Devin Jacobs
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a beloved comfort food that come in many varieties. While classic versions typically feature a single layer of cheddar, there are also gourmet creations that use different types of cheese and toppings. Mentioned here are some of the best grilled cheese creations you will find in every state.
Alabama: Melt, Birmingham
Melt in Birmingham, Alabama, is known for turning the classic grilled cheese into a gourmet experience. This restaurant offers inventive versions like the Mac Melt, which combines mac ‘n’ cheese with grilled cheese for an indulgent meal. Melt has built a following with fresh, locally sourced ingredients since 2014.
Alaska: Spenard Roadhouse, Anchorage
Alaskans almost unanimously agree that Spenard Roadhouse in Anchorage serves the best grilled cheese in the state. Offering comfort food with a twist, the restaurant’s dishes include bacon-wrapped meatloaf, tater tots, and creative cocktails. With its welcoming vibe, the Roadhouse frequently hosts trivia nights and live music.
Arizona: Beyond Bread, Tucson
Beyond Bread, established in 1998, serves handcrafted bread, delicious sandwiches, house-made soups, fresh salads, and decadent pastries. The grilled cheese in this kitchen has generous portions of gooey cheese and hearty bread. Customers often commend the quality of the ingredients and the variety on the menu.
Arkansas: Hammontree’s Grilled Cheese, Fayetteville
Hammontree’s Grilled Cheese is celebrated for offering various gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. The restaurant lets customers choose from different cheeses, meats, and breads. Its menu also features hot dogs, vegetarian options, and soups, all sourced from local ingredients and craft brews.
California: The American Grilled Cheese Kitchen, San Francisco
Located in San Francisco, California, The American Grilled Cheese Kitchen is a famous spot for comfort food enthusiasts. The kitchen specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and was co-founded by Nate Pollak and Heidi Gibson, a seven-time Grilled Cheese Invitational champion.
Colorado: Steuben’s, Denver
Steuben’s is known for its classic grilled cheese made with American and semi-soft muenster cheese on double-thick Texas toast. Customers can customize their sandwiches by adding extras like bacon and jalapeños. The restaurant also caters to families with a dedicated kids’ menu and provides takeout services.
Connecticut: Caseus Fromagerie Bistro, New Haven
Established in 2010, Caseus Fromagerie Bistro is a mobile eatery that offers classic comfort food with a menu featuring artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread. Its distinct offerings include the Truffle Mac & Cheese, which combines creamy macaroni with truffle oil and gooey cheese, and the Pesto Grilled Cheese.
Delaware: Home Grown Café, Newark
Home Grown Café is a local gem committed to farm-to-table dining and community engagement. The restaurant emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, crafting dishes that showcase Delaware’s agricultural bounty. Its history is rooted in a deep dedication to sustainability and support for local farmers.
Florida: Ms. Cheezious, Miami
Meryl S. Bender and her husband, Brian, founded the eatery in 2010. It began as a food truck and gained popularity for its high-quality ingredients. Ms. Cheezious serves yummy gourmet sandwiches, like the “Cheesy Mac” with macaroni and cheese and the savory “Porky Melt” with pulled pork.
Georgia: Marietta Melt Yard
Among the famous eateries is Marietta Melt Yard, located at 800 Whitlock Ave NW, Marietta, GA. Apart from grilled cheese sandwiches, the restaurant also offers items like the Patty Melt and Nashville Hot Chicken. It is a casual and trendy place with a family-friendly environment.
Hawaii: Aloha Melt, Honolulu
With a stellar rating of 4.7 from over 800 reviews, this compact eatery specializes in different grilled cheese options. The menu features five types of sandwiches, including the popular Aloha Melt, combining gooey cheese with unique Hawaiian flavors, and a comforting tomato basil soup.
Idaho: Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese, Coeur d’Alene
Signature items at the Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese include the “Mac Daddy,” which layers creamy mac and cheese between buttery, grilled bread. The restaurant received the Best Sandwich award at the Coeur d’Alene Foodie Awards. It is also known for its engaging community events.
