Tucked away in the vibrant heart of New York City lies a haven for food lovers and cheese aficionados: Murray’s Cheese. This iconic destination has transformed the city’s culinary landscape, inviting visitors to embark on a sensory journey through the world of artisanal cheese.
The menu at Murray’s is a testament to tradition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Whether you’re a seasoned turophile or simply cheese-curious, their selection promises to delight your palate and expand your horizons.
Every visit to Murray’s feels like a celebration of flavor. The menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring both beloved classics and cutting-edge creations.
Each cheese tells a story—one of craftsmanship, heritage, and place—while the supporting cast of charcuterie, accompaniments, and expertly paired beverages elevates the experience to new heights. As you explore the offerings, you’ll discover the nuances that make Murray’s a true cheese-lover’s paradise.
Let’s dive into the menu and uncover the treasures that await at this legendary cheese shop.
The Art of Cheese Selection
At the core of Murray’s Cheese menu is an expertly curated collection of cheeses from around the globe. Each selection is chosen for its unique flavor profile, texture, and story.
The team’s commitment to quality ensures that every bite is a journey through tradition and innovation.
The cheese counter is a vibrant tapestry of textures, aromas, and cultures. From the creamy allure of French brie to the tangy bite of British cheddars, Murray’s offers something for every palate.
Their staff, known as cheesemongers, are trained to guide customers through the selection process, offering insights and samples to help you discover new favorites.
Whether you’re building a cheese board for a special occasion or seeking the perfect wedge to pair with your evening wine, Murray’s menu simplifies the process. The cheeses are organized by milk type, origin, and flavor intensity, making it easy to navigate the wide variety.
This thoughtful approach ensures that every customer, novice or expert, finds precisely what they crave.
- Fresh Cheeses: Burrata, mozzarella, ricotta
- Soft-Ripened Cheeses: Brie, Camembert, Robiola
- Semi-Soft and Washed Rind: Taleggio, Fontina, Raclette
- Hard and Aged: Parmigiano-Reggiano, Manchego, Aged Gouda
- Blue Cheeses: Roquefort, Stilton, Gorgonzola
“Our cheese counter is more than a display—it’s an invitation to explore, taste, and connect with the world’s most remarkable cheesemakers.” – Murray’s Head Cheesemonger
Signature Cheese Boards
Murray’s cheese boards are a feast for the senses, artfully arranged to showcase the diversity of their offerings. Each board is designed to highlight a balance of flavors, textures, and origins, making them perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
The Classic Board brings together crowd-pleasers like aged cheddar, creamy brie, and tangy blue, paired with seasonal fruits and artisanal crackers. For those seeking adventure, the World Tour Board features selections from Europe, the Americas, and beyond, offering a passport to global flavors.
Each component is thoughtfully chosen to complement the cheeses and elevate the overall experience.
Presentation is key, and Murray’s takes pride in the visual artistry of their boards. Garnished with vibrant dried fruits, nuts, and house-made compotes, every board is a celebration of color and taste.
This attention to detail ensures that every bite tells a story, making your cheese board not just a meal, but a memorable event.
- Each board includes three to five cheese varieties
- Customizable options for dietary preferences and allergies
- Optional add-ons: cured meats, honey, olives, and more
“Cheese boards at Murray’s are crafted to spark discovery—every bite reveals a new layer of flavor and tradition.” – Board Creation Team
Charcuterie and Perfect Pairings
Cheese and charcuterie are a match made in culinary heaven. Murray’s menu features a carefully selected range of cured meats, designed to complement their cheese offerings and elevate your tasting experience.
The charcuterie selection spans traditional Italian salumi to robust Spanish chorizo and delicate French pâtés. Each meat is chosen for its quality, flavor, and ability to pair harmoniously with specific cheeses.
The staff’s expertise ensures that every suggestion creates a well-balanced and memorable combination.
Pairings are at the heart of the Murray’s experience. From pickled vegetables to local honey and artisanal mustards, every accompaniment is crafted to enhance the nuances of the cheeses and meats.
These additions add layers of complexity to your board, turning a simple snack into a gourmet affair.
- Salami: Soppressata, Genoa, Finocchiona
- Prosciutto: Parma, San Daniele
- Pâtés and Rillettes: Duck, Pork, Chicken
- Seasonal accompaniments: Pickles, mustards, honey, dried fruit
Cheese | Suggested Pairing | Accompaniment |
Manchego | Chorizo | Quince paste |
Brie | Prosciutto | Fig jam |
Aged Gouda | Soppressata | Spicy mustard |
Seasonal and Rotating Specials
To keep things exciting, Murray’s offers a dynamic menu of seasonal and rotating specials. These limited-time selections highlight the freshest ingredients and celebrate the changing flavors of each season.
Spring might bring delicate goat cheeses paired with ramps and early strawberries, while autumn ushers in robust blues served alongside roasted nuts and spiced apple chutney. The rotating nature of these specials ensures that every visit offers something new to discover, encouraging both regulars and first-timers to explore outside their comfort zones.
In addition to cheeses, the menu often features unique accompaniments, from house-made preserves to locally sourced breads. These creative touches reflect Murray’s commitment to supporting local producers and showcasing the best of each season’s bounty.
