Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
The Cheese Shop
★4.0(855 reviews)$$Cafe
🕑 45 minutes to 1 hour👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers and preschoolers appreciate the casual outdoor seating and simple menu options, while older kids and teens enjoy building their own sandwiches and exploring the gourmet marketplace offerings.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
The Cheese Shop is a beloved Williamsburg institution where families can enjoy casual, delicious sandwiches and grab gourmet picnic supplies in the heart of Merchants Square. The outdoor courtyard provides a relaxed setting where kids can move around freely while parents enjoy quality cheese, charcuterie, and an impressive selection of sandwiches that have been satisfying Colonial Williamsburg visitors for decades.
Highlights
- ✓Famous made-to-order sandwiches with generous portions that even picky eaters enjoy
- ✓Charming brick courtyard with outdoor seating perfect for families
- ✓Kid-friendly menu with simple options like PB&J and grilled cheese
- ✓Gourmet marketplace where families can browse specialty cheeses, crackers, and treats
- ✓Prime Merchants Square location within walking distance of shops and Colonial Williamsburg attractions
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before noon or after 1:30pm to avoid the lunch rush, as this popular spot gets packed with tourists and locals during peak hours
- 2.Order at the counter inside, then grab your food and head to the charming brick courtyard out back where kids have more space to eat and wiggle
- 3.Let kids pick out a special cheese sample or treat from the marketplace while you wait for your order,it doubles as a fun tasting experience
- 4.Park in the free Merchants Square parking garage just steps away, making it easy to stroll around the area after lunch
- 5.Great spot to pick up picnic supplies before heading to nearby Colonial Williamsburg or the Riverwalk for an outdoor family adventure
Best Time to Visit
Weekday late mornings (10:30-11:30am) or mid-afternoons (2-4pm) are ideal to avoid crowds. Spring and fall offer the best weather for enjoying the outdoor courtyard.
What to Know
Expect to spend $10-15 per person for sandwiches and sides. The venue is casual counter-service, so it moves quickly even with kids in tow. Limited indoor seating, but the outdoor courtyard is spacious and family-friendly.
Seasonal Notes
The outdoor courtyard is most enjoyable spring through fall. Winter visits are still pleasant but seating is primarily indoors. Summer can be hot and humid, so plan for early lunch or late afternoon visits.
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