If you love cheese

Go to Bouffe in Lincoln Square, 2312 W. Leland. I absolutely adore this shop but it's not totally evident to passersby that she has the most AMAZING cheese selection. Full and varied, from all over the world, especially lots of Spanish cheeses. The owner, Libby, has a ton of detail marked on each cheese-right down to whether or not it's made from pasteurized milk. If it's not on the cheese, Libby is an encyclopedia of info. The problem is, from the street, it's not obvious that a cheese selection exists and I fear that it won't be busy enough for the store to remain open. It's also tough to see all of the pastas, olives, tapenades, etc on the right side wall. What you do see from the street is rather sparse, some pottery and an unfilled refrigerator case. I'd like to suggest to the owner to change the setup of the store so that when one looks inside you see an amazing, FULL and varied cheese case. Regardless-go in the next time you are in Lincoln Square and treat yourself-you will not be disappointed. You can try before you buy, also.

Thank you, shebz, for such kind words about Bouffe. Never fear, business is going really well, and I can assure you I will be around for a while. Unfortunately the store design is a direct result of the VERY hot sun that comes through the window. The heat that it generates inside is terrible for my food product - hence the placement in the back and east side of the store. The only other option is to hang blinds in the window that will completely block any view into the interior, which I've decided is not the aesthetic I want.
Getting people to notice a shop off the beaten path has been a challenge, but word of mouth, such as yours, is what has made my first year a success. Thank you.

Also - I am always open to suggestions from customers. Please do not hesitate in the future to voice any concerns!

Libby Bonahoom
Owner, Bouffe

While not in LS a ton, I am up there somewhat regulary for Spoon and Apart. I've been looking for a good cheese shop. I'll be sure to stop in on my next trip.