champagne.
I was also impressed by the small yet well thought out wine selections they carried. This would make for an excellent stop along the way for a dinner party or to pick up a special bottle for a gift. They even include plenty of bottles in the $15 and under range if you are looking for that "everyday" drinker.
One the way out I made sure to sign up for the newsletter and email updates. Go Cheese! -
Review from inga r.
1/1/2007
in the words of uncle buck "im kinda like a big mouse, i eat alot of cheese"
My boyfriend and i have been going to Jeff's store most every Saturday, if not other days, for almost 2 years now. We easily buy 3-4 cheeses a week (at least 2 new ones) and we have yet to run out of new cheeses. Jeff's knowledge of wine and cheese rivals my knowledge of Johnny Cash and bicycles.
Although im not a big wine person (I have a higher calling, that of cognacs, armagnacs, whiskeys, bourbons, etc..) Jeff still makes it interesting to try wines when im in the rare mood. Both his and Dave's personality recall that of your favorite bartender.
The service is exemplary and the staff adresses your needs even when the shop is packed. I wish there was room for 2 lounge chairs so my boyfriend and i can be like Statler and Waldorf (the old judges in the muppets) and harrass them all day whilst munching on cheese.
bonus- i scored 2 black sabbath albums there! -
Review from Laura 'jinx.tv' K.
Redwood City, CA
9/30/2007
The dude helping us here told us to go to Safeway for some of the cheese we wanted. And we did. And we got just what we wanted. That was the best recommendation he had for us. We did buy four cheeses here, though. Three of them were good and one was great. I just wish that we'd been offered a few samples or recommendations or something...we might have 1.) bought more cheese and 2.) gotten four great cheeses. I mean, c'mon...it's cheese. Almost all cheese is "good". We want to pay $28 a pound for great, not good.
That same dude, when we asked him to recommend a wine, recommended what may have been the cheapest bottle of wine in the store, some chianti-esque thing that was $8 or $9. It's not like I think that a wine is better the more it costs, but that recommendation just kind of made us go, "oh, okay...well, we'll just look around at the wines, thanks", because at that point we are just assuming the guy knows almost nothing about wines and hasn't tried many of them. We're a little snobby about wine I guess, but there wasn't any vino that looked too exciting here. We bought a cabernet and a zin and the cabernet we drank half of and ended up tearfully pouring the rest out (it just seems so wrong) and the zin was okay but again not great.
I guess that kind of sums up Farmstead for me: okay, but not great. -
Review from Brian S.
Oakland, CA
10/27/2007
This review is based on a single shopping experience here.
I had some free time today and made a special trip to Alameda (I almost never go to Alameda!) to check out Farmstead. As I walked in, I was immediately approached by a young lady who said she'd be right with me after she checked on someone already waiting to be helped. I really like that immediate acknowledgment!
When this woman came back to help me, she made some excellent cheese recommendations based on my tastes and preferences - I also got samples to ensure I would get something I enjoyed. I ended up getting a couple of soft cheeses: the 3 milk rocchetta and some humboldt fog. She also made a great white wine recommendation as I planned to be enjoying a wine and cheese lunch.
While my purchases weren't particularly inexpensive, they were quite reasonable for what I got. I've acquiesced to the fact that I'm a person with some expensive tastes....I just live with that fact!
A couple of nice touches: there was someone pouring wine samples, so I got to taste from 2 or 3 bottles while I was there. I also got to meet the Cheesemonger himself, Jeff D, who graciously took a few minutes out of his day to chat with me. Indeed, Yelp is proving to be a community that helps me find great business as well as great people.
Like I said, I don't get to Alameda too often, but a place like Farmstead is sure likely to increase the frequency! -
Review from Charlie W.
Oakland, CA
7/11/2010 1 Check-in Here
Inside the alameda market place, this really is a hidden spot. This little store has a great selection of wine and cheese. When you first walk in, the unique aroma of cheese is pretty overwhelming. Some might find it offensive, but it's really a personal preference.
But once you get over the smell, you should turn your attention to the wine shelves on the right. It's a pretty big selection for a local store. Everything from white, red, domestic n foreign, they got it all. The best part is, this place doesn't focus on big name, large wineries. They focus on what's good. The owner goes n try all the wines before stocking it. He often makes personal recommendations that I have yet to disagree with.
The prices are a bit higher than some other wine stores, I think that's because of their convenient location. I believe in supporting local businesses and it's not too much higher.
As for the cheese, I am not too verse in cheesology, but I believe they have a pretty good selection. Feel free to browse and see if they have what you are looking for. I believe this is a great store that might go unnoticed because of the location. I would highly recommend this place for any local wine enthusiast. -
Review from Cristina R.
