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Name: Melt Bar & Grilled
Address: 13463 Cedar Rd, Cleveland Heights, OH, 44118
Telephone: (216) 965-0988
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.96

Melt Bar & Grilled

13463 Cedar Rd, Cleveland Heights, OH, 44118

(216) 965-0988
Store is closed

Melt Bar & Grilled Menu

Starters

Melt Pierogi

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Quesadilla

Melt Quesadilla

Crab Cakes

Buffalo Tofu

Hand Cut Fries

Ultimate Fries

Today’s Vegetable

Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup

Soup Of The Day

Vegetarian 3 Bean Chili

Buffalo Chicken Chowder

Add To Any Starter Snack Or Salad
Salads

Melt House

Grilled House

Caesar

Blackened Chicken

Southwest

Warm Spinach

Small Side
Gourmet Grilled Cheese

The Kindergarten

Wake And Bacon

Cuban Melt

Westside Monte Cristo

Wet Hot Buffalo Chicken

Summer Chicken

Winter Chicken

Blackened Chicken

Bbq Chicken

Parma Italy

Chorizo And Potato

Mom’s Meatloaf Dinner

Cleveland Cheese Steak

Smokey Russian

Municipal Stadium Magic

Hot Italian

The Godfather

The Dude Abides

The Parmageddon

Gyro Melt

The Lake Erie Monster

Northcoast Shores

Rising Sun Melt

Purple Parma

Big Popper

Flying Falafel Melt

Roasted Vegetable

Mushroom Melt

Spinach Pie

Grilled Peanut Butter And Banana

Half Combo
Grilled Cheese Burgers

Veggie Burger

Melt Burger

Breakfast Burger

Fat City Burger

Bbq Pig Burger

Blackened Blue Burger

El Diablo Burger
Add Ons

Cheeses

Vegan Cheese

Veggies & Sauces
Other Good Stuff

2 Fried Eggs Fried Tofu

Roasted Veggies

Grilled Chicken

Slow Roasted Beef

2 Potato & Cheese Pierogi

Crab Cakes Sautéed Shrimp
Desserts

Fried Twinkies

Cheese Cake

Bread Pudding

Healthy Meal suggestions for Melt Bar & Grilled

Starters

Melt Pierogi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spinach Artichoke Dip [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Quesadilla [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Melt Quesadilla [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Cakes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Buffalo Tofu [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hand Cut Fries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ultimate Fries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Today’s Vegetable [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Soup Of The Day [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegetarian 3 Bean Chili [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Buffalo Chicken Chowder [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Add To Any Starter Snack Or Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Salads

Melt House [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled House [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caesar [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Blackened Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Southwest [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Warm Spinach [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Small Side [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Gourmet Grilled Cheese

The Kindergarten [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Wake And Bacon [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cuban Melt [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Westside Monte Cristo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Wet Hot Buffalo Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Summer Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Winter Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Blackened Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bbq Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Parma Italy [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chorizo And Potato [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mom’s Meatloaf Dinner [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cleveland Cheese Steak [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smokey Russian [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Municipal Stadium Magic [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hot Italian [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

The Godfather [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

The Dude Abides [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

The Parmageddon [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Gyro Melt [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

The Lake Erie Monster [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Northcoast Shores [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Rising Sun Melt [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Purple Parma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Big Popper [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Flying Falafel Melt [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roasted Vegetable [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mushroom Melt [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spinach Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Peanut Butter And Banana [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Half Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Grilled Cheese Burgers

Veggie Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Melt Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Breakfast Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fat City Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bbq Pig Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Blackened Blue Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

El Diablo Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Add Ons

Cheeses [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegan Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Veggies & Sauces [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Other Good Stuff

2 Fried Eggs Fried Tofu [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roasted Veggies [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Slow Roasted Beef [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

2 Potato & Cheese Pierogi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Cakes Sautéed Shrimp [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Desserts

Fried Twinkies [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cheese Cake [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bread Pudding [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Patrick K.

Philly cheese steak sandwiches should really only be eaten at places that specialize in Philly cheese steak sandwiches. I got excited though and ordered one here the other night and it found its way inside me with no problem. Food's great and a perfect ambiance. This place really captures Cleveland. I weep when I think of the cities I've visited without eating at places like this. They also have a monte cristo that comes with a side of grape jelly that my friend ordered. Upon taking a bite I produced jelly of my own. The bad wrap the city of Cleveland has had for so long is on its way out. If the Cavs don't win in 2015, they'll do it in 2016.
(5)
Yuan C.

This is one of those places that you can count on to give you an extreme food coma every time. But it definitely lives up to the hype! My all time favorite sandwich is the Backyard BBQ with pulled pork. I'm such a sucker for sandwiches/burgers with BBQ sauce and Melt does it right by adding onion rings in it :) Be warned, the service can be quite slow!
(4)
Lea H.

I've always said cheese makes everything better! This place nailed it! Super friendly staff, VERY clean, bright, fun decor for your eyes entertainment, great place to bring the family. I came here with a business partner and was blown away by the menu. Who knew you could make a grilled cheese so many different ways! We sat at the bar and the girl working had the best attitude! She was funny, upbeat, fast and kept a smile on our faces. I don't think it matters what u order here because everything looks amazing. You get more than enough on your plate for the price. I would maybe suggest sharing if you don't have a big appetite. I will definitely be returning. Don't forget to eat it quick though while your cheese is still hot!
(4)
Michelle T.

Great service. The sandwiches were unique and delicious. Fun atmosphere and cool menus. They are printed on album covers. Loved it!
(4)
Barbara M.

The first time I ate here several years ago when they first opened, I was blown away by how good it was. I've eaten there 5 or 6 times since then over the years and it just doesn't taste good to m anymore. Was I just caught up in the hype originally? Who knows. I've tried a variety of sandwiches, the latest one being the Monte Cristo. The bread is so thick on all the sandwiches, almost making it hard to enjoy what's inside. And the batter on the outside was over the top thick. Although tasty, it was overwhelming the rest of the sandwich. The french fries were soggy, greasy and cold. I've had much better Monte Cristos at mom and pop diners for less money. At peak times, the noise level is really high and unpleasant making it hard to converse easily with others at your own table. Lots of people like this place so maybe it's just me. Give it a try and see what you think.
(2)
Yuanjia Z.

This place is pretty legit in my opinion. Their sandwiches are GIANT and very yummy. No wonder it's always so busy every night. So plan to go before 4 or after 9 or 10 if you dont want to wait for an hour or something. I really liked the sun rise sandwich. It has shrimps and some veges in it, so it doesnt make me as sick afterwards as other options do.. They also have this "melt challenge" where if you can finish 5lbs of food with 13 different kinds of cheese, you will be on their record and will win a 10 dollar gift card and a cool tshirt. One of my friends from Chicago actually was training to do this challenge before he came, and we got to this place pretty late, and we said that we want to do it! the waitress was like you know, it takes about 45 mins to prepare and you know 5 lbs of cheese is not that delicious and it's actually rather disgusting. I have only seen one person who won the challenge and she's a small lady. And yes the waitress finally convinced my friend to save this $50 and go with a yummy sandwich instead. I kinda laughed cuz I thought she just wanted to go home early. LOL
(4)
Foodie F.

this was the largest grilled cheese/sandwich I have ever had. I was really pleased with how tasty the Parmegedeon was. for a meatless sandwich the pierogi was tasty and the crunch of the bread was delicious
(4)
Lindsay H.

Long waits! Come early! Portions are HUMONGO. I'm not always in the mood for Melt, but when I am... it really hits the spot. I recently ordered their thanksgiving turkey/stuffing/cranberry special, which was realllllyy filling. The turkey to stuffing ratio was spot on, but overall the sandwich was just a little too greasy.
(3)
Ashley W.

Great place to go if you want to leave full. Huge sandwiches and pretty good beer selection. Not to mention the service was great. We got there pretty late on a weekday and didn't feel rushed to eat. We were the last guests to come in and we were still given good service. Sampled a few beers suggested by our server. I ordered the Purple Parma. Delish. Couldn't finish half the sandwich. Like I said they are huge. Next time I'm in Cleveland I'll be back for sure.
(5)
Bri F.

Food looks pretty tasty. Unfortunately, I'll never know for sure. This place, from a service standpoint, is garbage. Walked in with the hubs (last summer) and granted it was busy. However, I've walked into many busy places (busier, in fact) and was at least acknowledged. Tip for future restaurant owners: have a popular place with like 2 people working on a Saturday! Cool? Cool. Had to ask where to sit after standing around for a few minutes. Was told, "sit anywhere". Mmk. Looked around and saw two chairs at the end of a long table against the wall. So we sat next to people we didn't know. And we awkwardly sat. And sat. AND SAT. No waitress. No waiter. No water. No order. No food. NO SQUAT. Finally after 20 minutes of looking like complete (hungry) idiots, we simply got up and left and went elsewhere to eat. Oh and no one around us was getting served either, which was odd. What the hell was going on? Were we being punished? It was one of the most awkward experiences ever. I may try the one in Mentor (MAY), but I'll never come back to this location. Service is half the battle and they were defeated. Like playing Civilization V on Deity defeated.
(1)
Claire L.

This place was amazing. Great service to start. We had the potato soup, had great rich, peppery flavor. I got the fried eggplant grilled cheese with fresh tomatos, delicious! big enough to share for sure! We rounded out the meal with fried twinkies. Everyone in our party loved their meal!
(5)
Lina D.

Melt is a favorite featured restaurant on food network and travel channel, and pretty unique as far as sandwich joints go, especially in Cleveland. I like to take my out-of-town friends here to show them one of the famous yet inexpensive option in the Cleveland food scene. That being said, there is a lot that Melt leaves to be desired. For example, be prepared to wait if you come at prime dinner time, even on weeknights. And I don't just mean the 40 minutes you will have to wait to be seated. The waitstaff is not very prompt in greeting you, taking your orders, or catering your small requests for ketchup, more water, etc. The bar, too, is usually quite swamped, so although you may choose to eat your meal there, don't assume that it will automatically make the wait for food any shorter. I've tried almost two-thirds of the grilled cheese sandwiches on the menu, and all of them taste pretty good. My favorite option the Chorizo and Potato. Be warned that Melt's sandwiches are HEAVY. Most of the time, I can only finish half of the sandwich and barely make a dent in the fries and cole slaw. Now I usually share with a friend, and still, its plenty of food. The dishes other than grilled cheese that I've tried (including tomato soup, salads, pierogis, and bread pudding) have all been mediocre, unfortunately. My conclusion: Melt's a bit overrated, but its worth giving a try.
(3)
Tia H.

You better walk into this place hungry and if you're on a diet, make it a cheat day. Loved everything about this restaurant. The food portions are huge but worth it. They have a ton of items to choose from with something for everyone. If you're a beer drinker they will likely have something to tickle your fancy, craft soda kinda of person? Yup, they have something to satisfy that need also. The decor was peculiar but brought a sense of nostalgia when you looked around. The wait staff was friendly and helpful and just an overall pleasant experience. :-)
(5)
Courtney T.

I don't even know what to say or where to begin! Grilled cheese combos that are battered and deep fried or just grilled but all are melty and gooey! I had the Big Popper. Herbed cream cheese, cheddar and jalapeÃ±os battered, fried and dusted with powdered sugar. Served with a mixed berry jam and a mountain of French fries and slaw. This is not your mamas grilled cheese! Lots of beer on tap and old school decor from arcade games gone by to a huge Dairy Queen light up. Tin ceilings. This place is fun and a must eat when in Cleveland!
(5)
Jason L.

i wrote a prior review for melt and noted that i wasnt happy about the lack of service and acknowledgement. i decided to go back a couple of weeks ago and this is what i noticed: *the service got "marginally better." to clarify, if i waited before for 15 minutes before someone saw me at the bar without a menu or drink list, this time it was 13 minutes. and it was during the middle of the day where there was no more than 3 other parties at the bar finishing up. *i dont like the fact they took my favorite sandwich, the "lake erie monster" off the menu list. also, the winter chicken i had tasted like they ran out of actual patties and threw together some mashed up portion. definitely did not taste like a normal winter chicken, very disappointing. *other than that, the beer list is good, the food is alright (gotten worse), and i still feel that the service is still lacking. thats too bad. theres one bartender there who is always nice but even i felt she was slacking a bit.
(2)
Jonna M.

Wow!!!! So many varieties of sandwiches. The waiter was extremely helpful in deciding what to get. Great kids menu too. Sooo much food to eat, you will surely have leftovers.
(5)
James E.

This is the WORST place in terms of customer service. They consistently act as if they are too cool or important to wait on you. The orders are often wrong and wait is horrible. It would be one thing if the food was amazing, it is NOT. That act like they are selling the cure for cancer but it is only a decent Grill cheese. Many of my friends swear to never come here because of the horrible service. I use to make excuses no longer. I will not be back
(1)
Billy G.

Great atmosphere and decor. TONS of beers on tap and bottled. Huge menu of food. Huge portions also. Monte Crisco was awesome. Friendly people. Huge Bar w/ tons of TVs for watching the game. Def would come back if in the area. Def worth the drive for out of towners.
(5)
Jacob A.

I have never been to a restaurant and didn't know what to pick due to how delicious they all sound/are. Trying something new is never a risk because it is a guarantee that it will be good. Cheers from your Alaskan customer, Melt. You did good. I love this place, definitely a must go. 5/5
(5)
Stef M.

Yikes! There is so much hype revolving Melt, but the place has yet to live up to my expectations. I visited this location with the hopes that it would surpass my experiences at the Independence location. Unfortunately it fell short. We had a really great server that made really great suggestions on which craft sodas we should try (go for the Sarsaparilla-a really awesome, flavorful root beer!!). Instead of fries, I opted for the side salad, and asked for a recommendation on the dressing. She suggested the ranch as they make it in house. It really was the best ranch I have ever had. I highly recommend it! When it came to the entrees things really fell flat. I ordered the Hungry Hungarian. I'm alright with sloppy, but this was out of control. This should not be a meal served in sandwich form. The bread became super soggy, and the sauce really lacked flavor. My boyfriend got the Cleveland Cheese Steak. Again, really soggy with the bread, and entirely too much going on between the bread. I'd only go back for that root beer, and a salad with that wonderful ranch dressing. I won't be ordering a "grilled cheese" here anytime soon.
(2)
Michael G.

Love this place. I want to try just about everything on the menu. Highest recommendations for the Lake Erie Monster, with jalapeno tartar sauce. A word of advice...don't get an appetizer. It's not that they're not good, it's just that your grilled cheese and mound of fries is gonna be so huge, you're not gonna be able to finish it all...even without the appetizer. I still haven't made it to dessert here yet. And I really, really wanted to try the peanut butter and jelly bread pudding (pout). Also, check out their specials of the month...some really good grilled cheese specials in there! For August 2013, their special is "The Pig Roast" grilled cheese (chipotle BBQ pulled pork, fried sweet potato, coleslaw, monster cheese), side of grilled sweet corn with roasted garlic spread, and homemade redskin potato salad. And it was just Awesome! PS - I can't believe there are people on here complaining that they give you TOO MUCH FOOD. Really? That's your complaint? Too much food? Really? Really. Really??
(5)
Adam M.

Love this place. It's usually pretty busy on the weekends and you'll probably have to wait a while to get a table, but that's expected with Melt and the wait is usually worth your time. But if you need a quick fix and don't have the time to wait to dine in, they do takeout and the wait has never been unreasonable (around a half hour from the time I called). The service is pretty solid and the people are cool. They definitely handle to flow of guests well. I would recommend the Dude Abides sandwich for anyone who's never tried (meatballs, mozzarella sticks, grilled cheese, parmesan, marinara sauce...delicious). And the beer selection is very good as well.
(4)
Stephen H.

Wow! Huge sandwiches. A lot to offer. Great decor. A great addition to Cleveland. Mushroom melt and Municipal Stadium Magic are awesome. Clean, great service, priced right. Nice area of the city! We'll be back again and again!
(4)
Bryce A.

I am really glad that Melt does not have a location in Washington DC...if they did, then I would want to eat there every day. And probably die of a heart attack within the year. A few of us made a stop here for a Sunday brunch before driving out of town. We got there just after 11 and it was fairly empty when we arrived, though by the time we were done it was fairly busy. Everything on the menu sounded amazing, which is terrible when you have to pick just one. Luckily, I was visiting with a party of 3, so we were able to get 3 different sandwiches and try them all. I ordered the War Pig "Cuban Style", which was a grilled cheese with three different kinds of pig and deep fried pickles. I also got to try the New Bomb Turkey was a thanksgiving dinner in a grilled cheese and the monthly special, which was a double decker grilled cheese with meatloaf. Each sandwich also same with a small mountain of perfectly cooked french fries. All three sandwiches were delicious, but I think that my favorite was probably the War Pig, though the fried pickles got to be a little too much as I got towards the end of the sandwich. The portions are ridiculous. The bread for the grilled cheeses is as thick as french toast, and they pile the fillings on just as thick, if not more. My sandwich (plus a good portion of my fries) was plenty for brunch, and I was still full at dinnertime. Great and friendly service, and I really liked all of the random signs and holiday decorations inside. I did not try any of the beers while I was there, but the bar has a huge draft selection to go with their huge portions. Next time I am in Cleveland, I'll definitely have to stop by a Melt location again.
(5)
Carl R.

Absolutely fantastic food, service, and atmosphere. Abundant servings and superb taste.
(5)
Derek H.

Killer grub! Cleveland has a hit here! The menu is pretty diverse and even offers vegetarian options. I was torn between two sandwiches and before ordering I asked what the bigger selling items were. When the Hot Wet Buffalo Chicken sandwich was mentioned I knew it was a 'go' as it was one I had been considering. Wow! What a great pile of food! I took one bite of the sandwich and though I had chipped a tooth- turns out it was the super-crisp breading on the chicken. I was super impressed how crisp it was from first bite to last. Ample portions of seasoned fries and a vinegar-slaw accompany your sandwich. I thought I knew what I was getting into so I hadn't eaten all day. Sadly, I couldn't finish every bite of deliciousness put in front of me.
(5)
Isabel G.

When we decided to go to Melt, it was because our kids had been raving about the place and bringing home piles of big left over sandwiches. But once I had the chance to go we were a little disappointed. I thought that the sandwiches would be good, tasty and creative. We found that they were however, not that creative, and way too loaded in calories. We liked the big huge space with an eclectic atmosphere. Anything will taste great with lots of melted cheese, but in some cases, you want a more flavorful offering, they lack the craft and the art of cooking. I am glad that we went but we will not return.
(2)
Arianna O.

Everything was spot on! So Freaking Good! Everyone here seems to say it takes awhile. We are in Cleveland for the day to go to a baseball game. My husband, baby, and I got to the cleveand heights location right at 11am when they opened. no wait. some tables but not overly crowded on this Sunday morning. we were seated, served, ate and paid all within 35 minutes. I call that pretty speedy. I like the off the wall ambience ...blue ceilings... menus on the back of old record album covers. We opted for a burger with herbed cream cheese and jalapeÃ±os. We split it after hearing about it's mass size. Definitely glad we shared it. The burger was cook perfectly, the bread perfect. The herb cream cheese sooooooo melt in your mouth and married with the uncooked jalapeÃ±os....omg...I seriously can't even explain. We also loved the hand cut fries. Perfect. I seriously wouldn't have changed one single thing about our visit. Amazing. The locals really must frequent the doctors with all the major cheese intake around these parts. only sad we can't get back to this place anytime relatively soon. I highly suggest you stop here if passing through or if you happen to be one of the few locals who have never been. yum yum yum!
(5)
Min A.

My first visit for lunch, and i really enjoyed the friendly service, attentive bartender (ate at the bar). Plenty of TVs, good selection of beer and the food was very good! Home backed bread scored points in my book, too. I liked the decor, the music and the vibe. Definitely going back!
(4)
H P.

Casual, comfortable, and the food is excellent! Best sandwiches I've had, period. better than the gonzo burger or Aloysius from st Augustine....better than Chuck Liddell from Belize....take your family, always a good time
(5)
Whitney B.

Finally made it to the infamous melt. Had something with fish in it...pretty delicious. I thought it was a bit greasy bit I guess that's the nature of it. Drinks were great...good service.
(4)
Chocolate L.

Certainly my fav bar to go to and late night eat! Food is delicious n so different ! U can't get anything melt anywhere ! The staff are always friendly and nice :) the atmosphere is vibrant ... Family friendly n also good to hang out with friends or date ! I truly love this place !!
(5)
Jill K.

We were passing through on a road trip to Minnesota and found this great bar and grill! There are a bunch of beers on tap! This place brings a whole new meaning to grilled cheese!! I had the potato bacon bomb, amazing!! This sandwich tastes like a loaded potato skin but 10 times better!! Their French fries are to die for.....get a side of ranch for dunking!! The service was great and very friendly! The atmosphere is hipster and fun!!
(5)
Amanda L.

I ordered the cheesesteak and all I tasted was salt between two pieces of greasy bread. Gross! Meat was flavorless-all you tasted was salt. I'll stick with the summer chicken from now on, which is excellent. The chorizo and potato is good, the purple Parma is good, the big popper is good (warning-it's so greasy you'll want to throw up after), the fries were seasoned nicely, and the slaw was good at this location. We arrived at 4:30pm, there was no wait. (Lakewood location is a whole other ballpark!) I ordered a zombie cocktail and it was gross; no flavor except for vodka (supposed to have rums). I get this cocktail at other places and it's always the same; not sure what was in this one. Server was cool, not smiley, but nice and on the ball. Kitchen took forever as they usually do, but the food was super hot upon arrival, which almost never occurs at the Lakewood location. Our friends said, "meh".
(3)
Terra H.

when it comes to a grilled cheese, there's usually not much to it, right? well if we're talking about melt then that's so wrong. there is more to a grilled cheese than some buttered bread and cheese slices-this place has reinvented the grilled cheese and they've done so in a way that leaves me pretty much in awe. the chorizo filled grilled cheese is to die for and i won't even get started on the sweet potato fries. the wait is a bit excessive, but once you sink your teeth into one of melts amazing sandwiches you'll totally understand why a wait like that is more than justified.
(4)
Bradley E.

I'll simply say that I am a huge fan of Melt. The food is consistently good (although the portions are insane, so be prepared to take home leftovers), and the beer list is always interesting (good amount of both draft and bottle choices). The service also has always been terrific and have never had a negative experience from any of the servers or bartenders. What makes Melt truly special is that they can make essentially any sandwich vegetarian or vegan. They have a few vegan cheese options and have plenty of non-meat alternatives to choose from (even though their tofu is pretty darn good too). Of course, they have plenty of meat choices too, which makes Melt a perfect place for groups that have a range of dietary preferences. They also have a build-your-own style sandwich option, if you want to keep your grilled cheese more simple. Sure, sometimes the wait can be a tad long, but the space is pretty big and I have never had to wait more than 20-30 minutes for a table. There also is plenty of seating at the bar, where it is easy to order food as well. All in all, a fun take on comfort food in Cleveland.
(5)
Jonathan W.

This is the best Melt out of the four. The portions can be too much and the drinks get pricey, but I always really enjoy myself. You can't ask for a cooler kitsch place with awesome comfort food.
(5)
Karen W.

great place! i just move to Parma few months ago and saw the place while driving home, after couple times decided to stop. I had the Montecristo sandwich, it was really good and very good size. Definelly i will come back soon.
(4)
S T.

I get why people like this place. Huge portions, and a great beer selection.This place is basically a frat bar, and if I was still twenty, and needed to pack away a few thousand calories for a few bucks, then yes, I could see the appeal. I wouldn't even care about some of the worst service in Cleveland--and I've been to three of the outlets. But if you know anything about food, the heavy handed coarse nature of this blurred out and nondescript food makes you wonder how terribly underexposed the American palate is. What is even more offensive is the positive press it's received from some news outlets. So I am really glad a local boy found a spot for himself, made good and made some money. He doesn't need me to sell this place--they are always busy. And that's just as well, cause if my opinion counted, I'd have them sell the place...
(2)
Alexandra H.

Looking for a place in the area to hang out and grab some great food with your friends on a weekend? Melt's the place for you. This is a definite spot you want to check out if you're ever in the Cleveland-area. The portions are massive - which means there's plenty leftover for lunch, dinner, or a midnight snack. The menu offers a unique variety of grilled cheese spinoffs - perfect to satisfy any craving you're having that day My favorites include the Dude Abides, the BBQ Chicken, and the Wake and Bacon. The overall decor is quirky and cool, probably more aimed at the younger adult generation. All in all, Melt's a stellar spot and one of the reasons why dining in Cleveland just rocks.
(4)
Katie W.

Unique grilled cheese restaurant that offers a great selection of beer. Delicious but I must warn you come hungry! Food is heavy! There is a bit of a wait if you come at dinner.
(5)
Jessica O.

ate here about a year ago in the restaurant while visiting family, and then came back again this year for takeout. the food is just outstanding. the mushroom melt was delicious and enough for 2 meals. prices are quite reasonable for how much food you get. would definitely come back through here on my next trip!
(5)
Eric B.

Have to update this review since I now realize after going yesterday that the menu has changed. Now they have gone a la cart with their sandwiches. I usually only get 2 of the sandwiches, but by the time I add the stuff from the build a sandwich menu I'm paying more than I previously paid for the sandwich which was already high. I asked the bartender why they did this and she said she wasn't sure but that several people have expressed the dislike for the changes. She offered to get the manager, but I declined because he wasn't going to change the menu for us. We left yesterday and will more than likely not return.
(1)
Dan W.

This place is great. the menu has plenty of great sandwiches to choose from, but after trying it, if you like it, you really need to get the emails so you can see what the sandwich of the month is(it's usually worth trying!). Also, the coleslaw is pretty good. It's the only that I'll eat, no mayo and has a bit of a kick too it. Sometimes it can get a little crowded and the wait can be long-ish, but worth it to get a Melt fix.
(5)
Vi L.

I came here because I kept hearing people rave about this place, but after going, I wondered, "why the hype??" After eating there, I feel like a sack of lard. Completely greasy, heavy, and gross. I ordered the pierogies as an appetizer: The cabbage was good. The (2) pierogies were ok but weren't super flavorful. We asked our server for suggestions for sandwiches, and he was really nice, explaining in detail which ones were good with which modifications. I don't think I've ever really understood the concept of a calling something a grilled cheese when there's a ton of other stuff on it. The sandwiches are basically thick buttered pieces of bread with cheese (the grilled cheese part) - plus other fillings inside... But those other fillings basically convert the dish into a greasy sandwich with cheese in it. I got the Chorizo & Potato sandwich w/fried egg on it (on recommendation), which was ok, but maybe too big, a little soggy past the top piece of bread, and again, not full on flavor. My friend got the Big Popper w/bacon, which was all pretty amazing on first bite, especially with the fruit sauce and funnel cake-like bread w/powdered sugar on it, but after that, it felt like I was just clogging my arteries every time I took a bite. This sandwich was probably one of the more unique items on the menu though. The fries that come with the sandwiches were really heavy and most of them were fairly soggy. In all, good service, some interesting sandwich concepts, and large amounts of food (definitely big/dense enough to split 1 plate between 2 people). If I were ever to come back, I would probably just get an appetizer and maybe split a salad. Despite it being what they're famous for, I could do without the sandwiches.
(3)
Eugene T.

My wife and I took our daughter there on Friday night. We wanted to know what all the hoopla is all about, this place used to have 3 hour wait. We didn't have to wait at all when we got there about 9pm. I am still trying to understand what the big deal about this place is because we were truly disappointed. We ordered Cleveland Cheese Steak (their take on Philly Sub) on a gluten-free bread and our daughter ordered Kids Burger. All the sandwiches were very greasy (which could be good or bad but for us it was little to greasy). The biggest think about the sandwiches is the bread and not the substance itself. The sandwiches were over-peppered and our daughter's burger was like a plain burger - nothing special. Fries were average. We did like the Vegetarian Chilly, it had a bit of a kick to it. Don't think we will be going back there
(2)
David Joseph H.

This is a Cleveland/Lakewood MUST. It's on my list of places I take people when they are visiting Cleveland. The food is awesome and the atmosphere is super fun. This is the original location and it definitely feels that way. The wait times are usually long (expect to wait at least an hour during peak times), but it's worth every second. Plus, the bar has great local beers on tap for while you wait. The grilled cheeses are HUGE and can easily be split. For a lighter alternative, try the brussels sprout salad.
(5)
shannon h.

Menu has reasonable prices and gluten free options. Service could have been better- took a while to get our food.
(4)
Gary H.

Good selection of beer, gigantic portions, and friendly staff. If you're expecting anything else, that's your fault. My date and I sat at the bar and had several drinks while we waited on our food- that's exactly what you should be doing here- and everything was great. The waitress was usually back in time to pick up the next beer selection by the time my glass ran dry, and after a few rounds our food appeared. I'm a big guy, and I had to work to eat half the Monte Christo. The portion sizes have to be seen to be believed, and that makes the prices very reasonable. I got reasonably drunk, completely stuffed, and had a laughing good time with my girl. That's exactly how a place like this should be- although they could stand to turn down the music a touch.
(5)
Steve K.

Some of the best food on planet earth. Believe the hype.
(5)
Mark B.

This place does not disappoint. It is the REAL DEAL! I had the Rising Sun, it was one of the best things I have ever tasted. If you are ever in the Cleveland area, this is a must visit.
(5)
Chris A.

Not sure why I haven't rated this one, yet. Ive eaten here what feels like a dozen times since I moved here last summer. I almost always do pick up because it gets a little too crowded to eat in. They always have my food ready when they say they will, though, and it's always great. I'm partial to the Dude Abides and the Parma, Italia.
(5)
Francis D.

This place is a must-visit for any out-of-towner who wants to eat food that the people in Cleveland consider "good food". My friends at Case Western took me here, and let me just say, it did not disappoint. The pricing is good (as it should be--it's Cleveland after all) and the portions are both humongous and delicious. I got to sample a few melts which were all super tasty. The one I ordered was a special called a waffle chicken melt, which is NOT worth getting. Most of the others are a tasty meal or two, however. The appetizers are also super yummy. I'm not a vegetarian but since my friends were, we ordered the Wild Tofu "Wings". Ours were tossed in bbq and thai chili aioli. The bbq ones were awesome, and the thai ones were insanely good! Next time I go back, I'm ordering more of the thai ones for sure (and may even make a meal out of them:)) Do yourself a favor and go here, order some thai wings, get a melt, and order a seasonal beer (the Christmas ale with cinnamon and sugar was the best Christmas ale I've had), and enjoy your meal. Then, go home, relax, and put away your yummy leftovers for a midnight snack or meal the next day :D
(4)
Sherry Y.

I gave the 4 stars only because my friends insisted... I would have given a three mostly because of the incredibly slow service when there were not too many tables taken. It took forever for us to get our drinks, it took foooooorever for us to get our food... It's just sad...FYI, we went there around 9pm on a Sunday As for the food, the black cat really blows my mind, the fish was cooked perfectly and the seasoning was just right. I really like the spicy kick. As for the big fat gyro meatloaf, I didn't enjoy it as much, but still a decent sandwich.
(4)
Angel M.

This was the first place I ate at in Cleveland, and man was I impressed. I'm a huge lover of the sandwich, so this place was like a shrine to me. I had the turkey sandwich with stuffing, cranberry sauce, and sweet potatoes and it was absolutely to die for. I couldn't stop saying "Mmmm" as I ate. The loaded fries were equally amazing, and I sat there astonished as this is not what I was expecting of Cleveland eateries. The sheer amount of beer on tap was equally amazing, and I could have stayed here all day trying them. It's great for lunch and even better for dinner. The portions are incredibly gigantic, so come hungry or prepared to haul half a sandwich home. This place is so good that I asked a friend driving from Cleveland to bring me a sandwich to DC. No joke. It still tasted great after a 7 hour car ride. That turkey sandwich will haunt my dreams.
(5)
Jim E.

I have to give this a 5 since it is funky and so unique! We loved the Soda in a bottle, Black Cherry and Apple! The GodFather Melt was HUGE! I have never seen a "Grilled Cheese" like that before, a must have..and the fries are delicious to! The staff was friendly to, and we really enjoyed our experience in this Guy Fieri stop! You have to check it out!
(5)
Justin C.

Great big sandwiches!! If that's your thing this is a place for you. I got the buffalo chicken sandwich and it was awesome. Along with the sandwiches the beer list is great. Very good food and atmosphere.
(4)
Vida J.

Stopped at this place for lunch while visiting Cleveland for the weekend.. Hands down best sandwich joint I've ever been too! The service was awesome the portions are huge and the atmosphere is very chill and friendly! Would highly recommend coming here especially if you are an out of stater!
(5)
David W.

I thought this place was going to be too hipster-y for me but I was pleasantly surprised. They have an amazing beer menu and the sandwiches are incredible. I had the Korean War Pig melt and was blown away. The fries are really good but totally unnecessary. We got the peanut butter bread pudding and unfortunately it wasn't very good. Would definitely come back the next time I'm in town.
(4)
Ellen A.

Amazing food. Had the Cleveland cheesesteak and couldn't have asked for a more delicious meal. Terrific service and well worth the drive from Pittsburgh to enjoy it. Guy And Adam from the Travel Channel didn't exaggerate at all on this place. Absolutely wonderful. Too bad I didn't have room for the fried Twinkie!
(5)
Greg N.

Great food! I had the Lake Erie monster here and it was perfect!
(5)
Jen M.

Revised and updated menu. At least the menu includes small plate salads and new appetizers. There are also lots of "add-ons" to choose from. Personally, I think Melt is just okay. If huge portions are your thing then you will dig it. I'm not into that. I think there are way better places to eat.
(3)
Yuna D.

So. Much. Food. What I learned about Cleveland (I'm from NYC), is that they give you a LOT of food for relatively cheap pricing. At least they do at Melt. The decor here is wacky cool. They have football and stuff playing on the screens, so yay. Wait time was pretty long (20 minutes), but from what my boyfriend told me, that was like the shortest wait time ever. I figured as such, because as soon as we were seated around 3:30~4:00, people just started pouring in. I guess this place really is that famous. So the menu is really extensive. They have monthly specials, and from the sound of things, they also have occasional weekend specials (my boyfriend had this sandwich called the Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon... lol). He had the monthly special this time, which was the mighty macaroni melt. I had the monte cristo, which the server told me was their most popular item. Uhhhhh freaking amazing. The whole sandwich comes out fried, so I was only able to finish half of it. The cheese and the berry preserves are sooooooooo good. I kind of felt sick afterwards; there's that much food. It also comes with a side of fries and coleslaw, which alone pretty much cover the whole plate. Leftover take homes are pretty much a must. The server also recommended the Sioux City Sarsaparilla, which I had never tried before. It's really sweet for root beer, but I LOVED it. Trying to find it in NYC, but I can't. If anyone knows where I can get it (I really don't feel like ordering it off amazon), please feel free to message me. Food was great, service was great, and had extreme food coma afterwards. Awesome Cleveland experience.
(5)
Dennis N.

HAPPY APRIL FOOLS!!!!!!! Um... this review has nothing to do w/ any FOOLING--for serious. --------------------------------------------------Â--------------------------------- I was very excited at the prospect of eating here. I was actually trying to convince a couple of our buddies to do the CHALLENGE. However, none of it went down... We arrived at about 8:00 PM and was told the wait would be nearly 2 hours. That would've meant that our dinner start would have been 10:00 PM... now this was no fault of Melt but it was certain disappointing... the bar was filled with activity so there was no way I was going to stand around drinking while waiting. I liked the fact that the had the TALL BOY cans of Pabst (24 fluid ounces) among a very extensive selection of IPAs... lots of beer here. Again, in my old age w/ my rickity knees, I can't just stand around for 2 hours drinking... for you college boys and gals out there and other youngstas, this is the place for you! The ambiance (for the 30 minutes that I experienced it before deciding to go somewhere else) was very cool. The semi-dim lighting created a warm yet exciting atmosphere. It was opening day so it was good to see some baseball playing on the LCDs that are scattered aplenty throughout the tavern-esque pub. The crowd was great--and I'm not sure if there's a college nearby but it had a very COLLEGE-Y feel. The crowd was great--again, I'm actually getting bored at how nice everybody in this town is.
(3)
Nuri G.

