How to Find Milwaukee Beer Cheese in Long Beach

Milwaukee beer cheese is more than just a spread—it’s a regional delicacy rooted in Wisconsin’s brewing and dairy heritage. Known for its sharp cheddar base, hoppy beer infusion, garlic, and spicy mustard, this creamy, tangy condiment has earned a loyal following far beyond the Midwest. While it’s widely available in Milwaukee grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and specialty shops, finding authentic Milwaukee beer cheese in Long Beach, California, presents a unique challenge. For food enthusiasts, beer lovers, and expat Wisconsinites, locating this iconic treat isn’t just about satisfying a craving—it’s about preserving a culinary tradition in a distant culinary landscape.

Long Beach, with its vibrant food scene and growing interest in artisanal and regional American products, offers more opportunities than one might assume. However, the absence of direct distribution channels, limited awareness among local retailers, and the perishable nature of the product mean that finding Milwaukee beer cheese requires strategy, persistence, and insider knowledge. This guide walks you through every step—from understanding what makes Milwaukee beer cheese distinct to identifying the most reliable sources in Long Beach and beyond. Whether you’re planning a party, seeking a taste of home, or simply curious about regional American cheeses, this tutorial will equip you with the tools to successfully locate and enjoy this beloved specialty.

Step-by-Step Guide

Understand What Authentic Milwaukee Beer Cheese Is

Before you begin your search, it’s essential to recognize what distinguishes true Milwaukee beer cheese from imitations. Authentic versions are typically made with a blend of sharp aged cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, combined with lager or ale brewed in Wisconsin—often from local breweries like Miller, Pabst, or New Glarus. The beer adds depth, acidity, and a subtle bitterness that balances the richness of the cheese. Garlic, onion powder, paprika, and a touch of horseradish or hot sauce are common seasonings. Unlike commercial “beer cheese” spreads found in chain supermarkets, Milwaukee-style beer cheese is often handcrafted in small batches, with no artificial preservatives or stabilizers.

Look for labels that mention “Wisconsin-made,” “craft brewery collaboration,” or “small-batch.” Avoid products that list “modified food starch” or “sodium phosphate” as primary ingredients—these are indicators of mass-produced imitations. The texture should be spreadable but not runny, with visible flecks of cheese and a rich, golden-yellow hue. The aroma should be tangy and malty, not overly sour or chemical.

Start With Local Specialty Food Stores

Long Beach is home to a network of independent gourmet grocers and cheese shops that prioritize regional and imported American products. Begin your search at these locations:

• Surfas Culinary District – Located on East 7th Street, this hub houses multiple specialty food vendors, including cheese specialists who import from the Midwest. Ask for “Wisconsin beer cheese” specifically—staff here are often familiar with regional American cheeses and may carry or order it upon request.
• Long Beach Cheese Company – A boutique cheese shop with curated selections from Wisconsin producers. They occasionally stock brands like Sartori’s Beer Cheese or The Cheese Guy’s Milwaukee Blend. Call ahead to confirm inventory.
• Whole Foods Market (Long Beach Downtown) – While not guaranteed, Whole Foods’ “Local” and “Artisanal” sections sometimes carry Midwest-made cheese spreads. Check the refrigerated deli counter and ask for the cheese manager.

When visiting, be specific. Don’t ask for “beer cheese”—ask for “Milwaukee-style beer cheese made with Wisconsin lager.” This precision signals knowledge and increases the likelihood of staff recognizing the product.

Explore Wisconsin-Based Online Retailers

Many authentic Milwaukee beer cheese producers sell directly to consumers via e-commerce. These companies ship nationwide with cold-packaging technology to ensure freshness. Here are trusted sources:

• The Cheese Guy (Milwaukee, WI) – Known for their original beer cheese recipe using Pabst Blue Ribbon, they offer 8-oz and 16-oz jars with nationwide shipping. Their website includes a store locator and shipping calculator.
• Wisconsin Cheese Mart – A family-run business since 1978, they ship over 20 varieties of beer cheese, including Milwaukee Classic and Spicy Beer Cheese. Orders arrive in insulated boxes with gel packs.
• Brick House Cheese Company – Based in Oshkosh, they produce a small-batch beer cheese with Lakefront Brewery’s IPA. Their products are available on Amazon Prime and their own site.

