It's almost time once again for the cheesiest holiday of the year, with January 20th marking this year's edition of National Cheese Lover's Day. Whether you're a true aficionado of all things cheese or you simply love an excuse to sample, you'll find no shortage of places to celebrate in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Our REALTORS® have the details on 6 local spots where you can celebrate National Cheese Lover's Day.

1. Artisan Cheese Company – 550 Central Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
   With a convenient location close to Sarasota homes for sale and a diverse selection of cheese from around the world, Artisan Cheese Company is sure to have what you seek. Visit anytime to browse the best selection of artisan cheese in Sarasota. If you love a glass of good wine with your favorite cheese, wine, and cheese clubs at Artisan Cheese Company can satisfy both of your culinary passions.

2. Chop Shop Grocer – 5906 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209
   Looking for a local, old-fashioned grocer close to Bradenton homes for sale? Then head for the Chop Shop Grocer, where you'll find great cheese and so much more. The award-winning deli at the Chop Shop stocks a wide variety of international cheeses, along with all of your favorite cold cuts. Grab a prepared meal, or find the freshest ingredients for your own home-cooked creations.

3. Morton's Gourmet Market – 1924 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota, FL 34239
   Whether you're shopping for gourmet cheese, fine wines, or the freshest top-quality ingredients for your next meal, Morton's Gourmet Market in Sarasota will have what you need. Order a gourmet basket for the cheese-lover on your shopping list, or grab something delicious to take home. With more than 200 cheeses available every day and expert help from cheesemonger Karen LaBonte, Morton's is sure to stock what you seek.

4. Papa's Meat Market – 324 Tamiami Trail S., Venice, FL 34285
   It's easy to find fresh food and fantastic cheese close to Venice homes for sale, thanks to well-known local shops like Papa's Meat Market. The cheese selection at Papa's Meat Market is diverse, with cheeses created on small farms throughout the country. At Papa's, you can sample everything from Amish cheese to the best imported Parmesan from Italy.

5. Anna Maria Olive Oil Outpost – 401 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34217
   While you're out shopping for Anna Maria Island homes, you'll certainly end up with an appetite. Stop by the Anna Maria Olive Oil Outpost to sample some Truffle Pecorino and Formager Bleu creamy brie style cheese – or whatever the delicious cheese sample of the day may be. Aside from gourmet cheeses, the friendly staff is happy to indulge the taste buds of visitors with fabulous olive oils, freshly shaved parmesan, cured meats, handmade soaps, flavored balsamic vinegars and pickled goodies that make excellent gifts.

6. The Ancient Olive of Sarasota – St. Armands Circle 26 N. Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota, FL 34236
   Just a short drive from Longboat Key homes for sale, you'll find The Ancient Olive. It's not a cheese shop, but when you have gourmet cheese, you need the amenities – like premium extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars. The Ancient Olive provides an epicurean adventure that includes tastings of its various specialty foods among an array of unique culinary gifts, all found in the ambiance of a fine art gallery. The tasting room At The Ancient Olive features 55+ premium single varietal and flavored extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars and has been awarded for excellence in quality and education.

You'll never be hungry when you call our corner of Florida home. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Manatee and Sarasota area.