Alleva Dairy, widely recognized as America’s oldest cheese shop, is set to resume operations this Sunday inside Chelsea Market. The reopening follows the closure of its historic Mulberry Street storefront, which had operated in Little Italy for over a century.
On Saturday afternoon, Chelsea Market vendors prepared for increased foot traffic as Alleva staff arranged cases of provolone, mozzarella, and ricotta. The new location sits near the market’s main entrance, steps from the Eighth Avenue side, and will offer deli sandwiches alongside imported cheeses.
Alleva's owners cite the move as necessary after financial pressures and changes in the Little Italy neighborhood. Chelsea Market, a hub for both tourists and local shoppers, provides a different customer base and extended evening hours.
The shop’s reopening comes during a busy September weekend, with back-to-school shoppers and fall visitors crowding the market’s hallways. Several longtime Alleva customers stopped by Friday to preview the new counter setup and inquire about the return of traditional Italian specialties.
Alleva Dairy first opened in 1892. The team says they plan to maintain several original recipes and bring over signature sandwiches from the old menu.