What you're going to find: Incredible food. Incredible, vegetarian friendly food. In incredible, sharing friendly portions. Served by incredible, happy, perky evangelist servers. Who'da thunk a BBQ TVP sandwich option for their monthly BBQ monstrosity? When I read that there were vegetarian and vegan options for their sambo of the month, I about fell out of my chair (and quickly ordered one). The fries were crispy, hand-cut, and perfect. The cole slaw had no mayo in it (and undetectable oil, if there was any... ) which was a perfect offset to the buttery bread and cheeeeseee. We also ordered buffalo tofu, and had no idea how they got the tofu so dense and perfect. One of the things I miss as a vegetarian is hot wings (I know, don't judge)... and this was the closest thing I've had in years. All sauces are homemade... and you can tell. What you're not going to find: something healthy. I don't think I saw something on the menu that'd fit into a health category... but that's not why you are here. No. You're here for the bread...and the cheese. Ooooh, the cheese.
(5)
Terri D.

DEEEELISHHHH, seriously. i have heard some people say just toooo much bread, too big, too this, too that. but in my humble opinion, how could you ever have too much of anything??? i am a girl who LOVES sauces and condiments. like loves them. i would seriously marry a bottle of mustard if i could. sad, isnt that??? ok, on to better things. back to melt. schmelt. they have theeee best condiments for dipping your heavenly plate of fresh cut fries in. they are all made in house and they are just fabulous. i have had a few different sandwiches and i have to say they were all superb plates of heavenly goodness. they are HUGE. like HUGE. always enough to have for lunch or dinner the next day. the piergi one is awesome. its a plate of comfort food in a sandwich form. i always feel like a big beached whale after my dining experience here, but i wont let that inhibit this girl from going back to melt. it warms my heart. beer selection is good. atmosphere cool vibe. servers all have fun eclectic personalities. go. eat. there. now. that is all. bye.
(4)
Alex G.

The sandwich I had here blew my face off. I had the Cuban sandwich, which came with a heaping portion of seasoned pulled pork and, maybe ham, I don't totally remember. The meat, cheese and veggies were sandwiched between two french toast thick pieces of bread. I could literally feel my arteries clogging up. I don't usually save half of my meal, but I had no choice, but I was glad I did so I could prolong the magic the next day!
(5)
Andrew M.

I'm a big fan of Melt. Let it be known. Any time I'm in need of some "I'm feeling like being alone and gluttonous," I get it to go. And it's a good spot to sit and have a few beers with friends. I've had several sandwiches from Melt, my favorites being "The Dude Abides," and "The War Pig." The bread pudding is good too. Share it though or you may wind up in a diabetic coma.
(4)
Jackie L.

DANG!
(5)
Shannon H.

It is a very good thing that I live nowhere near this place. My life expectancy would plummet dramatically. The sandwich I had there was just so darn good no amount of reason, willpower or moderation would be able to keep me from eating here way too often. After reading about this place here on Yelp and a few other sites I decided to give it a try. Lucky for me, it was on a weekday so there was no wait. I instantly liked the place based solely off of the classic arcade cabinet glass decorating the beer coolers. (Note to self: find somewhere to buy those!) First order of business was to get a beer (aided by the bartender that was a quick task to accomplish despite the large list) and start deciding what sandwich to try. I knew that it was to be a grilled cheese, but even with that narrowing it down there was still a very lengthy list to read through. I eventually decided on the Big Popper. The bartender stated that this was a very good choice, but she did warn me about the raw jalapenos. No problem, bring it on. This thing was amazing. By far miles away from any grilled cheese I've ever had. Heck, this may just be the best sandwich I've ever had. Chedder and cream cheese, fresh raw jalapeno slices on thick toast, battered and deep-fried, then dusted with powdered sugar and served with a berry compote dip. I live in the Dallas area, home of the Texas State Fair, which every year has many people competing on who can create the best deep-fried item. I've tried a few of the winners over the years, and none of them hold a candle to the Big Popper.
(5)
Ali L.

Great service, excellent Bloody Mary's and cardiac food! So worth it! The one thing I was looking forward to coming all the way from Oregon.
(5)
Eli G.

Awesome! No pics = no memory, but each sandwich is more than enough for three normal eaters. They are also very happy to combine any individual ingredients from one sandwich to another. Sold spot to check out should you be trapped in Cleveland.
(4)
Mike H.

Melt bar and grilled is the suture that pulls the skin of the hipster community together in Cleveland. Food is always excellent, draft beer selection is both huge and affordable, service is good, and the interior is a pleasure to look at. The fried sandwiches, both the Monte Cristo and the big popper, are certainly the greasy stars of Melt, I would suggest out of towners try these. However, their menu has many excellent options. Buffalo fried tofu salad? Plain grilled cheese kindergartner? Melt burgers? All excellent choices. Be sure to enjoy with beer. Not all is rainbows and butterflies however. The wait at the melt can sometimes be atrocious, food can be greasy / heavy, and beards are quite large among the staff (possible pro or con, ahaha).
(5)
Tim W.

So while in Cleveland during a freak snowstorm we decided to wait out the storm and give Melt a try. We had heard about it from Man vs. Food and some Food Network show. We went on a Saturday night and the place was packed. I couldn't believe that I found a parking space right outside the front door. (FYI. parking at the meter is free on Saturday nights at least) We walked in and told the hostess how many where in our party. She then gave our daughter a "Elmo" name tag and told was the wait would be 1 hour and 45 minutes. I didn't mind so much as we had just came from my test drive of my Cayenne at Porsche of Beachwood so I had a ton of Porsche brochures to read to past the time. I have come to the conclusion that the bar area takes up the majority of the space hence the long wait times. To my utter joy and excitement, 40 minutes later we were called and seated, 1 hour and 5 minutes before we were told we would be! For drinks I had a pop and my wife and daughter both had Sioux City Cream Sodas. A cool thing I like about Melt is that the menus are on the back of album covers. I had Michael Jackson Thriller. My wife had Cindy Loper and our daughter had Madonna. Talk about a 80's party, all we needed were stone washed jeans and some neon. Wow I'm old! LOL! I got the Monte Cristo (honey ham, smoked turkey, swiss, american, beer battered, mixed berry preserves), my wife got the Parma Italy (breaded chicken, sun dried tomato pesto, roasted garlic & provolone) and our daughter got the 1/2 combo which is 1/2 half kindergarten, soup cup and salad. My Monte Cristo was EPIC and the girls enjoyed their's as well. Our only complaint is that there is no kids menu and my wife's bread was a little over toasted. Our waitress Rebecca was outstanding and never let our glasses get empty. So is Melt deserving of all of the hype and 2 hour waits? In my opinion........... YES!
(5)
Chris L.

Family in town visiting? Have they been to The Melt? Out of town colleagues in the office? Have they been to The Melt? We take everyone here. Why? Because there's no other place like it. Because almost everyone loves it. Because we know they won't leave hungry. Because they have 36 taps!!!! 36 taps!!!! In fact, we may come here more for the bar than for the food these days. So, my opinion of the melt has bobbed up and down a little in the last three years, but I think the real clincher is that we can't stay away. We keep coming back again and again. We love sitting at the bar and sampling some of their varied beers. Did I mention they have 36 taps?!?! But... if you're not sure... you may not like the melt if you don't care for fried foods, or if you don't like beer. Actually, both of those can be mediated. They typically have a good vegetable plate and they have quite a selection of mixed drinks as well.
(5)
Brittany L.

Amazing!!!! Stopped here over the weekend on a trip from Pittsburgh because we have heard how good the food is! We were more than pleased with the service and delicious heaping plates that my hubby and I received. 5 stars!
(5)
Adam M.

I never visit Cleveland without a trip to Melt. There's probably a sandwich for everyone, and the beer selection is top notch. The kitchen can make meatless versions of many of their classic sandwiches. The purple parma, big popper, and mushroom melt sandwiches are unstoppable, but be warned that the portions are big! Enjoy!
(5)
Aaron T.

Like most people, we heard about Melt from watching Man vs. Food, so we went out of our way to give the restaurant a try. Their menu is excellent. However, we showed up for the grilled cheese 5 lb. challenge, so skipped all the excellent menu selections for the challenge sandwich. The sandwich itself has 14 different cheeses, served on 3 large slices of artisan bread. To complete the challenge, the participant must also finish a pound of fries and 1/2 pound of vinegary cole slaw. The sandwiches are dairy overload, but surprisingly the flavor overload from all the cheeses is delicious! The challenge is nearly impossible to finish, and it also proved to be for us. However, the quality of the sandwich and cheeses, everything was fantastic! I'd recommend a visit here, even if you aren't visiting for the insanity of the Melt challenge.
(5)
Cheryl T.

A great place for cheese lovers. Everything comes with cheese! I think I will spend more time crafting my own sandwich next time instead of choosing one they've presented on the menu.
(3)
Peter S.

Good food. A little pricey for grilled sandwich in a bar. If you get there before noon be prepared for a long wait as they make all the carry out call in orders before they start in the orders from walk ins sitting at a table who didn't order in advance. At 11:20 it took 30 min to get food. We were the only ones in the place for most of that time and placed our order within a minute or two of arriving
(3)
Kee V.

Honestly, I wasn't expecting much from Melt. The concept sounded so gimmicky to me and I was sure I would't like it. I was very wrong. I ordered the Godfather and my friend ordered the special, the Prime Time Au Jus Melt. The lasagna layered inside the Godfather sandwich was great! The idea of pasta wedged inside Texas toast sounds like a bad one but it worked. I think they throw the lasagna on the flattop to give the pasta some texture and crispiness. Whatever they're doing in the kitchen, they got it right. The Prime Time Au Jus melt wasn't as good however. There was not only roast beef but also a layer of mashed potatoes inside. The mashed potato layer made everything feel mushy and my friend found it unpleasant. It was the complete opposite texture of the Godfather. Maybe if they replace it with a fried potato croquette, it would result in a better sandwich. Just a thought.... I also want to give props to our server David(I think it was David). Something about his demeanor just made lunch that much more enjoyable. He seemed to genuinely enjoy his job and always had a smile when checking on us. It's the little things like that that elevate a restaurants rating. If I ever need to carbo load in the Cleveland area, this is the place to do it!
(4)
Stephanie S.

My bestie and I went to the melt recently. They were very busy. We waited long for a table but service was fast and friendly. Didn't mind waiting as we enjoyed our purple haze beer. I got the monte cristo sandwich, it has ham, turkey and cheese and it's fried like French toast served with a jelly compote. We loved there French fries and could do without the coleslaw. I love the decor!!! Maybe next time we will go in between lunch and dinner so we don't have to wait so long. Thanks melt for the great food.
(4)
Rob P.

To the folks who say "you shouldn't have to wait 2 hours for a grilled cheese" - I say: DON'T! Please, I'm begging you, if you think you can whip up a grilled cheese sandwich at home of similar or better caliber, be my guest. I've tried with all my might to clone Melt at home; I've come close on some sandwiches, but it's not as easy as you'd think. Look people, most of us grew up toasting two slices of bread with some American cheese in the middle. The fact Melt serves something that's also called "grilled cheese" does not mean it's the same thing. Get this out of your brain. Here's something a lot of reviewers don't seem to know/understand: Melt (the original one in Lakewood) started as a bar - the fact that the sandwiches became such a hit was a nice surprise. BUT, the thing that Melt is really awesome at is being a bar! Do you like beer? Just look at their craft beer list. Few bars in town are going to have a list that good, and at decent prices to boot.
(5)
Kelly R.

I visited Melt with a girlfriend, arrived at 5:00 on a Friday night, and the place was filling up fast. I ordered the Melt Margarita, which was a bargain at $5.50. It was very good, fresh muddled lime, on the rocks. I ordered the Rising Sun Melt sandwich which contained cheese (of course), battered shrimp, spicy kimchi and lettuce. The sandwich was tasty and accompanied by pickles, spicy slaw, and seasoned handcut fries. I only ate half of the sandwich, because it was huge! I probably won't return anytime soon, just can't wrap my head around the calories and fat grams. The ingredients were fresh and prepared well. This place is definitely worth a visit, but just not on a regular basis.
(3)
Kenny Y.

Imagine picking up a piece of toast. Now, imagine dunking it into a huge vat of butter a few times, and maybe swirl it around a bit. Now grill it with a piece of cheese until the cheese melts and oozes and slowly permeates into that fresh layer of butter. Now, add a few toppings. If your mouth waters after hearing that description, then melt is for you. If you are experiencing a gag reflex from the thought of all that cholesterol, then steer clear. Now, take that beautiful, extremely buttery piece of toast and toss it into the deep fryer for a few minutes. That's the Monte Cristo. I actually feel sorry for my friend for accidentally ordering that.
(2)
Micheal R.

Great place to go. Food is heavy, almost enough for two meals. Service is always good. Four star is because the Cleveland Cheese Steak I had last night was just okay.
(4)
S A.

Delicious but overwhelming grilled cheese sandwiches like none you have had before - JalapeÃ±o poppers and Purple (eggplant) Parma were the ones we tried. Both good but we took home half of each sandwich which is a lot of food to waste otherwise. I would recommend they keep the same taste but reduce the quantity/calories. Otherwise a good place to go with your friends if you plan to share sandwiches
(3)
Katherine M.

Can't get enough! Vegan and love this place but it does prove that vegan isn't always healthy ;)
(5)
Liz J.

I enjoyed this place! I DO feel it is overrated, but it was good. Also, I don't see how anyone could have an entire sandwich to themselves. One half is a sandwich itself!!!! On this visit we had the BLACKENED CHICKEN SALAD: veeeeeery good, definitely the best thing we ordered. HOT ITALIAN: it was good but felt like it barely had any meat which shouldn't be the case with this sandwich. BUFFALO CHICKEN SOUP: it was really good as well, but if you're not of fan of celery(which I'm not) then do not get it SPIN/ARTICHOKE DIP: okay, least fav thing, says creamy but our was cold and chunky. Also, HUGE pieces of artichoke. Overall, I was satisfied and food was good, but I feel it os overrated.
(4)
Steven S.

Lives up to the hype. The other reviews have covered the amazing food, so I am going to hype the beer list. It has about two dozen great brews in tap at any given time. The best part, though, is the price. Almost the whole list is $5, or about what they cost elsewhere at happy hour. Oh, and make sure to get the special Thanksgiving sandwich in November.
(5)
Camden H.

The Cleveland Cheese steak was amazing. The best sandwich I've had ANYWHERE. The sandwich was loaded with juicy beef brisket, mushrooms, onions and peppers. The sauce was sooo good. The fries were great and plentiful. The spinach artichoke dip was wonderful. Lots of spinach (not overly cheesy.) The chips were seasoned and dusted in Parmesan. Great flavor. This place would do amazing in Charlotte! Hint, hint!!
(5)
Ryan S.

This place is the ultimate comfort food showdown. It's decor is unique and gives a very loved atmosphere. The food is amazing though. The menu is full of unique grill cheese sandwiches all of which are fantastic in your mouth. The Monty cristo is one of my personal favorites but every sandwich is tasty. One of my favorite locations in Cleveland to eat.
(5)
Caleb T.

Wow... What can I say about this place? It's a bar and grill where you go to have about 50 types of grilled cheese sandwhiches. It's greasy, disgusting, loaded with fat, and hits just about every pressure point on the comfort food chart you can think of. It's four kinds of fucking delicious. Short version, it's yummy. Go there, go early to avoid the rush, buy a peanut butter and banana grilled cheese if you have the balls, and don't think youself unmanly when you dip even your fries into the berry preserves dipping sauce that comes with it (oh, that delicious berry preserve dipping sauce, my heart pines for you still)... Long version: I flew out to Cleveland to meet my girlfriend's family for Thanksgiving. Now anyone who has ever had Thanksgiving before knows that only their own family cooks Thanksgiving dinner the right way and no one (and I mean, but no one) can even come close to topping your Aunt Tessa's, locally famous, hot and whipped, raccoon and radicchio casserole. They just can't! So, right off the bat I was in the mood for something to help make up for the lack of my mother's mashed potatoes in my gullet. I've heard of this place on a number of different Food Channel shows and my girlfriend and her brother both loved it, so I was ready to spend a Saturday night at Melt Bar and Grilled. When you enter the door, the place is packed to the gills with many a group waiting outside. For some people this is a put-off; for myself, it's a sign of good things to come. And when you're with friends, family, people you like and / or want to get to know, you should have no problem spending an hour or so waiting for a seat while you laugh and drink beer. We got three seats at the bar within 5 minutes despite the throngs of happy diners, so no problem there. The atmosphere is crazy, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Halloween decorations strung everywhere like the first few months of Kindergarten exploded all over it. The bar is laced with video game plaques from the 80's (FROGGER, REPRESENT!) and the menus are printed on the back of vinyl ablum covers. I was lucky enough to be graced with Wham!'s, very own, 'Make it Big.' I know you men out there are jealous, don't be hatin'. We waited close to 45 minutes for the food, which was surprising for the content, but it was delicious nonetheless. I had the potato and chorizo grilled cheese. Perfect amount of spice, enough cheese to give the sandwhich that gooey feel, without being a gloppy mess, and soft potatoes that were cooked well enough to melt on the tongue perfectly (as opposed to being undercooked crunchy or overcooked cinders / paste). The bread is thick cut sourdough, making it a bit overly chewy, but good. The sandwhich itself was one of the smaller ones, so I was able to polish off the whole thing, but don't expect most of the others to be the same. My girlfriend had a Parma, Italy. Tasty and huge, but it paled in comparison to her brother who opted for a Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana grilled cheese. Holy Mary, Mother of Fuck, that was delicious. For those of you who don't understand flavor combinations and just go, "oh, my god! Peanut butter on grilled cheese! EWW!", know that sweet and salty are ... FANTASTIC together! Next time you're snacking chocolate covered pretzels, caramel popcorn, peanut M&M's, or Chex Mix, remember that you scoffed at the thought of this sandwich. Weirdos. And they have Stone Pale Ale! I live in San Diego County, that micro brew is a staple here. But traveling 2500 miles and seeing a local Arrogant Bastard Ale on tap was a trip. Apparently its a top seller for them, too! So, to wrap up, this place was brilliant. Great atmosphere, great food, great fun. I thoroughly reccomend it. The only reasons I'm giving this a four instead of a five star rating are that I'm a stingy bastard when it comes to my ratings, I can easily see how the wait times (for both sitting down AND getting your food after ordering) can detract from some peoples' experiences, and even though the food was damn tasty, it wasn't that damn tasty that makes my nipples hard enough to cut diamond. That is saved for a select few. If you're in town, make a point to go here.
(4)
Justin B.

The wife and I decided to drive out to the Heights to go to melt rather than deal with the crowds at Lakewood. It was pretty dead when we went (noon on a Saturday). We were a bit concerned that it was near-dead when we went, but the quality was just as great, and the service was superior to what we have experienced due to the lack of crowd. We will return.
(5)
Megan M.

Melt is amazing. There are signature sandwiches but you can also create you own. I selected the Westside Monte Cristo - a combo of ham, turkey, cheese that is battered and fried. As any good 'cristo, it is served with preservative. O-M-G it was heavenly. Be warned! You are getting a crazy large amount of food. Each sandwich is served with an amazing tomato soup and a side. If that wasn't enough, you are also given goldfish crackers to accompany your soup! If I am ever back in Cleveland, I'll be sure to hit Melt up.
(5)
Amanda N.

So, I was working in Cleveland and heard tales of this amazing grilled cheese restaurant and all I could think was "I must try this place!" and I am insanely glad I did. I've bragged on this restaurant to anyone who will listen and am a little miffed that they don't have locations nationwide. First and foremost, their beer selection is phenomenal! Craft beers a plenty! They put a lot of thought into their selection and the bartenders are very familiar with it and offer excellent recommendations based on your tastes. We tried a creme brulee stout that was out of this world. We introduced one of our coworkers to IPA and now he's hooked on them. lol So, even if you don't go for the amazing food...the beer selection and knowledgeable staff are worth a visit. The food....was...awesome. The sandwiches are HUGE and stuffed full of deliciousness! We had a large table of chatty coworkers who hadn't seen eachother in a long time and once our food arrived ....conversation stopped. lol Others at the table ordered straight off the menu and all of them made "mmm" noises as they happily ate their sammiches. I built my own with bacon, pepperjack cheese, grilled onions and avocado....it was awesome. They put SOOOO much bacon on it! It was glorious! They need to open one of these in Austin, TX so I can eat there all the time! lol
(5)
Tarrah T.

Loved this place! Friends took me here on a visit to Cleveland, and it was definitely a win. The sandwiches were HUGE...two meals worth, at least. We had an order of pierogi, which was super tasty, and I tried the curry chicken sandwich. Line was long, so we just sat at the bar and had really great service. It was a pretty heavy meal, but definitely worth doing every once in a while!
(4)
Jon H.

This place is awesome. It's unlike any restaurant I have been to before. The size of the sandwiches, the imagination, the ingredients, the quirky atmosphere...so fun and tasty. I had the Westside Monte Cristo and loved it. It consists of honey ham, smoked turkey, swiss and american cheeses all in-between two thick slices of bread, then battered and deep fried, and served with a side of mixed berry preserves. It's like a funnel cake engulfed your Thanksgiving leftover sandwich - which makes it at least 3x better. This is one of those unique dining experiences that leaves you wanting more. The next time I'm in Cleveland you better believe I'm coming back!
(5)
Meghann T.

Stopped here, hung over the day after a wedding in Beachwood. It was a first stop prior to going to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. I fell in love, once I walked through the doors. This place is seriously quirky. Lots of cool people work here. Our waitress was bitchin'. Full bar, and from what I could tell, there were at least 50 beers on tap. They have everything! The menu is so rad, it was printed on the back of record albums. I wish I would have taken more time to browse; I ended up getting the Wake and Bacon, and it wasn't until days later, when I learned they had a Monte Cristo sammy. BLURG! I loved the atmosphere, and the service was pretty good. Pricing was within my ballpark. It's kind of a "must see" if you are in the Cleveland area.
(3)
Traci N.

There are over a hundred and fifty reviews for Melt already, but I feel the need to share my thoughts! In list form... YAY! 1. Grilled cheese mecca! The menu* is famous for its intensity, but even the basic "kindergartener" sandwiches (I suggest smoked gouda!) are delicious. *The menus are also printed on the back of album covers. Fun. 2. Unique atmosphere and decor inside. You will never run out of things to look at. 3. I always have leftovers. Half a sandwich and a mountainous pile of fries is more than enough for me. 4. A great beer selection--especially during pumpkin ale season! BOO! 1. There can be an hour+ wait if you show up at the wrong times. Prepare for an especially long wait if you go during the weekend, especially Saturday or Sunday night. 2. The bar tends to run out of the best beers on tap during busy times. (Pumpking on Halloween weekend, I'm talking to you. Actually, EVERY pumpkin beer AND Octoberfest AND everything else I tried to order that weekend, I'm talking to you.) 3. If I go to the gym the same day I go to Melt, I regret doing anything healthy for myself earlier in the day. The "blahhhh, so bad and SO good" effects Melt has on me more than cancels anything healthy I did for myself that day. If this doesn't happen to you, tell me your secrets. 4. If you order a sandwich to go, CHECK IT BEFORE YOU GET HOME. The only time I did this, they gave me a completely different sandwich, and as it turned out, one that I couldn't even force myself to eat because it had all of my least favorite meats and ingredients on it. --This is the reason I gave Melt 4 stars rather than 5. I threw that sandwich in the trash and it was too late to go back and exchange it for another. TIPS: 1. Park on a side street rather than at a meter. There are sneaky ways to avoid paying for parking! 2. Go for an early or late lunch on a weekday to avoid the wait. I SUGGEST YOU TRY: 1. Bringing your out-of-town friends here. It is a good Cleveland experience. 2. The November sandwich of the month. It involves turkey, stuffing, butternut squash, and a cranberry sauce for dipping. Thanksgiving in a grilled cheese sandwich. 3. The BBQ chicken sandwich. 4. The brussel sprouts, as a side. I'm not sure if this is a regular menu item or just a reoccurring side special. 5. The spinach pie sandwich.
(4)
Jeff B.

OMFG. I can not believe this was the first time I ate here. 1st thing I would like to address are the haters. I do not understand the hate. I really call it like I experience it. That is pretty much my mantra. Example: someone asks me" do these jeans make me look fat?" My answer is "no eating at Melt makes you look fat!" Well if your going to put really really unhealthy shit in your body, you had better seriously enjoy it! And this was 1st class unhealthy crap. By golly it was good to the last bite! This place was sandwich perfection. I have not had a Monte Cristo since maybe college. And you know what? It was worth the weight!!! Cooked to perfection with oozing cheese, and a very crunchy outside, This was the most Kosher sandwich I had ever smashed down. This was a life changing event! No heart attack yet. I split that and the meatball sandwich with a friend. There were multiple huge meatballs. I really could have split one sandwich but what the hell! The fries were pretty tasty as well. They were a little dark but well worth it! Oh yeah and the beer selection is pretty fab. Lots of IPA's. Melt you are a playa and I sure as hell don't hate!.
(5)
Kristin B.

Just incredible. I had the Parmageddon which includes pierogies! Locally made, at that. Customized it by asking for carmelized onions and a side of house made BBQ sauce. The slaw served on the side was delicious scooped up with bites of sandwich. It also comes with fries which I requested Ultimate style, meaning topped with vegetarian chili, sautÃ©ed peppers & onions, etc. Highly recommend! And, super great for me, Melt can adjust almost anything for vegetarians or vegans. Thank you!!! The menu will please anyone and the portions are even bigger than the menu. Really wanted the house made bread pudding for dessert but just couldn't stuff myself any more. Staff is wonderful. They really know the food. And they don't rush you. LOVE this place!!!
(5)
Gabby C.

Tofu wings are good. But service is terrible at this location. They told us to leave by 6 because of the super bowl and we have been waiting for 45 minutes to eat our food. It isn't busy at all. Also took 15 minutes for someone to acknowledge that we were sitting at the bar. Pretty crappy experience over all.
(2)
Josheau W.

So after a long day at work I'm looking for somewhere nice to take it easy and enjoy a good meal. A friend suggested Melt, so we're off to see what this place is about! Melt sits on the corner with a nice frontage greeting the passerby, beckoning one to come inside and experience wonder. Walcing inside, however, I'm surrounded by plastic holiday decorations, lighting along the wall as if it's the Grizwold's yard and detracting from a rather nice mural on the back wall. I wait a few minutes to get noticed, and the hostess seats me near the window. The decor continues in the same loud manner throughout the place, in some places it makes sense, in some places it's attractive, in others, just garrish. The menu is straightfoward, nice selection of inebrients for most any palatte, but I'm here for the sandwich. The sandwiches are variatio s on the classic grilled cheese, other ingredients added to make their signature eats. I go with the wake and bacon, eggs and bacon and grilled cheese on texas toast. I start with a couple pierogies, and find them to be rather plain. Rather disappointing for a Cleveland bar to have such plain pierogie. Moving on to the sandwich, I find my meal much improved. The cheese selection fits the eggs and bacon well, the eggs are cooked to order and the bacon is savory and crisp. The texas toast has a nice crisp grilled exterior, but is still nice and buttery, well done. For the price point, I thought the sandwich was great, the appetizer sub par, and the service was meh... not bad but nothing special. I would go back with friends, but not to grab a quick bite if I was solo.
(3)
Autumn B.

So, my review of melt is not entirely based on their sandwiches, as it is not usually what I get when I come here. Melt salads are a staple of my diet and you can read my check in for the details of the awesomeness of their house and Asian noodle salads. Besides the salads, the other thing I love about melt, again atypical, is the fact that they have plentiful vegan and vegetarian options - which is not what one would think of when one thinks of melt. Any sandwich that you get can be made with vegan cheese (I'll leave it up to you to decide if the lack of lacto is worth the lack of flavor: vegan cheese sandwiches here are more similar to melted frisbee sandwiches, tbh, but maybe vegan cheese is a flavor one's palate grows accustomed to?), many melt sandwiches are vegetarian, and the servers "get" most other dietary restrictions. So, if you know Melt as a restaurant with sandwiches you cannot even finish, go back, and give them another try--for everything else.
(4)
Taylor P.

I just love melt!! I have never had a bad sandwich. It's especially fun to go with a group and share so you can have a bite of everything. It's also a great place to go if you have friends that have food restrictions, because they have something for everyone. I have a few friends that are vegan or lactose and they have cheese alternatives. Just make sure to loosen your belt before deciding to eat here! They are BIG portions!
(5)
Jon O.

Had dinner here on Friday night. I had the special sandwich vegan style (chicken, avocado, pineapple, vegan cheese) and added pineapple. Our nephew had the same only vegetarian instead of vegan and the husband had a kindergarten sandwich. We all had a sierra nevada hop hunter which is delicious. The nephew had the vegetable side (corn with chipotles) and it was great! All of us loved the sandwiches and we actually almost finished them. I may not eat again for a month. We sat at the bar so that we didn't have to wait for a table and the service was great!
(4)
Maria M.

If you live in the Northeast Ohio area, you know there isn't a lot of unique places to eat. Melt has always been everyones go-to place. It gets really loud, and sometimes seating is too-close-for-comfort. The food is hit-or-miss, but I still believe it remains to be quality. The first time, get something you know you're going to like. The best part for me is the vegan and vegetarian options. Hard to find in NEOhio. The vegan wings are SOOOO good.
(4)
Yvone R.

The only downside is that they don't take reservations and the wait is usually 1 hour or longer. NOW TO THE GOOD STUFF!!!! Hubby and I decided to try MELT for our anniversary, after hearing nothing but great things about it. Hubby had, "The Dude Abides" and I had "Chorizo & Potato" and added a fried egg and avacado per the waiter's advice. Hey, if I cared about calories, I wouldn't have come here. The sandwhiches are so big that we only had 1/2 of a 1/2 and the slaw is to die for. The fresh french fries were SOOOOOO good too! Not too much salt and had a wonderful crunch on the outside with soft potato on the inside. It could not have been better! For dessert we tried the fried twinkies and were rewarded with a wonderfully fried twinkie with a raspberry sauce. It melted in my mouth. IT WAS FABULOUS!!!!! The parking was less than desirable, but the service was wonderful. We always had something cool to drink and napkins to wipe our hands with. We never felt neglected even in the busy place! I CAN'T WAIT TO GO BACK!!
(5)
Dominique K.

I'm a big fan of grilled cheese sandwiches, so we made sure we sought this place out on our last visit to Cleveland. Thank goodness for our in-car GPS as we found this place without too much trouble. On-street parking or parking in a metered lot behind this small strip of businesses. The cutesy atmosphere with lighted pumpkins, Santas and all manner of strange lawn ornament-type decorations made it feel a little like visiting a beloved basement rec room. You can get grilled cheese here, but the hook seems to be that they have a large variety of sandwiches that -include- melted cheese as a component. My dining companion had a hot Italian sandwich and I had the aptly named Parmageddon (a grilled-cheese-and-pierogi combo). Our sandwiches came with a large portion of cole slaw and a HUGE portion of fries. Be prepared for to take home leftovers...or to possibly consider splitting a meal. I particularly liked my rough-cut fries and the plump pierogi...a Cleveland classic. The pierogi alone on my sandwich was as big as my face, so the sandwich was massive...sadly, we couldn't finish our meals in one sitting...our hotel didn't have a mini fridge...and we didn't have a cooler...so half of our meals ended up going to waste :( We stopped in around 5 p.m. on a weeknight, which worked out fine for us...no wait.
(4)
Mark L.

I should confess that the only thing I eat here is the Westside Monte Cristo. I tried to branch out by going with their bratwurst sandwich once, and that is a mistake I would never make again. Not to say that it wasn't good, but the Monte Cristo is that much better, and I fear ever betraying it again (though I've got my eye on the peanut butter/banana). The Westside Monte Cristo is an already good sandwich that is brought to life by the donut-like batter, powered sugar, and the raspberry dip. Ohhh, the raspberry dip... I'm getting ahead of myself. Just order it, eat it, and thank me later. The location is a nice one for me, since I only live a couple blocks away. The food is not nearly as good as the westside location, but on the plus side, the place is not nearly as busy. Between the two, I would rate this location a 3.5 and the other a true 4 due to food quality and overall atmosphere. Decor is your typical sports bar and grill setup. Service is serviceable, but more attentive if you sit at the bar. Parking, like most places on the east side, is kind of tough. It's always packed, and I find myself parking in spots designated for nearby businesses not named Melt (with no issues to date). Sides were not good. I'm just being honest. The fries were greasy and grease-flavored. The cole slaw was dry (no sauce at all?). Their sole purpose is filling out the rest of your plate. One more thing to mention is their impressive selection of beer. Was able to try all kinds of beer I never knew existed. From high ABV, to foreign, to unique brews. Creme brulee beer? Yes, please.
(4)
Richard H.

Yes its trendy. And yes I know.. Grilled cheeses are awesome. I have given Melt 2 tries so this isn't a snap judgement. This time we tried the Monte Cristo and the BBQ Chicken. In no way are they worth $10 each and yes I can and have made a better sandwich at home. On a positive note, at this location i didn't have to wait for a table. Walked right in and sat down. There really isn't much to say. It was OK.. Just not great. Unique idea, fantastic concept.. Fantastic beer selection. But i am going to a place that specializes in Grilled Cheese Sandwiches.. How wow'd can you get? Perhaps there is that one sandwich that everyone gets that i haven't.. Maybe that makes all the difference. Then again maybe your a drunken truck driver that finds these sandwiches so fantastic that you deem it necessary to belittle others and use vulgarity in your review. However you wrap it up, deep fry it, smother it or swear about it.. At the end of the day its a very average sandwich served with some damn good fries.
(2)
Stephen K.

Server was great. Environment was great. I ordered the Parmageddon which is a potato and onion pierogi. I thought it was okay, not as flavorful as I thought. The sandwich was huge and came with fries. It was a little messy but worth it. Definitely would go back to try something different. I like places that bring a lot of food and this place didn't disappoint. If you want lots of food, come here.
(4)
Frank C.

I am mixed about Melt. I really really wanted to love this place, but the parking at this location sucks, the employees are hipsters that think they are to good for you and there was hardly any tables in the place. Wait times were high. Maybe it was just the bartender we had, but she was nasty and seemed to hate life. I def would not go out of my way to go back. The reason for 3stars is 1 star is for the concept of the restaurant and the decor. I liked it, very different and had a unique feel. Another star was for the menu, They have so pretty awesome grilled cheese sandwiches and FRESH CUT fries. And another star because I feel it deserves more than 2. But just for the record the employees of this place def ruined my experience, felt uncomfortable.
(3)
Richard F.

I have been here several times and have enjoyed it. We tried it again last night and I was very disappointed. They have shortened the menu choices and raised the prices. I will give them props on their beer selection and beer pricing. I also particularly like the buffalo tofu appetizer, so I most likely would return for those items. The sandwiches...not so much!
(2)
Stewart P.

I went to this location instead of the other one which is closer to my side of the city hoping that, just maybe, the wait time wouldn't be as ridiculously long. You see, I am a Melt fanatic, but even the cheesiest fan has a hard time waiting 2 hours to eat with 2 kids in tow. Unfortunately, this location had just as long a wait as the other. This time I ordered 'The Dude Abides' - a sandwich packed with deep-fried cheese sticks, marinara, and meatballs. It was previously a monthly special that was brought back due to popular demand. My wife got the West Side Montecristo (her fall-back option, which is, in my opinion, their best sandwich). I thought my Dude Abides was a fantastically good idea and overall was very tasty but I found the meatball to be very dry. I think that if I get it again I will ask for extra sauce in case the meat comes out dry again. Our server was slightly unfriendly, but since she was very attractive, I will choose to overlook her less-than-awesome attitude. Besides, most people don't go to Melt for the service - heck, after waiting for 2 hours to eat, you'll be begging for them to just throw it at you. So, long story short, Melt is always tasty... I just wish that they could manage to feed my family without having to make it a whole evening event.
(4)
Drew K.

We've been to the Cleveland Heights melt twice. Both times we waited a minimum of 30 minutes, but the wait times were overshadowed by the impressive beer selection, quick and friendly service and excellent food. The portion size makes for a great value (including next day's lunch).
(4)
David F.

