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Local Cheesemaker Finds a New Home in Berks County

Local Cheesemaker Finds a New Home in Berks County

The Farmstead Table, an artisanal cheese-making establishment, is pleased to announce its relocation to Berks County. Founded in 2019 by owner/cheese maker Steve Dougherty, The Farmstead Table has put down new roots after moving from its original location on a farm in New Tripoli, PA.

Earlier this Spring, the Farmstead Table moved into the former location of Grube’s Dairy in Shoemakersville.

Reflecting on the opportunity, Steve Dougherty shared, “For over a year, we had been searching for suitable buildings near our home in Kutztown. Our growth was hindered by space limitations, as we had outgrown our farm plant’s infrastructure. We needed more room to age cheese and store cold inventory. Fortunately, through word of mouth, we discovered that the Grube family was considering the future of their now-closed dairy processing facility. We reached out during the winter and initiated a conversation about leasing the space. It turned out to be a perfect match for us! Finding a space like this is incredibly lucky and rare.” Further, Dougherty expressed his gratitude,” We are incredibly grateful to the Grube family for entrusting us with their facility. It allows us to continue our mission of producing exceptional cheeses while adding a little something special to local culture here in Berks.”

The Farmstead Table produces a range of fresh, soft-ripened, and aged cheeses and sells at many Philadelphia-area farmers markets, independent retailers, and restaurants throughout the region. Their dedication to quality starts with sourcing milk from ‘fantastic farms’ committed to pasture-based methods and animal welfare.

While focused mainly on production at the moment, Dougherty looks forward to introducing the business and their products to the community. Though not offering a full grocery experience, the shop will be open on Friday’s this Summer for tastings, mini-tours and, of course, purchases, as part of the Berks Ag Resource Network (B.A.R.N.) B.A.R.N.opoly project which is intended to encourage consumers to go out and meet their local producers. Dougherty says,”People are always asking if we have a store and if they can visit. I’m so happy I can finally give a straight answer. We look forward to meeting our local cheese-lovers and sharing a variety of cheese, butter, and even fresh-pulled Mozzarella.”

Summer Friday hours are 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. now through August 25th (closed 7/28). For more information about The Farmstead Table please visit farmstead-table.myshopify.com or contact Steve at [email protected].