Some gifts are delicious. Others make memories. With Jordan and the team at Love Cheese in York, you get both-thoughtfully curated cheese-and-wine experiences served in their intimate SpeakCheesey space and secret garden, just a whisper from the city walls.
Shop Local.
Jordan’s Story: A Passion For Pairing, A Place For People
Love Cheese is an independent, York-born cheesemonger and tasting hub led by owner Jordan Thomson, who has championed welcoming, down-to-earth cheese experiences for locals and visitors alike. He introduced The SpeakCheesey concept to bring people together around exceptional cheese, wine, and warm hospitality-no stuffiness, just great taste and good company.
The Space: Hidden Gem, Heartfelt Hospitality
Tucked behind the beautifully stocked shop, The SpeakCheesey offers a cosy, relaxed setting for date nights and catch-ups. When the Yorkshire sun peeks out, a secret garden backing onto York’s ancient city walls turns your tasting into a mini escape-right in the heart of the city.
This month we caught up with Jordan to find out a little more about his journey to Love Cheese and why customers travel from miles around:
Let’s start at the beginning…
What first drew you to Love Cheese – and how did your journey from manager in 2020 to owner in 2022 come about?
I joined as manager in 2020 and instantly fell for the place — the atmosphere, the creativity, the people. When the chance came to take it on in 2022, I couldn’t resist. It felt like the natural next step.
What was it like taking over the business during the pandemic?
Tough but transformative. It forced us to think differently — that’s how our virtual tastings began. It showed me that people crave connection as much as cheese, and that’s shaped everything we’ve done since.
Was owning a cheese shop something you always dreamed of?
Not at all! It’s been a brilliant surprise. I’ve always loved food and people — cheese just turned out to be the perfect way to bring them together.
Evolving the business
What’s been your biggest ‘pinch me’ moment so far?
Hosting thousands of people online for tastings during lockdown was surreal — but opening The SpeakCheesey on Fossgate tops it. Seeing people enjoy it in person is incredible.
Tell us about the new shop on Fossgate – how does it differ from Gillygate?
Gillygate’s the heart — the shop, tastings, garden. Fossgate’s our cheeky younger sibling: gooey toasties, cheese boards, great wine and relaxed vibes.
What makes your approach award-winning?
We’re all about joy and connection. Whether it’s a tasting, a toastie, or a wedding cake — it’s food that makes people smile.
The experience: it’s all about connection.
What inspired your Cheese Afternoon Tea?
We wanted to give a classic a cheesy twist that is perfect for sharing on socials. It’s indulgent, savoury and a bit unexpected — watching people discover it is the best part.
What do you love most about your tastings and pairings?
That “wow” moment when someone tries a pairing they’d never expect and it just works.
Any standout customer stories?
We have a lot of people who have joined us online for tastings then travelled to York specifically to visit in person and say hi.
Keeping it local
How does York influence what you do?
York’s full of independent spirit and amazing food. The community’s backed us from day one — we wouldn’t be here without them.
Any local makers you love working with?
One of the highlights of the year is when we work with Brew York and Merchant Adventurers Hall for the Charity beer festival. It’s a right knees up and sells out every year!
Favourite hidden gem in York?
North South for a cocktail. Nana Noodles for street food.
Sustainability & values
How are you keeping things sustainable?
Reusing packaging where safe to do so, we are currently getting some new more eco friendly packaging designed too, reducing waste by sending short dated stock to food banks.
How important is staying independent?
Essential. Growth’s great, but we’ll always stay rooted in York and our community.
Looking ahead
What’s the most unusual cheese wedding cake you’ve made?
I wouldn’t say we have any unusual cakes, but I have had to warn people that they don’t need 15kg of cheese for a group of 30 people! But if they want the challenge they can be my guest haha!
Sum up Love Cheese in three words.
Fun. Flavourful. Friendly. Cheese should always make you smile.
What’s next?
More events, more collabs, more cheese. We’ve got big plans for The Speakcheesey(s) and plenty of tasty ideas in the pipeline.
Love Cheese: A Romantic Cheese & Wine Experience in the Heart of York
Looking for the perfect romantic gift or a special treat for a wine and cheese lover? Escape to the cosy charm of Love Cheese in York, where you and your special someone can indulge in a perfectly paired cheese and wine platter for two.
Tucked away at the back of Love Cheese’s beautifully stocked shop, The SpeakCheesey dining space offers a warm, intimate setting – ideal for a date night or a relaxed catch-up with friends. The inviting ambience and friendly staff make this a truly special experience.
If the Yorkshire sun decides to make an appearance, step outside into Love Cheese’s secret garden, a hidden gem that backs onto York’s ancient city walls. This peaceful oasis offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Your Uniquely Local Experience options include:
Ultimate Cheese and Wine Pairing Platter for Two (£100)
What’s included:
– Five carefully selected cheeses expertly paired with five wines
– Delicious accompaniments: fresh breads, Puttanesca olives, cornichons, pickled onions, and chutneys
– Romantic, tucked-away setting with optional secret garden seating
Perfect for: Thoughtful gift givers who want a memorable, shared experience with a local, independent feel.
Cheese Afternoon Tea for Two with a Bottle of Bubbly (£70)
What’s included:
– Five artisan cheeses with premium cured meats
– Fresh Haxby Bread, olives, pickles, chutneys
– A bottle of Moutard Méthode Traditionelle Blanc de Blancs Brut
– Served in York’s only SpeakCheesey
Perfect for: A cosy daytime treat, birthdays, or a just-because indulgence-no washing up, all joy.
Link: https://uniquelylocal.co.uk/experiences/cheese-afternoon-tea-for-two-with-a-bottle-of-bubbly/
Uniquely Local – good to know (so your gift lands perfectly)
– Vouchers: 12 months total to book (6 months to activate, then 6 months to book)
– Fully flexible: Easy exchanges if the experience isn’t quite right
– Dietary notes: Some cheeses may not be vegetarian; please inform at booking
– Gifting options: Eco-friendly gift box by post or instant e-voucher
– Every voucher supports an independent Yorkshire business
– Curated quality over mass-market novelty
Make their day with a local experience they’ll still be talking about next month. Shop Local.