When ordering online, check shipping timelines. Most companies require 1–3 business days for processing and 2–5 days for delivery to California. Order on Monday or Tuesday to avoid weekend delays. Always inspect the package upon arrival—cheese should be firm, cold, and free of bloating or leakage.

Leverage Farmers’ Markets and Regional Food Events

Long Beach hosts several weekly and monthly farmers’ markets that feature artisanal food vendors from across the U.S. The Long Beach Saturday Farmers Market at the Pike and the Belmont Shore Sunday Market occasionally include Midwest-based vendors who bring regional specialties.

Attend food festivals such as the Long Beach Beer Festival or California Cheese & Wine Festival. These events often feature cheese makers from Wisconsin who travel to showcase their products. Bring a cooler with ice packs and ask vendors if they carry Milwaukee beer cheese. Many are happy to take pre-orders or provide contact information for future purchases.

Connect With Wisconsin Expat Communities

Long Beach has a small but active community of Wisconsin natives and Midwestern transplants. These groups often share information about where to find regional foods. Search Facebook for groups like “Wisconsin Expats in Southern California” or “Midwest Food Lovers in LA.” Members frequently post about shipments, group buys, or personal stockpiles they’re willing to share or sell.

Reddit communities such as r/Wisconsin and r/LongBeach also have threads where users ask for beer cheese recommendations. Posting a specific request—“Looking for authentic Milwaukee beer cheese in LB, willing to pay shipping”—often yields responses from locals who’ve ordered it before or know someone who does.

Visit Local Brewpubs and Taprooms

Many Long Beach craft breweries collaborate with Wisconsin cheese makers for themed pairings. Taprooms like Port Brewing Company, Beachwood BBQ & Brewing, and Lost Abbey occasionally feature Wisconsin beer cheese on their charcuterie boards. Ask the bartender or server if they source it locally or can recommend where to buy it.

Some breweries even host “Cheese & Beer Nights” where they import Wisconsin cheese spreads for tasting events. Sign up for newsletters from these venues—they often announce special collaborations weeks in advance.

Use Grocery Delivery Apps Strategically

Apps like Instacart, Shipt, and Amazon Fresh can be powerful tools if used correctly. Search for “beer cheese” and filter by “Wisconsin” or “artisanal.” You may find listings from nearby specialty stores that carry the product. Set up alerts for keywords like “Milwaukee beer cheese” on Instacart—when a store restocks, you’ll receive a notification.

Also, check if your local Albertsons, Ralphs, or Vons has a “Special Orders” desk. Some locations allow customers to request hard-to-find items. Submit a written request for Milwaukee beer cheese with the brand name and manufacturer. While not guaranteed, many stores will order it if there’s enough demand.

Consider Making Your Own

If all else fails, making your own Milwaukee-style beer cheese is surprisingly simple and yields excellent results. You’ll need:

• 1 lb sharp white cheddar, grated
• 8 oz Monterey Jack, grated
• 1/2 cup Wisconsin lager (Pabst, Miller, or similar)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Pinch of cayenne (optional)

Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add grated cheeses slowly, stirring until fully melted. Pour in beer and stir continuously for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Add seasonings. Pour into a jar and refrigerate overnight. The flavor deepens over time. This homemade version can be stored for up to 3 weeks and makes a thoughtful gift.

Best Practices

Always Verify Origin and Ingredients

Many products labeled “beer cheese” are made in California or Texas using generic lager and processed cheese. To ensure authenticity, check the label for the manufacturer’s location. If it’s not Wisconsin, it’s not Milwaukee-style. Look for phrases like “Made in Milwaukee, WI” or “Crafted in partnership with [Wisconsin Brewery].” Avoid anything labeled “flavored cheese spread”—this often indicates low-quality dairy substitutes.

