Die-hard cheese lovers, but also curious palates, have a new temple in Seville to which they can devote their devotion. Puerta Osario still exudes that neighborhood vibe, even though it’s practically right in the heart of the city. The more traditional El Punto and Casa Eme didn’t make it, though other businesses have carved out their own niche. Antonio’s bulk wine at Matahacas, the afternoon treats at Cakes & Go, and the culture woven by Casa Tomada share the neighborhood with RAZA, the rising star of cheese in the city of Seville.
Those who enjoy long conversations and are interested in cheese and wine—whether to purchase them or to indulge in the tastings that RAZA organizes periodically—must make a pilgrimage to 9 Jáuregui Street. Let’s get down to business.
From Michelin stars to Puerta Osario: Seville’s new home for cheese
Behind this dairy counter stands Álvaro Ocaña, a young man from Brenes who, at just 29 years old, holds the title of Best Master Fromager in Spain. An award he won at the prestigious international Fromago Cheese Experience fair.
Ocaña exudes a passion for cheese and an endless drive to continue honing his craft in this unique culinary trade.
After a long career in restaurants such as the Michelin-starred Bardal (Ronda), Lú Cocina and Alma (Jerez de la Frontera), and Saddle (Madrid), Álvaro is trading in his cheese carts to return to his homeland and make cheese accessible to everyone.
At RAZA—which is neither a shop nor a bar but something entirely different, both gastronomic and educational—cheese is given nicknames, and people talk about the livestock and the artisan, and
More than 60 national and international gems: what cult cheeses does RAZA hide?
At RAZA, each of the 60 or 70 national and international varieties displayed in its showcases aims to highlight the raw material—a result of the unique characteristics of each animal breed, the cycles of nature, grazing methods, and, of course, the origin.
Unadorned, unpretentious products, where you can find everything from French and Norwegian gems to many local specialties, such as the creamy Puigpedrós, Ondare cheese from Guipúzcoa, or the exclusive Chantada butter from Airas Moniz—a rich indulgence that you can also purchase on-site.
Thus, RAZA allows us to discover, first and foremost, artisanal cheeses, gourmet cheeses, and, in short, real cheese.
Cheese tastings in Seville: schedules and prices at Álvaro Ocaña’s temple
The real open secret of RAZA—and what’s setting the city’s food scene ablaze—is its tastings.
Cheese tastings are usually held on Friday evenings at 8:30 PM and on Saturdays at 1:30 PM. It’s one of the most appealing activities the city has to offer for those who enjoy dining out, and it’s a great way to escape the heat.
Álvaro Ocaña’s sessions are a cultural journey and a lesson in liquid geography. Ocaña often recalls:
In small-group sessions, the fromelier guides diners through the senses, offering a critical perspective on cheese consumption, teaching them to interpret the rind or identify the evolution of aromas—both on the palate and the virtues of pairing to enhance the experience.
The tastings include 7 national and international cheeses and 3 wines and are priced at €35 per person. You can reserve your spot through their website; they also offer the option to host events or private tastings at the shop via info@quesosderaza.com.
