Photos: Chris Emeott
Excelsior’s Fromage Co. takes charcuterie to the next level.
Inspiration to launch a new business doesn’t always arrive like a bolt of lightning. Sometimes, ideas need time to percolate and develop into the just the right blend of creativity and business know-how.
Excelsior’s Fromage Co. features a gourmet entertaining experience with customizable charcuterie boards and a signature charcuterie cart. From caviar to duck prosciutto, the Water Street shop has items not typically found in an ordinary grocery store.
Jared Supalla and Jennifer Brisson, co-owners of Fromage Co.
For co-owner Jennifer Brisson, opening Fromage Co. last fall came after lifelong experiences in the hospitality industry. As the owner of Lilia Flower Boutique just down the street, Brisson says she was motivated by clients who were looking for the next guest experience. “The concept had been rolling around in my head for a long time,” she says. “I visited a luxury, gourmet grocery store in Napa [California] about 20 years ago, and it was a core memory that stuck with me. I wanted to do something different and more elevated someday.”
Creating memorable experiences wherever they might occur can be made easier (and elegant) with Fromage Co. of Excelsior.
During an Instagram scrolling session, Brisson was inspired by a charcuterie cart in Florida. The idea had been simmering in Brisson’s mind for long enough, and the Fromage Co. cart debuted in 2024 as the first of its kind in Minnesota. The community’s response was so positive, the storefront came to fruition just over a year later. “Everyone has been so welcoming and kind and really seems to love what we’re doing here,” Brisson says.
Fromage Co.’s most popular items are the premade charcuterie boards that come in three sizes—petite ($40), medium ($80) and large ($140). The boards serve two to 10 guests and feature items for the picky eater to the adventurous foodie. Guests can expect cured meats, dried fruits, specialty cheeses and more.
An unexpected fan favorite? Caviar. Brisson says the internet has helped make caviar less intimidating and notes people are even placing it atop chicken nuggets. “That’s what I love about charcuterie boards,” Brisson says. “It’s an approachable piece, and there is something for everyone.”
And the board itself doesn’t have to come from Fromage Co. If clients have a board at home that works well in their kitchen or for their event, Brisson says those are welcomed for customization. “Bring it to us, and we design it to match your vibe,” she says.
Speaking of matching vibes, the mobile charcuterie cart continues to be a big part of the business and serves as an ideal option for corporate happy hours, open houses, wedding and baby showers, wedding receptions and on the list can go. It’s fully customizable and offers an interactive experience for guests. “It brings a lot of joy,” Brisson says.
Bringing people together with food continues to be a highlight for Brisson and a focus Fromage Co. will continue to explore. An outdoor event space at the store offers an ideal setting for private events. With a bonfire pit, café lighting, music capabilities and a roll-up garage door, it’s gaining attention for the Instagram-worthy vibe. “People were walking up and asking if it was a restaurant,” Brisson says. “We’ll probably host private events here in the future.”
At the end of the day, Brisson’s goal with Fromage Co. is to bring people together. She fully appreciates how food generates conversation and evokes joy. “We’re looking to create a memorable guest experience for everyone that people are going to remember and talk about over and over,” she says.
Al Fresco
Jennifer Brisson has more plans for expanding Fromage Co., including to-go picnic baskets to make summer snacking effortless. “We want to launch a walk-up window where people can grab and go,” she says. “We’re thinking about a picnic basket that would include all the goodies and then be returned to us.” (Another idea includes offering picnic basket boat delivery options.) While details and pricing aren’t finalized, Brisson says the goal would be an affordable option for summer enthusiasts on the go.
Fromage Co.
Instagram: @thefromageco
