Look What These 15 Restaurants Do With Grilled Cheese

When we think of a grilled cheese sandwich, we most likely think of that classic childhood favorite: a couple slices of American cheese in between two slices of white bread, heated in a pan with a little butter until it's toasted and melty. With a glass of milk and a bowl of tomato soup, it makes for one of the most perfect lunches. But we live in an era of extremes, and this simple hot sandwich is no exception. 

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Traditionally, a grilled cheese consists of sliced bread, cheese, and butter, all toasted to gooey perfection in a pan or on a flattop. But these days, the sandwich has taken on more variations than ever imagined — from a grilled cheese stuffed with buttermilk fried chicken to sandwiches topped with mac and cheese, barbecued pork, and caramelized onions, or even a grilled cheese sandwiched between a glazed doughnut. 

The widespread national food truck trend has had a notable impact on the grilled cheese world; there are a surprising number of mobile and brick-and-mortar operations dedicated solely to this cheesy creation. In fact, half of the sandwiches on this list come from stores and trucks serving only grilled cheese. 

But just like burgers, restaurant owners know that deep down everyone loves grilled cheese, so more and more are adding their own variations to their menus.  At a certain point, you almost have to ask where the line between grilled cheese and "sandwich with a lot of cheese in it" is. Our answer? As long as the cheese is the star of the show, it's a grilled cheese. And in these 15 sandwiches, the cheese most definitely takes center stage. So read on to learn about 15 grilled cheese sandwiches that are pushing it to the max.

The Original Cheesus — The Grilled Cheese Grill, Portland, Ore.

behemoth creation of a ⅓-pound burger, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, and mustard stuffed between two grilled cheese sandwiches. The sandwich on top includes pickles and American cheese; the one on the bottom includes grilled onions and Colby Jack. And in case you're still hungry, the sandwich comes with a bag of chips on the side.

The Outrageous Grilled Cheese — Sage General Store, New York City

grilled cheese stuffed with Vermont Cheddar, Jack, Gruyére, bacon, and Worcestershire sauce. 

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