San Francisco, CA
1/12/2009
The best is the tracking system they have. The second best (or maybe the very best) is that every time I have asked for a recommendation they have introduced me to an awesome bottle of wine.
Their cheese selection is great too! And they always carry the latest issue of Edible East Bay! Love this place.
For a quick and dirty pick, go to the front of the store and pick any of the bottles priced at $12 or less. They are wines from around the world and they are fabulous! The Tamara from Portugal is well priced at $8 and it is oh, so easy to drink! -
Review from Marie D.
Oakland, CA
11/15/2007
Had I wriiten this review a week agao, the place would have gotten 5 stars without even thinking about it... great wines, nice people, good cheeses, and other specials fine products, a great newsletter...
When I opened the special one they sent out on Tuesday though about the Beaujolais, they instantly lost my admiration.
The newsletter was annoncing they had received the Beaujolais, which officially shoudl be only released on the 3rd Thursday of November, and since they had the wine, they must as well sell it rigth away. If safeway or another non specialty store would have done the same, it would have bothered me, but I would have though, well they don't know about the tradition. Coming from such a store, it is disapointment.
Not a big deal I am pretty sure for such a successfull business, but they won't see me again, there are enough quality cheeses store( Cheese board) or wine stores in the East Bay. -
Review from Jen D.
12/10/2008
I was visiting the *cough* great *cough* town of Alameda a lot over the summer and never knew about this place. One night Eugy and I decided to stop off at the building that Farmstead is in and when we saw the cheese, we HAD to come in. Farmstead has a great selection of very interesting cheeses. I picked up a rosemary manchego and a sage white cheddar. Interesting right?! And they were both DELICIOUS!
I signed up for their email updates and they have info on a lot of cool events. Now I'll just have to sign up for one and check it out! -
Review from Kenneth R.
Berkeley, CA
6/4/2009
I stopped in last Saturday while heading back to 880 from the Soccer Post. Without Yelp, I probably wouldn't have given this place a second glance. As you probably know, Farmstead is located in a food court that's comparable to Market Hall in Rockridge. Their cheese selection reminded me of that sported by the Pasta Shop in Market Hall. Their wine display brought to mind the Paul Marcus wine store that's a few dozen feet away from the Pasta Shop.
How did Farmstead stack up? For one thing, it's cheaper than the two analogues in Oakland. As far as the cheese goes, the prices seem similar to those of the Cheese Board in Berkeley. (At the Pasta Shop, you can do serious damage to your credit card bill if you buy a lot of cheeses.) For the wines, the basic theme is that the proprietors are going for affordable interesting wines whose prices average around $15. For another thing, Farmstead is awash in customer service. What kind of cheeses do I like? What tastes am I looking for in wine? These people aim to please!
I'm sorry to report that I abstained from buying any wine here; the main reason is that I'd picked up a summer sampler from North Berkeley Wine a few days before. When people ask me if I "collect" wine, I usually tell them that I "accumulate" wine. This time around, I was strictly a cheese shopper.Listed in: Yelp sent me here
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Review from Jenny W.
San Francisco, CA
10/14/2006
This place has the best selection of cheeses. Not only do they have Amsterdam cheese but now a Reserve Amsterdam! So many I have a tough time choosing! The staff is so knowledgable and really friendly. They also carry a good selection of wines at regular prices. I don't care for their wine tastings though.
Had to drop it a star recently: Drove 1 hr in weekday traffic to go from sf to go for the SilverOak tasting... they said they ran out of the 2 bottles in less than an hr. Don't advertise a 2 hr tasting when u only have 2 bottles! No one seemed to care either...horrible..
then I found the same amsterdam cheese at trader joe's for a few dollars less!! -
Review from Suzanne B.
San Francisco, CA
7/5/2006
So I move away from Alameda and what happens? They build a flippin' gourmet marketplace on Park Street and put in all these fabulous stores! Dammit - this always happens when I leave and I'm starting to get a complex. Not bitter - but *still*...
Farmstead Cheese and Wine exemplifies the neighborhood upgrade that always seems to happen when I move. I went in one day with friends who still live in the area and made the mistake of mentioning how light I was on (1) every day casual wines and (2) cellar selections. Wow! You would have thought I was bringing Christmas early. My helpful wine guy took me all around this (tiny) store showing me selections in a variety of price ranges exactly suited to my current needs. When I started wincing at a couple of the prices (budget, must remember budget) he adjusted effortlessly.
Then he mentioned that I might want to come back a 2pm for the regular Saturday wine tasting. !!!! Oh yeah, I definitely came back. The tastings are very reasonably priced (I think I paid $2).
