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Daybar Lisa Bugler
Founder of Eat Drink Explore Provisions
Peabody, Massachusetts
Daybar Lisa Bugler’s cheese journey began with a passion for wine. After working as a gourmet food buyer and cheesemonger in the Boston marketplace, she teamed up with her husband, Phil, to open Eat Drink Explore Provisions (EDEX) in 2022. As New England’s first Black-owned cheese shop, Bugler’s mission is simple: cheese for all. With a focus on inclusivity, EDEX offers a diverse range of gourmet foods, with options that accommodate virtually all allergies and dietary restrictions. Bugler’s vision is to create a space where everyone feels welcome, celebrated, and part of a community united by a love of cheese.
Who is your biggest inspiration in the cheese world?
The Cheese Culture Coalition has been a significant source of inspiration for me as a female cheesemonger. This organization not only promotes the love and appreciation of cheese but also champions diversity and inclusivity within the field. As a Black woman navigating the predominantly white landscape of cheese, the Coalition’s commitment to fostering a supportive community greatly resonates with me. Their efforts to highlight the voices and contributions of underrepresented individuals in the cheese industry motivate me to continue breaking barriers, creating spaces where everyone can thrive and share their passion for cheese.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve experienced or overcome in this industry?
Running the only Black-owned cheese shop in New England comes with unique challenges, particularly around financial sustainability. One major hurdle is access to capital, as systemic barriers and biases in the financial system make it difficult to secure loans or funding. This limits investment in inventory, equipment, and marketing. Establishing a brand in a niche market like specialty cheese is also tough, with limited awareness about the importance of diversity in the industry. Competing with established shops with larger budgets adds pressure. Additionally, sourcing quality, diverse products that reflect local tastes and cultural roots can be challenging. Despite these obstacles, the opportunity to create a unique, community-focused business makes the effort rewarding.
What’s Next?
I’d like to travel to more cheese regions across the globe.
Pair a song with cheese: Listen to the entire cheese pairing playlist on Spotify!
Red Witch + “Essence” by Wizkid ft. Tems
What’s the cheese you’re raving to your friends about right now?
Fromagerie La Station de Compton Alfred Le Fermier
If you weren’t in the cheese industry, what would your career be?
I would go back to fashion merchandising and purchasing.
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