A new independent cheese shop is set to open its doors on Edinburgh’s Broughton Street just in time for the city’s busy Festival season, with ‘The Big Cheese’ launching on Saturday 1 August.
The new venture will stock more than 50 carefully selected cheeses sourced from Scotland, across the UK and continental Europe, offering a distinctive range for the capital’s food lovers. Around half of the cheeses on offer will be exclusive within Edinburgh’s speciality retail scene, giving customers the chance to discover varieties not widely available elsewhere in the city.
Alongside well-known favourites such as Isle of Mull cheddar, Gubbeen farmhouse cheese and parmesan, the shop will showcase more unusual and experimental cheeses. These include varieties smoked over whisky barrel chips, washed in red wine or brandy, and cheeses coated in garlic, herbs or chilli. Customers can also expect indulgent options such as gorgonzola soft enough to be served with an ice cream scoop.
Seasonal cheeses will feature throughout the year, complemented by a curated range of accompaniments including crackers, chutneys, olives, wine and cheese-focused books.
At the centre of the shop, a bespoke quartz-topped counter known as ‘The Cheese Board’ will serve as the focal point of the customer experience. Here, cheeses will be freshly cut and wrapped to order, with expert guidance available to help shoppers select the perfect cheese for any occasion.
The Big Cheese also plans to host regular tasting events, designed to introduce customers to new flavours and deepen appreciation for artisan cheese.
The shop marks a new chapter for founder Neil Cunningham, a former commercial director and consultant who is stepping away from a 25-year corporate career in London and Edinburgh to pursue his passion.
Speaking ahead of the opening, Cunningham said: “After 25 years working in the corporate world in London and Edinburgh, I can’t wait to launch my own independent business and nurture my passion for cheese right here in my hometown. This is the first time in my career that I feel like I’m doing something that is entirely personal and true to me.
“I’m proud to be unveiling a really exceptional range of cheeses from around Scotland and further afield – many of which are not currently available to buy from any of Edinburgh’s other speciality cheese shops.
“I want The Big Cheese to be far more than just an artisan cheese store. I want to create a relaxed and personal customer experience and a venue that will be part of local community life in the neighbourhood I call home.
“Our specially designed store will create a warm and welcoming environment for Edinburgh’s cheese lovers to discover new and unique varieties for all occasions. I also want to attract new audiences to artisan cheese for the first time.”
Cunningham also highlighted the support behind the project, adding: “The Big Cheese wouldn’t have been possible without the ongoing support of my husband, Nick. My thanks also go to our friend Kay Bennet for her design and branding work, and Ian Jow from Jow Property Services for all the shop fitting.”
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The opening will also bring new employment opportunities to the area, with four roles created including shop manager Mia Cowie.
Located at 27 Broughton Street in Edinburgh’s New Town, The Big Cheese joins a well-established community of independent food and drink businesses. The street is already home to popular dining destinations such as Vinette, L’Escargot Bleu, The Broughton and Michelin-acclaimed Lucky Yu.
The Big Cheese will be open from Tuesday to Sunday. More information can be found at www.thebigcheese.store and via Instagram at @thebigcheesestore.
