Next-Level Grilled Cheese Spots in Chicagoland

As parents, when we see grilled cheese on the kid’s menu at restaurants, we often let out a huge sigh of relief knowing that the establishment wins the child picky eater seal of approval, making it acceptable for our family to dine. 

While this simple staple is often associated with kids, many Chicagoland restaurants are catering to adults by taking the concept of grilled cheese sandwiches and elevating them to the next level.

From Texas toast bread to tomato soup dipping sauces, here are some of our favorite spots to get your grilled cheese fix in.  

Cheesies Pub & Grub

• Address: 1365 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago (Lakeview); 958 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago (Wicker Park)

Chicago’s first grilled cheese restaurant takes grilled cheese very seriously. They offer simple sandwiches made on Texas toast and souped-up versions with options like fried chicken tenders, coleslaw and pulled pork. We love their homemade dipping sauces most, which are tomato soup, pesto mayo and ranch

Everdine’s Grilled Cheese Company

• Address: 24 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville

As if it weren’t enough to put every mouth-watering grilled cheese sandwich on buttery, crispy Texas toast, Everdine’s also tops their more than 15 sandwiches off with mac and cheese, buffalo chicken and tuna salad. Can’t find the perfect combo? Make your own.

The Fat Shallot

• Address: 2468 N. Clark St., Chicago

This grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect bite. Enjoy sourdough bread complete with ooey, gooey Munster cheese, sauteed spinach, and caramelized onions. Fans can also catch a fix with The Fat Shallot Food Truck roaming around Chicago. 

Gayle V’s Best Ever Grilled Cheese 

• Address: 108 N. State St., Chicago

If you’ve ever been to a farmers market around town, chances are you’ve sampled Gayle V’s grilled cheese. Now with a storefront in Block 37, guests can enjoy a selection of farm fresh cheeses (Butterkäse, Swiss, white cheddar) on delicious bread from local bakeries.

Jefferson Tap & Grille

• Address: 325 N. Jefferson St., Chicago 

Simplicity shines at this West Loop eatery, which has made a name for itself with its reminiscent-of-childhood grilled cheese sandwich — sourdough bread topped with two different kinds of cheese, tomato and avocado. We’re also big fans of their tots. 

Jerry’s Sandwiches

• Address: 4739 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago

If you haven’t tried the Munchy M grilled cheese sandwich, your palette is in for a treat. This simple grilled American and cheddar sandwich gets a flavor boost from its added layers- avocado, chips, pickled jalapeno, cilantro and southwest mayo. 

Toasty Cheese Mobile Eatery

• Catch the next stop on the Toasty Cheese’s Facebook page. 

From Schaumburg to Wheeling, The Toasty Cheese Mobile Eatery delights hungry customers with their small but tasty menu serving classics like Cheddar and American on white bread to artisan creations with duck bacon, provolone, spinach, and Sicilian cherry tomatoes. 

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