Illinois: Cheesie’s Pub & Grub, Chicago
Since its establishment in 2009, Cheesie’s Pub & Grub has been known for hosting Cheesie’s Challenge, a towering stack of grilled cheese creations. Its dedication to quality and innovation has attracted several accolades and mentions in media, such as Esquire Magazine.
Indiana: The Big Cheeze
A notable grilled cheese contender in Indiana is The Big Cheeze. Thanks to its creative takes on the meal, this mobile eatery has developed a cult following among locals and college students. The Big Cheeze offers classic combinations and inventive add-ins that cater to diverse tastes.
Iowa: The Cheese Bar, Des Moines
This restaurant gives the public an extensive selection of artisanal cheeses. Its menu includes local and international cheeses with charcuterie and other beverages. In addition to many other accolades, the Des Moines Register has recognized the kitchen as the best cheese bar in Iowa.
Kansas: Best Regards Bakery & Cafe, Overland Park
Best Regards Bakery & Cafe’s offerings include gooey butter cake, chicken salad sandwiches, and grilled cheese. It is well-known for its scratch-made cookies, like the cranberry orange cookie, which features fresh cranberries for added flavor. Overall, Best Regards is the right spot for a quick lunch.
Kentucky: The Main Eatery, Louisville
If you’re in Kentucky and want a taste of Southern cuisine in an inviting atmosphere, The Main Eatery is the place. Located in Louisville, the restaurant serves traditional Southern flavors blended with modern culinary techniques. It has been a local favorite since its establishment in 2000.
Louisiana: District Donuts Sliders Brew, New Orleans
This place serves handcrafted donuts and also a standout grilled cheese. District Donuts’ grilled cheese typically features rich, melty cheese and artisanal bread toasted to perfection. This venue also offers unique flavor pairings and is known for its high-quality ingredients.
Maine: The Cheese Iron, Scarborough
Regular visitors or even first-timers complement The Cheese Iron’s artisanal products and exceptional customer service. Since 2007, this specialty shop has become famous for serving handcrafted cheeses and charcuterie. It’s no surprise that Down East Magazine has named it the best specialty food store.
Maryland: Grilled Cheese & Co., Catonsville
This regional chain offers a variety of grilled cheese options served on ciabatta bread. Popular choices include the limited-time special, The Chicken Popper, which features grilled chicken, jalapeños, and cream cheese. The restaurant has a solid rating of 4.5 from nearly 1,500 reviews.
Massachusetts: Roxy’s Grilled Cheese, Boston
Variety is the spice of life, and Roxy Grilled Cheese in Boston believes in that. Established by Roxy and Michael Hagan, this eatery serves classic comfort food with a different but creative twist. Its offerings include Roxy’s Classic and the Melt Down, which feature premium ingredients.
Michigan: Cheesecake Factory, Detroit
With 250 items on its menu, Cheesecake Factory is no newcomer to the game. Each hearty entree and signature cheesecake is proof of exceptional food service. This Detroit location is also specifically appreciated for its inviting ambiance, contributing to its reputation as a local favorite.
Minnesota: All Square, Minneapolis
All Square, founded by Emily Hunt Turner, supports formerly incarcerated individuals. The menu features inventive grilled cheese sandwiches like the Jamaican chicken one and classic four cheese alongside tomato basil soup. All Square serves as a community hub and an economic engine for social change.
Mississippi: Bulldog Burger Co., Starkville
Bulldog Burger Co.’s menu includes the Pimentology Burger, featuring pimento cheese and fried green tomatoes. This kitchen prides itself on quality ingredients, bold flavors, and a casual setting. Numerous appetizers and sides, like truffle tots and Philly spring rolls, are also provided here.
Missouri: Crown Candy Kitchen, St. Louis
Crown Candy Kitchen is an iconic soda fountain and candy store. Known for its classic malts, thick milkshakes, and handmade candies, Crown Candy Kitchen is committed to quality and tradition. The eatery’s involvement and special events have even impacted communities.