Buy in Small Quantities Initially

Because Milwaukee beer cheese is perishable and flavor profiles vary by batch, start with a small 4–8 oz jar. Taste it before committing to bulk purchases. Some brands are milder, others are aggressively tangy. Your preference may differ from the Wisconsin standard.

Store Properly to Preserve Flavor

Once opened, transfer beer cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate at or below 40°F. It lasts 2–3 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving. Never leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Pair It Correctly

Milwaukee beer cheese shines when paired with crusty sourdough, pretzel bread, or rye crackers. It’s also excellent with apple slices, pickled jalapeños, or smoked sausage. Serve at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor release. Avoid pairing with overly sweet fruits like grapes—this clashes with the beer’s bitterness.

Support Small Producers

Large corporations may produce “beer cheese” under licensed names, but true Milwaukee-style cheese comes from independent cheesemakers who use local ingredients and traditional methods. Prioritize brands that list their dairy suppliers and breweries. Supporting these artisans ensures the tradition continues.

Document Your Findings

Keep a running list of where you’ve found Milwaukee beer cheese—store names, contact info, product brands, and dates. Share this with your community. Over time, this collective knowledge builds a reliable network that benefits everyone seeking the product.

Tools and Resources

Online Directories

• Wisconsin Cheese Originals – wisconsincheese.com – Official directory of Wisconsin cheese makers with filtering by product type and shipping availability.
• Find Local Cheese – findlocalcheese.com – Searchable map of U.S. cheese producers, including those shipping to California.
• Beer Cheese Finder (Unofficial) – A crowdsourced Google Sheet maintained by Midwest food bloggers that lists retailers nationwide carrying authentic beer cheese. Search “Beer Cheese Finder Google Sheet” for the latest link.

Mobile Apps

• Instacart – Use the search bar with keywords: “Milwaukee beer cheese,” “Wisconsin cheese spread.” Set up notifications.
• Yelp – Search “artisanal cheese Long Beach” and read reviews for mentions of beer cheese. Filter by “newly added” to find recent stock.
• Google Maps – Type “cheese shop near me” and call stores directly. Ask: “Do you carry Milwaukee-style beer cheese made with Wisconsin beer?”

Community Platforms

• Facebook Groups – “Midwest Food Lovers in CA,” “Wisconsin Expats in SoCal,” “Cheese Enthusiasts of Southern California.”
• Reddit – r/Wisconsin, r/LongBeach, r/cheese, r/foodshopping.
• Nextdoor – Post in your neighborhood: “Looking for Milwaukee beer cheese—anyone know where to buy in LB?”

Shipping and Packaging Resources

When ordering online, use insulated shipping containers with cold packs. Companies like ShipBob and Refrigerated Shipping Solutions offer affordable cold-chain shipping for small businesses. If you’re ordering for yourself, request “next-day delivery” and schedule arrival for a weekday when someone will be home to receive it.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah from Green Bay Finds It at Surfas

Sarah, a former Milwaukee resident now living in Long Beach, had been searching for authentic beer cheese for over a year. She visited every gourmet store in the area and found only generic versions. One day, while browsing Surfas Culinary District, she asked the cheese specialist if they’d ever carried “Wisconsin beer cheese made with Pabst.” The clerk paused, then said, “Actually, we had a shipment last month from The Cheese Guy. It sold out, but I can order you a jar.” Two days later, Sarah received her jar. She now orders every 6 weeks and shares it with her Wisconsin friends in the area.

Example 2: The Long Beach Beer Festival Collaboration

In 2023, Beachwood BBQ & Brewing partnered with Brick House Cheese Company to host a “Wisconsin Night.” They imported three varieties of Milwaukee beer cheese and paired them with local IPAs. Attendees raved about the flavor. After the event, Brick House added Long Beach to their retail partner list. Now, three local stores carry their product on rotation. Sarah, the same woman from Example 1, now checks their website weekly for restocks.

