Afrim Pristine

Cheese Master | Television Host | Cookbook Author 

Afrim Pristine is Canada’s premier Cheese Master and co-owner of Toronto’s iconic Cheese Boutique, a family-run institution for over 50 years. With more than 25 years in the business, Afrim has dedicated his life to mastering cheese, earning the rare title of Maître Fromager from the France-based Guilde Internationale des Fromagers—making him the youngest recipient and the only Canadian to receive this honor.   

Afrim’s passion, rooted in his family legacy, has made him a national culinary figure. He’s the host of Cheese: A Love Story, Food Network Canada’s first cheese-focused docu-series (also on Hulu), where he travels the world in search of the best cheeses and the artisans behind them. His bestselling cookbook, For the Love of Cheese, celebrates his favorite ingredient, with a second book on the way, hitting shelves in October 2026. 

Beyond cheese, Afrim is a skilled chef, recipe developer, and TV personality, regularly featured on Canadian food shows and morning programs including 10 seasons on Marilyn Denis. Recognized by The Globe and Mail and LCBO Food & Drink as one of Canada’s most influential food figures, Afrim continues to inspire a new generation of cheese lovers while honoring the traditions that shaped him. 

Where to see Afrim