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Beyond Brie: Exploring Queer Culture and Culinary Delights at Philly Cheese School

Ever walked into a space and felt instantly…seen? That's the vibe at Philly Cheese School, a haven for cheese lovers and a proudly queer-affirming business. Forget the stuffy, intimidating cheese counters of the past. Here, proprietor Julia Birnbaum is building a community around a shared love of fromage, inclusivity, and a healthy dose of fun.

From Hip-Hop Beats to Gouda Dreams: A Cheesemonger's Origin Story

Julia's journey to becoming a cheese evangelist is anything but typical. Born just outside Philadelphia, she spent her early twenties soaking up the energy of New York City. But before curating cheese boards, she was immersed in the world of hip-hop, writing celebrity gossip for The Source. Imagine going from interviewing G-Eazy at a whiskey-tasting event to meticulously crafting the perfect cheese pairing!

So, how did she trade beats for brie? A stint as a "monger," the person behind the cheese counter, at a bustling Grand Central Market catapulted her into the culinary world. "I must have cut my hands in every way possible and was in the ER getting stitches left and right," she recalls, "but I was very proud that I learned quickly and excelled in the job." That grit and passion shines through in everything she does at Philly Cheese School.

Cheese for the People: A Mission of Accessibility and Joy

One of Julia's biggest goals is to demystify cheese. Forget the perception of it being a fancy, exclusive indulgence. She believes that cheese is for everyone! How does she achieve this? By creating a comfortable and judgment-free learning environment where "any question is a good question." From pairing cheese with Halloween candy (genius, right?) to guiding students through the nuances of flavor and texture, she encourages exploration and self-discovery.

But it's not just about the cheese itself. Julia emphasizes mindful tasting, encouraging students to "sit with a great piece of cheese and feel your feet on the ground as you think of the texture and the flavor and ground yourself in the moment." Talk about a delicious form of meditation!

A Space Where Everyone Belongs: Prioritizing Queer Comfort

Philly Cheese School's physical space, with its exposed brick walls and welcoming atmosphere, is a reflection of Julia's values. Starting virtually during the pandemic, she eventually transitioned to in-person classes, determined to create a space where her community felt safe and celebrated. When Philly Mag profiled the school, Julia openly shared her intention to create an intentionally queer space, prioritizing the comfort of queer people, especially women and non-men. The response? A surprising amount of backlash.

Her response to the negativity? A firm and unapologetic, "Eat it at home over the sink!" In a world saturated with male-dominated spaces, she simply wanted to create a haven where queer individuals could connect, learn, and indulge in their love of cheese without feeling like outsiders. "Everyone is welcome here," she clarifies, "All I was saying was that when I put this together, I had my community in mind."

Beyond Cheddar: Embracing Identity and Flavor

Julia's commitment to her identity extends beyond creating a welcoming space. When asked about early signs she was gay, she laughingly recalls insisting on shopping exclusively in the boys' section as a child. This embrace of authenticity is woven into the fabric of Philly Cheese School, making it a truly unique and special place.

What Awaits You at Philly Cheese School?

Ready to embark on your own cheesy adventure? Philly Cheese School offers:

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the Philly Cheese School website and prepare to have your taste buds tantalized and your perspective on cheese forever changed.

Naval History: A Tangent on "Gay" Class Patrol Boats

While "gay cheese class" might be a unique offering, the term "Gay class" surprisingly, has another meaning - naval history! The British Royal Navy once commissioned a class of patrol boats known as the "Gay class." These vessels, built in the 1950s, were fast, petrol-powered gunboats designed for coastal defense. They packed a punch with a 40mm Bofors gun and torpedoes, making them formidable opponents in close-quarters engagements.

Key features of Gay Class Patrol Boats:

Fun fact: The Gay class patrol boats were the last petrol-powered gunboats to serve in the British Navy!

From Patrol Boats to Palates: What's Your Next Adventure?

Whether you're drawn to the historical significance of "Gay" class patrol boats or the inclusive and delicious world of Philly Cheese School, there's an adventure waiting for you. So, go explore! Embrace new flavors, challenge your assumptions, and create your own unique story.