The peanut butter and jelly grilled cheese was suuuper good. Might be the best pbnj i've ever had. Also had the parmageddon, and that was delish as well. It was packed when we came, so the food came out quickly. My family and I just loved every bite of the grilled cheeses. The next time I go back, I'll try the Big Popper or the Spinach Pie. I'll probably get the pbnj as well!! Great selection of beer!
(4)
Rob S.

I for one am sick of people bitching about Melt. The common complaints seem to be: -- guh, I hate waiting for food -- shyeah, it's only grilled cheese. I can make it at home and it's totally better. First off, you can make it this good at home? THE FUCK YOU CAN. Everyone who's watched an episode of Good Eats now think they're a gourmet cook. Great. Also, waiting? I went to a Max & Freaking Erma's last month and had to wait a half hour for a table during Saturday lunchtime. I waited 45 minutes at Melt today for a table during Saturday lunchtime. If that's asking too much for you, then get the hell outta here. There seems to be a historically Cleveland mindset of hating places/people/businesses that somehow get too big for their britches. Oh, they were on the Travel Channel. Lame. Oh, they're getting press. Lamer. For Christ's sake, in any other city those would be actually good things. Every single person I've taken from out of town has raved about this place, from my latte-sipping friends in Seattle to my hipster douchebag pals from Brooklyn. In the final analysis, Melt serves fantastic food, has a great waitstaff, a crapload of great beers on tap, and a distinct welcoming vibe. If that's not your thing, well, then it's your loss.
(5)
Aaron W.

I opted to try the Spinach Pie ($8.50): a grilled cheese-concoction of wilted garlic spinach, roasted red peppers, grilled onions, and feta cheese in between two thick pieces of sourdough bread. It was served with fries and their sweet slaw. One of my friends -- who lives in Cleveland -- said the wait for food could be brutally long. Perhaps I went at a good time, or maybe it's because I placed a takeout order -- but I got my food within 15-20 minutes. The feta was the star for me here. Just that added saltiness from the cheese imparted an extra boost of flavor in this one. The sweet, peppery slaw is a lovely side dish for this grilled cheese, and the stubby fries were cooked well. There are a number of great grilled cheese choices here, and I found it hard to pick just one. Melt Bar and Grilled has great food and a lively atmosphere! Hope to come back one day!
(4)
Kaitlin D.

While I gave the other location five stars, this one only gets four for a couple of reasons. 1. I'm sentimentally attached to the Lakewood location. 2. While it is nice to have a little more elbow room, I don't feel like I'm friends with everyone who works here, whereas when you walk into the Lakewood location, they treat you like they've been waiting all day to see you. The Cedar location is more of a "bring ten people and take over a corner of the restaurant" place and the Lakewood location is more of a "bring your date or best friend and lean in real close to hear each other, but also know what the three surrounding tables are talking about" place. But, this is Melt and a Melt is a Melt is a Melt. There's still a stellar menu of crazy sandwiches that will cover your hand in grease, fries that make you feel like you're at a county fair, and beer to no end. There's also still a wait every night, and you have to fight for bar seats. And you will more than likely have some crazy leftovers that will reheat fairly well in the oven tomorrow night. I still love Melt, but I loved it more when it was unique. Also, I'm still mad that brunch was axed. I could really go for an apple sausage waffle right now.
(4)
Funglin W.

I've always been told how GREAT this place was going to be, even for those who don't love grilled cheese sandwiches. And i've also been told how long the wait was. First, it seems like everytime I go (twice) no matter what time of the day, there's a 2 hour wait. What I don't understand is how inefficient the restaurant makes of their room layout. The place is so big and there are so few tables. Not just that, it seems like every time I go in, there's always empty tables but the wait is still 2 hours. Now for the food.. i'm not a fan of grilled cheese sandwich and after melt, i'm still not a fan of grilled cheese sandwich. The sandwiches served here is just so oily and greasy. Despite that, the bottom of the my sandwich is always soggy and soft and not pleasant to eat. To give Melt some credit, I can understand why so many people are in LOVE with this place. First, it is great for a group setting. Second, they give large portions so it's totally worth the price if you love the food. Third, the type of grill sandwiches they have are awesome. There's all kinds of flavors mixed together and different choices that it's pretty exciting to read and try through. Do I think people should come and try this place? I do just because I do know a lot of friends who LOVE this place. I personally find it way too hyped up but definitely worth a try to see what you think of it!
(2)
ten m.

Ughhhhh. I can barely muster the energy to write a review. Just thinking about eating here makes me want to vom. I was waaay excited when I heard there was a restaurant specializing in grilled cheese deliciousness, with homemade bread, deep fried yumminess...a full bar. I was prepared for the wait - 40 minutes - knowing full well we'd just find a seat at the bar. What I wasn't prepared for was the heat, hotter inside than out with a broken ac. I suppose even that would have been tolerable if the smell of sanitizing soap wasn't mixing with fried grease and wafting through the already stagnant air. An off duty employee - very nice guy - was the only saving grace if the place, being that he was super polite and confirmed we could just share one order. Sadly, even that was too much. We split a Monte Cristo, a monster of a sandwich with some sort of berry preserve side (which the server forgot to bring out) that tasted like the oil it was fried in hadn't been changed in days. We ate the sandwich, walked out happy for the experience, and within ten minutes regretted every bite we'd managed. I could never eat here again, even if I lived in Cleveland. Apparently they've had a lot of "haters" reviewing, but I give em three stars for concept - I say my experience, however, wouldn't merit even those three. In short: if you're going to deep fry something, do it well.
(3)
Bridget B.

Interesting and exciting menu. We loved everything we ordered. We also enjoyed the atmosphere. When in Cleveland, we will come back for sure!
(5)
Kim K.

This place is amazing! I have been to both locations and like both equally. I personally have have the Monte Cristo, which is freaking amazing! I have also had the Big Popper, the Reuben, the Parmagedeon and you can't go wrong with any of those. Keep saying I am going to try something new, but it is hard to deviate from the deliciousness of the ones I have had. Well worth the wait. Nice vibe inside.
(5)
Lizi C.

The Melt has a great selection of beers on draft that are all very reasonably priced. (36 draft beers to be exact) The food, meh, I guess it tastes good, but lets be honest, it's fried buttered bread, topped with copious amounts of cheese, excessive meat and other random high calorie tid bits. The menu is out of control. It's like whoever made it decided to take every sandwich and make it as unhealthy and fattening as they could. A meatball sandwich with deep fried mozzarella sticks? Seriously? So since it was going to be one of those kinds of meals (the hard on the heart, thick in the thighs kind of meal) I ordered the Melt Burger which was pretty much a huge greasy burger with cheese. I was disappointed they didn't serve tomato, lettuce and onion with it. Only a burger sandwiched between two buttered/fried pieces of bread with lots and lots of American cheese. Of course the burger tasted good, but it was super greasy. All sandwiches come with a mountain of fries and a scoop of coleslaw. On a prior visit I tried the BBQ chicken sandwich which was grilled chicken slathered with copious BBQ sauce and topped with globs and globs of cheese. I guess if you were paying for the number of calories you get for the dollar this place would be the best deal in all of Cleveland! I'm hesitant to give it 3 stars, because honestly I don't like this place and won't be coming back. But to be fair, I guess if a deep fried, cheesy pigout is what you are looking for at a reasonable price, stop no further, the Melt is it. Bottom line: The beer selection is fantastic. A meal here will be a greasy, cheesy piggy pig pigout of epic proportions at a reasonable price. Service is polite, but slow. You will also have to wait a long time to be seated.
(3)
Alex G.

Okay so let me start of by saying that I am a melt addict, & I don't plan on getting help anytime soon. It's that good. The atmosphere is so cool & eclectic. The wait may be insane if you go during normal dinner or lunch hours but it is so worth it. Also you can avoid the wait by watching the side bar areas & grabbing a seat their when they become available. I've had an hour plus wait & then waited for a seat at the side bar, which was about a ten minute wait. I live in chagrin falls & will drive over to Cleveland heights whenever possible to grab a sandwich. & I am always bringing friends who have never been there. Melt is the best thing ever, hands down.
(5)
Tony H.

Woo! My 100th Review! Introducing, my new hit single... [To the tune of the theme to "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air"] Now this is a story all about how I took a little trip to Cleveland town. And I'd like to take a minute to tell you how I felt; I'll tell you how I enjoyed my night at a place that's called Melt. Head east on Cedar Rd., up in C Heights, where the wait can run an hour even on weekday nights. So we chilled at the bar and enjoyed a few beers, getting set for the awesome feast that would soon be near. When a table was fresh, then we had a seat. Rock music decorations on the walls were sweet. I got the chicken parm pesto and soup, tomato; our awesome server named Rebecca said, "That's the way to go." I savored every bite, half a sandwich was plenty. With the fries and gooey cheese, it was all pretty heavy. No room for dessert and had to loosen my belt But I guess that's what happens when you walk out of Melt. We. Had. Awe-some service by the sweet Rebecca with her killer looks, knowledge and sweet tattoos, brah! I left Cleveland happy with great memories thanks to good friends and Melt, serving killer grilled cheese.
(5)
Laura C.

While waiting for our meals to arrive, a guy seated at the table next to us told my friend and I that his meal was so good he "wanted to cry." When our food was served shortly after we couldn't help but agree. Large portions and endless options for creating traditional and exotic grilled cheeses. My friend and I loved our meals so much that we ate until we were way past full. She got cheese fries with vegetarian chili, I had a grilled cheese with portobellas, avocado, grilled onions, and roasted red peppers. Sandwiches come with a mountain of fries, and are some of the best I've ever had. Atmosphere is fun and funky, cocktails are delicious, and food a must for any cheese lover like me!
(5)
Carol l.

My first visit to Melt didn't impress me in the least. My friend and I waited thirty five minutes and then another twenty five for our food. Don't get me wrong our grilled garlic portabella mushroom was awesome, but the wait was a real turn off. My daughter is in from California and the one place she missed in Cleveland was Melt Bar and Grilled. She was craving the Smokey Russian so I decided to give it another try, but to be honest I was not looking forward to the wait. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there was no wait and we were served pretty fast. The food and the waiter were both really good. The trick is to not visit on holidays or when kids are out of school. I also think that sharing is a really good idea.
(5)
John G.

Not impressed.....the wait time is just terrible...2 hours? Food was ok, but nothing I should be waiting for over 2 hrs to get. Waitress was very nice but you might need your earplugs in there cause it gets loud,
(2)
Nicole P.

4 stars instead of 5 because there is always a crazy long wait. Other than that this place is fantastic. Sandwiches are HUGE, yummy and original. Go with an empty stomach! To avoid the insane wait you can order to go.
(4)
Mir E.

BEFORE YOU READ PLEASE UNDERSTAND THIS PLACE IS NOT FOR OLD PEOPLE!!! So with that said if you have an issue with your server having tattoos then this is not the place for you either! First time at melt and i must say i did enjoy myself. Sat at the bar while we had a 45 minute wait which was decent, it was really crowed so space was limited. I would suggest a larger location. Bartender was pretty cool kinda hippy but cool she helped as much as we needed and I never felt rush loved her wish I could remember her name. 45 mins flew by while we drank and talked now for the food. LOVED IT but for sure could not finish it. The portions are nice like really nice I had the black and blu cheese burger with fries. A lot of blu cheese prob won't get it next time we go but if u love not like love blue cheese go for it. Service was decent just the elbow space, like I said before space. I wouldn't recommend coming with like a party of 10 prob not more than 3 to be honest but hey whatever floats your boat.
(4)
Janice M.

Wasn't overly impressed - I expected more after all of the hype. Food was good, not great and the combinations of food offered are interesting, but it's grilled cheese and fries. Service was good, location was not.
(3)
Ben H.

You know a restaurant is good when people are tattoing thier bodies in order to get a small discount off their grilled cheese sandwich. The problem is that everyone feels the same way which often results in 30-60 minutes waiting for a table. They do a decent job of entertaining you with Santa Clause figures next to Halloween costumes in the decor, but is there any food in the world worth waiting an hour for? The sandwich selection is great, but the beer selection is even bettter - I believe there are at least 60 beers on the menu. Unfortunately, the service is pretty crappy. We sat at the bar & waited 15 minutes before anyone asked whether we wanted something to eat or drink. Like many other restaurants, it all depends on what you want. If you're starving hungry, put no importance on calories & don't care how you feel after you eat, check it out. For roughly $25-$30 OTD, you can stuff yourself at least twice & enjoy nearly any beer you can imagine.
(3)
Walter K.

I love coming home to Cleveland especially now that this place exists. I can't describe to you how amazing this food is, you just need to go find out for yourself.
(5)
Scott G.

Keep in mind that even once you get seated here and place an order, you are likely to wait 60-90 minutes for your food. Fine if you know this in advance and are looking forward to a few beers and a leisurely evening, but not at all acceptable otherwise. The food itself is generally good and shows some creativity, but also occasionally poor execution. After several visits to both locations I am starting to wonder if there is more sizzle here than steak. All of the publicity and media attention seems to have gone to their heads a bit or maybe caused a loss of focus on what matters -- food and service.
(3)
Max E.

Eat a good sandwich and drink good beer.
(4)
Jong S.

ahh the venerable melt, the stuff of conversions and wild challenges. This place Is everything you've ever wanted from an american bar/restaurant. With great atmosphere and almost all tasty grilled cheese creations, you'll secondly definitely be coming back for more. Only downside is that you'll probably need to wait a really long time for your seat.
(5)
Jason Y.

Melt has the best sandwiches around. The Monte Cristo is highly recommended, however you can't go wrong with any of the other choices on the menu. Melt also has a variety of unique flavored Root Beers on their menu. The wait can be hours long however so do not go on a tight schedule (and they don't take reservations). If you are short on time, calling for takeout might be a better option.
(5)
Luis M.

The Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana was very tasty, with the side of mixed berry preserves. Mmmmm. My friend and I had split our sandwich halves and a good thing we did... Mmmmmm. Her Parmaggedon was even better than mine. Very well worth the 30 minute wait!
(5)
Barbara D.

My sister and i went to this for the first time. Nice, fun, kitschy atmosphere and pleasant efficient service, but after that, meh. Their slaw is extremely dry, in fact, there's no dressing; the fries look much better than they taste as they were not crispy or flavorful. I had a smoked gouda with bacon and tomato sandwich and u could barely taste the smoke or the gouda...tasted more like cheddar with a hint of smoke and the bacon was fatty and the tomato tasteless. I liked the texas toast, which is the only bread for their sandwiches, but it would be nice to have other options, especially when the whole menu is already limited by stuff with cheese. The other entree was a turkey sandwich with similarly disappointing results. When it first comes to the table, u think wow, then the taste just doesn't measure up. The menu appears creative and imaginative, but unfortunately, not the results.
(2)
Lo L.

A delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese- a far cry from the waxy, yellow Kraft Single slapped between two buttered pieces of toasted white bread... On a recent visit to Cleveland, we made it to Melt, which was made known to us by Man V. Food. The place was packed- we put our name in and waited with about 30 others for a table. We figured we could be really efficient if we looked at the menu so that we knew exactly what to order, but it wasn't that easy. Everything on the menu sounded so good that 60-90 min after I thought i had made up my mind, I was tongue-tied when the waiter asked what i wanted to order. I made a quick decision, and ordered the Westside Monte Cristo. It was probably one of the best last-minute decisions i ever made. This gourmet grilled cheese sandwich had ham, turkey, swiss and american cheese between 2 thick slices of white bread that was then beer-battered and deep fried. YUM. To top it off, they give you a side of berry preserves for the perfect combination of sweet and salty and chewy and crunchy. All of us were satisfied with our orders, but I don't think you can really go wrong at Melt. The portions are huge (I barely touched the fries and slaw that come with the sandwiches) and the servers are fun and full of energy.
(4)
Joe I.

I doubt I need to say it, but this place has a lot of hype. Because of that, there is one hell of a wait for this grilled cheese bar. However, if you are patient (hour's wait, minimum), Melt will not disappoint. The beer selections is amazing. Dogfish head and Great Lakes for miles. Then there's the food. All the food is cooked to order(sushi grade tuna? Bananas!). The sandwiches are gigantic and crispy, the cheese overflowing, and no runny grease. I don't live in Cleveland, I don't much care for the city, but Melt is all the reason I need to weather the Cleve. Go there, eat, and be merry.
(5)
Danny C.

To those folks who complain about the wait and length of time to get your food--go sit at the Bar or hit Wendy's drive-thru. This place is always busy and with good reason. It's a really unique bar and grill. So far I've had The Wake and Bacon, The Hot Italian and The Summer Chicken. They are so simple but perfect grilled cheese sammich spins. It's always hard to pick one but that's part of the fun. Alas there's always home cut fries and homemade vinegar based slaw to join the selection of your choice! On a side note...a few glasses of Kentucky Bourbon Beer on tap and Caspian's bartending really complete the Meltwich experience!
(5)
Adam L.

2 hour wait on a Wednesday night. Sorry, it doesn't matter how good the food is if you turn away more people than you serve. This place will be struggling to stay open through 2011. Mark my yelp.
(1)
Alicia H.

This was my first visit to this location. We arrived at 8:00PM on a Tuesday evening. The hostess said it would be an hour wait for a table of two. We managed to grab bar seats immediately. While the bartender who served us was very friendly, we did not receive our order for over 50 minutes from ordering. My husband ordered a sandwich (the PB one) and I ordered a small side salad with the veggie of the day. My veggie special was barely warm. I like the food, but until both locations improve their dine-in experience, I'll be sticking with to-go orders.
(3)
Michael B.

Melt is our go to pig out place. Fantastic food, great beers, super service, awesome environment. There's something for everyone here. Highly recommended!!
(5)
Kate J.

Probably one of my favorite restaurants of all time. There are so many options, especially vegetarian options, and everything is AMAZING. It's a dirt cheap place to eat too- about 10 bucks for HUGE portions of a sandwich, fries, and slaw. My mom and I usually split a plate when I go with her because it's impossible to finish a plate on your own. The atmosphere is fun and their menus are on the backs of vinyl record covers. The service has always been good, and we've never waited for a table. I am, of course, speaking only for the Melt on Cedar Rd, because I've never been to the other locations and I've heard the wait is always longer at them. But even if you had to wait for a table, I'd say it would be worth it.
(5)
Dallas S.

First time being there and loved the heck out of my sandwich! Best Cole slaw and great fries. Will go back! Couldn't give a five star because they gave us the wrong beer. Then asked for it back or we would have to pay for it! The catch: they saw us drink the beers........ they weren't going to serve them to anyone else? Right?.....hopefully!
(4)
Michael L.

I'm a clevelander and have been to the Melt Bar and Grilled in Lakewood and loved it. Tonight my girlfriend and I decided to go to the one on my side of town, the Cleveland Heights location. After going to the original (in Lakewood) I would have to say this site seemed manufactured. Seemed like the owner was trying to capitalize on it too quickly. We wanted to get a table but the wait was 45-60 min. For a two top. Ended up at the bar. They have a great selection of beers across the USA. I had a Brooklyn wheat and an anchor steam. A total of 36 beers on draft. My food was good (hot Italian melt), but my girlfriend got the tuna melt and said it was good but didn't come out rare as expected. Service was great. Not pushy or nonexistent either. Would I go back, yes, but only for the food, not for the decor...your best bet is takeout!
(4)
Nick Z.

We only had to wait 45 minutes for a table. I was told that is good for Melt standards. Our server was really slow and she only had 2 of the maybe 12 tables in the restaurant. Ordered a Sprite to drink...it was moderate...Food was pretty good and the atmosphere is cool. Overall, I would go here maybe on an annual basis.
(3)
John P.

I've had several amazing sandwiches here. If you manage to have space for anything else, the fries are great and I like the cole slaw with a bit of malt vinegar splashed on it. The last sandwich I had was the one weekend only Breakfast Club. It truly was amazing, savory, delicious (and HUGE). I do have a couple criticisms, one being that the service isn't that great and waiting isn't fun and I believe they could add more tables and use the space a bit more efficiently (but they'd have to expand the kitchen). Anyways, affordable delicious food and awesome beer selection for the win.
(4)
Daniel L.

Went there this past weekend. It was fairly crowded for a Sunday evening, and we had a 30-minute wait. I had the Parmageddon sandwich, which is basically grilled cheese with pierogies in the middle. It was delicious. I would definitely get this again. Unfortunately, we had no room for dessert. The beer list was also pretty extensive. Our server was quite knowledgeable about most of the beers on the list, which I appreciated. I'm knocking one star off because of the parking situation. It's mostly metered parking in the area.
(4)
Ed W.

Had whatever the peanut butter and jelly sandwich is called. It had about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter and about the same amount of jelly, all in the middle of the sandwich. Fries were ok. My wife ordered a spinach salad. It was spinach thrown in a bowl! I'm not a beer drinker so it really doesn't matter if there are one or three hundred. Can get a much better sandwich at Mr. Brisket across the street. The Cleveland mural on the wall was the best part.
(2)
M K.

Not living in the area for years I didn't know about the hype surrounding this place. We went today, a Monday, at 4pm and had no wait which is what many reviewers have complained about. The restaurant was about half full with nearly nobody at the bar. Catching up with a friend I hadn't seen in awhile got us talking and the waitress was somewhat pushy in trying to get our order. I understand this need as it means a faster turnover of tables but the place wasn't even starting to get busy yet. This was just a minor problem. The food was outstanding. We both got the sandwish of the month which was perogies, chicken, provolone and paprika. It was incredible. The size of the sandwich was surreal and I literally had to bring half home. I usually don't care for leftovers but this sandwish was a must in terms of being consumed for another meal. I didn't have any of the beers although it did seem they had a good selection and that that bar area would be a fun time later in the evening. We found out that we could park in the Rite Aid parking lot across the street which turned out to be no problem. Overall pretty good. If I had to wait two hours like others it may have been a different review but I was happy with the place.
(4)
Nathan V.

This place is way overrated. I went here a couple of weeks ago and was really not impressed. I figured any place that would make you wait 2.5 hours to get a table and then an additional 45 minutes for food, it might actually be impressive. It was really anything but.
(1)
John K.

The new melt is absolutely fantastic. Wonderful atmosphere just like the old one, and now there isn't an hour long wait! Had the "big Popper" which is basically a sandwich-sized jalapeno Popper with cream cheese. It was fantastic although I hate how the menu doesn't tell you when its a fried sandwich. Awesome as always.
(5)
Raquel T.

The food is awesome and the atmosphere is great. The wait is long but they tell you ahead of time. Skip the wait and sit at the bar, there are plenty of tv's to watch and the other people there are friendly.
(5)
John K.

The sandwiches were too big and messy to manage. The portions were generous. The fries were too mushy and salty. The soup had a weird, vomit-like texture. Service was OK.
(3)
Barbara H.

Saw the story on the food channel and had to try it while in Cleveland. It was awesome, everything I expected and more. Long wait to get a table, but well worth the wait. A must-do whenever we are in town.
(5)
Jordan T.

A few months ago me and my parents had decided that we wanted to try a new place to eat out. We had previously noticed that this Melt was normally not to crowded. When we arrived we were seated right away and our order was taken, the service seemed a bit slow for a place with so many servers and when our food did arrive it was good but not worth the prices they charge. Alone this would have merited three or maybe even four stars, until I bit down on a French-fry and CRUNCH! At first I wasn't even sure what happened and continued eating until I felt around the back of my mouth with my tongue and found a rather large chunk of molar was missing. We told the restaurant manager, who was fairly kind and took down our information and told is to call corporate. I got my tooth repaired but when we tried to call corporate, no one ever answered, they have yet to contact us and for this horrendous treatment (and apparent lack of food safety standards) this Melt gets the lowest rating possible.
(1)
Sarah T.

I had to know what the hype was about! Very open, casual atmosphere. The food is simply oversized portions of the childhood favorite - thick cut slices of bread, well buttered, and essentially fried, filled with cheese and other goodies. I think everything is served with coleslaw and fries, though my fries were cold.
(4)
Sina S.

I must say that Melt is an amazing place to try various entrees of cheeses. The portions and prices are very generous and makes to have a great time while dining. The most annoying thing about Melt is the wait time. I understand that waiting for a great service and food is expected, but sometimes the wait is 2.5 hours! I'm sorry, but I am not waiting 2.5 hours to eat, that's an airplane ride somewhere. My limit is usually in the range of 30 minutes to 1 hour TOPS. We got lucky and went between 2-5pm, so the wait was 20 minutes. The menu was so delicious just to look at, I couldn't decide what to eat! Even though the Melt challenge tempted me, I knew I did not want to ruin my first experience at Melt possible rolling out of the restaurant. I decided to try the Grilled Peanut Butter, Banana, and Cream Cheese sandwich that came with fries and slaw. All I have to say is AMAZING! I have never tasted a sandwich like that and was very impressed. The portion was so great that you could get overstuffed on just that. The selection of root beers was very cool. For dessert, I had fried twinkies. Although very yummy, it wasn't as good as I expected it to be. If it wasn't for the constant long periods of waiting for a table, i would give it no less than 5 stars.
(4)
Aaron L.

This place is very overrated. Way too much bread for the below average meat they buy. I got what is supposed to be some awesome burger called Fat City Burger. they put so much honey ham on it that was about all the flavor i got out of the first 2 bites. so i pulled the ham off in order to get a real sense of the flavor of the beef. 1 more bite later and still not a good taste i pulled just the meat out, all alone and tried that, terrible. the other plate i got was The Parmageddon which was 2 potato & cheese pierogi, fresh napa vodka kraut, grilled onions, sharp cheddar. i only took a couple bites because the combination of all those ingredients did not taste good together. both sandwiches, if they were 4 inches in height, bread accounted for 2.5 - 3 inches of that. way too much bread for a flavorless sandwich. maybe that's how they get you thinking what you're eating is good, throw some bread with butter and maybe a touch of garlic all toasted to hide the terrible ingredients they have. i would bet my life they don't use fresh ingredients everyday. i guess their is a chance I bought the wrong dishes but i got what I typically get and what they recommended as "this will get you back here" not even for a coke
(1)
Renee D.

went here tonite with my family for my dad's birthday he was so excited to try the new place on the corner was he excited to wait 1 hour and 1/2 with horrible service? I don't think so as well as being SO loud where you can't even hear the person next to you ? I think not and the food.. nothing to wait that long for.. I don't recommend wasting your time in this BAR. it's NOT a restaurant
(1)
David B.

After two dinners at this location, I am pleased to announce my official delegation of the best 'for your money' restaurant in Cleveland. Not only is the food delicious and the beer selection is awesome, but the atmosphere is very appealing. the management does a wonderful job making sure the customer gets what they want. I have two awesome experiences and hope to enjoy similiars ones in the future.
(5)
Lynn T.

i like this place a lot, but i don't like the fact that they can only cook 12 sandwiches at a time, which creates these odd waits ONCE YOU ORDER of 45 mins or more for your sandwich. it's simple math to figure out how many seats are in the restaurant and install a sandwich grill large enough to accommodate. Melt, PLEASE get it together and install another grill or do whatever you need to do to address this logistical problem. you can serve more food to happier customers!
(4)
Colin C.

Maybe the best place we have found in the Cleveland area so far. We are from the California Bay Area and moved here for med school 7 months ago. We were spoiled by the quality and variety of the food in the Bay, so our first couple months in Ohio were tough. Then we found Melt and it kicked us out of our food depression. A 25 pound grilled cheese sandwich can cure all illnesses. It honestly feels like the sandwiches are the weight of bricks. I can eat a lot of food (a whole medium pizza in one sitting), and I can barely finish my meal at Melt. Alone with the hulking sandwich you get a mountain of slaw and fries. This is the ONLY place that i have ever considered splitting one entree with my girlfriend. And it's not just giant, it tastes great too. There's a big selection of sandwiches with different types of meat, cheese, and other stuff on them. And if you don't like grilled cheese (aside from being a dirty communist) there are other things too. Clearing your plate at Melt may clog a couple arteries, but it is surely worth it.
(5)
Jody E.

The food was great. I brought a friend here from Boston and she loved it. We sat at the bar around 3pm on a Sunday, so there wasn't a wait for food. Even though it was an off time to eat, the place was still pretty full. We ordered two different grilled cheese sandwiches to share. The Mac and Cheese one was delicious but I was so full after 3 bites (granted, I eat like a bird). My friend finished her half despite feeling overstuffed just because it was too delicious to stop eating. The Cleveland Cheesesteak was great too, although much easier to eat. While the food was fantastic, the attitude of the guy at the bar was not. He treated us like our presence was an inconvenience and had other bartenders and staff bring us our food and check up on us. That was probably for the best since they were MUCH nicer and significantly more pleasant. Overall we had a great lunch and my friend was impressed!
(4)
Merlin C.

The Monte Cristo is amazing. That was my first sandwich. You can probably split any of these between two people if you factor in the sides. Second time I came here, I did the MELT challenge, where you have to eat a 13-cheese, 5 lb grilled cheese sandwich plus cole slaw plus fries without going to the bathroom. I managed to finish the entire sandwich but couldn't do the sides at all. I pretty much failed to strategize and should have taken a little bit of each thing (sandwich, cole slaw, fries) in circles or just gone kamikaze and eaten the thing messily and manically. If you end up doing the melt challenge, block out a couple days for recovery. I threw up in the glove compartment on the way home and won't even get into gastrointestinal issues.
(5)
Christopher C.

I like melt. I liked it more when they had a burger on the menu. I would say that the burger was probably the best thing on the menu. I find this location is really easy to get a table / seated, and is usually pretty dead during the week. Which is good and bad - good because there is no wait, bad because it makes the place feel kind of lame. They have a great beer selection too - lots of TV's, the place could easily market itself as more of a bar too - but it doesn't.
(4)
Brittany M.

This place has a great, unique atmosphere and awesome food! Besides having a ton of delicious and HUGE-portioned grilled cheese combinations, Melt has some incredible appetizers and other small dishes too! My favorite would definitely have to be their tofu wings in their sweet BBQ sauce. Also , the service was great. If you're in Cleveland and you don't go to Melt, you're truly missing out!
(5)
Lord Edwin C.

I'll be honest, it took me a while to get on the "MELT-Train." I initially found in overly kitschy, the portion sizes too overwhelming and some of the sandwiches rather pedestrian. But, I kept coming back--trying new sandwiches, exploring their apps and salads--and began to appreciate this place more and more. Their sandwiches are massive and it's easy to "stay safe" here, like with the Monte Cristo or the Wake & Bacon, which are both good. There are a number of sandwiches, however that merit a try. The Korean War Pig is so good. It's adventurous with kimchi slaw and pear onion relish, but mixes in familiar flavors like pulled pork and muenster cheese. The Mushroom Melt is an incredibly "meaty" option with complex flavors from the very sweet port onions and the spicy, fresh arugula. I'm not a fan of the sweet slaw and was happy when they moved away from automatically including it with your meal. I know people like it, but I prefer my slaw to be more vinegary. The fries are decent, treading that line of crispy and soft and always well seasoned. I prefer them in the Hangover Fries! Poutain with pork belly and a fried egg? What more can you ask for? Also, their Fried Green Tomato appetizer is delicious. Crispy, slightly spicy with a little freshness. I also like that this place can be enjoyed by those erg dietary restriction and limitations, offering many vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. This is a Cleveland institution and rightly so, so I highly encourage you stop in and try something ADVENTUROUS. You won't be disappointed.
(5)
Kimberly S.

So many melt choices! Love the fun kitchy atmosphere, huge portions, and delicious food.
(4)
Stone Z.

Huge portions. I couldn't finish the grilled cheese. Love the concept. I think they should do a half sandwich concept with soup. That would be amazing. I had the Korean BBQ sandwich. I saw pictures for the burger one and was sad they didn't have it on the menu anymore. Anywho, it was a really heavy sandwich but a great experience.
(4)
Abe O.

I promise I'm not invoking "Pittsburgh bias" into this review, but seriously, I don't get the hype surrounding this place. I've learned a valuable lesson over the years: restaurants featured on "Man vs. Food" are often disappointing. Adam Richman is an actor NOT a food aficionado. I will say that oftentimes original locations are much better than their satellite counterpart (i.e. Primati Bros of PGH; the original location on 18th street is BY FAR the best). Nevertheless, I'd be willing to give Melt a second chance...just not this location.
(2)
Chrissy A.

We came to Cleveland on a quick spring break trip and picked Melt due to a Great Yelp rating. This place is different from anything we have in Indiana a refreshing change from chain restaurants. I had the Big Popper my husband had the Godfather. So delicious and so much food. The fries were amazing. You could eat here often and not repeat meals. I do not eat meat so this restaurant is perfect. It also helps the staff is easy on the eyes. The restaurant is decorated festive as well. If you live in the area and have not eaten here u are missing out.
(4)
Laura S.

I know, I know. "Only 3 stars for Melt? WTF is wrong with you?!" Well, it's not anything major- but rather a bunch of minor things. Put them together in one place and it gets annoying. 1) Something is ALWAYS COLD. Today, despite seeing my item appear in the window- and not sitting there too long, mind you- I dug into the admittedly huge meatball on my Dude Abides, and the middle was cold. I was expecting it and in too crappy a mood to care enough to bother the waitress. Figure out how long it takes to microwave the thing to 165. The fries, while not cold, had been sitting around for a while; they were mushy- as usual. 2) The waitstaff, while always personable enough to do a passable job, never do anything or act nice enough to get more than about 15% (again, as a former waitress, I round up). They were not busy enough to be under any pressure today. Will I go back to Melt? Sure. It's an institution. But these problems are constant, noticeable, and fixable.
(3)
Robert M.

Okay, I have to admit I am a fan. But, let me caveat by saying, 1) it is close, 2) it has a pretty good vibe an atmosphere and 3) the service has always been pretty good. So is the food 'great'? No, but it is pretty good and it is very creative. I especially enjoy when they bring the burgers back into play. This is also a place you can take people from out of town and freak them out with the size of the portions. So there is always fun in that.
(4)
Kenny C.

How do they expect I, a mere mortal, to eat this entire sandwich? I ordered "The Dude Abides", a miraculous grilled cheese sandwich, that according to legend stands at least 3 ft tall, filled with homemade meatballs, fried mozz wedges, marinara sauce, and provolone. If I was a better man I would have eaten the second half too, but I came up short and embarrassed my family name. Someday I will return. And next time I'll be ready.
(5)
Milena P.

A must go, but honestly there are so many ingredients in each panini that it is difficult to handle them and even taste them.
(3)
Rob F.

I was excited to try this because I had seen the original location on Man vs. Food. Boy was I disappointed as was my wife. To say the food is disgusting doesn't even begin to describe the grease soaked POS on a plate I was served. My wife was sick all night after eating her food. I must have a cast iron stomach because I was fine. Since moving to Cleveland this has been my biggest culinary disappointment. This chain was on the wrong TV show, it should have been on Kitchen Nightmares.
(1)
David J.

I love Melt. I've been to the one in Independence several times when I lived down there and now that I am up in Cleveland Heights, just a few blocks from this location, I've ordered twice from here within a month. It's that good. I recommend getting The Dude Abides with Lasagna. It's like $18 but totally worth it. You probably will only eat half.
(5)
Keith B.

It was awesome. Fun atmosphere great beer selection and great comfort food. I had the godfather. It is lasagna between two pieces of garlic bread. It was as delicious as it sounds.
(4)
Rachel S.

I really like the bar here. Their cocktails are fabulous. I also enjoy the buffalo chicken chowder (comes with goldfish!) and their versions of poutine. The salads are ok but they suffer from the same dilemma as the sandwiches, which brings me to my confession: I don't like their sandwiches! It's not that they're bad, necessarily, it's just the whole "here's a shit-ton of food piled up look how big it is!" thing. I'd rather have a grilled cheese in which each ingredient was equally important and meant to be tasted. The bread is also on the too-thick side here, it can cut up the roof of your mouth if you're not careful. But the concept is still cool and worth trying, it might be more your thing than it is mine!
(3)
Adrian H.

HUGE portions. The Mac and cheese bites are ah-mazing. Had the turkey club, and it's lasted me for three meals. The Rosemary aioli is fantastic. Beer selection is top notch. Service was also awesome.
(5)
Stephanie B.

