About
Do what you love.
Cheese is scientifically proven to boost one’s mood. Like we need a scientist to tell us that.
Hi. I’m Ivy. I’m passionate about simple, approachable, real food. I have a fierce sense of independence, and I owe that to my education at Smith College. I have an even deeper drive for integrity, which I gained by simply keeping my eyes open. After years working in the advertising industry, I decided to pursue my love of food by studying at the French Culinary Institute (now International Culinary Center), earning a certificate in Pastry Arts. That led to an exciting few years working in the kitchens for several renowned NYC restaurateurs, including Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Danny Meyer & Floyd Cardoz (RIP, and Thank you, Chef).
My next stop was a deep dive in cheese. I was right-hand woman to famed chef Terrance Brennan, Proprietor-Chef of Artisanal Bistro and Picholine, as well as the Artisanal Premium Cheese Center. I learned directly from the experts what makes cheese a fascinating topic, from its timeless history to its painstaking affinage processes. A little later, I joined the exceptional forces at Murray’s Cheese, in Greenwich Village. As Catering Manager there, I spread the gospel of cheese, its dense nutritional values, enormous range, and instant-party vibe. More recently, I joined the Greenwich Cheese Company in Connecticut, where owners Laura Downey and Chris Palumbo gave me the opportunity to gain essential retail experience. Their tutelage, friendship, support and encouragement has provided me with just the right amount of confidence I need to pursue my own thing.
The result of my convoluted journey is taking this plunge. I’m the sole proprietor of Second Mouse Cheese Shop, a place where quality is paramount. A place with personal connections to the cheese makers and food producers. A place that supports local agriculture and defends sustainability. A place where people can taste, learn and discover new foods borne of ancient traditions. A place where food is worth eating and sharing. And where love and soul are active ingredients. My team and I have great faith in the small producers, the artisans and craftsmen and the communities that support them. By offering their products to you, we’re preserving traditions, reinforcing hope for the future, and playing a small part in a key economy. That feels pretty fantastic.