My friend tried several artisan cheese samples (fine - we ALL tried the cheese) and bought some for appetizers that night. I left with a case of wine and recommendations spinning in my head.
Oh, and I signed up for the monthly email, which lets me in on specials, wine dinners, reviews, etc. from the owner.Listed in: A Loaf of Bread, A Jug of…
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Review from ChiYan T.
San Francisco, CA
1/4/2009
The first shop of the two, this one is partitioned inside a health & organic-oriented supermarket. They have a very affordable selection of wines starting from the $10 range.
As for the cheese, they have a decent selection of blues, some cheddars, goat, cow, soft to hard, many imported but some are also local. If you need some mascarpone for your tiramisu they sell that here as well. Sides include crackers and nuts.
I noticed that the selection here was a bit different from the Oakland one, so if you went to one location to buy a specific cheese, don't be too sure the second location will also carry it. Staff was knowledgeable and helpful with suggestions. He also didn't mind if we had to taste through a number of cheeses before we found something that fit.
As always, the big bonus of this place is that they have helpful ways for customers to remember what they bought.
I'm sure I'm not the only one that's bought cheese from Whole Foods, not use it up in one night, and eventually have 5+ little leftover stubs of cheese in the fridge and no idea what they were. What's the point of discovering a great cheese if I never know how to get more of it? Like Whole Foods is going to let me taste through 1/2 their selection to find it again? Bah. At Farmstead they track previous purchases by computer, wrap the cheeses in nice logo'ed wax paper and they print out the name of cheese on their sticker labels. The labels are also easy to unstick and put on the cheeseboard next to each cheese if a person is buying for a party.
It's the little thoughtful things like these that help a newbie learn about the broad world of cheese and makes this place indispensible.
Thank you Farmstead Cheese.
[Post review note:]
Per response from owner, the two stores do carry most of the same cheeses. Both locations' inventory had been wiped low due to the holiday season & will be re-stocked soon. -
Review from C B.
Alameda, CA
10/31/2006
This place is awesome. It has made me a cheese addict! Try the "Briat." I can't stop eating it once I start. If you like red wine, "Sharecropper's" Pinot Noir is my new favorite. "Life is too Short to Drink Cheap Wine!" I really appreciate the customer service at Farmstead.
I also recommend this store to those who are lactose intolerant. These people are so educated, they can steer you in the right direction for an alternative to cow's milk. -
Review from Laura G.
Providence, RI
4/28/2007
Oh how I love Farmstead Cheeses & Wines, let me count the ways...
The staff are extremely friendly, knowledgeable, passionate, and fun. They even let me come around the counter one time and use their computer to look up their favorite recipe for cheese fondue, which I was planning on making that night. You can put your name on their list & they will keep a record for you of all the cheeses and wines you buy for your future reference.
The free wine tastings are always fun, educational, and generously poured! Their cheese blog is a pleasure to read & a great resource. I feel so lucky to have this top notch shop in my hometown. -
Review from Lee R.
Oakland, CA
6/26/2007 1 Check-in Here
Wow ... you really earn your five stars!
Since I am a big fan of wine and cheese, I make special trips to Farmstead Cheese and Wine to pick up things that I can't find other places ... like cheese I had at the French Laundry. Yeah.
Jeff and his team know how to find the special wines and cheeses and they share them. I just bought three cases of wine and I was thrilled to add them to my cellar. Two of the cases were very special and I could not find at other places.
Jeff ... keep up the great work! You have super style and panache.Listed in: Best Happy Hour, My Neighborhood, Born to Shop
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Review from Randall O.
Oakland, CA
6/10/2008
In the interest of full disclosure, I am the General Manager of Alameda Natural Grocery and reside across the aisle from the Cheesemonger's Alameda Shop. As a result, I've gotten to know the shop, its owners and its employees on a more personal level.
From a business perspective, I'm envious and take notes on their accomplishments, how they treat customers and the level of knowledge they provide without the snootiness you find elsewhere (novices should feel comfortable asking questions). On a personal level, EVERYONE who works here has a passion for good food and drink, they shop at Alameda Natural Grocery, and we shop at Farmstead.
I don't drink so most of what I buy from Farmstead is cheese and at various times his crew has helped me with pairings and preparing plates on a budget (this was fun, I took his crew first crop Asian pears, new crop apples and the last of the California grapes). Applewood Smoked Cheddar and first crop honeycrisp apples = nom nom nom. -
Review from vinnie g.
Oakland, CA
12/2/2007
I can't stand the Yuppie Scum that has permeated the Bay Area since the early 80s
Farmstead Cheese& Wine, is ground Zero for these uptight pathetic egotistical scourges on society.