I have had my fair share of grilled cheese sandwiches. I have been to a few grilled cheese only restaurants. That being said, this was by FAR my best experience all the way around. The Food: I had the Mac & Cheese bites for my appetizer. First, there is nothing "bite" size about them. They were huge! I could have had those as just my meal and been perfectly full. Oh and did I mention that they were also completely delicious! For my sandwich I chose the Backyard BBQ with chicken. The sandwich and fries came out and had filed the plate out in all directions! The sandwich itself was at least 3" tall. The onion rings on the inside made an extra crunch that was delightful. The Service: While our gentleman server didn't quite understand the time constraints an infant at the table provides, all the interactions were pleasant and prompt. Nothing to complain about. He earned his 20%. The Atmosphere: Ok, I have been to many a dive joint and while some of the decor was kooky nothing distracted me (could've been I was also to entertained by my small child as well). Overall: an absolute MUST if you are in Cleveland!
(5)
Laurie W.

This place serves massive sized grilled cheese sandwiches. It has been featured on Food Network numerous times. They cater to vegans and vegetarians and have a loyalty program if you get a tattoo with their logo. As much as I love this place, I don't think I could commit with permanent ink if I lived in Cleveland, but to each their own. Since I live in Los Angeles, I have limited access to pierogies. So, I usually order the Parmageddon, but I get it without the kraut and request balsamic grilled onions. Most of the time, I just end up eating the pierogies. Don't get me wrong. The sandwich is delicious, but it's massive. If I could make one suggestion it would be to slice the bread thinner because it's super thick. The fries are pretty average. They make all of their sauces, so sometimes I get a side of their ranch. Overall, this is a great place for some unique grilled cheese sandwiches!
(4)
Vanessa J.

I was to pleased with my experience at Melt. Even on a Saturday afternoon, the wait was minimal. The facilities were very clean and eclectically enjoyable. Our server Lee was efficient, personable and had great product knowledge, We waited a very short time for our food. I was pleased there was a build your own option. I chose that and my dining companion had The Dude Abides. Both were enough for two meals with the geneous servings of fries included. The Margarita alas tasted like spiked lemonade. It was good and refreshing. I can not wait to go back to Melt again! Next time; Chicken Parm!
(5)
Sonya P.

If I didn't get wicked heart-burn after eating here (my stomach can't handle what it used to!), I would probably be here all the time! The creativity and wildness that is on this menu is wonderful! I had the After School Special, and when they say "fried thick cut bologna," they aren't fooling around! It was at least 1/2 in thick! Yum! And it all melded perfectly with the sweet & spicy pickles and house made ketchup chips! What a unique place!
(4)
Bill B.

Stopped here one of our most recent road trips - spreading the word about locally-owned businesses. Though it was only a Tuesday they had a heavy lunch rush. Regardless, we sat immediately. Our co-founder ordered the Fried Green Tomato BLT (fried green tomatoes, seared pork belly, southern herb remoulade, romaine lettuce, cheddar). Our server was excellent and seemed to know menu items well and what the customer favorites are. If you haven't seen them on Man vs. Food, be prepared because portions are huge. If we're ever back in the CLE area we will stop back in, because locally-owned restaurants return two times more money to the local economy than national chains.
(4)
Michelle S.

I have never been disappointed. The sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and the service is excellent even on busy days. They have a seasonal menu and an option to build your own sandwich. Anything I have ever had has been excellent. It can get very busy at times and there is a wait for a table, but I can usually get a seat at the bar.
(5)
Lin H.

Wow. I'm not going to even waste typing energy to write a detailed review. Everyone else has pretty much covered why this place is so great, and I agree wholeheartedly. I can't believe it took me so long to even bother coming out to try it out. I'VE WASTED SO MUCH TIME NOT EATING HERE UNTIL NOW!!
(5)
Alyssa G.

Do I crave Melt, no. But do I always suggest taking out of towners here, yes. It is the Cleveland staple. It has a cool atmosphere, fun staff, great beers on tap and something for everyone on the menu. I just don't love it and can never finish my meal and never find myself wanting my leftovers. I have tried many sandwiches here, even soups and salads. None are bad, but my favorite has been this shrimp one. (I just tried to find the name of it on the menu and I couldn't. I hope they didn't get rid of it!) It has sauteed shrimp, with cheese of course, a type of lettuce/slaw and a sauce that really pulls it all together. It is really good and the shrimp is cooked very well. Their fries are delicious and I love their coleslaw but you will never be able to finish your meal. But if you can, high five! I have also been here for brunch once, for the state I was in it was way to heavy! At 11 AM I did not want eggs inside two huge thick pieces of toast and french fries, but their bloody mary's were spot on! Delicious! Would go back and have them any time, not just for brunch. I would give it another shot if I wanted more of a lunch than a breakfast. I say check it out. You will not be disappointed, your meal will be hot and fresh, you just won't talk about it after you leave. You'll have a good time and leave very full!
(3)
Natalie P.

Cuban War Pig, The Dude Abides, Godfather. These are modern classics. Opening on a plate near you. Melt never fails to make me wish I hadn't driven myself there, so that I could just happily doze off in the back seat after stuffing my stomach to maximum capacity (and then some). While I have yet to achieve the greatest feat of all, and that is to finish my Melt sandwich in one sitting, I would not recommend it, nor do I think it is wise. Melt is one of those rare establishments, whose food is just as good the next day. These sandwiches are beasts of flavor that make bold statements both to your eyes and to your belly. I think they do a surprisingly good job of actually making the sandwiches feel and taste like sandwiches and yet also like the meal that is being stuffed into them. For example, with the Godfather, I feel like I'm enjoying a wonderful lasagna, and yet I also am enjoying an explosion of a sandwich. It's so tricky and so marvelous. Cuban War Pig is sweet and tangy and just sooo saucy, you'll need lots of napkins! The Dude Abides is cozy and very satisfying. It tastes like homemade meatballs, and yet so much better. It makes me feel like I've known those meatballs my whole life lol. Since Melt is so amazing, expect long wait times. My best advice is to call ahead with your order and pick up your food to go. These beauties should probably be enjoyed on your couch with a pair of large sweatpants. Enjoy!
(5)
Katy S.

I love Melt. No trip to Cleveland is complete for me without enjoying a gooey grilled cheese and a craft beer. I've been here a handful of times. It is filling and over the top, but I just love it. My favorite is the Fried Green Tomato BLT. It is always a welcome treat. I love the fries with malt vinegar (seasoned to perfection). The service is always quite good and they have a great selection of beer. If I lived in Cleveland I would probably be here all the time!
(5)
Sharon F.

Who would have thought such a simple concept would be such a hit, grilled cheese sandwiches!!! Well I am a fan of MELT and let me say it's simply awesome. I use to go to the original one in Lakewood until Matt opened one in Cleveland Heights. I will be honest, I don't care what you get here, it's all good! One day I ordered a balsamic mushroom and onion grilled cheese sandwich with green bean soup and I though I was in heaven. Another plus is that this place has perfected french fries. The atmosphere is cool and laid back. I can't say anything but great things about MELT restaurants. If your in Cleveland or Columbus go to MELT, you won't be disappointed.
(4)
Apurva S.

Tried the tofu wings with the spicy buffalo sauce which were as non spicy as anything gets...the godfather sandwich, where the lasagna did not taste good in the sandwich and the waitress tried everything she could to get us out of there..never seen a waitress pick up the check before the customer leaves before this one..I just felt that was outright rude...
(2)
Teresa H.

Funky, interesting, and insane portion sizes of creative and tasty sandwiches. Would have been just as happy with half portions -- next time we'll share.
(4)
Rich G.

Giant greasy sandwich for a great price, what's not to love! Decent beer selection too.
(5)
Rachel R.

Oooooh man. I went to college in Wooster, about an hour and a half south of Cleveland, and there was nothing better than hearing your friend say, "Hey, I'm thinking of going up to Cleveland this weekend and going to Melt." We'd pack eight or nine of us into a car and drive on up to begin our journey of love at Melt. The all-time best grilled cheese I have ever had at Melt was their Cinco de Mayo special, consumed the day after my college graduation when ya girl was nursing what was, essentially, a two-day hangover. Grilled cheese is one thing. Enchiladas are another. An enchilada grilled cheese is its own rare, wonderful, beautiful bird. It should be on the menu all the time. My other faves include the Parmageddon, the Fish and Chips (when it was still called the Lake Erie Monster) and the Wet Hot Buffalo Chicken. If you get a grilled cheese tattooed on you, you get free sandwiches for life at every Melt location. I'm not really a tattoo person, but my God have I considered it. I don't miss Ohio at all, but I do miss those trips to Melt, when we'd eat and drink ourselves into a cheese-and-craft-beer coma.
(5)
Adam R.

Right from the start I will say, Melt has excellent food. The place itself is also pretty cool, even though it is pretty much half bar inside. Our server was even top notch during our visit. So I give them ten stars for the food, and ten for our waiter. I'll subtract eighteen for the hostess. You've probably seen her there. She is the one who's giving death glares to all who enter and just. looks. MISERABLE. We stopped in because we were meeting some friends we don't get to see very often. Wanted to have a nice lunch! We brought along some kids....well 4. Now that means we had to seat all these small humans and after waiting there for about 20 minutes, shoveling what small snacks we had stashed for them I ask about this perfect large table in the corner. They say they are waiting for 'our' table to sign checks and we'd be in. I'm told "that table is for 8 adults, but we'll sit you there if they take long". Apparently 4 adults, 4 kids, 2 baby carriers, bags, high chairs, and coats = less space than 8 adults. After another ten minutes of staring at the empty awesome table, we get to go around the corner to 'ours'. It's two, tiny round tables pushed together with high chairs haphazardly thrown around it. We get the joy of getting situated around that mess. Meanwhile there are plenty of groups of four waiting for a table! Why not give me the one I want, and then let two more parties in!?? Point being mrs. Miserable hostess girl really ruined the whole experience and what could have been a great visit. That's part of the reason people go out to eat. It's about the service. This place needs the kinks worked out in that regard.... Or maybe get the first person you see not to be the last person you want to....
(2)
Paul W.

Had the big poppa with bacon!!!! TO DIE FOR!!!! Money well spent...the atmosphere was great and brings back childhood memories
(5)
Tim S.

Update last two times I've been here the service has been pretty bad along with a rude waitress, also menu changes (no more burgers)
(2)
Eric G.

AMAZING GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICHES!! I tried the Cheesesteak Melt for the first time at Melt and it was mouth watering goodness. I highly recommend this place and location because the staff are very friendly and courteous. Also, the atmosphere was on another level compared to many places I have been to. 5 STAR. 100%
(5)
Tony S.

This place was amazing! From the food to the decor, it is a must visit if you are in town. I love that they are not a large franchise, but I kind of wish they were so I could have one here in St. Louis! Great Food and Great Service! They really deserve all five stars!
(5)
Alex K.

My brother took me to this place, and it is my first time being to this restaurant, so I really liked this restaurant. The burgers portions were so big that the two of us could not even finish it, so we had to take it home to finish it. And also the fries were so good too.
(5)
Travel B.

Good service. Good fries. The Breaded eggplant sandwich was no Bueno. Too much breading. Not sure bough eggplant.
(2)
Kathy Z.

I live in California. This place has the BEST MELT I HAVE EVER HAD. I don't really like to eat sandwiches, ever, but the melts here blow my mind. I can't really compare it any other sandwich grill spot, maybe The Melt (completely different restaurant) in the Bay Area, but only for the savory taste of the grilled cheese, not the whole shebang of a meal. The Melt of Cleveland Heights, OH, has a rather inspiring menu of unique melts. It is a large pub, with large bar seating in the center. Yes! I approve of places that serve beer and sports television with greasy food! It just seems right. I've tried the Cleveland Cheese Steak (favorite), Cuban Melt, and a chicken melt that I can't remember the name of for the life of me. The cheese steak was extremely juicy, cheesy, salty, fulfilling...and everything bad for you but tastes so good. The side of fries really completes this heavy meal. I had a mimosa as well. I probably could have hibernated for for a few days from this meal. GET THE RANCH FOR THE FRIES. And if you want to change or cut the contents of the sandwich in the two halves, the server is happy to take that down for you. :) Awesome place, wish it were in California as well.
(5)
Omid N.

I can never finish my entree when buying from here or Melt U @ Tinkham. Large portion size (it better be for that hefty price) plus some decent quality fries. I got the Cleveland philly cheese steak sandwich. Kind waitresses who like conversation, service was adequate in terms of speed, and ambience was more bar-like than college sandwich shop-like (as expected).
(5)
Lora S.

We were in town for the week and had read about this place online. It was better/worse than expected. I say worse because my body was not ready for the deliciousness and mass amounts of grease it endured. Worth it. Totally would go again. The staff was really nice as well!
(5)
Lindsey K.

This place is a novelty. I've been three times.. Each time the food has been ok, the waitresses have had attitude and the meal has left something to be desired.
(3)
Joe K.

Today marked my third try at Melt, with some coworkers for a long work-lunch. Unfortunately though for Melt, in my book, it marks 'three strikes, you're out' for the gourmet grilled cheese joint. I'm a Clevelander through and through and as any unique, novel, and craft establishment opens up - I want to not just like it but love it. I'm one of those people who sees my $$ as 'votes'. If I love a place, I want it to succeed and grow and support the local economy, yadda yadda, all that stuff. I wanted to like Melt, it seemed fun and inventive, and everyone else seems to love it. I however, find it kitsch. I've tried three very distinct and different items here (jalapeno popper, pizza roll, and pirogi themed sandwiches, respectively) yet each one tasted exactly the same to me. All I tasted by a strong margin each time was butter and bread. Overwhelmingly butter and bread, with a minute hint of either spice, marinara, or potato based upon each one I had. And I've left each time feeling gross, even if I only ate half of my meal. In my opinion, Melt is by far the most over-hyped joint in CLE and has a loyal following due to the 'celebrity' of it. I went to the original location when it first opened, again a couple years later, and now for the third time -hoping each bad experience was a fluke. Alas, not. Take my review for what its worth, plenty of people love Melt as one can see from the reviews, and it's worth a try - even to discover you really don't like it, as I do.
(2)
Augustus B.

Melt is a cool place to stop in CLE. They have all types of interesting grilled cheese sandwiches. You can't fail with any of their combinations. I stooped in had a grilled cheese and a few beers while watching a Cleveland Cavaliers basketball game at the bar. I'll be back. 4 stars- love cheese- not healthy
(4)
Steven L.

Maybe my taste or my expectations have changed but I thought this place was okay. I get the fact of the hipster dÃ©cor and approach to almost anything that involves food nowadays, but old Christmas decorations lining the walls it just ridiculous. I digress, the food, I ordered the backyard bbq with brisket, which was just good, certainly not great and the brisket lacked the flavor. Really my whole dish lacked flavor, even with the onion rings, cheese and bbq sauce between two loaves of bread. My god, cut it thinner so one can enjoy a bit. However, I did enjoy the fries. The staff was enjoyable and attentive and the prices are good, even for a grilled cheese. Every time I go to a spot that Guy has endorsed, I have left disappointed and this time was no different.
(2)
Mel H.

Everything was awesome! From the service to the food. The vibe was super chill and welcoming.
(4)
Jane W.

There's a similar restaurant in my area that I thought was pretty good, and the Melt blows that place out of the water. I tried the BBQ pulled chicken sandwich with onion rings (yes, inside the sandwich) and sharp cheddar, and the massive sandwich came with a generous serving of fries and a big pickle. Don't come here if you're on a diet. I'm not on one and I still felt kinda guilty about what I ate afterward. My sandwich was basically a mass of grease, cheese, fried batter, and meat. BUT its really good and definitely worth a visit. Delicious sandwiches, big portions, reasonable prices, cool vibe. Tip: If you don't have a big appetite I recommend sharing one between two people (I was feeling pretty satisfied after finishing half the plate).
(4)
Stella M.

Awesome sandwiches and an incredibly extensive beer selection-- about 30 to 40 on tap. Chill atmosphere and great waitstaff. Only complaint is that the food service is pretty slow. It wasn't even busy. I also suggest splitting the sandwich in half if you are a light eater because they are enormous. On the other hand, the sandwiches make great leftovers
(4)
mary s.

Seeing as I'm from the south, what else was expected of me other than ordering the Fried Green Tomato BLT? I just had to pit this delicious sounding creation against my southern-bred palate, and it did not disappoint. I added a fried egg over easy to my BLT, since I'm a sucker for runny yolk, and both the waiter and the bus boy/food runner commented on how delicious an add-on it looked to be. There were what I counted to be three layers of well-diametered fried tomatos, which retained crunchiness very well. The remoulade was creamy and a good degree of spicy, and provided most of the flavoring for the sandwich. I was pleasantly surprised by the choice of bread - I'm assuming it was pieces of thick sourdough french bread. Much better than what I thought would be gigantic pieces of Texas toast. The only things I think might have made the sandwich better was a little more salt in the batter for the tomato or on top of the egg, and a little more remoulade sauce (then again it might be plenty salty for most - I am a notorious over-salter...). The fries were also underwhelming, but the fries aren't what people come to this place for ;) I also assumed the sandwich was going to be smaller than the monstrous size it was - I had looked around at others' tables and realized post-grilled-cheese-arrival that while sandwhiches looked large a few feet away, they were absolutely ginourmous when placed right in front of you. I struggled to finish off just half of my BLT, as did my boyfriend, who ordered the Wet Hot Buffalo Chicken Melt (he substituted goat cheese for the blue cheese crumbles and was very satisfied with the results). To accompany my food, I drank a Peeeach, (pronounced similar to the slur 'bee-otch') one of their summer cocktails. I cant remember what it was made of but I do remember that it wasn't overpoweringly strong and that it had a good level of sweetness. I definitely recommend this place to locals and visitors alike! I'm planning on eating here again during my next visit to Cleveland in a few weeks.
(4)
Tracy W.

I've been waiting to go here since I saw it on man v food! I was a little worried about being disappointed because it was so hyped up but I was definitely not disappointed!!!! I ordered the fried green tomato BLT (vegan)! Absolutely amazing and delicious. The staff was very helpful and they had a large selection of craft beers! The decor was eclectic and cute!
(5)
Ben V.

Decent restaurant though I do not understand the hype. The sandwiches are large and flavorful though I am not a fan of the Texas toast. The decor is purposely kitschy but my biggest gripe is the waits that we have encountered here on the few times we have been. I don't really understand why people would choose to wait 30-45 minutes for bar food when so many better local options are available.
(3)
Amy Y.

Been to Melt twice. First time, tried their Lakewood location, which was very very busy - at least1 hr wait for 3 on a Friday night and this was 5 years back, before they became wildly popular. This time, went to the Cedar location with a group of three on a Friday night. I was expecting difficult to find parking and long waits but we were seated within 10 min and street parking surprisingly wasn't too bad. Service is meh, but I'm not expecting a ton of great service like I would at restaurants like L'Albatros. We ordered a sandwich each. They all come with fries. Portion size is huge. The first time I came, I think I ordered a turkey flavor, which unsurprisingly, was not too flavorful. This time, ilet my friend pick, and she ordered all of us a Cuban War Pig, a shrimp po boy, and a potato chorizo sandwich. The cuban war pig was too meaty and gamey for me. The potato one was not flavorful enough, but the shrimp po boy was so delicious. The greens and dressing in the samdwic gave it a refreshing kick of flavor, and really does balance out the deep fried batter of the shrimp. Too much food, so we didn't end up gettimg dessert. There was enough leftovers for two more meals!
(3)
Kelli H.

An entire restaurant paying hommage to the greatest culinary invention? YES. I went to college in Cleveland, but Melt opened right after I graduated. Thank goodness for my glorious return this past weekend. There were so many choices that the entire table took over 10 minutes to decide. Everything sounded delicious! I finally settled on the sandwich called the Backyard BBQ. The sandwich included full sized onion rings, tons of cheese, BBQ sauce, brisket. It was fab-u-lous! The thick cut fries that came along were also amazing. If you have a limited amount of time Cleveland - go here!
(4)
Morgan Richelle M.

We made it in on a somewhat quiet day, and were waited on immediately which was really nice. Our waitress was cheerful and happy. We didn't order too much to eat as it was more just an afternoon snack. My boyfriend had the peanut butter grilled cheese sandwich (who would have thought?) and truthfully it was really quite good! Such an unexpected combination! Lot's of flavor and contrast, and it was served fresh and warm. Perfect on a cold day. The dÃ©cor in Melt is a lot of fun... reminds me of my Grandmas basement.
(4)
Lili L.

Cool place, awesome menu names, overall a nice place for the young crowd. Expect to wait for a good amount of time before being seated. I went on a Thursday night and thought it wouldn't be too bad, but even then it was about a 20 min wait, so I can't imagine Fri/weekends. They give you a sticker with a random name, not your own (ours was "dumbo"), and they come find you when your table's ready. Cute concept, but I wonder how reliable the system is when the restaurant gets really crowded. The waitress was super friendly (or I was just in a good mood). She explained the food, their sandwich concept, and commented on our orders just to the point of seeming very amicable without being overly involved/intrusive - quite hard to do. I thought this was just going to be a cheese sandwich joint with a twist. Well, it's a pretty nice twist. Personally, I'm not a huge cheese fan, so I was semi-apprehensive, but there are a lot of menu options, many of which the cheese doesn't take center stage or doesn't seem overpowering. The sandwiches overall are very dense, oily, and...good. The side of fries were decent. But I state again, VERY dense and oily. You come here on a Monday and you'll be juicing the rest of the week. Also, I can normally eat a whole sandwich/burger, but this time, I had to doggy-bag 1/2 of my meal for lunch the next day (which might be a fine thing for some people). Stuck the 1/2 sandwich into a toaster oven the next day and it was good as new and just as greasy! So, good, hearty meal. Just can't eat it every day or even every month.
(3)
Cece C.

I have wanted to go here since my brother moved to Cleveland a year ago and finally I got my chance!. Think about the best grilled cheese sammich or any sammy for that matter you have ever had and multiply it by 100 and you will have Melt! Flavorful and dangerously delicious. I tried 2 different kinds and neither one disappointed. Can't wait to try the others. My thoughts on the 2 I tried: Parma, Italy: "crispy breaded chicken breast, sun-dried tomato pesto, roasted garlic, provolone" - The chicken was so juicy and tender..a great crunch. The pesto was the perfect amount and had a great flavor. Smokey Russian: "smoked turkey, fresh napa vodka kraut, sautÃ©ed onions , smoked gouda, russian dressing" -The thing I loved about this one was they put the dressing on the side. I luv dipping! lol. Everything was a perfect match together on there. Juicy turkey,super tasty kraut. -1 star for messing up our order :/
(4)
Bender R.

The thing I love about coming here is the lively atmosphere. If you're going there to partake their expansive beer selection, you won't be disappointed. And if you're into greasy (cheesy) sandwiches, you've found your place. One issue is that it takes a while to get them. Grilled cheese sandwiches that take 45min to 1hr to get every time I've been there. This is unreasonable for a kitchen this large. Another is that the bread much thicker than it needs to be. Sandwiches are serviceable, but not worth such a long wait. Appetizers offerings are also below average as a whole. Cool place, and somewhere I'd come to once a year, usually to take out-of-towners.
(3)
Alex L.

Whoa-hey! Finally got a chance to experience Melt while passing through Cleveland on our way to Cedar Point. Apparently, there's a lot of local hype about this place and as such opinions are split. When you walk in, you see it's a hipster bar of sorts with Halloween and Christmas decorations still up and menus resembling spiral records of sorts, vegan and meat options and a whole lot of craft beer on tap. I would describe the atmosphere as cool and casual. I'll start with the food. Before I even got here, I was craving a burger. After waiting for about 20-30minutes to be seated (on a Saturday night at 7p--totally reasonable!), I looked over the menu and saw they had hundreds (literally!) of different sandwiches. Everything to please vegans, meat lovers, vegetarians seafood lovers and everything in between. They specialized in different grilled sandwiches, but also had a section for burgers. My eye spotted the "BBQ Pig Burger," which featured an 8 oz ground steak burger, house roasted pulled pork, fried onion straws, chocolate stout bbq sauce and sharp cheddar. House roasted pulled pork AND 8 oz of beef? Best of both worlds! The waitress assured me that their burgers are fantastic and remarked that it's one of the only places around that she would order her burger rare from. So, I opted for medium rare and about ten minutes later, all our plates come out (pretty much all at once!). My burger was cooked absolutely perfectly uniformly medium rare. It was out of this world delicious! The meat was tender, juicy and so fresh and the pulled pork and chocolate stout bbq sauce added a whole layer of delicious flavor! It wasn't confusing or even hard to eat like I imagined it might be because of the larger variety of ingredients. It, yes...melted in my mouth. The fries were solid and the cole slaw was crunchy and tasty just to my liking. Be warned: portions are huge! Aside from the food being a delicious heart-attack cornucopia of melted goodness, the service that we received for our party of eight was fantastic: fast, cheerful and our waitress went above and beyond! Toward the end of the meal, she goes ahead and takes the initiative of asking if we'd like our bill split! No awkward, "uhhhgh, maybe you can split our bill?!" because we were too shortsighted and focused on consuming loads of tastiness to ask beforehand. She just does it and makes it super easy! Yes, she tacked on an 18% gratuity for our large party, but that's cool. I'm pretty sure we all tipped her on top of that anyway. Would totally come back here when I'm in the area, but am sorta glad I live far away...otherwise I'd probably die a lot younger from heart attacks and the like! You're lucky, Cleveland!
(5)
Ana G.

Never in my life did I think I would experience such a wonderful place. They've done such a phenomenal thing to make adult grilled cheese sandwiches and indeed they are to die for! I was able to customize just a regular grilled cheese sandwich, but there are plenty of options that are on their menu. The atmosphere was so much fun, and I felt much more trendy than I actually am. The portions are insane, so be ready to have some leftovers! The only problem I had was with my waitress, whose name I forgot, but she just seemed a little out of it and not so friendly. Other than that I have no complaints! Please go and check this place out!!
(4)
Cheeseburger M.

Boy oh boy! I need a second stomach to store the other half of this sandwich. Does anyone know a good doctor that does this surgery?? If you squint while looking at the sandwiches, they kind of look like a horse or a cow. Anywhat (anywho/anyhow) this place has an amazing range of brown sandwiches (because they are toasted). This place is clean! I know they have French maids cleaning here after hours and when people aren't looking. In all seriousness, this CLEVELAND staple is a must try! Not to be confused with Staples, that place is a gip! YELP!
(5)
Ebony J.

Omgosh!! The food at this location was so saltyyyy!!! I ordered a sandwich and tofu soup. My mouth felt like I ate a block of salt. I haven't been to any other location since but I definitely don't recommend this one.
(3)
Lindsey K.

As I passed it 3 times on my way to University Hospital with my Mom in one week, I knew we had to find time to stop in and see what everyone in NE Ohio is ranting and raving about! ;) Soooo on my last trip to the hospital with my mom with I was in Ohio, we met up with my cousin who stays in Downtown, Cleveland he met us there and good thing it was before a lunch rush we found parking spot in a little parking lot a block down the road, it wasn't too bad of a walk but I wouldn't want to go on a busy day or time because parking does look very limited, or you have to park on the street at a meter . Anyways, enough of the parking. O.M.G 1. Come with an appetite!! You will need it! 2. There are a million different Melt's to try one to fit all needs, or you can change it up to your liking which I did.. because I can be a little picky. LOL 3. They come with great French fries, and Coleslaw. (Which I 86'd the slaw for pickles). I think it's great for your whole family all ages will find something to eat if you don't want a sandwich they have burgers, salads, appetizers. Even my Mom, who is a little picky to what she wants to eat, especially after just recovering from surgery, I was thinking she was going to pass on the idea once she seen how GIGANTIC the sandwiches are.. NOPE she stepped up to the plate and ordered The Dude Abides one with a meatball in it w/ fried mozzarella. If you are in the area.. DO stop to one of their locations, it's definitely different from all the other places. And the dÃ©cor looks like Grandma's Christmas Yard Sale... huge lawn decorations lite up.. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!
(5)
Rose Y.

Excellent food. Good service. The only down side is the bartender skill. I ordered a lavender mojito, but the bartender didn't have all the ingredients for the cocktail and it was obvious on the taste factor. No private parking available, only street and meter parking.
(3)
Mike R.

The Melt is a little overhyped for me. The sandwiches are certainly big and creative, but I only really like a few. The Thanksgiving and the Cuban sandwiches (I don't remember the exact names) are really good. The vibe and service are just ok for me. There are other spots in the area that I prefer.
(3)
Lisa D.

Awesome place with Giant grilled cheese sandwiches! So many different flavors and you can do half with some soup!
(5)
Anthony J.

SO GOOD. Certainly not the place to go if you are looking to be health conscious, but Melt is definitely worth the trip when you are in Cleveland. I have been to Melt twice on two different trips to Cleveland and with it's eclectic staff and decor, there is a fun and relaxed atmosphere at the restaurant. On my first trip to Melt I went for their November special, a Thanksgiving inspired Melt and it was MIND BLOWING. I am a huge fan of Thanksgiving leftovers and this sandwich took that love to a whole new level. The thing was so good I devoured the whole thing even though I definitely should have taken half home to avoid the post-meal food coma. My second trip I settled on "The Dude Abides," a sandwich filled with meatballs, marinara, Romano cheese, and fried mozzarella. Like I mentioned, not a meal for those looking for something healthy but it was also SO GOOD. The service was great, our waitress was very quick and made sure to check back with us throughout the meal. While I sat at a table, the place also has a lot of bar seating and tons of beers on tap to choose from. This place is a Cleveland staple and somewhere I hope to return to anytime I am in town.
(4)
Mike F.

I would give Melt one star, but their beer selection is actually really good. The food? The sandwiches are dripping with oil and are overpriced and over hyped. There is so much potential to do something amazing and delicious and Melt consistently fails. What's with their slaw? Too unbalanced with seeds and it needs to age before serving. Notice how EVERYBODY leaves it on their plate? Add this to loong waits and poor service, and I don't recommend Melt to anybody. Go to Brennans for better dining all around.
(2)
Susan L.

OMG. The food was fantastic... but I might die from a heart attack later. I got the Cleveland Cheese Steak, and let me tell you, it puts all Philly Cheese Steaks to shame. I would eat this over any philly cheese steak... if you can promise that I won't die of clogged arteries with the next meal. I love that their kitchen is open late, so I can get a great meal after a long day of work. A half a sandwich is more than enough for me, so it also gives me lunch for the next day. My sandwich made me drool even after microwaving it for lunch the next day. But I do think I must have taken 500% of calories and fat for the 2 days, and I probably took a year off my life. Might still be worth it... just not too often. ----------------------------------- Explanation of my rating system - 5*: Epitome of something, the best I've had, would LOVE to go back 4*: Great food and happy to go back regularly, but not the best of the category 3*: Food is fine. I may spontaneously decide to go there based on convenience. But no need to go back either. 2*: If you insist, I guess I'll come along. I'll find something to eat. But I wouldn't have picked it. 1*: No plans to come back. I'll try to talk companions out of going.
(4)
Candace M.

I gave Melt another try. Though my SO really loves it, I actually suggested it. I was disappointed by my experience last time, and I knew Melt could do better! (Plus, it was really gross out, and who doesn't love some good comfort food?) This time, we walked in and were seated immediately. It was a lot less busy, probably because winter storm Hercules was trying to intimidate everyone into staying inside. Not us! We sat down and I promptly knew what I wanted; a wake and bacon! Last time, I tried a salad, and I didn't like it (okay ,okay, I deserve any criticism I receive here - who goes to Melt and gets a salad?!) This sandwich was exactly what I was hoping for! Eggs overeasy, American cheese, bacon... yummm. And I was excited to see that the fries are, once again, a side that comes with your order! We ordered a couple of drinks, a berry cider and a hard root beer. Just like last time, they were out of one of the two drinks. The hard root beer was replaced with a Razz Wheat. Both drinks were good! Unlike last time, when one drink wasn't available, our waitress did come back to ask whether there was another drink we'd like to try. If I look at it with an unbiased eye, it is a little pricey for what is ultimately grilled cheese. But it's Melt. I'm more than willing to spend a little extra on something that's so delicious! And you know what? Melt earned that extra star back in my book. You go, Melt!
(4)
Julianne Z.

I have been waiting to go to this place and when I finally went, I wasn't disappointed! We didn't have to wait too long and we had a pretty big group. What I love is taht this place has a great bar and also great food to back it up! I mean, look at their sandwiches, they are HUGE! The coleslaw was meh, but the fries and that sandwich were amazing! I had the Big Poppa sandwich, 4 cheese filled jalapeno peppers, between two pieces of toast with more cheese, then deep fried and covered in a bit of sugar and served with a jelly preserve. I will probably lose 3 years off my life, but it is worth it! I will def come back and they always have a monthly special so it is a changing restaurant.
(4)
Gretchen B.

Luv the grilled cheese - hate the wait! Nearly every time we've been here the wait to get a table is 45 min plus and once seated the wait for food is almost as long. Bummer, because I really do like Half combo that includes a 1/2 sandwich, soup and salad. They won't allow a teenager to be seated at the bar even with a parent which would have sped up the wait. Wait here in. Cleveland hts is always bad since it is small.
(3)
India R.

I thought things were supposed to get better with time, unfortunately, that's not the case for Melt Cleve. Hts. This was once one of my favorite places to grab a few beers and wait a decent amount of time for a meal, but now, the service and wait times are racing each other to the bottom of the hill. A friend and I ordered from here last night and were quoted with a 1.5 hour wait for a carry-out order. Seriously!?!? I got their special, The Sanchez, and my friend got a burger; sadly, after my friend convinced me to wait for our orders, I was left with a dry, poorly constructed sandwich and a bag of burnt fries. This location has so much potential, and I just wish it lived up to the hype instead of coasting on the name.
(2)
Michael V.

We stopped by around 2 pm on a sunday and were seated immediately. You can pretty much have any style grilled cheese that you'd like. There are very large portions. The fries are also good too. the restaurant is decorated with halloween and Christmas display lights. Theres not a lot of seating and the tables are close together. You also can look into the kitchen as you eat.
(4)
Jennifer G.

Yum, Yum! I cannot wait to go again - it was that great. Knowing the portions were large, my husband and I shared their August special - Slow roasted chipotle BBQ pulled pork, Fried sweet potato, Fresh crunchy slaw, Muenster cheese, Grilled sweet corn with roasted garlic spread & Homemade redskin potato salad. It was delicious! We also tried the August drink special of the Watermelon Boba and some other mojito type drink. Both were really good. Since we split our meal, we opted to try the Peanut Butter and Jelly Bread pudding. Now this was something that I wish we had skipped. I just didn't think it was all it was cracked up to be. If I'm ever in the area again, I would definitely return and try a different sandwich or two.
(4)
Normsb A.

Funky downtown place with lots of great beers and some crazy grilled sandwiches. Visited from NC and our family said we had to experience this place. Somewhat of a wait, come early. Really helpful wait staff, excellent food and plenty of it.Had 2 couples so we each ordered something different and shared, so much we boxed it up for later. This is a Cleveland must do when visiting, highly recommend....they even bring the Que Melt too y'all. :o)
(5)
Roxanne O.

I love Melt, but not this location. Does that make any sense at all? probably not, but I can say my past two experiences have been just ok. The servers seem more apathetic and less enthusiastic about the food. When asking for things, I almost feel like I'm bothering them, where as at the Lakewood location, the servers seem much more lively. I'd gladly wait over an hour to have a pleasant dining experience than walk right in and sit down and feel unwelcome. Not cool, Cleveland Heights Melt staff. Even the food doesn't taste as good to me, which shouldn't be the case. Maybe it's because every time I've been there, it's been a challenge to get my server to bring me more than one drink. (service at the bar hasn't been much better...even with very few people at the bar eating or drinking) I still love Melt, but I think I'm going to make the trek to the original location to get the great food and service that seem to be lacking in Cleveland Heights.
(3)
Dave M.

Melted cheese makes everything better. This place is decadent and the definition of comfort food. Awesome beer selection too.
(5)
Cara L.