Montana: The Sassy Biscuit Co., Billings
The Sassy Biscuit Co. in Billings offers a nice twist on grilled cheese by infusing southern flavors and comfort food elements. The place is famous for its inviting atmosphere. The restaurant serves the “Sassy Melt,” a grilled cheese sandwich layered with pimento cheese and fresh toppings.
Nebraska: LeadBelly, Lincoln
LeadBelly, situated in the historic Haymarket district within a 130-year-old building, blends an inviting atmosphere with a modern culinary experience. The menu includes the eclectic Ciao Bella Burger and Bayou Shrimp Salad. Plus, options like the Viva Las Vegan Burger, specially made for vegetarians, are also available.
Nevada: Stripchezze Food Truck, Las Vegas
This eatery serves various cheesy delights, like the Jalapeño Popper grilled cheese and the Daddy’s On A Roll mac and cheese egg roll. Locals and tourists patronize it for its hearty portions. Over time, it gained a reputation for providing comfort food with bold flavors.
New Hampshire: The Friendly Toast, Portsmouth
Known for its decor and atmosphere, The Friendly Toast in Portsmouth has become a special brunch spot with several locations. Its unique atmosphere pairs perfectly with a menu full of creativity, made with fresh ingredients and offering options to suit various dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free choices.
New Jersey: The Grilled Cheese and Crab Cake Co., Somers Point
Somers Point’s The Grilled Cheese and Crab Cake Co. is famous for its crab cakes. The menu offers starters like Shore Fries topped with crab soup, bacon, and Old Bay. There are also seafood baskets, quesadillas, and build-your-own grilled cheese options.
New Mexico: The Grove Café & Market, Albuquerque
Right in the heart of Albuquerque is a restaurant favored by locals and tourists. The Grove Café & Market is known for its farm-to-table philosophy and modern American cuisine. While not strictly focused on grilled cheese, its seasonal grilled cheese servings are the best.
New York: Loi Estiatorio
This place is famous for its distinctive twist on grilled cheese. At Loi Estiatorio, you will find Halloumi cheese with Loi Meli organic Greek honey. This meal, which costs around $23, is a highlight on their menu since it is a blend of sweet and salty ingredients.
North Carolina: Papi Queso, Charlotte
Papi Queso began as a food truck but soon became one of Charlotte’s best spots for gourmet grilled cheese. Now, with a brick-and-mortar location, the restaurant remains creative with its signature sandwiches, such as the Pig Mac, which mixes slow-cooked pork, macaroni and cheese, and caramelized onions.
North Dakota: The Toasted Frog, Grand Forks
This restaurant has made a name for itself with its lovely variations of comfort food. Its grilled cheese stands out thanks to a variety of cheese choices that are all melted to perfection and often paired with a cup of the restaurant’s signature tomato bisque.
Ohio: Melt Bar and Grilled, Cleveland
Melt Bar and Grilled is an Ohio institution serving oversized, over-the-top cheese sandwiches. Known for its comfort snacks with a twist, Melt offers combinations like the Parma, Italy, featuring crispy chicken parmesan in a grilled cheese, or the Big Popper, stuffed with jalapeño poppers.
Oklahoma: The Mule, Oklahoma City
This eatery is known for its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes like the “Macaroni Pony” sandwich, which features chipotle barbecue pulled pork, mac and cheese, and pickles, are served at The Mule. Also, patrons who crave gourmet cake and sandwiches are not left out.
Oregon: The Grilled Cheese Grill, Portland
Portland’s Grilled Cheese Grill is a food truck that started on a school bus. It has since transferred to a brick-and-mortar. The restaurant has a range of options for foodies, from classic grilled cheese to inventive dishes such as The Cheesus, a burger served between two grilled cheese sandwiches.
