About Us

Established in 1892, Alleva is the oldest cheese store in America and continues to serve its community by making the finest quality ricotta and mozzarella. Alleva's origins are Benevento, Italy from where the owner, Pina Alleva, immigrated. Robert Alleva, Irma's nephew, ran the store until 2014 when their cousin John "Cha Cha" Ciarcia took over the reigns. Cha Cha was affectionately known as the unofficial mayor of Little Italy. Sadly, Cha Cha passed on in 2015 leaving his wife, Karen King, to carry on the tradition of Alleva Dairy. 

Karen's sister Denise, nephew Sean, and niece Nikki all currently work at Alleva. During the San Gennaro festival all of the aunts, uncles, and cousins lend a hand. We are all passionate about life and even more passionate about great Italian cuisine.  For Karen, it always was, and always will be about family. 

We warmly invite you all to come to experience a piece of Italian American history and be a part of our Alleva family.

Sei parte della famiglia!!!