Oh no she isn't.. Oh yes she is! That's right. I'm doing it. I'm writing a review of Melt! *GASP! (The world just screeched to a halt) I can hear the whispering already. Well guess what? I like Melt. There. I said it. If I could give it 3.5 stars, I would. Please do yourself a favor and go into this restaurant with the notion that you're getting a SANDWICH, not a elegant, 5-start meal. Notice out front that the sign doesn't say, Blue Point. I feel like Melt has been getting a lot of backlash from it's own backyard since it's popularity spiked. It's a grilled cheese sandwich restaurant, people. And an innovative, locally-owned one at that. I'm proud. Do I think it should get more publicity than our amazing orchestra, art museum and many other incredible CLE attractions? No. But folks are seeing a positive side of Cleveland and I, for one, am very happy about it. The world is getting a glimpse into our city's creatives, innovative entrepreneurs and talent. So, how is that a negative again? The Lakewood and the Cleveland Heights locations have both given me the same, great experiences. Yes, I waited too. I also starved to death and died. Oh that's right, no I didn't! Grab a seat at the bar and you'll cut your time by 75%. On my most recent visit to the Heights location, I walked in at lunch and there was no wait. Keep in mind that Melt is a popular restaurant. It's just good to see a Cleveland business doing so well! The food? Well, it is delicious! And by delicious, I mean a melty, cheesey, comforting indulgence that might make you feel a little guilty for not running the day before (or ever, in my case). I've had the Wake-in Bacon, the Parmageddon, and a regular grilled cheese with tomato. I've yet to be disappointed, but I'm never without leftovers! The fries are fresh-cut and tasty - nothing too fancy. But the vinegary, spicy coleslaw makes for the perfect in-between-bites palette cleanser. Oh, and did someone mention that the beer selection is awesome-sauce? Everyone has? OK, I just wanted to make sure. (Psssst...you can park in the Rite Aid parking lot across the street for free.)
(4)
Janice S.

Still an overhyped greasy spoon to me. I came here again with a group of people. This time I thought I would try to remove what didn't like last time, to get bread that wasnt dripping with grease when i bite into it. I tried asking for no or even just a little spread on my bread. NOPE. They refused to do it. They claimed that their bread is pre margarineized. So again, all I tasted was greasy salty slices of bread and not my tasty innards. Why can they substitute so much for vegetarians and not other folks who want to taste the contents of my sandwich and not just the greasy bread? Now i didn't come here trying to find a low cal meal. I just want to be able to taste the comforting goodness of the sandwich insides. I honestly can't when my bread is dripping with grease. Given this, I can do so much better at home, where i can really taste my comfort food and without the upset stomach. However, I do need to give credit where credit is due. The tomato soup was damn good stuff! Servers and hosts are friendly too. But I will not be back unless it is just for the bar. I still love the knowledgable bartenders and selection. Kudos to them!
(2)
Jennifer C.

In a gist: a lot of indians, not a chief in sight. Seriously. Who's running this place? I'm not the type to hate on a restaurant purely because they have had nothing but glowing reviews. However, there are some serious flaws with this place, which thankfully isn't expensive or I'd have throw a temper tantrum the likes of which would have gone down in Cleveland history. First and foremost. We waited 30 minutes for a table. The place was not crowded, it had a good number of customers, but nothing that well-run kitchen and a competent wait staff couldn't have turned over incredibly quickly. Though pleasant, the wait-staff clearly had zero direction. Or perhaps they're all too young to know that TIPS means "To Insure Prompt Service." I waited for 5 minutes after my crab-cakes (their label, not mine) arrived to get silverware which should have been on the table when I sat down. This was after looking around and waving at various waiters trying to get SOMEONE'S attention. Boxes had to be inquired even after we were clearly finished. And the bills took a separate trip from the waitress which was beyond ridiculous. Along with this, the kitchen clearly had no direction either. There should be little to no wait between appetizers and entrees. There should be some kind of quality control (you know, to make sure customers are getting good meals) which was obviously lacking. And someone better make sure that my food gets to me HOT. On to the food itself. Here's the problem with doing simple, well-known food: You have to be REALLY freaking good. If you're going to do sandwiches, those better be the kind of sandwiches that make your knees knock, cry out for Jesus, and grip the sheets just to maintain control of your sanity. Suffice to say, my nipples didn't even get hard. The crab cakes were a conundrum. They were made by someone who had heard of the concept of a crab cake, tried one from the frozen food section, and then decided to whip one up. Granted, I know you'll say, "But Jennifer, why on earth would you order a crab cake in a sandwich place?" BECAUSE IF YOU'RE GOING TO PUT IT ON A MENU, IT BETTER BE AMAZING. And I love crab cakes. There might have been crab in it. I don't know. The outside was crispy, the inside looked like something someone had put through the blender, froze, and then put it through the blender again. What was interesting though, was that the flavor was delicious. If I convinced myself I had ordered crab pate, I would have been delighted. The right combination of savory and spicy, the flavor itself was robust and held its own. The only mildly redeeming moment on the waitress' behalf was that the manager took it off the bill when I mentioned it had a horrible texture. And then she told me it was a common complaint. THEN WHY HASN'T THIS BEEN FIXED?! Again, where are the leaders in this place? The corn salsa deserves it's own special little paragraph. You know the taste when you don't completely clean off a charcoal grill before using it again two weeks later? Yeah. The corn salsa tasted like that. G. R. O. S. S. I also had the mushroom burger. I asked for medium and got rare. Which really isn't a problem in my book, but I have to wonder how many people ask for medium, get rare, and then die in horror (because, quite frankly, Americans eat most foods WAY over cooked). Again, piss-poor communication in the kitchen and zero quality control. Is there even a chef back there? I'll even take a pretend chef as long as he or she actually looks at the food going out! The bread was mush, the cheese had long solidified, and the fries were either soggy or tasted like they had been refried from the night before. The best thing on the plate was the slaw. It was crisp, vinegary, and actually quite nice. I could eat a bucket of that stuff if you let me. So. Yeah. It was my first visit to Melt, and it will most definitely be my last. I'm not looking for a 5-star meal from a sandwich place, but I am looking for a decent meal. When I start looking longingly at the Dairy Queen sign reflecting in the window and view it as a sign of HOPE, only to have my soul crushed when I realized there is no DQ near by and it's actually hanging in the restaurant....yeah, that's bad.
(1)
Rachael N.

I think this place was way too hyped up...that it didn't rise to my expectations. 3.5 stars. After waiting 1.25 hours to be seated at 3pm on a Sunday afternoon (yes, 3pm!), we sat down to order. My friend got the wake n bacon, and I got the smoky russian. After waiting another 30 minutes, our food came out. I mean, c'mon, it's a Sunday afternoon and your restaurant isn't THAT busy! First, the sides on the plates. The fries were drenched with salt and pepper. BLEHHH. The coleslaw was one of the driest things I've ever tasted. BLEHHH. Then the sandwich! Don't get me wrong, the bread on it was great. But everything else? I didn't even think my gouda cheese was all that great..there was so little of it. I mean, isn't this suppose to be a grilled cheese place? It was just, overall, WAY too salty. My friend felt the same. I was a tad disappointed with MELT. Why did it not live up to my expectations? Sure, they have a crazy amount of selection of beer and sandwiches, but still..... I just wasn't impressed. The quality of sandwiches....just wasn't that amazing. I'm kind of disappointed, Melt! Did I order the wrong item? :P
(3)
Dennis B.

I have a couple of friends that frequent and rave about Melt like it's the second coming of Christ, so when I was in the area to visit them, we decided upon Melt for dinner; because in their words "we have to try it". It was recommended to me that for my first Melt experience that I go with the straight grilled cheese. What arrived was a large "grilled cheese" consisting of basic bread, soggy from grease, barely toasted, and a boat load of fries. Taste was second rate, comparable to a greasy spoon diner. For a place that supposedly serves "gourmet grilled cheese", my expectations were high. I expected artisan breads, blends of cheeses creating a unique flavor, touches like heirloom tomato, and prepared using proper technique (like actually grilling the sandwich till its toasted). What I received was none of that and is barely memorable. From what I can tell, Melt is nothing more than hyped up bar food focused on quantity, not quality. The grilled cheese spin is a gimmick no different than Panini's putting french fries in a sandwich. By the way, the restaurant is more akin to a Panini's than anything even remotely higher class. Food & Wine just put together a list of the top 25 best grilled cheese sandwiches in America, and Melt didn't make the list. Ironically, Lola made the list with one of their sandwiches and they not even a grilled cheese specialty shop (#21 out of 25). This should tell you something about the quality of Melt's food: foodandwine.com/slideshoâ€¦ If you're a simpleton whose primary objective in life is to fill up your obese gut on greasy bar food while slugging down a beer, this place is for you. Fortunately, I am none of those things and consequently I will never return (unless I'm dragged there against my will). I was going to rate this place one star, but as long as I compare it only against its closest competitors ( bar food joints), it rates a little better. Note: my friends keep on telling me that the Cedar location of Melt has numerous quality control issues and that the only way to really experience Melt is to go to the original Lakewood location. They say it has something to do with Matt Fish not being physically there and that the line cooks and employees have a don't care attitude. I'm open to give it a shot again if I'm in the Lakewood area, but Melt sure as hell has a high threshold to cross after being so lousy the first time.
(2)
Andrea Z.

So ok. It's famous now because it was on Man v. Food. That's cool. And although many places raise their prices after such recognition, they seem not to have done so. That's also cool. Beer selection - very cool/huge. Decor/atmosphere is awesome - tons of Cleveland nostalgia - when I was there once they were playing Major League on the TV (juuuuuuuust a bit outside!). A fun place for sure. The food is really good - I've had a few of their different grilled cheese offerings and they've all been great. The fries and slaw that comes with the sandwiches are good too. I know some people say the burger was gross but you know, that's kind of like ordering a steak at IHOP. Order what they're known for and you won't be disappointed. The only downside to this place is the wait. DO NOT go there on any night if you are starving. You will wait a decent amount (like an hour or more if they're busy) for your table. After that, you still will wait at least a half hour-45 min for your food. The first time I went, shortly after the eastside location opened - we waited for nearly 3 hours door-to-food time (we sat at a table that time). Recently, though, we went at about 1pm for lunch and found a couple of barstools within 10 minutes. The thing about this place is that there is more bar seating than table seating and the bar turns over MUCH faster. I recommend the bar seating if at all possible. Put your name on the list for a table, grab some beers, and then keep on the lookout for bar stools. Chances are you'll be able to snag some spots. You KNOW about the wait. If you've read some reviews, you can't say you weren't warned. Don't go there starving especially if you've got your heart set on a table. But the food is damn good so go early, have a beer and enjoy!
(4)
Elaine N.

Had to try this place because everyone raves about it and it was also featured on Triple D! The wait is ridiculous on a Friday or Saturday night. So we went first thing on Saturday when they opened...we were seated immediately and the food came out quickly. First off, I'm not a huge grilled cheese person so I had the Fish and Puppies. The meal was HUGE and I ate less than half of it. The fish was cooked well and tasted really good. The portion was just too big for me. The service was great, our waitress definitely knew what she was talking about. I would visit here again, but next time would share a meal with someone.
(3)
Jess T.

Melt is very unique, and has a distinct hipster feel. There can be a bit of a wait, since there is not a ton of seating. These days we are in the 5:00 dinner crowd due to our small child so not an issue for us. We have learned that its not a great idea to go out to eat at 7pm, if your child's normal bedtime it 8pm. Your welcome. They do not have a kids menu. We ordered our son an entire meal thinking we could take home the left overs. We could have EASILY also shared our food with him. All the sandwiches were delicious. I can personally recommend the September Special - the Flying Felafel. It was very good! There is a large drink menu, craft beers and soda. All in all a great dinner out. I have no complaints about the sandwich, the service, the atmosphere, or the drinks. I did think that the sides were peppered too much. All sandwiches come with a side of coleslaw and fries, and these were great except for the amount of pepper! The coleslaw was good - it was fresh, light, crisp, and could have been so much better. The sides we got had so much pepper that it was almost border line inedible. Here's hoping that it was an off night for the pepper shaker . . . . .
(4)
Lauren R.

The Cuban melt is my favorite so far (get it with honey mustard instead of brown). I've also had the Monte Criso which was the shiz and the Rising Sun melt, which I was not such a huge fan of. I once ordered the blackened chicken salad and it was KIND OF AMAZING. You could actually taste that the chicken was grilled and the combination of bleu cheese crumbles and crispy onion straws was definately something to write home about. Also, the fries are an experience; order a side of Russian dressing to dip them in. Trust me.
(4)
Kyle H.

Melt is.. awesome! I was honestly not really expecting a whole lot from the online menu due to the high prices for a grilled cheese place, but I'm very glad to have given it a shot. The prices are indeed high, but the portions are huge. I had been going to Winking Lizard quite a bit due to its closeness, but Melt is a much better value. A dollar or 2 more for nearly twice as much food. I could barely finish, but I wanted to so badly because everything tasted amazing. I had the veggie burger, which is served on bread like a sandwich, with smoked gouda. The burger itself was thick and perfectly cooked with a mild sweetness that you don't usually find in a veggie burger... but it worked. The fries were very well done... not those greasy stringy fries you find at a lot of pubs. They went perfectly with sriracha mixed with some ketchup. The coleslaw was also way better than I thought that it would be. I'm not normally a huge fan of vinegar based slaw, but this stuff was some of the best I've ever had. I don't know what they put in the stuff, but it probably involves crack considering how impossible it is to stop eating. The beer selection is also quite good with pretty fair prices even durning non happy hour. I will absolutely be back, and when I eventually move from Cleveland after school I have a feeling that this place will be missed the most. The only downside is that parking can be a bit of a challenge, but that seems pretty common around this area.
(5)
Emiko V.

I've eaten at both locations, but this was the site of the most recent trip. I will say that Melt is an experience - the interesting decor (the menus are glued to the back of old record sleeves - genius? I think so!), the even more interesting menu options, the beer list - the entire set up is crafted to make you feel like this is one of the most unique places you've ever eaten at. For a girl who isn't too keen on cheese (I know what you're thinking...I get it all the time), I love this place. The food is OH SO GOOD and totally innovative. My absolute favorite Parmageddon - a grilled cheese sandwich complete with pierogi and kraut?? SIGN ME UP! And if you're a beer lover, then you'll be one happy, soon to be stuffed diner because there are TONS of options for you to choose from. My only gripe about this place is the location. Situated at the corner of a pretty congested intersection, getting here is no easy task. Parking is limited so be prepared to be royally frustrated before you even set foot in the place. Also be prepared to wait for a table - hey, what do you expect when you've got a sandwich called the Godfather on the menu? I would say practice some patience and give this place a go because it's totally worth it. P.S. If you're daring enough, try the challenge! It's not that expensive and totally worth the story once it's over. Just remember not to drink too much because you can't leave the table once this monster hits the table!
(4)
Muriel A.

YUM! I came in with a huge group. We had to wait a while but this was no big deal as there is a huge bar with tons of different (Reasonably priced!) Beers. There are also tons of tvs with sports channels... Definitely helped to pass the time... For dinner I had the bacon and egg grilled cheese... um hell yes... There was a ton of bacon on it and the egg was perfectly cooked. The bread was crispy... Super filling! I had the half fries half slaw on the side. You still get a huge pile of fries! And the slaw wasn't dressed with mayonaise which I really liked. No. The food here isn't health food. But if you're passing through Cleveland and in the mood for some guilty pleasure I highly highly recommend. This place did not disappoint!
(5)
Robert H.

Beer selection (draft & bottle) is very good. The sandwiches are OK but not great. The cheeses are ordinary quality and as these are the stars of a grilled cheese restaurant. I would have expected better. You don't get any bread choices so you will be eating thickly sliced Texas toast. Fries were OK but not crisp like I like them. All in all I would go back because of the beer selection and the sandwiches don't detract too much from the beer.
(2)
Leah F.

Melt is my favorite restaurant in all of Cleveland and I've lived here my entire life. Every one of their sandwiches that I've tried have been amazing. My favorites are the Waken Bacon, the Monte Cristo, and the Big Popper. Their 1/2 Combo is SO great and a lot of food for the price. There are a lot of "hipsters" but that's their theme. If you can get past that and evaluate just their food - it is amazing!
(5)
Matthew D.

I was trapped in a hotel outside of Cleveland so I turned to my trusty Yelp! App for a little help on dinner. With a little luck and a huge assist from the DoubletTree for shuttling me farther than they were supposed to I was able to have dinner at Melt Bar & Grilled. Now I admit the thing that drew me to the place besides the high star rating was all the mentions of the location's appearances a few prominent cable TV shows. I thought even if it was a little cheesy, at least I could have a fun experience. I am happy to report, there is nothing cheesy or hokey about this place, it is awesome with a side of kick-ass! Make no mistake this place is a bar, the U-Shaped bar dominates the restaurant with a few tables lining the outside wall. It has a great neighborhood feel even with all the TV notoriety and it felt like I was the only person who didn't walk to this place from my house. I was able to a sit at the bar farthest from the door between a couple of friends and a family of five. I was handed my menu which on the other side was an album cover from the 80s, I loved it. The staff was very knowledgeable about all of the beers (and there was a laundry list of them) and even had pairing suggestions with the food, not something that I expected at a bar. Nice touch. Even though the place was packed the bartender, upon learning it was my first time there, took his time with me and walked me through sandwiches they are famous for, the Man vs. Food challenge item (a monster grilled cheese featuring 13 different cheeses, 3 slices of grilled bread and a pile of hand-cut fries & slaw. Over 5lbs of food) and the beers to go with it. I settled on the Westside Monte Cristo which is honey ham, smoked turkey, swiss, american, crispy battered & deep fried, with mixed berry preserves. It was great, I highly recommend it. To drink I had a Brooklyn blonde ale and the special of the night, a North Peak Archangel (I felt the need to support a home state brewery from Michigan in Ohio). To Recap: The Good: The decor, the menus, the staff, the sandwiches, the beer list, the patrons. I was made to feel like one of the gang. The Bad: It didn't look like there was much around it, so it needs to be your destination for the night, not a starting point. But this place can pull it off. The Band This Restaurant Most Resembles: Marilyn Manson, an Unique Ohio experience!
(5)
Colleen M.

This is one of my favorite Melt locations in Cleveland. When going to Melt especially on the weekend expect to wait a while. Typically I get take out from here because its quicker but I have eaten in and had a wonderful experience. I have never had a bad waiter or waitress and the entire staff is very friendly. The food is delicious and they give you more food than expected. I LOVE Melt and everyone should try this palce at least once!!!
(5)
Nicole K.

Melt is my favorite. If I've ever craved food from any restaurant, it's been a chorizo and potato (with jalapenos!) from Melt. I love you Melt.
(5)
Alexander B.

While not as charming a locale as the West side location, they have clearly learned a thing or two about how to run a crazy busy restaurant that doesn't take reservations: half the place is a giant bar that you can drink at while you wait. And this is no doubt part of the charm of Melt. By the time you eat your sandwich, you're two IPAs in, and greasy food is guaranteed to taste good. But you don't need beer goggles. These slices of cheese between giant slices of white bread toasted with butter are just fantastic. Of course, many people complain about the wait. I can say that over the last year, the wait time has decreased dramatically (don't everyone rush over, now...). Our standby favorite sandwiches include: - Chorizo, - PBJ with banana and extra Bacon. - Winter Chicken - Big Popper (spicy deep fried sandwich) - Kindergarden (Try it! Just cheese and bread, but it shows why everything is good) - The burgers are all excellent. That's a third of the menu, so it's really hard to go wrong. The specials are often equally fantastic, my favorite being the turkey dinner around thanksgiving. A slice of sweet potato never tasted so good. But why five stars? I mean, five stars? Well last time I went, I ordered the blue cheese burger RARE. As in, I'm sick of getting hockey pucks (from other establishments), so I want to make it clear this thing should be at least pink. Of course, the burger came out RARE, and it was one of the best burgers I've ever had. The meat was so good, it really was the right way to eat it.
(5)
Meg J.

The original location of Melt is on Detroit Avenue in Lakewood, and it got so popular that they built one on the East side as well. Let me warn you: it's always busy. Go here for innovation and creativity, not gourmet-ness. The decor is interesting, and I love their menu/branding art. This restaurant is recieving national attention and while most people are just ga-ga over it, there are some who walk in with great expectations and leave without them having been met. Anyways, my friend and I got our sandwich to go (thus avoiding the wait), took it to the park and split it. It was plenty of food for both of us. The Monte Cristo is DELICIOUS! The fries are just OK. I've got pictures and a link to the menu on my blog ( whatsincleveland.blogspoâ€¦ ) if you're curious.
(4)
Kristyn T.

melt is the best! every time i visit cleveland i make it a point to go there as many times as possible. i love the beer selection! the bartenders are super nice, especially Steve, who on my first visit recommended the Left Hand Brewing Company Nitro Milk Stout which has since become my favorite beer. It's a shame that a brewery located in Colorado doesn't distribute to my home state of California yet I've come across Left Hand even as far as Boston. bummer. of course, i've never seen so many grilled cheese varieties EVER. my favorite is the municipal stadium which has bratwurst, sauer kraut, grilled peppers, and american cheese. yum... and it's reasonably priced. bonus. all of my clevelander friends and family always complain about the ridiculous wait times there, but i've actually never had a problem. even at their busiest, i was able to walk up to the bar and get a seat and order off of the full menu. i even went so far as to get a tattoo of a melt grilled cheese so that i could be in the tattoo family. 25% off for life! too bad i live 2500 miles away, but i will be back in ohio soon enough to visit my family, and to visit melt.
(5)
Mike J.

We stopped here on our way from Chicago to Boston in a day. I love grilled cheese but I'm a lactard so I wasn't sure how this place was going to treat me. I was awestruck when I found out that there are tons of options for vegetarians and vegans. We did have to wait about 30 minutes during lunch time but it was so worth the wait. We'd spent the weekend hitting up places in Chicago that had been featured on TV shows or had gotten rave reviews and this was the absolute best of the weekend. Our waitress was super friendly and kept my water topped off the whole time (which was a little dangerous because we still had 10 more hours to drive). I got the vegan pig roast which was the monthly special and it ruled. The potato salad was so good as was everything else on the plate. The other two in my group agreed that this was probably the best thing we'd gotten. If they'd let me open one in Boston I'd totally do it.
(5)
Richard W.

We went for the first time and I would definitely say they need a defibrillator at each table. No matter what food you order it is definitely huge. It's like going to a restaurant and ordering a large bowl of soup and you get a 16" bowl with a shallow 1 cup of soup in it. The Melt Sandwich is mainly a thin slice of meat or substance, double dipped or more in thick batter, deep fried in whatever, placed with other items to make it thicker, piled with about 400 calories of cheese, put between an inch of bread on each side, lathered with butter or cooking oil (or battered again) and the grilled or fried to a dripping golden brown. The fries that it comes with can not even soak up the oil since they are saturated themselves. I realize that many people would love this type of food and that it is what our medical system thrives on (if the patient has money). You can not find any nutritional information for a good reason. They have not made one capable of measuring this stuff and it would cause them to lose a lot of business. We took home our left overs with the intention of making a more healthier sandwich on some whole wheat bread. After stripping away the bread, filler, bread crumb crust, etc. we were left with a greasy piece of chicken (Italian Parm) and a thin layer of Eggplant (eggplant parm). It was so greasy we decided not to add bread and just to eat it with the left over fries. We were sick to our stomachs all night and vowed never to go back. Good luck to those who do not care about health.
(1)
Kumar S.

Loved the food and ambience. Burger comes with fries, add a drink that's all you need, huge portions. Great place to hangout
(4)
Emil F.

They seriously need to shut this place down. The food is a bit too good. I've gotta say though I am scared I'm gonna get fat! I eat there about once a week and I savor every delicious morsel.
(5)
Kerry H.

We were heading to Cleveland for a weekend away while the Red Sox would be in town. After searching through recommendations on Food Network, my pregnant self was sold on heading to an all grilled cheese restaurant. We headed to this location on our first down in town for lunch. The staff was super friendly and service was very quick. I ordered the Parmagedon and it was exactly what I was in the mood for. Perogies and cheese on a sandwich? Awesome! My boyfriend ordered the Prime Rib melt, which was the special of the month. It was fantastic, especially with the delicious horseradish sauce on the side. So many great options on the menu, and we were really pleased with every aspect of our visit. Of course, we needed to get out to walk it all off afterwards, but it was well worth the visit!
(5)
Steve W.

A grilled cheese bar? Heavenly. Tons of vegetarian options. I went with a Godfather. It was awesome. I got a meal out of each half of the sandwich. This did leave me feeling pretty gross afterwards.
(4)
Mike N.

Ok so the hype is dying down and we were able to be seated without a wait. Prior to this, we have only been eating takeout and I was less than impressed. The decor is funky, eclectic Cleveland-esc. The menu is interesting. The tomato soup is amazing and the salads are fresh and generous in size. Now we get to the prime reason to go to Melt- the sandwiches. Yes you can get grilled cheese, plus a variety of specialty sandwiches and burgers. They are all large portions and flavorful. For my taste, they are much too starchy, with bread slices way too thick. I am the minority opinion in my family, however. Fries are good, cole slaw is different and with too much of a vinegar taste to suit me. The Breakfast Burger stands out as a star item. Beware the Pierogi Sandwiches. Service is attentive and pleasant. Overall, a solid experience.
(3)
Justin H.

Abnormal grilled cheese, abnormal place, abnormally great. You like jalapenos, cream cheese, and funnel cakes? Get The big Popper. A deep fried grilled cheese sandwich with the previously listed ingredients. Their french fries are also tasty. Check out their website for their list of many different sandwiches. The bar is very large, and they have many great beers on tap. I have been here only once, and it was just before noon. Melt looks like a lot of fun later at night. (They were having a Big Lebowski viewing that night. My generation's Easy Rider!) The only bad thing seems to be... get there, and get there early. The line builds astonishingly fast. It is easy to see how this place is becoming a Cleveland icon.
(4)
Erin S.

Another overrated Cleveland restaurant. Sub par grilled cheese big effing deal. I don't get the fools who are constantly raving about this place like its the greatest thing since sliced bread. I could make a better grilled cheese at home any day and not have to wait 3 freakin hours to get it. The only good thing about this place is the decor and the fact that I met the love of my life there.
(2)
Becky H.

Ridiculously busy at all times (good for the owners & the servers though, right?!!) for my first time there, it was definitely worth the wait... though I may only go when I am back in town and taking other first timers with me. Special occasion type stuff. At times, though, Melt feels like the hot guy you had a crush on for, like, ever... only to find out he's all pretty/no gritty. He just kinda lays there being awesome and you should thank him for the privilege of waiting 4 hours for him to come by for a booty call. The food, however, is pretty awesome and usually worth the wait. AND they were all too happy to deal with food allergies for those of us that needed special food handling. If you are celiac or have a gluten allergy, they'll let you bring in your own bread for one of their yummy sandwiches... because that's what ya came here for, isnt it??? :)
(4)
Todd K.

I don't make it to Cleveland often, but when I do, I'll be back to Melt. I went with my aunt, who said "I'm NOT waiting 2 hours at dinner time for a grilled cheese sandwich, so let's go for lunch when the wait isn't so long," and I completely agreed. So we did. Her Monte Cristo was perfect, and I had the August special with the falafel... it was one of the best sandwiches I've ever eaten. And there was way too much food on one plate to eat at one time... definitely easy to make 2 meals out of one. And they have a great selection of mainstream and craft beers. I loved the menus, both from a presentation standpoint (very original idea), and from a content standpoint - almost too many choices. The employees were all very friendly. If you're into the conservative scene with all of the employees wearing uniforms, this may not be your spot. (It had a vibe similar to my current Phoenix favorite, Postino). Needless to say, we decided that we'd definitely wait the two-hours at dinner time for the experience.
(5)
Winston C.

Great food and alot of it. Extensive bar with some great beers! Plan on a long wait tho!
(4)
Matt V.

Metl is one of only two restaurants I have been to where I will gladly wait more than an hour for a table. I have never had a sandwich that wasn't amazing although I can particularly recommend the God Father and the Count de Monte Cristo. All of the portions are large enough to cover two meals. If you have enough room for dessert it is also amazing.
(5)
Pat P.

I thought the food was good, but not stellar by any means. Certainly not the healthy place to go if that's a concern for you. It was a little pricey, but I think most people can get two meals out of it, because portions are huge! I did like the decor, and the service was great, so this is a place I'd recommend.
(3)
Alex M.

I had the purple parma and this sandwich is a belly buster. All of the sandwiches are huge. The atmosphere is really cool and the employees are just as interesting to look at. The food tastes great and you get lots if it for what you pay. Not to mention they have a great draft beer selection.
(5)
Colleen Z.

Food here is absolutely delicious. I've tried the Lake Erie Monster, Dude Abides, Wake n Bacon, a burger, the fries, the chocolate chai bread pudding, the strawberry bread pudding, the fried pierogi...always beyond awesome. However...make sure that you are not in any sort of rush when you go here. Not only will the wait range from 0 mins to an hr, but on occasion I've had waitstaff that were UNBELIEVABLY slow. On my last visit we waited 10 mins to give our drink orders and had to ask the waiter to take our food order, the food itself took a little long considering there are only about 20 tables in the whole place and only 1/3 were full. The food was good, but...the waiter only came back once--one friend never had his drink refilled and then we sat there for 15 min trying to get the waiter's attention to get the bill and boxes. I had to call over another waitress to bring him out from the back, and when she did, we waited from 6:30 to 7:10 for him to come back. Eventually I had to go up TO THE BAR to ask someone to let me pay and they said "only" our waiter could ring us out, so I had to stand by the kitchen door...pathetic...to personally grab him and hand him my credit card. In the time we stood at the bar waiting to pay, they'd cleared our table, sat a new group, and had brought out their drink orders--seriously! It's a good thing my friends and I are decent people because we almost left without paying. I wish I could give 5 stars, but there's no way that being treated like that by waitstaff won't sour an experience. It would be one thing if any of the 3 employees we asked for help had actually helped us ring out, but the (apparent) policy about swiping our card ate up way too much of our evening. You will love the food, just...make sure you have 2-3 hours to spend at Melt.
(4)
Michael S.

Dear Melt, Your food, beer selection and general take on the restaurant biz is A-OK. Dear Melt Bar Staff, You suck so bad it makes me sad. I will continue to frequent your establishment because I enjoy your tasty beer and relatively low douche factor, but I've pretty much given up on receiving anything other than poop and pee service.
(3)
Maura B.

I use to think no one made better grilled cheese than my mom... then I went to Melt! WOW! They know how to make a grilled cheese! I decided to venture away from "The Kindergarten" and be spontaneous and order a grilled peanut butter and banana melt! Possibly the greatest food decision I've ever made in my life! I am proud to say I ate the ENTIRE thing and still have dreams about this sandwich! I need to make another trip up to Cleveland soon just so I can go back to Melt! The service was great- we had about a half hour wait for a table on a Saturday afternoon- but it was well worth the wait!
(5)
Adam C.

My favorite all around restaurant in Cleveland. Hands down the best draft beer prices and selection I have ever seen at any bar!!! They have over 15 craft beers on draft (no bud or miller lite in site) and tons of bottled beers. The food is amazing! Sandwiches range from $10-12 and i have yet to see anyone leave without a box . My girlfriend and I go once a week and split a vegan sandwich melt and the BUFFALO TOFU! Prepare yourself for a wait or do what I do and settle in at the bar. Melt is a must try if you live or are visiting Cleveland!!!
(5)
Shannon H.

Melt in numbers: 5: people in our party (me, the Mister, mom, dad, bro) 90: minutes we were told the wait was 3: times we fed the parking meeter 6: times I nagged my mom to ask how much time was left before we got to sit down 1: times she actually asked 115: minutes we actually waited 3: times the Christmas Story played (the run it on a loop in the TVs) 20: plastic lawn ornaments I counted (before I lost track) 24: Grilled cheese sandwiches to choose from 12: times my stomach growled 3: Sandwiches really I wanted 60: minutes we waited for our sandwiches 3: times I tried to convince my family it'd be worth it 8: iced tea refills 5: happy tummies Was it worth it? For me, yes. While the wait was really annoying, it gave me time to catch up with my family and spend quality time together with minimal distractions (other than my growling stomach). The food was, as expected, delicious. I ordered the Grilled Peanut Butter, Banana and Cream Cheese Sandwich. Dear Melt, next time, don't skimp on the peanut butter, OK? After waiting for a few hours, I think I deserve more than a tablespoon. Otherwise, delish. The Mister ordered the West Side Monte Cristo, which included honey ham, smoked turkey, swiss, american, beer battered and mixed berry preserves He compared it to an orgasm. I had a bite and tend to agree. TMI? It's OK we're all friends. My brother ordered The Big Popper, which had fresh jalapeno peppers, cheddar & herbed cream cheese, beer battered and mixed berry preserves. I can't remember what my dad ordered. And I didn't dare get within his personal space to investigate -- I know better than to mess with a hungry man My mom was a whimp and ordered a salad. Don't bother, I already made fun of her.
(4)
Pamela M.

Managed to get out here for a quick lunch with dad after picking him up from the airport, it was early and we didn't wait for a table, but there were only a couple open, the place would definitely fill up fast during peak hours, I would suggest coming here off-peak or be very prepared to wait a good deal of time for your table! Ferris Bueller was looped on the TV screens, very apropos since I was playing hooky from work for the afternoon :oP I gotta say, I loved the "vinyl covers as menus" thing they have going on there, I got a Bob Seger album and my dad got Tom Jones.....the day I get a Journey album it will be coming home with me! Loved the retro decor, especially all the Dairy Queen signs, lent the space a cool vibe. Food was good, I had the pierogi melt (can't remember the actual name on the menu) and it was pretty good. I'm going to maybe take some heat for this, but the portion was WAY too big....I could only finish one half of the sandwich. I wish they had an option for a half portion on their menu, it's such a waste of food. Fries were excellent, very crispy. Didn't try the coleslaw since I was too stuffed from the sandwich. And my favorite thing about the restaurant?? They serve grape nehi....oh yeah, Radar's favorite drink, and it's totally awesome!
(3)
Sue M.

Noisy, loud and really greasy. Call your cariologist when you leave...
(1)
Arjun B.

In Cleveland for business (Blodgett Welding Seminar at Lincoln Electric); I was told to visit this place. Okay, ...so I wasn't told, so much as ...I enjoy Guy Fieri. They were also on "Best Thing I Ever Ate" recently. I was sold on the premise. Surprisingly enourmous boozahol selection; no complaints there. The wait (at ~7pm) was going to be 45 minutes for a booth; no wait for the bar area. (This makes sense, as the bar is abnormally large ...and appears to make up roughly 60% of the square footage.) Portions are very generous. Service was very good: despite the "45 minute wait to be seated," I had my food in under 10 minutes. At the suggestion of the gentleman behind the bar, I had the "Parmageddon." (Parma is apparently a largely eastern-European suburb of Cleveland; makes for quality kielbasa and pierogies and the like.) Grilling pierogies apparently makes a world of difference from what I've had before. And the kraut or cabbage (?) was pretty brilliant - the kind of stuff that would outshine the corned beef in a reuben. (Sacrilege to say, but true.) Not bad, Cleveland. I didn't get to see a butter cow. But not bad.
(5)
Robert J.

Both my wife agree, way overated, mediocre grilled cheese sandwichs at best. Not worth visiting a second time. Must be all the hype of rave revues, 'cause it certainly is NOT the food.... yuk
(1)
Matt F.

