Iconic Maine Shop The Cheese Iron Is Closing After 20 Years

The beloved specialty food store will shut its doors for good on May 16.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 6:03pm

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The Cheese Iron, a beloved specialty food shop in Scarborough, Maine, is closing its doors after 20 years in business. The shop, known for its wide selection of cheeses, meats, wines, and gourmet sandwiches, will remain open until May 16 when its lease expires.

Why it matters

The Cheese Iron was a beloved institution in the Greater Portland area, offering a unique shopping experience and high-quality specialty foods. Its closure marks the end of an era for the local community and represents the challenges small businesses face in an evolving retail landscape.

The details

The Cheese Iron, owned and operated by Vince Maniaci and Jill Dutton since it opened 20 years ago, is known for its extensive selection of cheeses, charcuterie, wines, and other gourmet items. The shop also offered delicious made-to-order sandwiches that were a highlight for many customers. The Cheese Iron's closing is due to the expiration of its lease, which runs out on May 16.

  • The Cheese Iron opened 20 years ago.
  • The shop will close its doors for good on May 16, 2026.

The players

Vince Maniaci

Co-owner of The Cheese Iron since it opened 20 years ago.

Jill Dutton

Co-owner of The Cheese Iron since it opened 20 years ago.

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What they’re saying

“While I'll miss those wonderful sandwiches, I'll also miss the entire shopping experience. How can you beat enjoying delicious cheese samples while also getting an education on which cheeses pair best with certain wines or foods? The knowledge inside that building is second to none.”

— Chris Sedenka

The takeaway

The closure of The Cheese Iron marks the end of an era for the Greater Portland community, as the beloved specialty food shop was a unique and beloved institution that provided a one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experience. Its shuttering highlights the challenges small businesses face in today's retail landscape, but also serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local, independent establishments that contribute to the character and vibrancy of a community.