Save Alleva Dairy--Oldest Cheese Shop in America!

Keep Alleva Dairy Alive

Karen King, the owner of Alleva Dairy, the renowned cheese shop in Little Italy located on the corner of Grand and Mulberry Street, is struggling to keep her historic doors open.

The troubles began in March 2020 with COVID-19. It quickly left Little Italy with no tourists, no pedestrian traffic, and no way to earn a living or sustain revenue.

The economic impact is clear and severe. Historically and annually, Little Italy earns billions in revenue for New York City, yet many businesses have been, and still are, forced to lay off employees and shut their doors.

Business owners banded together to fight the financial struggles, even meeting with the Governor. Still, the state has yet to make good on its promises. Alleva Dairy was approved for Federal help, but those funds have yet to be granted.

People have shopped at Alleva for generations. It’s known for imported Italian cheeses, fresh mozzarella, ricotta, cured meats, cannolis and more. During the pandemic’s height, Alleva even provided food for those in need, regardless of their ability to pay. King’s family makes up the bulk of Alleva’s staff, and after significant salary cuts they continue to work daily.

Sadly, like many establishments, Alleva Dairy is behind in its rent.

“Alleva is the oldest cheese shop in America, the heartbeat of Little Italy, and a New York institution,” says Karen. “The pandemic devastated my business. I have yet to see the Federal or State grants that were talked about for our community.”

Letters to Senators, government officials and local politicians have gone unanswered. “I’ve tried to negotiate with my landlord, to no avail, and they’re seeking Alleva’s immediate eviction.”

"I've never been in this situation before in my life. I always pay my bills on time," Karen King states.

Please help keep our doors open. Don’t let Alleva Dairy and Little Italy become another victim of the pandemic. I humbly ask you to donate and support us.

Thank you, Grazie!

Karen King and the Alleva Dairy Team.

Alleva Dairy

188 Grand St.

New York, NY 10013