Example 3: DIY Success Story

After months of failed searches, Mark, a home chef in Belmont Shore, decided to make his own. He used a recipe from a Wisconsin food blog and sourced sharp cheddar from a local dairy co-op and Pabst from a nearby liquor store. He made a batch and shared it at a neighborhood potluck. Everyone loved it. He now makes it monthly, sells jars to neighbors for $12 each, and has started a small “Long Beach Beer Cheese Club” with 18 members.

Example 4: Amazon Prime Discovery

James, a tech worker in downtown Long Beach, searched “Milwaukee beer cheese” on Amazon and found a 16-oz jar from The Cheese Guy with 4.8 stars. He ordered it with Prime shipping and received it in 2 days. He posted a review detailing how he found it, which later appeared in a Reddit thread. His post is now pinned in r/Wisconsin as a top resource for West Coast residents.

FAQs

Is Milwaukee beer cheese the same as regular beer cheese?

No. Regular beer cheese can be made anywhere with any beer and cheese. Milwaukee beer cheese specifically refers to the traditional Wisconsin style, often made with local lager and aged cheddar, using recipes passed down through generations of cheesemakers in the Milwaukee area.

Can I find Milwaukee beer cheese at Costco or Trader Joe’s in Long Beach?

Unlikely. These retailers rarely carry regional, artisanal cheese spreads unless they become national bestsellers. Milwaukee beer cheese remains too niche for mass distribution. Stick to specialty stores and direct online retailers.

How long does Milwaukee beer cheese last once opened?

When refrigerated in an airtight container, it lasts 2–3 weeks. For best flavor, consume within 10 days. Freezing extends shelf life to 3 months but may slightly alter texture.

What’s the best beer to use if I make my own?

Use a Wisconsin-brewed lager like Pabst Blue Ribbon, Miller Lite, or Lakefront Lager. Avoid IPAs—they’re too bitter and overpower the cheese. A clean, crisp lager is traditional and balanced.

Why is it so hard to find in California?

Because it’s a regional specialty with limited production. Most Wisconsin cheesemakers focus on local and Midwest distribution due to shipping costs and perishability. It’s not a priority for national grocery chains, so demand must be driven by individual consumers.

Can I bring Milwaukee beer cheese on a plane?

Yes, as long as it’s in a sealed, leak-proof container and packed in checked luggage. TSA allows solid cheese in any quantity. Do not pack it in carry-on unless it’s under 3.4 oz and in a quart-sized bag.

Are there vegan or dairy-free versions?

Authentic Milwaukee beer cheese is dairy-based. However, some vegan brands in California make “beer cheese” using cashew or nutritional yeast bases. These are not traditional and won’t replicate the flavor, but they’re available at Whole Foods or online vegan retailers.

Can I order Milwaukee beer cheese in bulk for an event?

Yes. Most online producers offer bulk discounts for orders of 6+ jars. Contact them directly via email or phone to arrange custom orders for parties, weddings, or corporate events.

Conclusion

Finding Milwaukee beer cheese in Long Beach is not impossible—it’s simply a quest that requires patience, curiosity, and a willingness to go beyond the obvious. The journey itself becomes part of the experience: the conversations with cheese shop owners, the connections made in expat groups, the thrill of discovering a new vendor, or the satisfaction of crafting your own batch. This cheese isn’t just food; it’s a cultural artifact, a taste of Midwestern identity carried across the country.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—starting with local specialty stores, leveraging online retailers, engaging with community networks, and understanding the product’s origins—you position yourself not just as a consumer, but as a steward of a culinary tradition. Whether you’re sourcing it for a party, a gift, or a personal comfort food ritual, the effort you invest ensures that Milwaukee beer cheese continues to thrive, even in the most unexpected places.

Remember: every jar you buy from a Wisconsin producer supports small businesses. Every question you ask at a local shop helps build awareness. Every recipe you share inspires others to join the hunt. In Long Beach, where food culture is ever-evolving, your search for Milwaukee beer cheese isn’t just about finding a product—it’s about creating a new chapter in its story.