Ah, the humble grilled cheese sandwich. Isn’t it amazing how such a simple recipe can evoke such rich memories from our childhoods? Growing up, my mother cooked the “Gold Standard” of the grilled cheese sandwich: a couple of Kraft American Singles in between two slices of buttered bread sizzling on the skillet. Meanwhile, Campbell’s tomato soup would be bubbling on the stovetop. The magical combination of these made calling us inside for dinner a little easier than on the nights when she would make meatloaf. Now, I’m not slamming her meatloaf recipe; it’s just that grilled cheese is one of those undeniably kid-friendly meals. Let’s head on our journey to find the Top Five Grilled Cheeses in the Lansing Area.
The Grown Up Grilled Cheese
However this delicious staple has evolved over decades, opening its appeal to adults who enjoy the nostalgia of grilled cheese but also want a little something extra. You might be wondering what qualifies me to be the judge of grilled cheeses in Lansing. As a long-time vegetarian, I have had my share of various grilled cheese sandwiches. It tends to be the “safety” that most restaurants offer to accommodate those of us who don’t eat meat or fish. But here’s the deal, I know you’re completely capable of nailing the standard grilled cheese sandwich. So, while I appreciate that many restaurants offer this bit of nostalgia on their menu, I featured only the restaurants that went above and beyond the standard slice of cheese between bread. You deserve to give yourself something a little extra, and your grilled cheese sandwich is no exception.
So without further delay, I invite you to feast your eyes (and later, your stomachs) on the five BEST grilled cheese sandwiches from local Lansing businesses that are also very kid-friendly!
Disclaimer: You might be thinking that these awesome photos below look too good to be true. As part of my journalistic integrity, I assure you that no editing has been performed to these photos. The restaurants featured did not receive any notification that their sandwiches would be photographed and shared with the world. What you see is what you get… and what you see is also a result of my wife’s phenomenal food photography skills!
Grown-up Grilled Cheese
Flour Child Bakery and Café, Grand Ledge
This symphony of melted Smoked Gouda, White Cheddar cheese, roasted red peppers, balsamic reduction, and house made pesto is available on your choice of bread. You can choose from sourdough, croissant, or any of their freshly baked bagels. This time, I opted for herbed focaccia and had absolutely no regrets. Served with potato chips and a pickle spear, this sandwich is packed with sophisticated flavor. There is no shortage of accompanying options made fresh in the bakery. Ranging from soup to pretzel bombs, and decadent desserts that will satisfy any sweet tooth. An incredibly family-friendly place, we never walk out without smiles on our faces. Not only from the anticipation of devouring the food in our to-go bags but also from the sincerely kind staff.
Not Your Mama’s Grilled Cheese
Cask & Co., Lansing
A memorable masterpiece of Mozzarella, Parmesan, Brie, Smoked Gouda, BFF apples, Fig, Bacon (omitted for us) is framed with Challah bread. Served alongside parmesan fries, this sandwich’s diverse blend of cheeses just made me melt (a little pun for you). Truly though, this refined grilled cheese is perfect for treating yourself. I can guarantee it pairs nicely with a full-bodied red wine. I enjoyed it this much sans bacon, so I can only imagine how much the flavor profile bursts with that ingredient thrown into the mix!
Madtown Grilled Cheese
HopCat, East Lansing
It would be irresponsible if I didn’t feature the literally award-winning sourdough sandwich stuffed with Dill Havarti, Smoked Gouda, Muenster, apple slices, garlic aioli, and honey. If this wasn’t enough flavor for you (which I’m convinced is humanly impossible), it is also served with a cup of roasted red pepper Gouda bisque and HopCat’s famous Cosmik fries. Admittedly, this has been my guilty pleasure go-to for years, especially when I’m in the mood for a good beer!
Pesto Cheese
Zoup Eatery, Lansing
With Sharp White Cheddar, Provolone, crumbled Feta, tomato, and pesto pressed between grilled cheesy bread, this sandwich is a savory slam-dunk. With numerous soup options available (à la carte), this sandwich is perfect for feeling satisfied on a short lunch break. It’s miraculous how these simple ingredients can combine so flavorfully and disappear from our plates so quickly!
Grilled 3 Cheese & Tomato
Soup Spoon Café, Lansing
If you’re looking for an elevated version on the classic that you’re used to, try this blend of Sharp Cheddar, Gruyere, Provalone, and tomato on your choice of bread (shown on French). Accompanied by chips and pickle, this is a well-rounded new take on an old classic!
Now more than ever, it is important for us to enjoy all of life’s pleasures. While you may not have originally considered this staple sandwich worthy of commemoration, I hope seeing the innovative ways our neighborhood eateries have transformed it into a flavor-packed experience will inspire you celebrate this cheesy classic! If you’re looking for more awesome food in Lansing head here.
