Melt Bar & Grilled

Melt is truly one of the most innovative and enjoyable eating experiences in the country. The original Melt sits just outside of Cleveland in nearby Lakewood. From opening at 11 am until close each day, expect to wait your turn with locals and travelers alike to enjoy the grilled cheese-inspired sandwich genius of Melt.

A newcomer to the world of Roadfood, Melt was opened in 2006. Since then, Melt has served up some of the most unique grilled cheese sandwiches on the planet, ranging from their signature “Westside Monte Cristo,” featuring honey ham, smoked turkey, Swiss, American, and mixed berry preserves, to the enormous “Parmageddon,” filled with potato and cheese pierogies, fresh Napa vodka kraut, grilled onions, and cheddar. All Melt sandwiches come with a mountain of delicious, thick-cut, and perfectly seasoned fries, as well as a heap of their awesome homemade vinegar-based slaw.

I’ve eaten at Melt three times, and each time the sandwich has been absolutely fantastic. The most memorable experience was the Westside Monte Cristo. What sets this sandwich over the edge is the bread. Melt normally uses a fantastic, thick garlic sourdough. However, the Monte Cristo bread comes beer-battered, deep-fried, and lightly coated with powdered sugar, creating a remarkable similarity to a doughnut. The sandwich arrives with a berry paste, similar to jelly, that when applied makes for one of the most memorable sandwich experiences you are likely to ever have.

Other winners include “The Dude Abides,” “The Rising Sun,” and any of Melt’s sandwiches of the month. If you possibly have any room left over, Melt’s grilled peanut butter and banana dessert sandwich is a must try.

Don’t be deterred by Melt’s long waits. The bar offers a wide selection of microbrews to pass the time and the wait staff is extremely accommodating and friendly. You can easily spend 20 minutes checking out Melt’s unique artwork and décor. A true must visit.

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