Since the closure of Paddy’s Cheese Shop, the beloved High Street fixture, there has been a brie-wheel-shaped hole in central Edmonton.
Blair Lebsack of RGE RD and Ryan Arcand of Iconoclast Coffee have stepped up to fill that void — with the newly opened Tiny’s Cheese Shop. Located in the Exchange II building in Wîhkwêntôwin, the specialty store carries everything from brie to blue cheese to emmental.
Tucked around the back of Exchange II, Tiny’s is thoughtfully curated, with knowledgeable staff behind the counter, dispensing samples and educating customers about where the cheese comes from — primarily Europe and Quebec — and what their tasting notes are. Their offerings vary from mild, soft Le Crottin de Chavignol to the more obscure varieties like the raw milk Louis d’Or from Quebec, which is aged nine months and has a strong flavour.
There’s more on offer than cheese, too. Think B.C. fruit preserves, oil, sausage, vinegars, olives, tinned fish and pasta — foods that pair perfectly with the creamy, complex cow, goat and sheep cheeses on offer. It’s a one-stop charcuterie shop.
The Brio baguettes were nearly sold out when I arrived at the store in early afternoon — the salesperson packaged one of the remaining few while I shopped. Once home with my Tiny’s haul, I immediately drizzled some of their Italian olive oil on an airy slice of bread — and then several more. The oil was fresh and light — along with the baguette and French cheese I bought, I was briefly transported to Europe.
Tiny’s joins businesses like Kind Ice Cream, Odd Company Brewing and Brio Bakery in the newly expanded Exchange buildings, which have become a lively hub in Wîhkwêntôwin.
Tiny’s Cheese Shop
Wîhkwêntôwin | 103, 12017 102 Ave NW, Edmonton | tinyscheeseshop.com
