Alyssa Gilbert wears many hats in the world of artisan cheese. Her Oakland shop, Ollie’s American Cheese + Provisions, is a great place to go learn about and buy locally and nationally made craft cheeses, and it’s also a catering kitchen that designs cheese and charcuterie boards and grazing tables for events both large and small.
In addition, Gilbert is the new executive director of the California Artisan Cheese Guild, which means she’s very busy getting ready for the 20th Annual California Artisan Cheese Festival, coming up on March 20–22 in Sonoma. We spent some time with Gilbert to learn more about her background, the shop, and festival highlights.
Can you describe the history behind your shop and your interest in cheese?…