- Monthly featured cheeses from emerging creameries
- Seasonal cheese flights with curated beverage pairings
- Limited-edition accompaniments and condiments
“Our rotating specials are a celebration of seasonality and creativity—they’re a chance to taste what’s fresh, local, and truly unique.” – Seasonal Program Manager
Sandwiches and Melted Creations
Murray’s isn’t just about cheese boards—they’ve mastered the art of the perfect cheese sandwich. The menu features a range of hot and cold creations, each crafted to showcase the melting, gooey magic of their cheeses.
The Classic Grilled Cheese is a fan favorite, featuring a blend of aged cheddar and fontina on sourdough, grilled to golden perfection. For a bolder option, the Raclette Sandwich offers a decadent layer of melted alpine cheese, paired with crisp pickles and cured ham.
Vegetarian options abound, with roasted vegetable paninis and truffle-infused melts rounding out the selection.
Each sandwich is served with a choice of house-made sides, from tangy slaw to crunchy kettle chips. The attention to detail extends to the bread, which is sourced from local bakeries and chosen to perfectly complement the flavors of the fillings.
- Grilled cheese classics and inventive melts
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options
- House-made sides and pickles
Sandwich | Main Cheese | Key Ingredients |
Classic Grilled Cheese | Aged Cheddar, Fontina | Sourdough, butter |
Raclette Melt | Raclette | Ham, pickles, baguette |
Vegetable Panini | Goat Cheese | Roasted peppers, arugula, ciabatta |
Accompaniments and Condiments
No cheese experience is complete without the right accompaniments. Murray’s menu features a carefully curated selection of condiments and sides, each designed to highlight and enhance the flavors of their cheeses.
From the tart sweetness of house-made fruit preserves to the spicy complexity of stone-ground mustards, these additions are much more than afterthoughts. They are integral to the tasting experience, offering new dimensions of flavor and texture with every bite.
For those who appreciate a touch of crunch, there are toasted nuts, seeded crackers, and rustic breads. Each item is sourced for quality and freshness, ensuring that your cheese board is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
The staff is always on hand to recommend pairings, whether you’re seeking a classic combination or something more adventurous.
- House-made jams and compotes
- Artisanal mustards and pickles
- Freshly baked breads and crackers
- Assorted nuts and dried fruits
“The right accompaniment can transform a great cheese into an unforgettable experience.” – Murray’s Culinary Director
Beverage Pairings: Wine, Beer, and Beyond
Pairing beverages with cheese is both an art and a science. Murray’s menu offers a diverse selection of wines, beers, and non-alcoholic options, each chosen to highlight the flavors of their cheeses and enhance your enjoyment.
The wine list features selections from both Old World and New World producers, with tasting notes that guide you toward ideal pairings. Whether you favor a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with goat cheese or a robust Cabernet with aged cheddar, Murray’s staff is equipped to make expert recommendations.
For beer lovers, the rotating tap and bottled selections include everything from hoppy IPAs to malty stouts. Each beer is chosen for its ability to complement the cheeses’ unique profiles.
Non-alcoholic options, including sparkling waters and house-made shrubs, ensure that everyone can find the perfect match for their meal.
- Curated wine flights with cheese pairings
- Craft beers and ciders
- Non-alcoholic options: Sparkling sodas, kombucha, shrubs
Beverage | Recommended Cheese | Flavor Notes |
Chardonnay | Triple-Crème Brie | Buttery, lightly oaked |
IPA | Blue Cheese | Hoppy, bitter, bold |
Kombucha | Goat Cheese | Tart, effervescent |
Educational Experiences and Tastings
Beyond the menu, Murray’s is renowned for its commitment to education. Their schedule of classes and guided tastings invites guests to deepen their appreciation for cheese through hands-on experience and expert instruction.
Classes range from introductory cheese tastings to advanced workshops on pairing and affinage. Led by seasoned instructors, these sessions are interactive and engaging, encouraging participants to taste, ask questions, and develop their own preferences.
Private group events and corporate tastings are also available, making Murray’s a popular destination for team-building and celebrations.
For those who prefer a more self-guided experience, the shop offers tasting flights and information cards that highlight the unique characteristics of each cheese. This focus on education empowers customers to make informed selections and discover new favorites with confidence.
- Introductory and advanced cheese classes
- Pairing workshops with wine, beer, and spirits
- Private events and group tastings
“Sharing our knowledge is at the heart of what we do. We want every guest to leave not just with cheese, but with a story and new skills to share.” – Murray’s Education Team
Conclusion: Savoring the Murray’s Cheese Experience
Murray’s Cheese is more than a retailer; it’s a vibrant community of artisans, educators, and enthusiasts united by a love for extraordinary food. Their thoughtfully crafted menu celebrates the best of cheese culture, offering a diverse array of options that cater to every taste and occasion.
Whether you’re indulging in a signature cheese board, crafting the perfect sandwich, or exploring seasonal specials, every bite is a testament to the passion and expertise that defines Murray’s.
The experience extends beyond the plate. With a welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and a commitment to education, Murray’s invites guests to connect with the stories behind each cheese and savor the joy of discovery.
Every visit is an opportunity to learn, taste, and celebrate the rich traditions that make cheese such a beloved staple around the world. For anyone seeking to elevate their culinary adventures, Murray’s Cheese is an essential destination—a place where flavor, community, and craftsmanship come together in perfect harmony.