The oldest cheese shop in Manhattan's Little Italy — and considered the oldest in America — may soon close for good. After 130 years in business, Alleva Dairy on Grand Street has filed for bankruptcy, as the owners are locked in a months-long battle with the building's landlord over back rent. That same landlord is also refusing to honor the remainder of the company's 10-year lease.
Businesses in the touristy area were hit hard by the COVID pandemic shutdowns, but business has slowly been getting back on track for the neighborhood staple, especially after having recently expanded to become a café, offering things like arancini and sandwiches.
