Thanksgiving Cheese, Done Right

Thanksgiving deserves better than a sad supermarket cheese plate. Ideal Cheese has been the holiday cheese counter for New York families since 1954 — and we’ll make your Thanksgiving board the thing people talk about.

What to serve: A great Thanksgiving board balances the richness of the meal. Go with a creamy (Brillat-Savarin or Camembert), a firm crowd-pleaser (aged Manchego or Comté), a blue for the adventurous (Roquefort), and something unexpected (ask us — we love this part). Figure about 3–4 ounces of cheese per person if it’s an appetizer, more if it’s doing heavy lifting before dinner.

Order ahead: We cut everything to order, and Thanksgiving week is our busiest. Order online early — for delivery before Thursday, November 26, get your order in well ahead of time (check idealcheese.com for this year’s shipping cutoff). Or stop by 942 1st Ave and we’ll build your board with you.

Sending cheese as a gift? Our Thanksgiving gift baskets ship nationwide — the host gift that beats another bottle of wine.

Frequently asked questions

How much cheese do I need for Thanksgiving?

About 3–4 oz per person as an appetizer; 6–8 oz if cheese is a main event.

What cheese goes with Thanksgiving dinner?

Creamy + firm + blue + wild card. We recommend Brillat-Savarin, aged Manchego or Comté, Roquefort, and whatever our cheesemongers are excited about that week.

When should I order cheese for Thanksgiving delivery?

Early. Check idealcheese.com for this year’s shipping cutoff — perishable cheese needs lead time.

Do you make ready-to-serve Thanksgiving boards?

Yes — order ahead and we’ll have it wrapped and ready for pickup, or build one with you in the shop.