But the people that work there however are very nice,
And they all still secretly drink Malt Liquor.
What we have to put up with for nice cheese.
Some lady in a Cartier double stroller and her 2 little Antichrist children
Bumps in to me while I was buying a double cream cheese.
Its great feeling opening up soft cheeses and putting it in the little hands of the future entitlement issue gremlins.
The shock and dismay as she opened her Louis Vuitton Diaper bag for some (eco) handiwipes.
I love the passive aggressive verbal abuse Jeff gives me when I walk in his store.
I feel like hes an Old Jewish grandmother reincarnated into Cheese & Whine Purveyer.............(oops I mean wine).
The Guilt is very simular.
I love the abuse.
I love the cheese.
I have to give the place 5 stars so they won't spit in my double cremes,
or kick me in the head. -
Review from matthew r.
San Francisco, CA
4/22/2007
Truth be told, I don't know much about wine. It all tasted the same to me until I hit my head about 8 months ago and began to enjoy the stuff.
Fortunately, I didn't have to know much about wine. I spoke briefly with Dave in vague terms about what I liked and didn't like, and he was able to make a half dozen recommendations. I left with a Monastrell and a Cabernet Franc.
They can optionally store your purchases and opinons about them to help improve their recommendations in the future.
And free tastings on saturdays!Listed in: Alameda
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Review from Uncle Fishbits Aeneas X.
Belvedere Tiburon, CA
2/22/2007
The owner is witty, kind, and a real treat... a bright part of the Yelp community.
If his class is any indication... well... five stars blind seems just fine!
(I promise to really review you when I get out there!)
AND HERE IT IS... great store, helpful staff, free samples galore. The people love cheese.
Thanks guys! -
Review from Consuelo J.
Union City, CA
1/10/2008
Yes, yes, yes, the rumors are true. If you need cheese, you need Farmstead Cheeses & Wines.
I love the Pasta Shop. I love the Cheeseboard. But I really love Farmstead Cheeses & Wines.
They are friendly, knowledgeable, gives lots of yummy samples. And best of all, they keep your name & purchase history in their system which relieves the stress off you in remembering exactly what cheese you purchased last time that you loved.
I could die a happy death eating some of the cheeses I've eaten here!
Thank you JEFF!! -
Review from decoux m.
Alameda, CA
9/6/2006
These wine guys really know their stuff! They ALWAYS have a good pick for us under twenty bucks when we go in and tell them what we're eating. I don't think we've ever been let down by their expertise... Careful around the sacred cheese freezer in the middle of the store though. I think this may be a shrine to the cheese gods that cannot be desecrated by the words lasagna, chicken divan, or tuna noodle... they take cheese really really seriously. I like this idea, but you should've seen this guys face when I said macaroni and cheese... haha. It was GOURMET mac and cheese, dude!
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Went in for a great wine tasting last weekend and thoroughly enjoyed both the attitude and the encyclopedic wine wisedome of the sales staff. Great and knowledgeable people pouring hefty tasting glasses AND I got a good and strong (wash your hands all day) cheese recommendation for my gourmet Mac and Cheese... Five stars for an all around great wine and cheese experience.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Delilah P.
Oakland, CA
2/24/2008
I think I have probably eaten about five pounds of free cheese in this place. Not because I am a sample hog, but because they are so generous and helpful in guiding their patrons in making their selections (too bad they can't do the same thing with their wine. hee!hee!)
Folks here know their stuff and are super helpful with wine pairings. I am a wine dummy and they never throw any attitudinal shade when I display my dorkitude. In fact, I've learned much, which was likely forgotten after throwing back a few glasses of whatever they've sold me. But being the smart businessfolk that they are, all my purchases are noted in their database so my inebriated brain can just relax and let them do all the work.
Besides all the free cheese and yummy vino, I have discovered bacon chocolate and an amazing belgian-style ale fermented in bourbon casks. Yum Yum!Listed in: Killing Me Softly
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Review from Pete M.
San Francisco, CA
2/29/2008
Let me start by saying I will not pretend to know the names and countries of origin of the many cheeses I've purchased at Farmstead.
Usually I tell the personable, extremely versed staff what kind of cheese I'm in the mood for eating. Something creamy or bold or bleu-ish, etc. These folks know their stuff. Every suggestion they've made was money. Sampling the cheese beforehand is a fabulous feature.
As for wine, I am one of those breakers of wine law who eats red meat with white wine. (ooooh!) Yeah, what a dick. The best part is they never push or steer me away from the type of wine I desire regardless of the meal I will be having with it.
I make the trek from SF to Alameda specifically for Farmstead and its worth every drop of petro.
