Appel Farms Cheese Shop in Ferndale, WA: A Friendly Experience

UPDATE: As of April 2025 there is a sign saying that the retail shop is permanently closed.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Appel Farms Cheese Shop in Ferndale, WA, and it was a delight. This family-owned business has been making cheese on their farm for a long time and has perfected the craft over the years.

As soon as I walked in, I was struck by the charming and welcoming atmosphere. The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful, ready to offer recommendations and answer any questions.

The indoor and outdoor (in season) seating areas were beautiful, clean, and cozy. I was impressed by the extensive selection of cheeses and other goodies, including unique and trendy gourmet grocery and picnic items, and local products.

Cheese

The farm itself makes several varieties of Gouda, Swiss, Feta, Paneer and the delightful Squeakers but you can also get cheese made from other local producers.

Can’t decide? The cafe offers a Whatcom cheese tasting experience or just ask one of the staff for recommendations.

We walked away with Cumin Gouda and Tomato Basil Feta. I’ve had the squeakers in the past, which are cheese curds that make a squeaky sensation when you bite into them.

Local supermarkets carry Appel Farms cheese and I know they offer several varieties of Gouda, so I was a little surprised that on this visit their shop had a limited selection of their own cheeses.

Food and Beverages

In addition to the cheese, the cafe offers food and beverage options. The menu has a few appetizers, sandwiches, and a selection of wines.

Shop

The shop has a nice selection of items and goodies for sale including specialty cheese, wines, and other gourmet food items. Many of these are locally produced. There were a few kitchen items as well and I couldn’t resist a mini-raclette warmer.

One change from previous visits is the cafe and indoor seating area is now the front of the store, and the shop is located in a room behind that. This limits the space for the shop itself, although they did seem to maximize the area with freestanding shelving units.

Of course the flip side is the cafe area can now hold more people, including small groups.

Events and Tours

Appel Farms Cheese Shop also hosts events and tours. They offer private cheese tours, homeschool/school tours where you can learn more about the cheese making process, and other events.

I have done the cheese tour in the past with a group of school children and it was a fun and informative experience.

It’s also a great location for small-mid sized events. When we were visiting, a small group seemed to be doing a private tasting. We were also told that they hold wine tastings of selections from their shop on Thursday afternoons.

The pastoral setting of the property, with a pond and picnic tables, make for a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular items on the menu at Appel Farms Cheese Shop?

Started by a Dutch immigrant and now run by the next generation, the most popular item on the menu has to be their gouda. Other popular choices are their paneer and the cheese curds (squeakers).

They offer a selection of gift boxes and cheese subscriptions if you can’t decide.

Can you make reservations at Appel Farms Cheese Shop?

The shop and cafe are spacious enough to accommodate a good number of customers. You can simply walk in and enjoy their delicious cheese and snacks.

For tours, you should contact the farm to arrange your visit. Contact them here.

What are the hours of operation for Appel Farms Cheese Shop?

Appel Farms Cheese Shop is currently open from Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. They are closed on Sundays and Mondays. It’s always a good idea to check their website or give them a call to confirm their hours before you visit.

Overall, Appel Farms Cheese Shop is definitely worth a pit stop. The cheese tasting, food, and friendly staff make it a memorable visit.

The shop is located at 6605 Northwest Dr, Ferndale, WA.

To get there from I-5, take the Axton Road Ferndale Exit. Head east on Axton road. At the four way stop with Northwest Ave, turn left (north). Follow Northwest for about 5 minutes. The cheese shop will be on your left. While you’re in the neighborhood, check out Boxx Berry farms for berries, and a selection of local foods.