Alleva Dairy, Jersey City Travel Guide

History and Heritage

Founded in 1892 by Italian immigrant Pina Alleva from Benevento, Italy, Alleva Dairy holds the distinction of being the oldest cheese shop in the United States. Located originally on Grand Street in Manhattan's Little Italy, it became a cornerstone of the neighborhood, serving generations with authentic Italian products. The name 'Alleva' derives from the Italian verb 'allevare,' linked to animal herding, reflecting its dairy roots. Family members, including Robert Alleva and later cousin John 'Cha Cha' Ciarcia, upheld the tradition until Cha Cha's passing in 2015, after which his wife Karen King took over.

Challenges and Relocation

The original Manhattan location faced significant hurdles, including financial strains exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to over $500,000 in unpaid rent and a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 2022. A dispute with the landlord resulted in closure by March 2023 after 130 years. Karen King relocated the business to 9 Polito Avenue in Lyndhurst, New Jersey, ensuring the legacy continues in a new home dedicated to the same quality standards.

Products and Offerings

Renowned for handmade ricotta and mozzarella using century-old recipes, Alleva Dairy stocks imported Italian cheeses, cured meats, and prosciutto. Beyond cheese, it provides hot and cold Italian hero sandwiches, eggplant parmigiana, chicken parmigiana, stuffed artichokes, prosciutto ricotta balls, homemade soups, sauces, cannolis, tiramisu, and specialty Italian groceries. This one-stop shop caters to those seeking five-star Italian meals at home or ready-to-eat delights.

Family and Community Focus

The shop embodies family values, with Karen King's sister Denise, nephew Sean, and niece Nikki involved in operations. During events like the San Gennaro festival, extended family pitches in. Cha Cha, known as Little Italy's unofficial mayor, welcomed all as extended family, a spirit carried forward. Celebrities like Danny DeVito, Tony Danza, Martin Scorsese, and Ina Garten frequented the original spot, underscoring its cultural significance.

Current Experience

At the Lyndhurst location, visitors encounter a welcoming atmosphere steeped in Italian-American history. Open typically from 10:00am to 6:00pm (closed Tuesdays currently), it invites patrons to sample history through sensory-rich products. Whether grabbing a classic Godfather Italian sandwich or fresh cheese, Alleva Dairy remains a piece of living heritage for locals and tourists alike.