I see that a lot of people were very turned off by the wait time for Melt. To be honest, if I had to wait over an hour for a grilled cheese sandwich, I'd probably be a little miffed as well. Fortunately, my girlfriend and I were visiting Cleveland for a few days and managed to swing by Melt in Cleveland Hts at about 2:30 pm on a Friday. I guess it was the magic hour, because we waited for maybe 2 minutes before being seated and we we ordered, ate, and were out of there within about an hour. I really liked Melt. I thought the pop culture/ 80's icon decor was really fun and I thought that using old record sleeves for menus was very creative. The servers and hosts all were very friendly as well. The food was really good! I ordered a special -- something with spicy barbecued pork. Along with a side of fries and cole slaw. All were great - especially the bread! My dining companion ordered a mushroom melt, which I also think she enjoyed. The portions were very good sized for a reasonable price. In fact, I only ate about half of my sandwich - and the rest of my leftovers were promptly eaten by my relatives, which is a good sign (although most of my family is not that picky). We were also able to order a vegan kindergartner (plain grilled cheese) for my brother to go - which I think he liked! I was also impressed by the bar, which had a great selection of beers. My girlfriend HATES beer, but they even had one that she enjoyed - Lindemann's Frambois. Next time I am in Cleveland, I will definitely try to stop by Melt again.
(4)
Chez S.

wow. I am still in awe (days layer) of my lunch at Melt. I came into Cleveland on business and my friend would not stop talking about Melt. I had high expectations walking in and I was not disappointed! the decor was cheesy (no pun intended) but fitting. the menu choices were varied. I came in expecting just a bunch of grilled cheese options but there was plenty more. amazing salads, soups that sounded fantastic, a daily special vegetable (that days was roasted corn on the cob with garlic butter-yum!), a wide array of sandwiches and even vegan options. I had to have a grilled cheese. I ordered the Wake 'n Bacon with added avocado. it was divine. they serve their sandwiches with fries and coleslaw. I subbed out for a salad. I never even touched the fries and only ate half of my sandwich and was completely satisfied. an added bonus-a really awesome selection of microbrewed sodas (LOTS of root beer-my fave) and what looked like a rotating menu of beers. I cannot wait for my next trio to Cleveland and I NEVER thought I'd say that about Cleveland of all places.
(5)
Eric M.

What isn't there to love about this place. There's a beer list so long it takes up mutliple pages of the menu. The staff is awesome and very knowledgeable on both the food and drinks. And then there's the giant selection of different sandwiches. I had the special which was a Prime Beef sandwich with horseradish and mashed potatoes on it, along with a side of au jus to dip in. Yes, it was amazing. I had samples of the crab cake one, the perogi one, and the chicken parmesean one which all tasted amazing. I was so stuffed on the sandwich I barely ate any of the fries or the cole slaw, so I can't comment on those. I'm def looking to go back here anytime I'm back in Cleveland.
(5)
Justin B.

Hard to find a seat for two so we decided to sit at the bar. Great alternative to just waiting 1hr or a seat. Got out food really fast and the bar tender was really friendly. Very trendy place to be. My date got a pulled pork sandwich, I got the Melt Pig Roast. Delicious and a little spicy! Will definitely go again and recommend this to everyone!
(5)
Amia W.

Melt is the best place for grilled cheese! Also have an amazing beer selection, and always are changing their specials.
(5)
Carey L.

From the moment you walk in the door, you know this place is more than grilled cheese. From the eclectic decorations on the walls, to the eccentric servers delivering mounds of deliciousness, to the knowledgeable bartenders that help you hand pick your libation, Melt is an experience all visitors to Cleveland must have. Now that the "4 hour wait" is a thing of the past due to more locations, you can drop in and cozy up to the bar almost immediately. As someone who loves their cheese, but loves their hops even more, the one-two punch of "Sandwich of the month" and a myriad of both draft and bottled beers makes every trip to Melt a unique experience. Gigantic sandwiches at reasonable prices are accompanied by mounds of coleslaw and fries, or you can make it all fries, or all slaw. For a minimal fee, they even allow those health conscious patrons (there ARE more calorically responsible selections than others) to change to a veggie of the day or side salad. Vegans and vegetarians beware. You will not escape satiety. They have dreamed up alternative versions of even there most carnivorous selections, and even the finely tuned palate of a corn-fed Midwesterner might have trouble differentiating. So, whether you are a Man vs Food follower conquering local challenges, an aunt or uncle entertaining the nieces and nephews, or the slow-pitch softball team making a pit-stop to rehydrate, Melt Bar and Grilled has what you are looking for! I have even contemplated a small tattoo for their tempting lifelong discount! Good luck picking just one sandwich to try!
(5)
Joe R.

Another fantastic experience at Melt East. We arrived well after 10:00 pm, thereby missing the brutal wait, and were served promptly and attentively by the excellent Anthony. My first experience with the Breakfast Burger proved that Melt does burgers as well as they do their signature grilled cheese. The patty was juicy and cooked perfectly, the bacon crisp and of exactly the right thickness, and the eggs cooked expertly, so that the yolk was gelatinous but not runny. BBQ Hoisin Brussels sprouts made a fantastic starter, and the fries were even more heavenly than usual: We got the impression they were seasoned more heavily than in the past, something I hope is a permanent change. Honestly, folks, I don't see how you could do better for the price.
(5)
Keith M.

Melt...I know I did. Into the chair and then into my car and I drove around in a carb comma for the rest of the damn day. The food is more than a Man V Food show, it's tasty, with attention to detail. Not often you will see a "craft soda" section on a menu, and I urge all to try some. Boylan Birch Beer when great with my Build your own sammich. Which I did with great pride, my Turkey, avacado, jack chee, L&T with some red onion and honey mustard was OUTSTANDING. No room for dessert, but I saw what they were dishing out, and I wish I had some room. OH and the fries were totally outstanding too!!
(4)
Steven T.

Refreshing place to eat. The prices are reasonable. Portions are huge so you may want to share
(4)
Jen L.

Very good food and a fun atmosphere. My husband and I stopped by here after a strong recommendation, and I'm glad that we did. We ended up sitting at the bar, because the wait for a table was almost an hour. I ordered the 'parmageddon' which had pierogies, kraut, onions, and cheese. It wasn't exactly what I had imagined (the kraut wasn't very flavorful), but it was good nonetheless. My husband ordered the el diablo burger and felt the same way - not quite as flavorful/spicy as he had hoped. The fries are delicious. They include coleslaw with the meals, but I wasn't very impressed with that (again, kind of bland). The alcohol selection is great and unique - we tried the banana bread beer, which I actually liked. Our bartender/server, Steve, was a great guy and very helpful and kind. I would definitely go back, but I would probably try something different.
(4)
Justin L.

Good meal, but I fail to see the cult-like draw. I knew what I was getting into, and was delighted to only have to wait for 15 minutes for a table during lunch. I don't think I've ever seen a "restaurant" with such a high ratio bar seats to table seats, but that's not a positive or a negative, here. Objectively, my Monte Cristo was really awesome. I got a fried egg on it per my server's recommendation, and the sandwich took a good year off my life, which means it was a good sandwich. The fries were fries - good thick fries, but nothing earth shattering. The slaw, I really liked. I like a good vinegary slaw, and this had a little spiciness to it, too - not "heat" but spice. Really good! Yes, they have a good beer selection, but I was surprised to see only one Great Lakes beer on draft. Surprised and disappointed. Ultimately, while the tacky plastic figurines and DQ sign were charming, I failed to see Melt as anything other than a sandwich restaurant. In that regard, it was great. I'd have gone 4-stars maybe had my meal not been SO over the top. The dessert menu looked awesome, but there was no way in hell. Fried twinkies, reese's cup banana bread pudding, holy cow. I wanted all of it. Unfortunately, none of us got through more than half of our sandwiches. 4-5 stars, I reserve for a place where I leave completely overwhelmed with how wonderful the dining experience was. To have to take half of my lunch and all of my dessert home just to be able to experience everything Melt had to offer, isn't my idea of a complete experience. I'll try to stretch my stomach next time and be better prepared.
(3)
Ari G.

I'm from Michigan and for Valentines Day I planned a surprise trip for my boyfriend to road trip to Cleveland. We went to the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame and, after prior research , decided we should trust the Food Network and eat at Melt. To say the food was spectacular is an understatement. We started out with the Crab Cake appetizer which was phenomenal. Accompanied by garlic infused veggies, the cakes went great with the spicy sauce served up on the side. For dinner I got the "Winter chicken" sandwich, which I highly recommend with avocado. My boyfriend ordered the "Fat City" burger, only to be pleasantly surprised by the size of the sandwich. This monstrosity is not for the faint hearted. Topped with three meats including the burger itself and whatever cheeses and condiments you adore, one bite and you are glued. If we are ever in the Cleveland area again, we will be coming back. Five stars well deserved.
(5)
Donna K.

Grilled Cheese Mecca. I haven't been to the original location. Yet. My group stopped by the newer of the two after the Browns-Steelers massacre. The wait for 4 was an hour to an hour and a half. Two of us sat at the bar to wait for the other half of our party where I got heckled for my fabulously GOLD Steelers hat. (Oh well, it's not my fault your football team is a joke. Some Clevelanders could take a cue from my beloved Buffalonians; realize that their team sucks and just have fun with it!) We grabbed a drink (I, a Caipirinha; The dining companion, a draft pear cider) and just ended up eating at the bar which is probably why we had such a great time. Our neighbor to the left was a riot, as she enjoyed her last evening of family-free sanity. Anyway, on to the food. The french fries on my plate disappeared with a quickness. They were probably some of the best fries I've ever had. Definitely blanched in mass quantities and then cooked to order right before your plate is sent out. Fabulous. I got the spinach pie, with bacon. mmmmmm Adding bacon is always a smart move. My dining companions tried the monthly special (a paprikash concoction), the Tokyo Tuna and the Winter Chicken. I didn't hear any complaints. The paprikash was gonzo, so I took the rest of those fries with the half of my sandwich that I couldn't finish. Next time I'm in town, I'll hit up the original locale prepared with a snack for waiting and great company.
(4)
John C.

Great ambience - lively, active, good looking bar seating. Very nice service. Overly greasy food. My gallbladder had to work over time for this meal. It seemed like a college rugby frat designed the menu.
(3)
Randy T.

Melt is the place in Cleveland for solid bar food. It's amazing how many different things can go into a grilled cheese sandwich. The portions are very large - I've gone several times with friends and have never seen someone not take part of the Godfather sandwich (lasagna on a grilled cheese sandwich) home. Every sandwich comes with a heaping portion of fries, which are very well seasoned and my favorite fries in Cleveland, and coleslaw, which tends to be lighter than coleslaw served at other restaurants. My favorite sandwiches are the chorizo and potato and the blackened chicken sandwich. There are also very creative "sandwiches of the month" which I often wish would be part of the regular menu. Two pieces of advice - go at an off-peak hour, as the wait can be long during normal lunch and dinner hours. And don't expect a salad to be a healthy option - you'll get as much bacon and cheese on your salad as you will get greens.
(4)
Jeff B.

How could anyone not like this place. This is pure craziness on a sandwich that will make you come back for more! On the website they also take suggestions for new sandwiches. The food is incredible and Cleveland is lucky to have someone like Matt Fish to deliver the best Sandwiches hands down!! And if you are feeling crazy you can do the 5lb challenge. Yes that is right 5 pounds of cheese, 14 different cheeses. Plus the dining atmosphere is very cool. Great place well run!! Amazing food. But make sure you are hungry!!!
(5)
Ashley H.

Was told we had an hour and a half wait at 2:30 on a Saturday, no problem we bellied up the bar and ordered 3 of my FAVORITE COCKTAIL EVER, the "Kir Royale". There were 3 of us so this is perfectly acceptable. Another round of drinks later we actually got seated in about 45 minutes. At this point my lightweight mother was feeling no pain and I, the responsible DD had to sit out round 3. Insert sad face here. Anywho, what I love about Melt is that you can make up your own sandwich and they are not rude about it at all. I ordered the mushroom melt and added turkey. It was amazing and so much better than the last sandwich I invented there. Loved every second of it and we had a great waitress. Mom and best friend were quite chatty on the trip home after their 3 drinks of the delightful jesus juice and I was rather annoyed I hadn't brought grandma along to drive. Love it, would go back in a heart beat. Only thing that sucks is parking BRING QUARTERS there are meters everywhere and the bartender told us they are strict on parking.
(5)
Matt J.

First off, get past the wait. It's good food and you're going to have to wait for it. Yes once you get seated you're going to have to wait some more, but that's because everything is made to order and is fresh. The food is totally worth it though and there's an incredible beer selection. If you think it sounds good on the menu it WILL be good. I'm partial to the Hot Italian with banana peppers added in, though you'd be hard pressed to find a bad sandwich.
(5)
Anthony I.

Being from Colorado I had heard of Melt from Man Vs Food and Guy from the travel channel. I ordered a custom sandwich, but also found all the grilled cheese options were amazing. I had a great customer service and awesome food experience. I would recommend it to anyone! Awesome.
(5)
Julie C.

Melt is known to have fantastic sandwiches with a hole-in-the-wall taste. The menu is comprised of multiple themed variations from the classic grilled cheese. The first time I came here, I ordered the Monte Cristo due to my love for the classic Disneyland sandwich. Unfortunately, I was extremely disappointed in how doughy the sandwich was from the overkill of bread and breading. As a result, I was initially disappointed by the restaurant but knew there had to be something more to this place. But after coming back the second time, I was completely sold on Melt. I ordered the summer chicken, which was amazing and completely redeemed the restaurant for me. All of my friends also enjoyed their sandwiches and we had a hard time debating between complete food coma or putting down the second halves of our sandwiches. The bottom line is that the sandwiches here are good and will definitely satisfy most tastes. However, just be sure that you pick the right sandwich for you -- not everything here is going to satisfy everyone. The wait is shorter than they tell you. Case in point, we were told it'd be an hour and we ended up getting seated in 20 minutes. There's also seating at the bar for anyone that's 21 and over. Just be sure to avoid really busy mealtimes by going in relatively earlier or later.
(4)
Tiffany E.

Always great food... my fav drink there is peach cider yummy..
(5)
Amanda G.

I know I'm jumping on the bandwagon here...but this place is awesome. I recently checked out the new location in Cleveland Heights and had an awesome time and an incredible meal. I was prepared for a long wait and was quoted 45 minutes by the hostess, but quickly found a seat at the bar, ordered a delicious drink, and was given a table just a short 10 minutes later! The service was fun and attentive and it was hilarious watching some of the sandwich creations that came out of the kitchen. I personally ordered the monthly special (some sort of delicious roast beef/horseradish/potato monstrosity) and have been craving it ever since -- hopefully they serve it again! Go check out Melt with an open mind and some patience, and you'll have a great time.
(5)
Stefanie D.

This four star rating comes with some warnings/suggestions: The sandwiches here are great, you just have to order the right one. I would recommend sticking with something that is based on deli meat. They also have a good selection of beer and a big bar to occupy you while you wait for a table. This being said, there is a long wait, which seems in part due to non-efficient service and lack of tables (note all the dead space by the bar). My first of two experiences here we had a large group, for which they only had one table to seat us. We had to wait 2 and a half hours for the other party to leave the table before we could sit down. I would recommend coming with a small group of people and then sit and order at the bar.
(4)
Liz P.

Melt Bar and Grilled of Cleveland Heights is top-notch! Took some friends who had never been there recently and they positively raved about it afterwards. They have a huge food menu, and a huge drink menu (with pear cider!) so it's impossible to go wrong. They also have monthly and sometimes weekly specials that are definitely worth a try. They even seem willing to accept substitutions--I've even had the servers suggest some delicious-sounding modifications. I would recommend that you be fully prepared to get a seat at the bar and wait for a table. You can enjoy a beverage (or several) and maybe an appetizer. The bar is full service as well so you can eat there if the wait is too long for you. Bartenders and servers are helpful and cheerful, even late in the evening. The only thing I'm not in love with is the coleslaw, but the sandwich you get is essentially a meal in itself. The fries and appetizers are decent. But I can't say enough good things about the grilled cheese! I'm so glad they brought this place over to the East Side--the short trip makes it that much more delicious.
(5)
Indrany D.

(I have not been to the original Lakewood location.) Arrived at about 10pm on a Wednesday night. The place was packed, but we were seated immediately at the only available table. Our server told us the wait would be an hour for sandwiches, so we ordered beers and the spinach and artichoke dip (on our server's recommendation) while we waited. The spinach and artichoke dip was tasty, and we actually filled up pretty quickly on that. Our sandwiches arrived at about 10:45pm. I'd ordered the "Purple Parma," which is basically an eggplant parm sandwich. My partner ordered the "Lake Erie Monster," which was basically fish and chips on a sandwich. Both sandwiches were pretty much exactly as we wanted and expected. The food wasn't amazing, but it was a good experience. We're excited about this option on the East Side, especially that it's open at 10pm after a long, interstate trip. We've had trouble finding food at this hour in this neighborhood. Also, they have a great beer selection, and I really liked the plastic Halloween and Christmas decor. Edited to add: Have been a few more times. Sat at the bar once, when tables were full, and I highly recommend it. Not worth waiting, especially if you don't have to. Also, not the place to go if you're really really hungry RIGHT NOW. I've taken it down from 4 to 3 stars because... well, I just can't go there all the time. Had to go 3 times in 1 month because of guests and, wow, that was way too much Melt.
(3)
Jackie S.

Like the original location, the food is greasy and cheesy. It never fails that I THINK I can eat the whole sandwich, but rarely make it past the first half. Also like the Lakewood location...be prepared to wait. A long time. A long, long time. Don't walk in when you are already starving, or you will get very frustrated and your stomach may begin to digest itself. Go a little bit BEFORE you are hungry, so you are "just right" when you finally get to your table. :) In other words, plan ahead. Don't just drop in and expect to get a table. Now, if you are willing to be flexible...both the bar AND the long counter against the far wall are first-come, first-served. I put my name in, then watch like an eagle for seats to open at one of those places. Usually gets me a seat within 30 minutes instead of 1.5 hours. I've tried the parmageddon (pierogies and cheese, plus vodka slaw), but would probably not order again since the slaw contained my arch-nemesis...caraway seeds. This trip, I ordered the mushroom melt. Portabellos, caramalized onions and provolone. Really good, but be warned it has a LOT of mushroom flavor. I would have liked it much better with some additional flavor. (I might get the Cleveland Cheesesteak next visit...which is the same, plus flank steak). For those with families...no kids menu is available, but I ordered one Kindergardener and split it among two 5-year olds. Perfect. Planning out my next visit already! :)
(4)
Sophie B.

Whatever it is, have no fear, It CAN be deep fried. Whole sandwiches in fact, stuffed with cheese, jalapenos, jam, meat, you name it, make the plunge, into the vat of boiling oil. Don't misunderstand - my deep friend spicy blackeyed pea greens and cheese sandwich was really tasty ! Just make sure you wash it down with beer! There is a rather fabulous selection to choose from. Random thought - note to Melt - have you considered biofuels? Shame to waste all of that fryer oil.
(3)
Jennifer S.

Well, we went opening night, and it was crazy. We put our names on the list and we were told that it would be a four hour wait. It ended up being a 2 hour wait. So, that isn't too bad. My complaints is that they were not utilizing their space properly. They had more than enough space to wait, as in, it was bigger than the section for tables. After that, the bar was huge. There just was not a lot of seating. They could definately have added at least 5-8 more tables for guests and still had enough space for those waiting for a table. The food is good, we waited maybe 20-30 minutes for our food to come out. The food was tasty. We picked out the Hot Italian and a burger with muenster cheese. Both were good. Came with plenty of fries and slaw. We definately came home with leftovers!
(4)
Anne N.

This was my first Melt experience - I'd never visited the Lakewood location but have heard good things. We were told initially the wait was an hour and 45 min, which seemed ridiculous, but were told we could sit at the bar and be served immediately. Upon finding seating, we order a beer, appetizers, and sandwiches. The beer selection was great and arrived in an extremely timely fashion. The appetizers came shortly after and relatively timely. Among our group of 3, one ordered chili, another ordered the tomato soup, and the spinach artichoke dip was shared. Everyone seemed pleased with all three items. I was especially impressed with the spin dip because it seemed like a fresh take on a cliche menu item. It was a bit thicker and had a more intense cheese flavor. Although "dip" is used loosely because of the thickness. We ordered three separate sandwiches. All 3 of us were pleased and only finished 1/2. I ordered the "Hot Italian" and would recommend it to anyone that likes a regular Italian sandwich, although it was pretty basic. Unfortunately the real issue came with waiting for at least an hour and a half for our sandwiches. My issue is not that of impatience; it's more of an issue of lack of resources. The bar and dining room were full but people weren't busting at the seams. This indicates to me the kitchen is unable to accommodate the seating capacity of the restaurant - and this seems like a pretty huge restaurant mistake. But it's new and working out kinks I'm sure. It's a hip place for young people that I think would be super fun for happy hour. The decor is funky and likable. So I'll give them the benefit of the doubt, but I'm not in a hurry to go back.
(3)
Amelia D.

I have a serious Love/Hate relationship with Melt. My first 3x that I ate (or attempted to eat) at Melt were awful. 2 hour waits on a weekday evening or mid afternoon and then cold food. However, I recently moved within a 5 minute walk to this particular location, so we've been eating here a lot more. We usually get take out or walk over, put our name in, walk home and then come back an hour or so later closer to the time that our table will be ready. The food, in my opinion, is hit and miss. Some of the sandwiches are amazing and others are things that I could make at home and have them taste way better. I do love that they have a vegetarian option for most of the sandwiches on the menu. I don't love that this place is a grilled cheese place and that you get very little cheese on your sandwich. I also am not especially fond of how greasy their bread is or that fact that I never seem to get pickles with any of my sandwiches. I will continue to eat Melt on occasion, when there is a special sandwich that I'm interested in or have a friend in town who is dying to go. Aside from that, there are plenty of other local places that make considerably more amazing food with a significantly shorter wait time... and plenty of pickles.
(3)
M W.

Best chicken sandwich I have ever eaten. Great fries. Nice atmosphere.
(5)
Margaret V.

Went into the Cleveland Heights location last night. The evening started out well enough but shortly after we placed our order at the bar it started to go downhill. Our server became less and less attentive to us but did manage to pay lots of attention to the patrons on either side of us, to the point where we would ask him for something and he would proceed to do something for them and then do some busy work before he got around to us again, usually forgetting altogether what we had asked him for. The final straw was when he took our credit cards to cash us out then set them down on the other side of the bar where we could no longer see them and proceeded to make drinks and do busy work cleaning up the bar for at least 10 minutes before another bartender saw our cards, ran them and brought them back to us. The worst part is that when we spoke to the manager about this her only response was "sorry that happened, I'll have to talk to him." I've had excellent service here before and this was just such atrocious service from Caspian and Jen that I'll reconsider the next time I think about eating at Melt.
(1)
Ann N.

The food is great. The service is always wonderful. It might take a while to get a table, but it is well worth the wait.
(5)
J H.

Yes, the food is big tasty and messy and the beers are plenty. Yes, I ate like a pig. Yes, I fell in love (lust) with a punker girl half my age who works there. it wasn't busy when I was there at 5pm on a Thursday and i shot the shit with many of the workers there, who were all sweet as the raspberry sauce that came with my Big Popper sandwich. `Nuff said suckahs! if you are near this place forgo the local Whole Foods and Panera and come get some!
(4)
Tim C.

Nothing to rave about..... Nice environment and food was OK, but not up to all the hype. Especially for the price.
(3)
Craig L.

I loved the west side location of Melt, but I live on the east side. I was very happy when they finally opened a location on the east side of town. Any review that talks about how long you have to wait should be ignored. Yes, we know that the place is popular and has a very long wait. Work with it, or don't bother coming. My choice is to pick a day to do brunch and show up right at 11 AM when they open. The last time I went, we arrived as they were unlocking the doors and were the second table seated. We had our food by about 11:20 after looking at the menu and getting drinks. You show up at 12:15 you won't get seated for quite some time. You should know this coming in. Enough of that. Melt is exactly what it is supposed to be. Great sandwiches and burgers, great beer selection and a cool atmosphere. The last time I went, I had the breakfast burger, which had cheese, tons of bacon, and a fried egg on top. The fries there are incredible and I only had a taste of the coleslaw because I wanted to eat the other stuff. My wife had the Parmageddon and I have had the Monte Cristo before too. I can't imagine there is a bad thing on the menu. Also, the service has been pretty good and friendly considering how busy they are all the time. Of course since this restaurant has been featured on TV it is bound to get the backlash. Just skip that part of the storyline and enjoy Melt because it delivers exactly what it says it will. Don't punish them because lots of people want to go there.
(4)
Bonnie C.

As a devoted Food Network fan, I was of course beyond excited to see Cleveland make its mark on its shows through its new restaurant Melt. I did my due diligence and read through Yelp reviews so I knew I was in for a killer wait. My friend and I arrived at around 5:15pm on a Wednesday, and had no problem finding a seat at the bar. Others who were waiting for a table had a 30 minute wait. I went with the Monte Cristo, and we hunkered down for a 30+ minute wait on our food (even though the place was barely full!) When the food arrived we were more than ready to chow down, and luckily the portions were HUGE. I pride myself on being able to eat quite a lot and I only ate half the sandwich and maybe half the fries. But to be honest, the sandwich wasn't amazing. They definitely have some creative ideas: the fries are to be dipped in the berry preserves sauce and the bread on the Monte Cristo itself was something like a funnel cake. However, the sandwich dripped grease while I ate, and the bread to cheese/ham ratio erred on the side of too much bread. I am not the healthiest eater, but I felt the sandwich was too heavy. It's artery clogging food at its best, full of fat, grease, and salt. Had I been drunk, this would have been heaven. The fries were good and next time I would opt for the Ultimate Fries and a lighter sandwich. By the time we were done with our meal at 6:30pm, the place was filling up fast and there people were eyeing our bar seats like hawks. There was even a waiting line for the bar seats! All in all, I don't know if it was worth the hype, although I would try it out again, as long as it was at an off-peak time.
(3)
Arpana U.

I went to this Melt yesterday after raves from my sister for quite some time about Melt in general (and recently seeing it on Man v. Food). I had a great time. They told us repeatedly that dine-in was 1 1/2 hours, carry-out was 45 minutes. If you don't want to wait - don't come here, you've been warned. My group found 5 seats at the bar together (on July 4th weekend) where we had an amazing time. The bartenders that were serving us were really nice and helpful. Juan is awesome! He told us about the drink specials and even let us try some Blueberry drink and Lavender Mojito. He was really funny, cute and helpful to Melt newbies. My friend also got Hotel Phuket, cucumber/thai drink, really good. The sandwiches: Oh WOW. If you don't want greasy, fall-out of the bread goodness, then don't go here. It's piled high, cheesy, bad-for-you amazingness. I got the Chorizo&Hash brown, it was AWESOME. (My mom doesn't like chorizo and tried my left over, she loved it.) My friends ordered The Godfather (lasagna sandwich, it was so-so), Big Popper (jalapeno pepper one--awesome, but spicyyy), Parmageddon (pierogis-really good), Summer Chicken (also really good). (Sidenote: At the bar, it took about 35 minutes for our sandwiches to come out) Overall we were very satisfied with our meals, the warning about the wait, the bartending staff, and the cheesy goodness that made up the sandwiches. I'd go back in a heart-beat.
(5)
Al B.

This is grilled cheese heaven with combinations of cheese sandwiches that I've never even thought of. While I didn't have any on my last visit the beer selection is vast and outstanding. if I offer one warning other than being careful not to over eat it would be understand that YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE TO WAIT TO BE SEATED. There aren't a lot of tables and the bar fills up quickly so walking in starving may not be the best idea.
(5)
Jeff D.

Great restaurant, large selection of grilled cheese even vegan grilled cheese. They have loaded fries with regular or vegetarian chili (great twist). The selection of beers is great but most of all the price is not too high. At times the restaurant may have a longer than usual wait because of a smaller dining room, but I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(4)
Vera V.

This is just to chime in with others to say that Melt worked out the kinks of the early days, and while you still do sometimes wait a long time for a table (hey: that's because everyone wants to come here) you no longer wait an unreasonable time after placing your order. The beer list is inspired; the sandwiches are devilishly delicious; the service is extremely patient, flexible, and friendly; and the decor is as fun and kitschy as anyone could wish for. Always great choices for vegetarians. I love that the patrons are so diverse: it's a great cross-section of Cleveland every time. After our first visit, we've never been disappointed, and we are definitely regulars. It ain't health food, but it is definitely delicious and always fun to go.
(5)
Marty D.

The amazing Melt. My goal is to eat everything on the menu assuming I don't clog my arteries first. That said, it would be worth it. I've still got a few to go but I've had the majority of their sandwiches. Let's talk about the wait and just get it out of the way. I've never waited for a table at Melt. What's my secret? Don't go when everyone is The fact is you should expect a wait when you go to a popular place at night. (I once waited 90 minutes for mediocre Olive Garden but that's another story.) My recommendation is to hit it between 2 and 5:30 during the week and before 1 on the weekends. You should at least find a bar seat using this strategy. Second, you can wait awhile for the food. Some days are faster than others. The kitchen is extremely tiny which is why they eliminated the brunch menu. Quite bluntly, the kitchen didn't have the space to do it. It's Melt's biggest flaw but it's not a big deal and neither is meter parking. Get out of the burbs and into the city, folks! :) And if you have to walk a little for a parking spot, well thats good considering the pounds of cheese devoured at Melt. Now, let's focus on drinks. Melt has one of the best beer selections in town. Anytime I see someone drinking a Bud in here, I wanna go over there and slap them. There are too many amazing beers here and they are priced very reasonably. If you want something softer, they a terrific selection of classic soft drinks from Yoohoo to Birch beer and Sasparilla. No reason to stick to plain old Pepsi here. Now, we get to the food and I don't consider Melt gourmet. There are gourmet grilled cheese places in the USA and Melt doesn't stack up to them for the most part. I do think Melt IS creative and it's darn tasty too. My personal favs are the Parmageddon and the Godfather. You also can't go wrong with the specials of the month. The only one that's disappointed me so far is the BBQ Chicken. Melt's fries are great and to those who complain that the slaw is dry, well it's supposed to be! Its not deli coleslaw. The slaw here is Asian vinegar which is meant to cut down on the cheese and the grease. It seems that some people are missing the point of it and are expecting creamy summer slaw which it isn't supposed to be. Melt's bread is yummy and it's one of the most vegan and food allergy friendly places in town. It is hard to ever make it to dessert here but take home the fried twinkies. Your stomach will thank you later. I've always had good service here. I'd like to see a half sandwich/salad option besides the kindergarten on the menu but that's a minor quibble. Melt is a casual fun place and I'd recommend it to even the pickiest of eaters.
(5)
Colin A.

So I've been a longtime fan of this restaurant. However, upon the first visit to my hometown branch of this local spot, I was extremely disappointed. You shouldn't have to wait 2 hrs for a grilled cheese lunch. The family next to me who were on the same time schedule left before they got served after probably waiting close to 3 hrs. (they had a disabled child). The restaurant is designed to have people wait with an enormous bar, ample waiting room, & limited seating. The Lakewood location had similar problems even after expanding. :( They have a great menu, decent beer selection, cute/quirky staff. Sorry owners this isn't how you keep customers coming back for more. I probably won't be returning any time soon.
(2)
C Mack N.

Hype. If you could clear away the kitchen, food and all the ink this would be a Great bar. The list of draft specials is stupendous and the quality of those pours (particularly at happy hour prices) is nearly as good as one can get. However, and this is significant, the kitchen is here to stay, producing some awesome hits and some awful blows but more than anything dire frustration. Apparently, the "Point" of this place is to be a sort of "lifestyle" event as opposed to something resembling traditional restaurant service. The staff is the most ill trained around and you will WAIT for as much as a napkin, not to mention food or drink. Sitting at the bar (precluding family and, specifically, children) is the ONLY option and even then even if the place is all but empty you can expect to wait a good 5 minutes or more for someone to offer to get you a beverage. The only person with both relevant service industry experience coupled with the old fashioned belief that the customer is first and right seems to be some chap with experience in the airline industry - which sorta makes sense, because when I'm at Melt the experience is very much Like being trapped on a jet stranded on the tarmac- if only the government's three hour rule applied here.
(2)
Marianne M.

The food is amazing and addicting. The service is slow but nice and worth the wait. LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!
(5)
J W.

I assumed a place in Cleveland should at least be able to make a grilled cheese sandwich. It seemed like the sort of food that should be simple enough and fit in with the Midwestern traditions. I was very wrong. We got the Hot Italian and the Kindergarten with chedder/provolone and bacon. Both sandwiches were soggy and there was no hint they were ever crispy. Certainly not at all toasted. And honestly, for a place called melt there was very little cheese. The fries were fine and the slaw was okay. The service was responsive, they had a good selection of beers on tap and bottled sodas. The interior was nostalgia kitsch with many local Cleveland references and pictures. But the food was just not good. For a place that specializes in grilled cheese sandwiches, they need to learn to make one. Next time I am in town I'll go to Tommy's, the B Spot or Yours Truly.
(2)
Asim S.

it's soooo good, but so unhealthy...but still sooooo good. service is awesome, ambience is really hipster cool, food comes out fast. It's so unhealthy though...so fatty, and heavy...but so darn good
(4)
Margot H.

Fucking shit customer service. Have very little respect for the customer, as they are so confident with the massive crowds of undiscerning college students. What a joke! Is this supposed to be a "trendy location." Please.
(1)
Kathryn T.

Ever since Melt opened their Cleveland Heights location just up the street from my house, my boyfriend and I have been semi-regulars, typically dining there about once a month. The food is moderately priced (the two of us can typically get a meal for around $20 total, though the fact that we're non-drinkers likely curbs the overall cost of our dining experience) and the portions are extremely generous. We're typically able to make two meals out of what we order and bring our leftovers home to heat up in a skillet or in the oven. Since Melt makes their grilled cheeses on thick, "Texas Toast" style bread, they hold up well to being refrigerated and reheated later on (though I wouldn't recommend hanging on to leftovers for more than a day or so.) Knowing that I can barely make a dent in most of Melt's over-stuffed sandwiches, I often opt for the half combo (a smaller grilled cheese served with a cup of soup and a side salad.) In addition to having some great entrees, Melt also offers a nice selection of appetizers and sides that can be easy to miss out on. Be sure to ask about their soup of the day as they often craft inventive options out of leftover sandwich ingredients (the last time I was there I had a great Dortmunder "ham and cheddar" soup.) There's typically a lengthy wait during peak lunch and dinner hours. Depending on the size or your party, you may be given a wait time of anywhere between one and three hours (I've noticed that they tend to inflate the wait time and occasionally parties find seating at the bar, which is first come first serve, or get fed up and leave, which can shorten the time you spend waiting.) Honestly, I wouldn't recommend dining at Melt with a party larger than four people. Though they do have one very large booth, the restaurant really isn't designed to seat larger parties. It may seem like a fun idea to get a group of friends together for drinks and gourmet grilled cheese, but you'll likely spend several hours waiting only to be grouped together over a constellation of round tables (alternatively, the staff may ask if your party is open to being split up and seated in different areas of the restaurant.) As a duo, my boyfriend and I have had very good luck with short wait times. If there isn't a table for two open, we're typically able to grab seats at the bar within a few minutes of arriving. If you live nearby and don't want to chance a long wait, they do offer carry out. It's worth noting that Melt is vegetarian and vegan friendly and offers a small selection of vegan cheeses, so don't feel like you have to miss out on the experience of dining at Melt if you're a vegetarian or vegan. In addition to having vegan cheese on hand, they also typically offer a vegetarian or vegan alternative to their monthly special. The restaurant has a small metered lot accessible from S. Taylor, but if you want to save your quarters there's free parking on neighboring residential streets (just be prepared to walk a block or two.)
(4)
Michael S.

Their Tokyo Tuna Melt took me on an emotional journey and has remained in my heart ever since. There is probably not anything more that I can say about this place that other people have not, but Melt does grilled cheese better than any other gourmet grilled cheese place I have ever been to. Regardless of the fact that I have not been to an other gourmet grilled cheese place; Melt is special and is a 'must try' for the East Cleveland area.
(4)
Jessica M.

what?! who are you people?? i have never waited at melt. actually, i take that back. i waited for 30 minutes once for a take out order. the hostess was apologetic almost excessively i felt like and gave us a $5 gift certificate for next time. awesome. other than that i have not waited. granted i've always only sat at the bar! which is awesome! because you can see all the beers they have on tap, which is an awesome selection. being vegetarian, i love their vegetarian substitutions. you can also customize everything, make your own sandwich, add things, sides, whatever! i've tried a few of these things here and they have all been good. the eggplant parm thing, the cleveland cheese steak with seitan instead of meat, the jalapeno popper thing. oh man so delicious. greasy, oily, but delicious. they have tofu too! the plates are huge - every sandwich comes with fries and cole slaw. honestly it's too much food, i can barely finish half my sandwich. but that means leftovers! yum. if you are too much of a health nut to eat greasy food, even once in a while, don't come here. i got the tomato soup once, it was kind of too fancy.. it was all chunky with garlic and chives. i would have rather have had just had a campbell's style tomato soup. oh i didn't mention how friendly the people who work here are! one of the bartenders gave us like a 3 minute speech about the menu and how it worked. so helpful! i still don't get the wait thing. sit at the bar!
(4)
Conrad R.