Pennsylvania: MeltKraft, Philadelphia
If you’re visiting or living around Philadelphia, you can visit Melt Down. Operating from a food truck, they serve traditional and innovative options, including a four-cheese sandwich and smoked brisket with sharp cheddar. Their menu also has paninis like smoked turkey and Swiss and a Caprese sandwich.
Rhode Island: Scratch Kitchen and Catering, Newport
This kitchen specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, house-made soups, and salads. It offers various menus, including popular items like Duck Confit Sandwiches and Porker Breakfast Burritos. Customers can assess breakfast and lunch and request full-service catering with customizable menus.
South Carolina: Midwood Smokehouse
Midwood Smokehouse is recognized for its delicious grilled cheese sandwich, which stands out among various options in the area. The grilled cheese available here is loved by many, as it has a rich flavor coming from that perfectly melted cheese. This is often served on artisan bread.
South Dakota: Grille 26, Sioux Falls
In Sioux Falls, Grille 26 is celebrated for its unique methods of preparing American cuisine. The “Truffle Grilled Cheese” and “BBQ Brisket Sandwich” are among the highlights, with regular menu rotations and innovative options from local farms to highlight South Dakota flavors.
Tennessee: The Grilled Cheeserie, Nashville
At the Grilled Cheeserie, simple grilled cheese is transformed into a gourmet experience. This food truck-turned-restaurant offers inventive sandwiches like the “Pesto Grilled Cheese” and “Southern Classic.” With accolades for both its delicious food and friendly service, The Grilled Cheeserie has become a cherished staple.
Texas: Burro Cheese Kitchen, Austin
This eatery offers a huge menu amidst a lively atmosphere. It uses high-quality ingredients like Texas small-batch cheeses and fresh-baked bread. Besides, its unique menu includes the Waylon & Willie, which combines Redneck Cheddar, Gruyere, caramelized onions, and a spicy maple bacon sauce on bread.
Utah: Melt Way, Sandy
Melty Way’s menu features a variety of melty creations, including the Melty Mac, which blends curly cavatappi pasta with a creamy blend of Parmesan, pepper jack, and cheddar cheeses. In addition to sandwiches, Melty Way offers a selection of soups and salads and provides delivery services.
Vermont: The Skinny Pancake, Burlington
Initially founded as a food cart, The Skinny Pancake has grown into a popular eatery with multiple locations. Its menu offers sweet and savory crepes, sandwiches, and burgers made with fresh Vermont ingredients. Plus, a weekly Bluegrass Brunch entertains guests with live bluegrass music while they dine.
Virginia: Food for Thought, Williamsburg
Notable items offered at Food for Thought include Cajun Pineapple Salmon and the Unreal Deli Vegan Cheesesteak Sub. Established to inspire families, it has garnered positive reviews for its exceptional service and quality food. This restaurant promotes an engaging atmosphere with the decor of influential figures.
Washington: Beecher’s Handmade Cheese, Seattle
In Seattle, Washington, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese is the ideal spot for grilled cheese lovers. It serves creamy, flavorful Flagship cheese, a cheddar-like variety that’s aged for over a year. In recognition, the eatery has been awarded top honors at the American Cheese Society’s competition.
West Virginia: The Cheese Melt Grill and Bar, Wheeling
West Virginia’s Cheese Melt Grill and Bar, established in 2014, is known for its grown-up grilled cheese sandwiches and gourmet smash burgers. Recognized for its community spirit, it has garnered a loyal following and continues to provide delicious food and friendly service.
Wisconsin: The Old Fashioned, Madison
Nothing beats the taste of classic local dishes combined with stunning city views. Alchemy in Madison is a vibrant café committed to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It has been praised for employing innovative dining approaches and thrives as an outstanding culinary business.
Wyoming: The Bread Basket Bakery, Cheyenne
The Bread Basket Bakery serves delectable baked goods, fresh sandwiches, and warm hospitality. Since its inception, this family-owned bakery has operated in the community with a devotion to quality and excellence. For its outstanding quality and service, it has been recognized as Cheyenne’s Best Bakery.