Thanks to the great hype machine from MvF, tourists from near and far are drawn like moths to a flame. This review is waaay longer than usual because we were a table of four and I don't know when I'll be in town again. I'm psyched that this bar offers an impressive variety of craft beers and signature drinks. I just stuck to one: Great Lakes Dortmunder Gold. It's not available back home and I enjoyed...hmm...maybe four+ pints? Just the right thing while lounging in the bar between scenes from Labyrinth (1986 Jennifer Connelly & David Bowie) on TV and chatting before your table is ready. I would be happy to eat at the bar just the same. We started with the Melt Peirogi: two large doughy pockets with creamy potato and cheese filling, topped with a healthy dollop of sour cream, sprinkled with shredded cheese, green onion (but the menu says grilled onion), and "napa vodka kraut". I'm not familiar with nvk, but it was ok...reminded me of chopped, sauteed cabbage in balsamic vinaigrette. A good starter to share. Next was my side salad. I was actually impressed that the "small" bowl had a generous amount of fresh greens accompanied by julienned red peppers, sliced cucumber, and crumbled feta. I'm getting full between the beers, pierogi bites, and the salad. After mulling the possibilities, my final selection is the Municipal Stadium Magic. I originally wanted to try a Polish po boy while I was in town, but ran out of time (I'm hoping hoping hoping to make at least one final stop before my airline flight). The bratwurst in my sammy was dee-lish along with the blend of nvk, peppers, and smooth melty cheese between the signature thick slices of buttery, grilled bread. So my cousins ordered extra fries instead of the cole slaw. I enjoy the texture and crunch that cabbage adds, but my slaw was dry (meh!) and the small scoop seemed more like a garnish, overshadowed by the massive breadwich and heap o' fries. Two of the cousins talk about trying something different on the menu, but they always order the same: Melt Burger & Fat City Burger. Both looked meaty and delicious. My other cousin tried something different: BBQ Chicken. She didn't care much for the sweet BBQ sauce. She said it tasted like BBQ potato chips. I took a bite and agreed that the sauce seemed similar to bottled KC Masterpiece from the grocery store. Our waitress was friendly and came by several times to check on us for drink refills. No room for dessert this time, but I hear they're pretty good too. This moth would gladly return if the opportunity presented itself.
(4)
Hannah D.

It lived up to the hype for me. I had heard horror stories about long waits and the food being overrated, blah, blah, blah...whatever. I thought it was very good and would love to go back again. You should try it at least once to decide for yourself if you like it. We sat at the bar (there are plenty of seats) and our food came out in a reasonable amount of time. I had the Northcoast Shores grilled cheese (handmade crab cakes, wilted garlic spinach, roasted red pepper, herbed cream cheese). It was super yum, and I was so full by the end I couldn't finish it. Decent number of beers on tap if that is your jam. I'm a big cider fan and loved that they had Wyder's Pear Cider on draft. We were able to snag street parking out front but I think there is a one hour limit, so be careful of that. There was a lot in the back but it was totally full when we got there. I think there is street parking on some of the side streets in that neighborhood.
(4)
Kristin H.

Melt is soooo good! The place is always super busy and a little noisy inside, so we usually order our food for carry out. I try to get a different sandwich every time I'm there, but my husband is loyal to his favorite, which is called "the dude abides". His is basically a meatball sandwich with mozzarella sticks and marinara sauce - really good. My favorite that I've ever ordered is called "new bomb turkey" which basically tastes like thanksgiving on a sandwich. Delicious! I really don't know if you can go wrong with anything here. Everything I've had has been sooo good. I've tasted the Parma, Italy; the cleveland cheese steak; the curry chicken melt; and the peanut butter banana. The portions are huge, and I usually save the other half of the sandwich for later. If I heat it in the toaster oven, it tastes just as good as the first time. If you live close, I recommend getting carry out so you don't have to wait so long to taste the deliciousness!
(5)
Scott M.

This was our first time at Melt (or any grilled cheese restaurant). It was fairly busy mid-day, with patrons waiting an hour for tables but we went right to the bar for seating. We ordered the Cuban and Chorizo grilled cheese sandwiches and thoroughly enjoyed both. The fries were delicious too - I loaded vinegar, hot sauce and salt on mine. Several hours later and we're still massively full and will gladly return another time. I took a star off for being a bit under-staffed but we were happy with the experience in any case!
(4)
Jeff T.

Why not, I'm making Melt my 50th review. I'm still a little hung over from the weekend and was going through reviews and finding new friends when I noticed Melt and thought to my self, that sounds pretty damn good right now. I also suggest reading the other reviews, these people on Yelp know what they are talking about. Only things that rubbed me the wrong way about Melt and by no means will this prevent me from going back were the following. 1) Wait (service)-Gotcha, but when the first thing that the hostess says is that it will be more then an hour just so you know, instead of hi, welcome to Melt, that kind of bothered me. Did get a spot at the bar in 45 minutes and waited another 45 for food. No biggie, already forgotten. 2) Food - Food was good to really good. I went with the special of the month. One of the pieces of bread was the ass end of the loaf and didn't over up my sandwich, not to mention they cut it extremely thick which made it a little chewy. Really was hoping for some Au Jus but didn't get it. We also ordered Ahi Tuna app that never even came out to the bar, this left us a little pissy too. They didn't charge, no biggie. 3) Checking out- We waited another 20 minutes or so for our check. We were trying to make room for other people but no go, once again we were left waiting. Like I said before, these are the only things that p'd me off but I have the patience of a Saint so I'll go back especially for the spicy cole slaw, that was a nice surprise. I'll probably go with the Monte next time or the straight up grilled cheese. Solid 4 stars, must try, I know the owners read all the reviews they find online, I just hope they follow through and your experience is a little better then mine.
(4)
Jonathan G.

This here is my favorite MELT. Fantastic beer selection and the food is fabulous. The staff is friendly. Sad that the Lake Erie Monster is no longer Walleye but it's still a great sammich. Be sure to try the amazing fried Mac-n-cheese sandwich in December. Mmm.
(5)
Christina K.

We went here for dinner, ending our Cleveland adventure. I saw the place on Man V Food and it was definitely on my list. They have a good amount of vegetarian options, and I really had a hard time choosing. Ultimately, I chose between the eggplant sandwich and the mushroom melt and ended up with the mushroom melt. So yummy!! Caramelized onions make ANYTHING and it certainly was awesome on this sandwich. It was like french onion soup on bread. YUM. The fries, I wasn't so keen on - yes they were hand cut and fresh and crunchy, but they weren't super flavorful. Could have used a frying in either tastier oil or a seasoning. The coleslaw is vinegar based, which is a welcome addition to the fatty cheesyness that is their sandwiches. I'd love to return and try the eggplant one, the spinach one, or the jalapeno one, but the plates are HUGE. I only ate half, and that was good enough for me. My coworker had the half regular grilled cheese, salad, and cup of tomato, which looked like a much better portion. I would totally recommend that Melt make half specialty sandwiches (not just the regular) with a soup/salad. That would be AWESOME. Otherwise, I just need a friend to come and split everything with me. Oh yeah, and also the tomato soup was reaaally salty. Flavorful, but salty - Melt, please cut the salt. PS the wait was supposed to be an hour and a half for a table, but luckily we found room at the bar. By 8, the place had pretty much emptied out. Most plates are around $8 which is soo cheap. Cleveland, your food is so cheap!!
(4)
Jack C.

I've been a vegetarian for years, and never have I encountered more accurate, inventive, and delicious meat-substitutes as I have at Melt. I've tried upwards of ten different menu items and have enthusiastically enjoyed each one - to my knowledge, my omnivorous peers have been equally positive about their experiences. The portions are huge, the environment is fun, and the cuisine is unique. Literally the only negative comment I can conjure up is that the wait for a table can get really, really long, but, if anything, this attests to the quality of Melt's product and the restaurant's iconic status within the community.
(5)
Robert F.

A must stop when in Cleveland. Amazingly large selection of grilled sandwiches and micro brewed beer. I had a spicy chicken sandwich with avocado on it and it was simply awesome.
(5)
Jerry A.

I went to this place for the first time with my son for dinner. I had the Cuban sandwich. It was huge and it was good food. The coleslaw was also excellent and so where the fries. My son on the other hand and that of just getting a plain burger. Although he's not very picky he does not like a lot of cheese in his sandwiches.
(4)
Jarrett H.

On a recent day-trip to the Cleve, my girlfriend and I were told that we should stop in Melt - a place which exclusively serves variations on the Grilled cheese - before our show since it was in the area. I read up a little bit(Already having been sold on the idea) and decided it was a must. So we finally show up at Melt, and the first bit of quirk we find is that instead of taking your name, they assign you a name on a nametag. I received the honor of waiting as Elvis. Tom Selek and King Tut sat on either side of me as we buckled in for the one-hour wait. Now, don't be fool here - yes, the wait is long, but that belies the nature of this place. Melt has three times as much bar seating as it does table seating. Hungry? Saddle up. We could have grabbed seats at the bar within 5 minutes of our arrival - but since we grabbed a quick snack on the way up we decided that the hour would give us time to make room and grabbed beers instead. By the way, the selection here is great. Local and favorite crafts, a couple being rarities. After about 50 minutes we were seated - the menus handed to us were printed on the backs of album covers. I got disco-pop superheros The Bee Gees while my girlfriend received contest-television star Paula Abdul. Everything on the menu sounds heavenly, with about 5-10 appetizer selections and 20-30 sandwich selections, it is fairly overwhelming. Having mental overload, I decided to play it safe and go with Yelp's favorite, the Monty Cristo. My better half chose the Parmageddon - being from Pittsburgh, we are suckers. Our eyes had originally caught the pierogies and the ultimate fries appetizers - but she got pierogies on her sandwich and you could upgrade the fries that came with your meal for $2.50, so we passed on appetizers. -- By the way, you can sub any cheese you get for their list of about 10, or add, or swap for vegan options. Thankfully so, because you get a massive amount of food at this place. These sandwiches are stacked high, and everything else is piled on to the place. There is no negative space on this presentation - fries, cole slaw, and sandwich overwhelmingly take over the plate. My sandwich arrived deep fried in a copious amount of batter and sprinkled in powdered sugar. It tasted like half funnel cake, half delicious grilled cheese - magnificent I thought, but next time I could go without the sweetness for a more savory choice(Not to say it wasn't savory at all - it was a good mix). The fries, cole slaw and parmageddon shine due to one thing in my eyes - an uninhibited use of an underutilized spice - black pepper! There is a monstrous amount used in this place, it permeates just about anything it can. It's a flavor I really enjoy, especially with the saltiness of cheese. This cole slaw was also very good on it's own - while I usually like creamy cole slaw more, this was sweet and very good. At the end of the meal, neither of us had finished more than half of our plate. Our takeout boxes had to have weighed a pound each. We made a pretty big dent in my ultimate fries but hers were almost entirely untouched. The total bill(Minus our beer) was less than $25. Why not five-stars? I feel like the service is a bit too laid back. Multiple times I saw food sitting up on the counter for a few minutes before it got picked up, which when food is being fried or grilled so heavily, those seconds can be precious. Also, I saw many parties leave and their tabled remained empty for up to 10 minutes before they were cleaned and re-used. In a place with probably a 2 hour wait period(When I left, I saw people I was waiting with still waiting - there are only about 15 tables) those tables should be cleared and re-seated in minutes. I saw a lot of takeout orders go out, as well. Bottom line, this place is awesome. If you don't like long waits, feel free to sit at the bar, there is plenty of room. If you have a big group, maybe order takeout - I saw a girl leave with 9 sandwiches to go. But it is definitely delicious.
(4)
Tuesday's S.

4.5 stars. In from out of town, and so in true gluttony (no, we didn't finish it all, and didn't even try), we ordered the Monte Cristo, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, and Dude Abides. The Monte Cristo was fantastic. A little greasy, with oozy cheese, and a delightful raspberry jam. It will probably be the best Monte Cristo you'll ever have. Nothing wrong with a deep fried deli sandwich dusted with sugar! The Buffalo Chicken Sandwich was the sleeper hit. We figured it would just be a nice counterpoint to the evening, and it truly was. the slaw on top was fresh, zesty and just made the sandwich. Unfortunately, we're both not huge blue cheese fans, so we should have tried to substitute the cheese. Once we hit the heavy blue cheese in the sandwich, we lost momentum and had to abandon the effort. The Dude Abides is a meatball and mozzarella sticks on a garlic bready bread, with marinara sauce. It was good, and certainly gluttonous, but its flavors didn't really hit a high note at any point. It was tasty, but heavy, and probably not what I'd choose for a whole sandwich unless I had a lot more marinara to dip it in. The fries with the sandwiches are terrific and offer a nice break from the grilled cheese monotony. I'm eager to return to try some of the other seemingly delicious combos.
(4)
Boon K.

The sandwiches are huge and there is so many to select from and if that doesn't appeal to you, there is whole other list and you can create your own. I wanted to try to their creation and waitress recommended the Mushroom Melt and their special the reuben. I love the bread and it was buttery, crispy, and just like a texas toast. The mushroom were good but after the 3 bit the onion got to sweet for me. I moved on to the Reuben and it was really good not the best I have had but the bread was the best part. The fries are good and I was not a fan of the cole slaw, kinda bland. The girl scout chocolate mint breading pudding was really good. I like the idea of the place but my artery was not so happy and I felt full until Lunch the next day.
(3)
Renee H.

Loooove Melt! The food's always fantastic (in an amazingly gluttonous way). I usually swap out fries for a salad. Good luck to ya if you want to sit at a table or have more than 2-3 people. The place is tiny but the bar seats alternate fairly quickly. You park across the street by the dollar store but there's always plenty of it. Love it.
(5)
Ace S.

Busy---but love the first come-first served "wall bar" option. Excellent beer selection too. I don't get the hype on this place tho...it's the food that makes us fat-assed and lazy. That said, I like "fat-ass" food from time to time and if you do too, Melt fits the bill. Portions are very generous - buy one meal and share it with your dining partner.
(3)
LaVerne G.

I love this place too. I went here on a date with a friend. Since then I've been back several time. I've introduce two people to Melt's and they like it too.
(4)
Lynn S.

I loved the big popper
(5)
Jonathan C.

Good Sandwich place. I had the Oct. special: Meatloaf with mashed potatoes (on bread as a melt, of course). Friendly bartender. Nice beer selection. Fries are so-so. I would recommend it to anyone. I wish they would have the 13 cheese sandwich in the 5 lb challenge on a smaller scale just to try it! In terms of the wait, go alone and sit at the bar!
(3)
Evan B.

Great sandwiches, great beer selection.
(4)
J. H.

Gamechanger. 'Nuff said.
(4)
Teenie K.

Melt perfectly exemplifies when something falls short of expectations that begin and only continue to rise as the wait gets longer. For one thing, Clevelanders, it is a grilled cheese sandwich. Not a ride at an amusement park. Not Missoni at Target. I would consider myself a being of reasonable patience, but sitting in Melt for 3 hours waiting on said grilled cheese sandwich greatly tests the limits of my threshold for hunger. Probably in the 4th hour, a little after 9 pm, the sandwich appears. It is thick and looks unhealthy. I ate it. As you can see, it was not very memorable. Come to me, and in under 600 seconds I will make you a grilled cheese sandwich.
(2)
Martin S.

I have been to both locations. I prefer the one in Cleveland heights, as the wait time at the West side location was just ridiculous...also they did not have half of the on-tap beers in stock. The one in Cleveland Heights has always been a good experience though. They have an amazing beer selection, but you're obviously going to go here for the sandwiches and secondarily the beer. I can recommend the Parmageddon and the BBQ chicken. My friend ordered the monster grilled cheese, the entire thing is deep fried..it is delicious, but I recommend popping a Lipitor while you are eating this heart stopper. Overall, this is very trendy sandwich bar, that could do with a little better customer service.
(3)
Will W.

Ahhh Melt. When I first moved to Cleveland I had to check out the DDD episode with it just to see what I was getting myself into. My first trip about a year ago was not so great as I had a small meal before meeting up with friends there on the spur of the moment. Going to Melt is all about planning. Now, the wife and I will decide on the sandwich we want and only order one. This is key. I have tried many times to finish a whole one on my own, and have failed miserably each time. SHARE. We also order the house salad with house dressing. I was really impressed by it the first time I ordered it, and have gotten it each time since. The tangy bleu cheese and the sweetness of the dressing, really make for a unique salad that I wish I could replicate at home. We usually try different craft sodas when we go and have not come away disappointed. The ambiance is great, typical bar, but they always have on great TV channels ranging from sports, to Boomerang and Cartoon Network. If there was one aspect that I would choose to be a little disappointed with, it would be the service. We've never had a truly terrible server, but usually things just seem a little hectic. Trying to flag someone down for a refill or condiment can be a challenge at times. That being said, going to Melt is definitely an experience that everyone should have! I recommend it!
(4)
David T.

Melt certainly made my experience in Cleveland very memorable. In fact, I celebrated my 20th birthday there! The menu is unique and the place is buzzing with people. The sandwiches are totally awesome - however, the best part really is having a sweet drink menu. There is a huge selection of not only beers but ROOT beers. It really doesn't get much better than a greasy grilled sandwich + a delicious 'boutique root beer'. If you're not from the area, you should definitely check this place out! The murals here are cool too but I think I prefer the Lakewood location.
(4)
Stephanie M.

I've lived in Cleveland now for almost 6 years and it's taken me this long to visit Melt. Actually that's not entirely true. Twice now I've attempted to go but due to insanely long waits and random closures (Yes, I went to take a friend there it and was closed - for a vacation for the employees), I've yet to enjoy. However a few weeks ago my roommate to me for my birthday. We went early, as to ensure we would not have to wait in the ridiculous line, and were seated right away. Our server, whose name I wish I could remember, was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. He made recommendations for me, the first timer, and made sure we had adequate time to decide between the delicious sandwiches. He was a really great server. I went with the "Dude Abides" and my roommate the special of the month. Both sandwiches were enormous, with meat/cheese/sauce pouring out the sides. They were fantastic! Seriously, super delicious. So if you haven't tried Melt yet, I suggest you do.
(4)
Alexa H.

This place gets 5 stars because my boyfriend and I fantasized about eating the other halves of our sandwiches for approximately 7 hours--the duration of the drive from Cleveland to NJ. We were thinking about finishing our leftover sandwiches because these delicious things are so large, I cannot imagine eating one in a while sitting. Plus the giant pile of fries and slaw also on the plate. I had a Parmageddon because really, how can you pass up pierogies in a sandwich? I was rewarded and the kraut was not super-fermented, which I enjoyed. The boyfriend had a Might Macaroni as part of the Christmas in July celebration. He really lucked out, as this is usually a sandwich served only in December. Deep fried macaroni & cheese plus cheese between two fantastic slices of bread. He added roasted garlic which can only improve things. To top things off, the kind gentleman at a nearby table sent us a plate of fried Twinkies at the end of the meal. Magically light for something deep-fried and filled with the kindness of strangers. I would go back to Melt in a heartbeat. If only it was not 7 hours away!
(5)
Joshua N.

This place is pretty good! I like the variety of grilled cheese sandwiches available. Any grilled cheese aficionado will get a little weak in the knees at the possibilities. Although I enjoyed it, I still enjoy throwing a few slices of wheat onto a pan with some American cheese and doing it myself from time to time. It is definitely worth a try, and after consuming a few pounds of cheese you can come to your own conclusions!
(3)
T R.

Greasy, heavy, not a fan
(1)
Omid T.

What do you think of when you watch an episode of Man v Food. Stomach ache? Well the thought of eating a fancy grilled cheese does sound. This brings me back to the memories I had when I was little kid and my sophistication was very limited to a basic grilled cheese. I want to thank to Man v Food for the long wait, actually I'm one of those non locals that normally cause the JAM around here. I walked in and noticed the bar takes up half of this place and the dining area took up another half. No wonder there is always a wait here!!! I sat at the Bar for an hour and the place had a HIPSTER feel for Cleveland standards. The bartender was very attentive considering the crowd and prices for their beers were very reasonable with most of the beers running at $4. They had a very big drink list with a variety of craft beers and imports. I decided on New Hollad Ichabod. That HIT THE SPOT!!! I looked at the Menu and stared at the Melt challenge. You basically have to devour over 5lbs of food that includes 13 different cheeses, 3 slices of grilled bread and a pile of hand-cut fries & slaw WITHOUT ANY RESTROOM BREAKS. I passed. I split the Monte Cristo ($10) and THE Cleveland cheese steak ($11.50). When they served it up it was a lot bigger than I imagined it to be. The bread slices are almost 2 inches thick and there is a LOT of melted cheese (you have plenty to choose from)!!! For my taste, the cheese was a little too overpowering and there was too much bread. I have a big appetite and I couldn't even finish the meal. I felt like such a sissy!!! Would I come back? Yes but I would be more cautious on what I order. There is TOO MUCH cheese and bread for my taste, but I like the service, the crowd, and the alcohol selection.
(4)
M. A.

Great for vegans because they have a vegan cheese option--and it's good, too! Very rare and welcome. Most of their meat sandwiches can be made vegetarian--they use well-prepaired seitan (wheat gluten) instead of the meat. Not so good for gluten-free... too bad. They could offer a gluten-free bread choice. They do at least let you bring your own gluten-free bread for them to use, but that seems like a halfway solution. The food is very good, but I only go occasionally when I'm really hungry! It's terrible for you! Lots of carbs, lots of fat. I love it! But not all the time. Maybe they have healthy options, but that's not why I go to Melt. I go for huge greasy vegetarian sandwiches and great seasoned fries. They lose a star because the wait can be surprisingly long, and because you sometimes get packed in elbow-to-elbow with strangers, and because parking is very limited, and requires quarters. Go at off hours to avoid these problems. I have not had a problem once seated: service has been fine.
(4)
Fran H.

Don't expect to finish a whole sandwich there, unless you want a serious food coma the next few hours. The West Side Monte Cristo is deep fried, ham and cheese goodness. The Peanut Butter and Banana with sweet cream cheese is probably my favorite, and it's good for the vegetarians! Watch out for long waits, especially on weekends (a 2hr + wait is not uncommon).
(4)
Kimberly S.

So many melt choices! Love the fun kitchy atmosphere, huge portions, and delicious food.
(4)
Jon O.

Had dinner here on Friday night. I had the special sandwich vegan style (chicken, avocado, pineapple, vegan cheese) and added pineapple. Our nephew had the same only vegetarian instead of vegan and the husband had a kindergarten sandwich. We all had a sierra nevada hop hunter which is delicious. The nephew had the vegetable side (corn with chipotles) and it was great! All of us loved the sandwiches and we actually almost finished them. I may not eat again for a month. We sat at the bar so that we didn't have to wait for a table and the service was great!
(4)
Maria M.

If you live in the Northeast Ohio area, you know there isn't a lot of unique places to eat. Melt has always been everyones go-to place. It gets really loud, and sometimes seating is too-close-for-comfort. The food is hit-or-miss, but I still believe it remains to be quality. The first time, get something you know you're going to like. The best part for me is the vegan and vegetarian options. Hard to find in NEOhio. The vegan wings are SOOOO good.
(4)
Rob F.

I was excited to try this because I had seen the original location on Man vs. Food. Boy was I disappointed as was my wife. To say the food is disgusting doesn't even begin to describe the grease soaked POS on a plate I was served. My wife was sick all night after eating her food. I must have a cast iron stomach because I was fine. Since moving to Cleveland this has been my biggest culinary disappointment. This chain was on the wrong TV show, it should have been on Kitchen Nightmares.
(1)
Rachel S.

I really like the bar here. Their cocktails are fabulous. I also enjoy the buffalo chicken chowder (comes with goldfish!) and their versions of poutine. The salads are ok but they suffer from the same dilemma as the sandwiches, which brings me to my confession: I don't like their sandwiches! It's not that they're bad, necessarily, it's just the whole "here's a shit-ton of food piled up look how big it is!" thing. I'd rather have a grilled cheese in which each ingredient was equally important and meant to be tasted. The bread is also on the too-thick side here, it can cut up the roof of your mouth if you're not careful. But the concept is still cool and worth trying, it might be more your thing than it is mine!
(3)
Adrian H.

HUGE portions. The Mac and cheese bites are ah-mazing. Had the turkey club, and it's lasted me for three meals. The Rosemary aioli is fantastic. Beer selection is top notch. Service was also awesome.
(5)
Stephanie B.

I have had my fair share of grilled cheese sandwiches. I have been to a few grilled cheese only restaurants. That being said, this was by FAR my best experience all the way around. The Food: I had the Mac & Cheese bites for my appetizer. First, there is nothing "bite" size about them. They were huge! I could have had those as just my meal and been perfectly full. Oh and did I mention that they were also completely delicious! For my sandwich I chose the Backyard BBQ with chicken. The sandwich and fries came out and had filed the plate out in all directions! The sandwich itself was at least 3" tall. The onion rings on the inside made an extra crunch that was delightful. The Service: While our gentleman server didn't quite understand the time constraints an infant at the table provides, all the interactions were pleasant and prompt. Nothing to complain about. He earned his 20%. The Atmosphere: Ok, I have been to many a dive joint and while some of the decor was kooky nothing distracted me (could've been I was also to entertained by my small child as well). Overall: an absolute MUST if you are in Cleveland!
(5)
Laurie W.

This place serves massive sized grilled cheese sandwiches. It has been featured on Food Network numerous times. They cater to vegans and vegetarians and have a loyalty program if you get a tattoo with their logo. As much as I love this place, I don't think I could commit with permanent ink if I lived in Cleveland, but to each their own. Since I live in Los Angeles, I have limited access to pierogies. So, I usually order the Parmageddon, but I get it without the kraut and request balsamic grilled onions. Most of the time, I just end up eating the pierogies. Don't get me wrong. The sandwich is delicious, but it's massive. If I could make one suggestion it would be to slice the bread thinner because it's super thick. The fries are pretty average. They make all of their sauces, so sometimes I get a side of their ranch. Overall, this is a great place for some unique grilled cheese sandwiches!
(4)
Bill B.

Stopped here one of our most recent road trips - spreading the word about locally-owned businesses. Though it was only a Tuesday they had a heavy lunch rush. Regardless, we sat immediately. Our co-founder ordered the Fried Green Tomato BLT (fried green tomatoes, seared pork belly, southern herb remoulade, romaine lettuce, cheddar). Our server was excellent and seemed to know menu items well and what the customer favorites are. If you haven't seen them on Man vs. Food, be prepared because portions are huge. If we're ever back in the CLE area we will stop back in, because locally-owned restaurants return two times more money to the local economy than national chains.
(4)
Michelle S.

I have never been disappointed. The sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and the service is excellent even on busy days. They have a seasonal menu and an option to build your own sandwich. Anything I have ever had has been excellent. It can get very busy at times and there is a wait for a table, but I can usually get a seat at the bar.
(5)
Lin H.

Wow. I'm not going to even waste typing energy to write a detailed review. Everyone else has pretty much covered why this place is so great, and I agree wholeheartedly. I can't believe it took me so long to even bother coming out to try it out. I'VE WASTED SO MUCH TIME NOT EATING HERE UNTIL NOW!!
(5)
Alyssa G.

Do I crave Melt, no. But do I always suggest taking out of towners here, yes. It is the Cleveland staple. It has a cool atmosphere, fun staff, great beers on tap and something for everyone on the menu. I just don't love it and can never finish my meal and never find myself wanting my leftovers. I have tried many sandwiches here, even soups and salads. None are bad, but my favorite has been this shrimp one. (I just tried to find the name of it on the menu and I couldn't. I hope they didn't get rid of it!) It has sauteed shrimp, with cheese of course, a type of lettuce/slaw and a sauce that really pulls it all together. It is really good and the shrimp is cooked very well. Their fries are delicious and I love their coleslaw but you will never be able to finish your meal. But if you can, high five! I have also been here for brunch once, for the state I was in it was way to heavy! At 11 AM I did not want eggs inside two huge thick pieces of toast and french fries, but their bloody mary's were spot on! Delicious! Would go back and have them any time, not just for brunch. I would give it another shot if I wanted more of a lunch than a breakfast. I say check it out. You will not be disappointed, your meal will be hot and fresh, you just won't talk about it after you leave. You'll have a good time and leave very full!
(3)
Natalie P.

Cuban War Pig, The Dude Abides, Godfather. These are modern classics. Opening on a plate near you. Melt never fails to make me wish I hadn't driven myself there, so that I could just happily doze off in the back seat after stuffing my stomach to maximum capacity (and then some). While I have yet to achieve the greatest feat of all, and that is to finish my Melt sandwich in one sitting, I would not recommend it, nor do I think it is wise. Melt is one of those rare establishments, whose food is just as good the next day. These sandwiches are beasts of flavor that make bold statements both to your eyes and to your belly. I think they do a surprisingly good job of actually making the sandwiches feel and taste like sandwiches and yet also like the meal that is being stuffed into them. For example, with the Godfather, I feel like I'm enjoying a wonderful lasagna, and yet I also am enjoying an explosion of a sandwich. It's so tricky and so marvelous. Cuban War Pig is sweet and tangy and just sooo saucy, you'll need lots of napkins! The Dude Abides is cozy and very satisfying. It tastes like homemade meatballs, and yet so much better. It makes me feel like I've known those meatballs my whole life lol. Since Melt is so amazing, expect long wait times. My best advice is to call ahead with your order and pick up your food to go. These beauties should probably be enjoyed on your couch with a pair of large sweatpants. Enjoy!
(5)
Katy S.

I love Melt. No trip to Cleveland is complete for me without enjoying a gooey grilled cheese and a craft beer. I've been here a handful of times. It is filling and over the top, but I just love it. My favorite is the Fried Green Tomato BLT. It is always a welcome treat. I love the fries with malt vinegar (seasoned to perfection). The service is always quite good and they have a great selection of beer. If I lived in Cleveland I would probably be here all the time!
(5)
Sharon F.

Who would have thought such a simple concept would be such a hit, grilled cheese sandwiches!!! Well I am a fan of MELT and let me say it's simply awesome. I use to go to the original one in Lakewood until Matt opened one in Cleveland Heights. I will be honest, I don't care what you get here, it's all good! One day I ordered a balsamic mushroom and onion grilled cheese sandwich with green bean soup and I though I was in heaven. Another plus is that this place has perfected french fries. The atmosphere is cool and laid back. I can't say anything but great things about MELT restaurants. If your in Cleveland or Columbus go to MELT, you won't be disappointed.
(4)
Apurva S.

Tried the tofu wings with the spicy buffalo sauce which were as non spicy as anything gets...the godfather sandwich, where the lasagna did not taste good in the sandwich and the waitress tried everything she could to get us out of there..never seen a waitress pick up the check before the customer leaves before this one..I just felt that was outright rude...
(2)
Teresa H.

Funky, interesting, and insane portion sizes of creative and tasty sandwiches. Would have been just as happy with half portions -- next time we'll share.
(4)
Rich G.

Giant greasy sandwich for a great price, what's not to love! Decent beer selection too.
(5)
Rachel R.

Oooooh man. I went to college in Wooster, about an hour and a half south of Cleveland, and there was nothing better than hearing your friend say, "Hey, I'm thinking of going up to Cleveland this weekend and going to Melt." We'd pack eight or nine of us into a car and drive on up to begin our journey of love at Melt. The all-time best grilled cheese I have ever had at Melt was their Cinco de Mayo special, consumed the day after my college graduation when ya girl was nursing what was, essentially, a two-day hangover. Grilled cheese is one thing. Enchiladas are another. An enchilada grilled cheese is its own rare, wonderful, beautiful bird. It should be on the menu all the time. My other faves include the Parmageddon, the Fish and Chips (when it was still called the Lake Erie Monster) and the Wet Hot Buffalo Chicken. If you get a grilled cheese tattooed on you, you get free sandwiches for life at every Melt location. I'm not really a tattoo person, but my God have I considered it. I don't miss Ohio at all, but I do miss those trips to Melt, when we'd eat and drink ourselves into a cheese-and-craft-beer coma.
(5)
Adam R.

Right from the start I will say, Melt has excellent food. The place itself is also pretty cool, even though it is pretty much half bar inside. Our server was even top notch during our visit. So I give them ten stars for the food, and ten for our waiter. I'll subtract eighteen for the hostess. You've probably seen her there. She is the one who's giving death glares to all who enter and just. looks. MISERABLE. We stopped in because we were meeting some friends we don't get to see very often. Wanted to have a nice lunch! We brought along some kids....well 4. Now that means we had to seat all these small humans and after waiting there for about 20 minutes, shoveling what small snacks we had stashed for them I ask about this perfect large table in the corner. They say they are waiting for 'our' table to sign checks and we'd be in. I'm told "that table is for 8 adults, but we'll sit you there if they take long". Apparently 4 adults, 4 kids, 2 baby carriers, bags, high chairs, and coats = less space than 8 adults. After another ten minutes of staring at the empty awesome table, we get to go around the corner to 'ours'. It's two, tiny round tables pushed together with high chairs haphazardly thrown around it. We get the joy of getting situated around that mess. Meanwhile there are plenty of groups of four waiting for a table! Why not give me the one I want, and then let two more parties in!?? Point being mrs. Miserable hostess girl really ruined the whole experience and what could have been a great visit. That's part of the reason people go out to eat. It's about the service. This place needs the kinks worked out in that regard.... Or maybe get the first person you see not to be the last person you want to....
(2)
Paul W.

Had the big poppa with bacon!!!! TO DIE FOR!!!! Money well spent...the atmosphere was great and brings back childhood memories
(5)
Tim S.

Update last two times I've been here the service has been pretty bad along with a rude waitress, also menu changes (no more burgers)
(2)
Eric G.

AMAZING GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICHES!! I tried the Cheesesteak Melt for the first time at Melt and it was mouth watering goodness. I highly recommend this place and location because the staff are very friendly and courteous. Also, the atmosphere was on another level compared to many places I have been to. 5 STAR. 100%
(5)
Tony S.

This place was amazing! From the food to the decor, it is a must visit if you are in town. I love that they are not a large franchise, but I kind of wish they were so I could have one here in St. Louis! Great Food and Great Service! They really deserve all five stars!
(5)
Alex K.

My brother took me to this place, and it is my first time being to this restaurant, so I really liked this restaurant. The burgers portions were so big that the two of us could not even finish it, so we had to take it home to finish it. And also the fries were so good too.
(5)
Travel B.

Good service. Good fries. The Breaded eggplant sandwich was no Bueno. Too much breading. Not sure bough eggplant.
(2)
Kathy Z.

I live in California. This place has the BEST MELT I HAVE EVER HAD. I don't really like to eat sandwiches, ever, but the melts here blow my mind. I can't really compare it any other sandwich grill spot, maybe The Melt (completely different restaurant) in the Bay Area, but only for the savory taste of the grilled cheese, not the whole shebang of a meal. The Melt of Cleveland Heights, OH, has a rather inspiring menu of unique melts. It is a large pub, with large bar seating in the center. Yes! I approve of places that serve beer and sports television with greasy food! It just seems right. I've tried the Cleveland Cheese Steak (favorite), Cuban Melt, and a chicken melt that I can't remember the name of for the life of me. The cheese steak was extremely juicy, cheesy, salty, fulfilling...and everything bad for you but tastes so good. The side of fries really completes this heavy meal. I had a mimosa as well. I probably could have hibernated for for a few days from this meal. GET THE RANCH FOR THE FRIES. And if you want to change or cut the contents of the sandwich in the two halves, the server is happy to take that down for you. :) Awesome place, wish it were in California as well.
(5)
Omid N.

I can never finish my entree when buying from here or Melt U @ Tinkham. Large portion size (it better be for that hefty price) plus some decent quality fries. I got the Cleveland philly cheese steak sandwich. Kind waitresses who like conversation, service was adequate in terms of speed, and ambience was more bar-like than college sandwich shop-like (as expected).
(5)
Lora S.

We were in town for the week and had read about this place online. It was better/worse than expected. I say worse because my body was not ready for the deliciousness and mass amounts of grease it endured. Worth it. Totally would go again. The staff was really nice as well!
(5)
Lindsey K.

This place is a novelty. I've been three times.. Each time the food has been ok, the waitresses have had attitude and the meal has left something to be desired.
(3)
Joe K.

Today marked my third try at Melt, with some coworkers for a long work-lunch. Unfortunately though for Melt, in my book, it marks 'three strikes, you're out' for the gourmet grilled cheese joint. I'm a Clevelander through and through and as any unique, novel, and craft establishment opens up - I want to not just like it but love it. I'm one of those people who sees my $$ as 'votes'. If I love a place, I want it to succeed and grow and support the local economy, yadda yadda, all that stuff. I wanted to like Melt, it seemed fun and inventive, and everyone else seems to love it. I however, find it kitsch. I've tried three very distinct and different items here (jalapeno popper, pizza roll, and pirogi themed sandwiches, respectively) yet each one tasted exactly the same to me. All I tasted by a strong margin each time was butter and bread. Overwhelmingly butter and bread, with a minute hint of either spice, marinara, or potato based upon each one I had. And I've left each time feeling gross, even if I only ate half of my meal. In my opinion, Melt is by far the most over-hyped joint in CLE and has a loyal following due to the 'celebrity' of it. I went to the original location when it first opened, again a couple years later, and now for the third time -hoping each bad experience was a fluke. Alas, not. Take my review for what its worth, plenty of people love Melt as one can see from the reviews, and it's worth a try - even to discover you really don't like it, as I do.
(2)
Augustus B.

Melt is a cool place to stop in CLE. They have all types of interesting grilled cheese sandwiches. You can't fail with any of their combinations. I stooped in had a grilled cheese and a few beers while watching a Cleveland Cavaliers basketball game at the bar. I'll be back. 4 stars- love cheese- not healthy
(4)
Steven L.

Maybe my taste or my expectations have changed but I thought this place was okay. I get the fact of the hipster dÃ©cor and approach to almost anything that involves food nowadays, but old Christmas decorations lining the walls it just ridiculous. I digress, the food, I ordered the backyard bbq with brisket, which was just good, certainly not great and the brisket lacked the flavor. Really my whole dish lacked flavor, even with the onion rings, cheese and bbq sauce between two loaves of bread. My god, cut it thinner so one can enjoy a bit. However, I did enjoy the fries. The staff was enjoyable and attentive and the prices are good, even for a grilled cheese. Every time I go to a spot that Guy has endorsed, I have left disappointed and this time was no different.
(2)
Mel H.

Everything was awesome! From the service to the food. The vibe was super chill and welcoming.
(4)
Jane W.

There's a similar restaurant in my area that I thought was pretty good, and the Melt blows that place out of the water. I tried the BBQ pulled chicken sandwich with onion rings (yes, inside the sandwich) and sharp cheddar, and the massive sandwich came with a generous serving of fries and a big pickle. Don't come here if you're on a diet. I'm not on one and I still felt kinda guilty about what I ate afterward. My sandwich was basically a mass of grease, cheese, fried batter, and meat. BUT its really good and definitely worth a visit. Delicious sandwiches, big portions, reasonable prices, cool vibe. Tip: If you don't have a big appetite I recommend sharing one between two people (I was feeling pretty satisfied after finishing half the plate).
(4)
Stella M.

Awesome sandwiches and an incredibly extensive beer selection-- about 30 to 40 on tap. Chill atmosphere and great waitstaff. Only complaint is that the food service is pretty slow. It wasn't even busy. I also suggest splitting the sandwich in half if you are a light eater because they are enormous. On the other hand, the sandwiches make great leftovers
(4)
mary s.

Seeing as I'm from the south, what else was expected of me other than ordering the Fried Green Tomato BLT? I just had to pit this delicious sounding creation against my southern-bred palate, and it did not disappoint. I added a fried egg over easy to my BLT, since I'm a sucker for runny yolk, and both the waiter and the bus boy/food runner commented on how delicious an add-on it looked to be. There were what I counted to be three layers of well-diametered fried tomatos, which retained crunchiness very well. The remoulade was creamy and a good degree of spicy, and provided most of the flavoring for the sandwich. I was pleasantly surprised by the choice of bread - I'm assuming it was pieces of thick sourdough french bread. Much better than what I thought would be gigantic pieces of Texas toast. The only things I think might have made the sandwich better was a little more salt in the batter for the tomato or on top of the egg, and a little more remoulade sauce (then again it might be plenty salty for most - I am a notorious over-salter...). The fries were also underwhelming, but the fries aren't what people come to this place for ;) I also assumed the sandwich was going to be smaller than the monstrous size it was - I had looked around at others' tables and realized post-grilled-cheese-arrival that while sandwhiches looked large a few feet away, they were absolutely ginourmous when placed right in front of you. I struggled to finish off just half of my BLT, as did my boyfriend, who ordered the Wet Hot Buffalo Chicken Melt (he substituted goat cheese for the blue cheese crumbles and was very satisfied with the results). To accompany my food, I drank a Peeeach, (pronounced similar to the slur 'bee-otch') one of their summer cocktails. I cant remember what it was made of but I do remember that it wasn't overpoweringly strong and that it had a good level of sweetness. I definitely recommend this place to locals and visitors alike! I'm planning on eating here again during my next visit to Cleveland in a few weeks.
(4)
Tracy W.

I've been waiting to go here since I saw it on man v food! I was a little worried about being disappointed because it was so hyped up but I was definitely not disappointed!!!! I ordered the fried green tomato BLT (vegan)! Absolutely amazing and delicious. The staff was very helpful and they had a large selection of craft beers! The decor was eclectic and cute!
(5)
Ben V.

Decent restaurant though I do not understand the hype. The sandwiches are large and flavorful though I am not a fan of the Texas toast. The decor is purposely kitschy but my biggest gripe is the waits that we have encountered here on the few times we have been. I don't really understand why people would choose to wait 30-45 minutes for bar food when so many better local options are available.
(3)
Amy Y.

Been to Melt twice. First time, tried their Lakewood location, which was very very busy - at least1 hr wait for 3 on a Friday night and this was 5 years back, before they became wildly popular. This time, went to the Cedar location with a group of three on a Friday night. I was expecting difficult to find parking and long waits but we were seated within 10 min and street parking surprisingly wasn't too bad. Service is meh, but I'm not expecting a ton of great service like I would at restaurants like L'Albatros. We ordered a sandwich each. They all come with fries. Portion size is huge. The first time I came, I think I ordered a turkey flavor, which unsurprisingly, was not too flavorful. This time, ilet my friend pick, and she ordered all of us a Cuban War Pig, a shrimp po boy, and a potato chorizo sandwich. The cuban war pig was too meaty and gamey for me. The potato one was not flavorful enough, but the shrimp po boy was so delicious. The greens and dressing in the samdwic gave it a refreshing kick of flavor, and really does balance out the deep fried batter of the shrimp. Too much food, so we didn't end up gettimg dessert. There was enough leftovers for two more meals!
(3)
Kelli H.

An entire restaurant paying hommage to the greatest culinary invention? YES. I went to college in Cleveland, but Melt opened right after I graduated. Thank goodness for my glorious return this past weekend. There were so many choices that the entire table took over 10 minutes to decide. Everything sounded delicious! I finally settled on the sandwich called the Backyard BBQ. The sandwich included full sized onion rings, tons of cheese, BBQ sauce, brisket. It was fab-u-lous! The thick cut fries that came along were also amazing. If you have a limited amount of time Cleveland - go here!
(4)
Rose Y.

Excellent food. Good service. The only down side is the bartender skill. I ordered a lavender mojito, but the bartender didn't have all the ingredients for the cocktail and it was obvious on the taste factor. No private parking available, only street and meter parking.
(3)
Mike R.

The Melt is a little overhyped for me. The sandwiches are certainly big and creative, but I only really like a few. The Thanksgiving and the Cuban sandwiches (I don't remember the exact names) are really good. The vibe and service are just ok for me. There are other spots in the area that I prefer.
(3)
Lili L.

Cool place, awesome menu names, overall a nice place for the young crowd. Expect to wait for a good amount of time before being seated. I went on a Thursday night and thought it wouldn't be too bad, but even then it was about a 20 min wait, so I can't imagine Fri/weekends. They give you a sticker with a random name, not your own (ours was "dumbo"), and they come find you when your table's ready. Cute concept, but I wonder how reliable the system is when the restaurant gets really crowded. The waitress was super friendly (or I was just in a good mood). She explained the food, their sandwich concept, and commented on our orders just to the point of seeming very amicable without being overly involved/intrusive - quite hard to do. I thought this was just going to be a cheese sandwich joint with a twist. Well, it's a pretty nice twist. Personally, I'm not a huge cheese fan, so I was semi-apprehensive, but there are a lot of menu options, many of which the cheese doesn't take center stage or doesn't seem overpowering. The sandwiches overall are very dense, oily, and...good. The side of fries were decent. But I state again, VERY dense and oily. You come here on a Monday and you'll be juicing the rest of the week. Also, I can normally eat a whole sandwich/burger, but this time, I had to doggy-bag 1/2 of my meal for lunch the next day (which might be a fine thing for some people). Stuck the 1/2 sandwich into a toaster oven the next day and it was good as new and just as greasy! So, good, hearty meal. Just can't eat it every day or even every month.
(3)
Morgan Richelle M.

We made it in on a somewhat quiet day, and were waited on immediately which was really nice. Our waitress was cheerful and happy. We didn't order too much to eat as it was more just an afternoon snack. My boyfriend had the peanut butter grilled cheese sandwich (who would have thought?) and truthfully it was really quite good! Such an unexpected combination! Lot's of flavor and contrast, and it was served fresh and warm. Perfect on a cold day. The dÃ©cor in Melt is a lot of fun... reminds me of my Grandmas basement.
(4)
Cece C.

I have wanted to go here since my brother moved to Cleveland a year ago and finally I got my chance!. Think about the best grilled cheese sammich or any sammy for that matter you have ever had and multiply it by 100 and you will have Melt! Flavorful and dangerously delicious. I tried 2 different kinds and neither one disappointed. Can't wait to try the others. My thoughts on the 2 I tried: Parma, Italy: "crispy breaded chicken breast, sun-dried tomato pesto, roasted garlic, provolone" - The chicken was so juicy and tender..a great crunch. The pesto was the perfect amount and had a great flavor. Smokey Russian: "smoked turkey, fresh napa vodka kraut, sautÃ©ed onions , smoked gouda, russian dressing" -The thing I loved about this one was they put the dressing on the side. I luv dipping! lol. Everything was a perfect match together on there. Juicy turkey,super tasty kraut. -1 star for messing up our order :/
(4)
Alex L.

Whoa-hey! Finally got a chance to experience Melt while passing through Cleveland on our way to Cedar Point. Apparently, there's a lot of local hype about this place and as such opinions are split. When you walk in, you see it's a hipster bar of sorts with Halloween and Christmas decorations still up and menus resembling spiral records of sorts, vegan and meat options and a whole lot of craft beer on tap. I would describe the atmosphere as cool and casual. I'll start with the food. Before I even got here, I was craving a burger. After waiting for about 20-30minutes to be seated (on a Saturday night at 7p--totally reasonable!), I looked over the menu and saw they had hundreds (literally!) of different sandwiches. Everything to please vegans, meat lovers, vegetarians seafood lovers and everything in between. They specialized in different grilled sandwiches, but also had a section for burgers. My eye spotted the "BBQ Pig Burger," which featured an 8 oz ground steak burger, house roasted pulled pork, fried onion straws, chocolate stout bbq sauce and sharp cheddar. House roasted pulled pork AND 8 oz of beef? Best of both worlds! The waitress assured me that their burgers are fantastic and remarked that it's one of the only places around that she would order her burger rare from. So, I opted for medium rare and about ten minutes later, all our plates come out (pretty much all at once!). My burger was cooked absolutely perfectly uniformly medium rare. It was out of this world delicious! The meat was tender, juicy and so fresh and the pulled pork and chocolate stout bbq sauce added a whole layer of delicious flavor! It wasn't confusing or even hard to eat like I imagined it might be because of the larger variety of ingredients. It, yes...melted in my mouth. The fries were solid and the cole slaw was crunchy and tasty just to my liking. Be warned: portions are huge! Aside from the food being a delicious heart-attack cornucopia of melted goodness, the service that we received for our party of eight was fantastic: fast, cheerful and our waitress went above and beyond! Toward the end of the meal, she goes ahead and takes the initiative of asking if we'd like our bill split! No awkward, "uhhhgh, maybe you can split our bill?!" because we were too shortsighted and focused on consuming loads of tastiness to ask beforehand. She just does it and makes it super easy! Yes, she tacked on an 18% gratuity for our large party, but that's cool. I'm pretty sure we all tipped her on top of that anyway. Would totally come back here when I'm in the area, but am sorta glad I live far away...otherwise I'd probably die a lot younger from heart attacks and the like! You're lucky, Cleveland!
(5)
Ana G.

Never in my life did I think I would experience such a wonderful place. They've done such a phenomenal thing to make adult grilled cheese sandwiches and indeed they are to die for! I was able to customize just a regular grilled cheese sandwich, but there are plenty of options that are on their menu. The atmosphere was so much fun, and I felt much more trendy than I actually am. The portions are insane, so be ready to have some leftovers! The only problem I had was with my waitress, whose name I forgot, but she just seemed a little out of it and not so friendly. Other than that I have no complaints! Please go and check this place out!!
(4)
Bender R.

The thing I love about coming here is the lively atmosphere. If you're going there to partake their expansive beer selection, you won't be disappointed. And if you're into greasy (cheesy) sandwiches, you've found your place. One issue is that it takes a while to get them. Grilled cheese sandwiches that take 45min to 1hr to get every time I've been there. This is unreasonable for a kitchen this large. Another is that the bread much thicker than it needs to be. Sandwiches are serviceable, but not worth such a long wait. Appetizers offerings are also below average as a whole. Cool place, and somewhere I'd come to once a year, usually to take out-of-towners.
(3)
Cheeseburger M.

Boy oh boy! I need a second stomach to store the other half of this sandwich. Does anyone know a good doctor that does this surgery?? If you squint while looking at the sandwiches, they kind of look like a horse or a cow. Anywhat (anywho/anyhow) this place has an amazing range of brown sandwiches (because they are toasted). This place is clean! I know they have French maids cleaning here after hours and when people aren't looking. In all seriousness, this CLEVELAND staple is a must try! Not to be confused with Staples, that place is a gip! YELP!
(5)
Ebony J.

Omgosh!! The food at this location was so saltyyyy!!! I ordered a sandwich and tofu soup. My mouth felt like I ate a block of salt. I haven't been to any other location since but I definitely don't recommend this one.
(3)
Lindsey K.

As I passed it 3 times on my way to University Hospital with my Mom in one week, I knew we had to find time to stop in and see what everyone in NE Ohio is ranting and raving about! ;) Soooo on my last trip to the hospital with my mom with I was in Ohio, we met up with my cousin who stays in Downtown, Cleveland he met us there and good thing it was before a lunch rush we found parking spot in a little parking lot a block down the road, it wasn't too bad of a walk but I wouldn't want to go on a busy day or time because parking does look very limited, or you have to park on the street at a meter . Anyways, enough of the parking. O.M.G 1. Come with an appetite!! You will need it! 2. There are a million different Melt's to try one to fit all needs, or you can change it up to your liking which I did.. because I can be a little picky. LOL 3. They come with great French fries, and Coleslaw. (Which I 86'd the slaw for pickles). I think it's great for your whole family all ages will find something to eat if you don't want a sandwich they have burgers, salads, appetizers. Even my Mom, who is a little picky to what she wants to eat, especially after just recovering from surgery, I was thinking she was going to pass on the idea once she seen how GIGANTIC the sandwiches are.. NOPE she stepped up to the plate and ordered The Dude Abides one with a meatball in it w/ fried mozzarella. If you are in the area.. DO stop to one of their locations, it's definitely different from all the other places. And the dÃ©cor looks like Grandma's Christmas Yard Sale... huge lawn decorations lite up.. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!
(5)
Anthony J.

SO GOOD. Certainly not the place to go if you are looking to be health conscious, but Melt is definitely worth the trip when you are in Cleveland. I have been to Melt twice on two different trips to Cleveland and with it's eclectic staff and decor, there is a fun and relaxed atmosphere at the restaurant. On my first trip to Melt I went for their November special, a Thanksgiving inspired Melt and it was MIND BLOWING. I am a huge fan of Thanksgiving leftovers and this sandwich took that love to a whole new level. The thing was so good I devoured the whole thing even though I definitely should have taken half home to avoid the post-meal food coma. My second trip I settled on "The Dude Abides," a sandwich filled with meatballs, marinara, Romano cheese, and fried mozzarella. Like I mentioned, not a meal for those looking for something healthy but it was also SO GOOD. The service was great, our waitress was very quick and made sure to check back with us throughout the meal. While I sat at a table, the place also has a lot of bar seating and tons of beers on tap to choose from. This place is a Cleveland staple and somewhere I hope to return to anytime I am in town.
(4)
Mike F.

I would give Melt one star, but their beer selection is actually really good. The food? The sandwiches are dripping with oil and are overpriced and over hyped. There is so much potential to do something amazing and delicious and Melt consistently fails. What's with their slaw? Too unbalanced with seeds and it needs to age before serving. Notice how EVERYBODY leaves it on their plate? Add this to loong waits and poor service, and I don't recommend Melt to anybody. Go to Brennans for better dining all around.
(2)
Susan L.

OMG. The food was fantastic... but I might die from a heart attack later. I got the Cleveland Cheese Steak, and let me tell you, it puts all Philly Cheese Steaks to shame. I would eat this over any philly cheese steak... if you can promise that I won't die of clogged arteries with the next meal. I love that their kitchen is open late, so I can get a great meal after a long day of work. A half a sandwich is more than enough for me, so it also gives me lunch for the next day. My sandwich made me drool even after microwaving it for lunch the next day. But I do think I must have taken 500% of calories and fat for the 2 days, and I probably took a year off my life. Might still be worth it... just not too often. ----------------------------------- Explanation of my rating system - 5*: Epitome of something, the best I've had, would LOVE to go back 4*: Great food and happy to go back regularly, but not the best of the category 3*: Food is fine. I may spontaneously decide to go there based on convenience. But no need to go back either. 2*: If you insist, I guess I'll come along. I'll find something to eat. But I wouldn't have picked it. 1*: No plans to come back. I'll try to talk companions out of going.
(4)
Candace M.

I gave Melt another try. Though my SO really loves it, I actually suggested it. I was disappointed by my experience last time, and I knew Melt could do better! (Plus, it was really gross out, and who doesn't love some good comfort food?) This time, we walked in and were seated immediately. It was a lot less busy, probably because winter storm Hercules was trying to intimidate everyone into staying inside. Not us! We sat down and I promptly knew what I wanted; a wake and bacon! Last time, I tried a salad, and I didn't like it (okay ,okay, I deserve any criticism I receive here - who goes to Melt and gets a salad?!) This sandwich was exactly what I was hoping for! Eggs overeasy, American cheese, bacon... yummm. And I was excited to see that the fries are, once again, a side that comes with your order! We ordered a couple of drinks, a berry cider and a hard root beer. Just like last time, they were out of one of the two drinks. The hard root beer was replaced with a Razz Wheat. Both drinks were good! Unlike last time, when one drink wasn't available, our waitress did come back to ask whether there was another drink we'd like to try. If I look at it with an unbiased eye, it is a little pricey for what is ultimately grilled cheese. But it's Melt. I'm more than willing to spend a little extra on something that's so delicious! And you know what? Melt earned that extra star back in my book. You go, Melt!
(4)
Julianne Z.

I have been waiting to go to this place and when I finally went, I wasn't disappointed! We didn't have to wait too long and we had a pretty big group. What I love is taht this place has a great bar and also great food to back it up! I mean, look at their sandwiches, they are HUGE! The coleslaw was meh, but the fries and that sandwich were amazing! I had the Big Poppa sandwich, 4 cheese filled jalapeno peppers, between two pieces of toast with more cheese, then deep fried and covered in a bit of sugar and served with a jelly preserve. I will probably lose 3 years off my life, but it is worth it! I will def come back and they always have a monthly special so it is a changing restaurant.
(4)
Gretchen B.

Luv the grilled cheese - hate the wait! Nearly every time we've been here the wait to get a table is 45 min plus and once seated the wait for food is almost as long. Bummer, because I really do like Half combo that includes a 1/2 sandwich, soup and salad. They won't allow a teenager to be seated at the bar even with a parent which would have sped up the wait. Wait here in. Cleveland hts is always bad since it is small.
(3)
India R.

I thought things were supposed to get better with time, unfortunately, that's not the case for Melt Cleve. Hts. This was once one of my favorite places to grab a few beers and wait a decent amount of time for a meal, but now, the service and wait times are racing each other to the bottom of the hill. A friend and I ordered from here last night and were quoted with a 1.5 hour wait for a carry-out order. Seriously!?!? I got their special, The Sanchez, and my friend got a burger; sadly, after my friend convinced me to wait for our orders, I was left with a dry, poorly constructed sandwich and a bag of burnt fries. This location has so much potential, and I just wish it lived up to the hype instead of coasting on the name.
(2)
Lisa D.

Awesome place with Giant grilled cheese sandwiches! So many different flavors and you can do half with some soup!
(5)
Michael V.

We stopped by around 2 pm on a sunday and were seated immediately. You can pretty much have any style grilled cheese that you'd like. There are very large portions. The fries are also good too. the restaurant is decorated with halloween and Christmas display lights. Theres not a lot of seating and the tables are close together. You also can look into the kitchen as you eat.
(4)
Stone Z.

Huge portions. I couldn't finish the grilled cheese. Love the concept. I think they should do a half sandwich concept with soup. That would be amazing. I had the Korean BBQ sandwich. I saw pictures for the burger one and was sad they didn't have it on the menu anymore. Anywho, it was a really heavy sandwich but a great experience.
(4)
Abe O.

I promise I'm not invoking "Pittsburgh bias" into this review, but seriously, I don't get the hype surrounding this place. I've learned a valuable lesson over the years: restaurants featured on "Man vs. Food" are often disappointing. Adam Richman is an actor NOT a food aficionado. I will say that oftentimes original locations are much better than their satellite counterpart (i.e. Primati Bros of PGH; the original location on 18th street is BY FAR the best). Nevertheless, I'd be willing to give Melt a second chance...just not this location.
(2)
Chrissy A.

We came to Cleveland on a quick spring break trip and picked Melt due to a Great Yelp rating. This place is different from anything we have in Indiana a refreshing change from chain restaurants. I had the Big Popper my husband had the Godfather. So delicious and so much food. The fries were amazing. You could eat here often and not repeat meals. I do not eat meat so this restaurant is perfect. It also helps the staff is easy on the eyes. The restaurant is decorated festive as well. If you live in the area and have not eaten here u are missing out.
(4)
Laura S.

I know, I know. "Only 3 stars for Melt? WTF is wrong with you?!" Well, it's not anything major- but rather a bunch of minor things. Put them together in one place and it gets annoying. 1) Something is ALWAYS COLD. Today, despite seeing my item appear in the window- and not sitting there too long, mind you- I dug into the admittedly huge meatball on my Dude Abides, and the middle was cold. I was expecting it and in too crappy a mood to care enough to bother the waitress. Figure out how long it takes to microwave the thing to 165. The fries, while not cold, had been sitting around for a while; they were mushy- as usual. 2) The waitstaff, while always personable enough to do a passable job, never do anything or act nice enough to get more than about 15% (again, as a former waitress, I round up). They were not busy enough to be under any pressure today. Will I go back to Melt? Sure. It's an institution. But these problems are constant, noticeable, and fixable.
(3)
Robert M.

Okay, I have to admit I am a fan. But, let me caveat by saying, 1) it is close, 2) it has a pretty good vibe an atmosphere and 3) the service has always been pretty good. So is the food 'great'? No, but it is pretty good and it is very creative. I especially enjoy when they bring the burgers back into play. This is also a place you can take people from out of town and freak them out with the size of the portions. So there is always fun in that.
(4)
Josheau W.

So after a long day at work I'm looking for somewhere nice to take it easy and enjoy a good meal. A friend suggested Melt, so we're off to see what this place is about! Melt sits on the corner with a nice frontage greeting the passerby, beckoning one to come inside and experience wonder. Walcing inside, however, I'm surrounded by plastic holiday decorations, lighting along the wall as if it's the Grizwold's yard and detracting from a rather nice mural on the back wall. I wait a few minutes to get noticed, and the hostess seats me near the window. The decor continues in the same loud manner throughout the place, in some places it makes sense, in some places it's attractive, in others, just garrish. The menu is straightfoward, nice selection of inebrients for most any palatte, but I'm here for the sandwich. The sandwiches are variatio s on the classic grilled cheese, other ingredients added to make their signature eats. I go with the wake and bacon, eggs and bacon and grilled cheese on texas toast. I start with a couple pierogies, and find them to be rather plain. Rather disappointing for a Cleveland bar to have such plain pierogie. Moving on to the sandwich, I find my meal much improved. The cheese selection fits the eggs and bacon well, the eggs are cooked to order and the bacon is savory and crisp. The texas toast has a nice crisp grilled exterior, but is still nice and buttery, well done. For the price point, I thought the sandwich was great, the appetizer sub par, and the service was meh... not bad but nothing special. I would go back with friends, but not to grab a quick bite if I was solo.
(3)
Autumn B.

So, my review of melt is not entirely based on their sandwiches, as it is not usually what I get when I come here. Melt salads are a staple of my diet and you can read my check in for the details of the awesomeness of their house and Asian noodle salads. Besides the salads, the other thing I love about melt, again atypical, is the fact that they have plentiful vegan and vegetarian options - which is not what one would think of when one thinks of melt. Any sandwich that you get can be made with vegan cheese (I'll leave it up to you to decide if the lack of lacto is worth the lack of flavor: vegan cheese sandwiches here are more similar to melted frisbee sandwiches, tbh, but maybe vegan cheese is a flavor one's palate grows accustomed to?), many melt sandwiches are vegetarian, and the servers "get" most other dietary restrictions. So, if you know Melt as a restaurant with sandwiches you cannot even finish, go back, and give them another try--for everything else.
(4)
Taylor P.

I just love melt!! I have never had a bad sandwich. It's especially fun to go with a group and share so you can have a bite of everything. It's also a great place to go if you have friends that have food restrictions, because they have something for everyone. I have a few friends that are vegan or lactose and they have cheese alternatives. Just make sure to loosen your belt before deciding to eat here! They are BIG portions!
(5)
Kenny C.

How do they expect I, a mere mortal, to eat this entire sandwich? I ordered "The Dude Abides", a miraculous grilled cheese sandwich, that according to legend stands at least 3 ft tall, filled with homemade meatballs, fried mozz wedges, marinara sauce, and provolone. If I was a better man I would have eaten the second half too, but I came up short and embarrassed my family name. Someday I will return. And next time I'll be ready.
(5)
Milena P.

A must go, but honestly there are so many ingredients in each panini that it is difficult to handle them and even taste them.
(3)
Patrick K.

Philly cheese steak sandwiches should really only be eaten at places that specialize in Philly cheese steak sandwiches. I got excited though and ordered one here the other night and it found its way inside me with no problem. Food's great and a perfect ambiance. This place really captures Cleveland. I weep when I think of the cities I've visited without eating at places like this. They also have a monte cristo that comes with a side of grape jelly that my friend ordered. Upon taking a bite I produced jelly of my own. The bad wrap the city of Cleveland has had for so long is on its way out. If the Cavs don't win in 2015, they'll do it in 2016.
(5)
Yuan C.

This is one of those places that you can count on to give you an extreme food coma every time. But it definitely lives up to the hype! My all time favorite sandwich is the Backyard BBQ with pulled pork. I'm such a sucker for sandwiches/burgers with BBQ sauce and Melt does it right by adding onion rings in it :) Be warned, the service can be quite slow!
(4)
Lea H.

I've always said cheese makes everything better! This place nailed it! Super friendly staff, VERY clean, bright, fun decor for your eyes entertainment, great place to bring the family. I came here with a business partner and was blown away by the menu. Who knew you could make a grilled cheese so many different ways! We sat at the bar and the girl working had the best attitude! She was funny, upbeat, fast and kept a smile on our faces. I don't think it matters what u order here because everything looks amazing. You get more than enough on your plate for the price. I would maybe suggest sharing if you don't have a big appetite. I will definitely be returning. Don't forget to eat it quick though while your cheese is still hot!
(4)
Michelle T.

Great service. The sandwiches were unique and delicious. Fun atmosphere and cool menus. They are printed on album covers. Loved it!
(4)
Barbara M.

The first time I ate here several years ago when they first opened, I was blown away by how good it was. I've eaten there 5 or 6 times since then over the years and it just doesn't taste good to m anymore. Was I just caught up in the hype originally? Who knows. I've tried a variety of sandwiches, the latest one being the Monte Cristo. The bread is so thick on all the sandwiches, almost making it hard to enjoy what's inside. And the batter on the outside was over the top thick. Although tasty, it was overwhelming the rest of the sandwich. The french fries were soggy, greasy and cold. I've had much better Monte Cristos at mom and pop diners for less money. At peak times, the noise level is really high and unpleasant making it hard to converse easily with others at your own table. Lots of people like this place so maybe it's just me. Give it a try and see what you think.
(2)
Yuanjia Z.

This place is pretty legit in my opinion. Their sandwiches are GIANT and very yummy. No wonder it's always so busy every night. So plan to go before 4 or after 9 or 10 if you dont want to wait for an hour or something. I really liked the sun rise sandwich. It has shrimps and some veges in it, so it doesnt make me as sick afterwards as other options do.. They also have this "melt challenge" where if you can finish 5lbs of food with 13 different kinds of cheese, you will be on their record and will win a 10 dollar gift card and a cool tshirt. One of my friends from Chicago actually was training to do this challenge before he came, and we got to this place pretty late, and we said that we want to do it! the waitress was like you know, it takes about 45 mins to prepare and you know 5 lbs of cheese is not that delicious and it's actually rather disgusting. I have only seen one person who won the challenge and she's a small lady. And yes the waitress finally convinced my friend to save this $50 and go with a yummy sandwich instead. I kinda laughed cuz I thought she just wanted to go home early. LOL
(4)
Foodie F.

this was the largest grilled cheese/sandwich I have ever had. I was really pleased with how tasty the Parmegedeon was. for a meatless sandwich the pierogi was tasty and the crunch of the bread was delicious
(4)
Lindsay H.

Long waits! Come early! Portions are HUMONGO. I'm not always in the mood for Melt, but when I am... it really hits the spot. I recently ordered their thanksgiving turkey/stuffing/cranberry special, which was realllllyy filling. The turkey to stuffing ratio was spot on, but overall the sandwich was just a little too greasy.
(3)
Ashley W.

Great place to go if you want to leave full. Huge sandwiches and pretty good beer selection. Not to mention the service was great. We got there pretty late on a weekday and didn't feel rushed to eat. We were the last guests to come in and we were still given good service. Sampled a few beers suggested by our server. I ordered the Purple Parma. Delish. Couldn't finish half the sandwich. Like I said they are huge. Next time I'm in Cleveland I'll be back for sure.
(5)
Bri F.

Food looks pretty tasty. Unfortunately, I'll never know for sure. This place, from a service standpoint, is garbage. Walked in with the hubs (last summer) and granted it was busy. However, I've walked into many busy places (busier, in fact) and was at least acknowledged. Tip for future restaurant owners: have a popular place with like 2 people working on a Saturday! Cool? Cool. Had to ask where to sit after standing around for a few minutes. Was told, "sit anywhere". Mmk. Looked around and saw two chairs at the end of a long table against the wall. So we sat next to people we didn't know. And we awkwardly sat. And sat. AND SAT. No waitress. No waiter. No water. No order. No food. NO SQUAT. Finally after 20 minutes of looking like complete (hungry) idiots, we simply got up and left and went elsewhere to eat. Oh and no one around us was getting served either, which was odd. What the hell was going on? Were we being punished? It was one of the most awkward experiences ever. I may try the one in Mentor (MAY), but I'll never come back to this location. Service is half the battle and they were defeated. Like playing Civilization V on Deity defeated.
(1)
Claire L.

This place was amazing. Great service to start. We had the potato soup, had great rich, peppery flavor. I got the fried eggplant grilled cheese with fresh tomatos, delicious! big enough to share for sure! We rounded out the meal with fried twinkies. Everyone in our party loved their meal!
(5)
Lina D.

Melt is a favorite featured restaurant on food network and travel channel, and pretty unique as far as sandwich joints go, especially in Cleveland. I like to take my out-of-town friends here to show them one of the famous yet inexpensive option in the Cleveland food scene. That being said, there is a lot that Melt leaves to be desired. For example, be prepared to wait if you come at prime dinner time, even on weeknights. And I don't just mean the 40 minutes you will have to wait to be seated. The waitstaff is not very prompt in greeting you, taking your orders, or catering your small requests for ketchup, more water, etc. The bar, too, is usually quite swamped, so although you may choose to eat your meal there, don't assume that it will automatically make the wait for food any shorter. I've tried almost two-thirds of the grilled cheese sandwiches on the menu, and all of them taste pretty good. My favorite option the Chorizo and Potato. Be warned that Melt's sandwiches are HEAVY. Most of the time, I can only finish half of the sandwich and barely make a dent in the fries and cole slaw. Now I usually share with a friend, and still, its plenty of food. The dishes other than grilled cheese that I've tried (including tomato soup, salads, pierogis, and bread pudding) have all been mediocre, unfortunately. My conclusion: Melt's a bit overrated, but its worth giving a try.
(3)
Tia H.

You better walk into this place hungry and if you're on a diet, make it a cheat day. Loved everything about this restaurant. The food portions are huge but worth it. They have a ton of items to choose from with something for everyone. If you're a beer drinker they will likely have something to tickle your fancy, craft soda kinda of person? Yup, they have something to satisfy that need also. The decor was peculiar but brought a sense of nostalgia when you looked around. The wait staff was friendly and helpful and just an overall pleasant experience. :-)
(5)
Courtney T.

I don't even know what to say or where to begin! Grilled cheese combos that are battered and deep fried or just grilled but all are melty and gooey! I had the Big Popper. Herbed cream cheese, cheddar and jalapeÃ±os battered, fried and dusted with powdered sugar. Served with a mixed berry jam and a mountain of French fries and slaw. This is not your mamas grilled cheese! Lots of beer on tap and old school decor from arcade games gone by to a huge Dairy Queen light up. Tin ceilings. This place is fun and a must eat when in Cleveland!
(5)
Jason L.

i wrote a prior review for melt and noted that i wasnt happy about the lack of service and acknowledgement. i decided to go back a couple of weeks ago and this is what i noticed: *the service got "marginally better." to clarify, if i waited before for 15 minutes before someone saw me at the bar without a menu or drink list, this time it was 13 minutes. and it was during the middle of the day where there was no more than 3 other parties at the bar finishing up. *i dont like the fact they took my favorite sandwich, the "lake erie monster" off the menu list. also, the winter chicken i had tasted like they ran out of actual patties and threw together some mashed up portion. definitely did not taste like a normal winter chicken, very disappointing. *other than that, the beer list is good, the food is alright (gotten worse), and i still feel that the service is still lacking. thats too bad. theres one bartender there who is always nice but even i felt she was slacking a bit.
(2)
Jonna M.

Wow!!!! So many varieties of sandwiches. The waiter was extremely helpful in deciding what to get. Great kids menu too. Sooo much food to eat, you will surely have leftovers.
(5)
James E.

This is the WORST place in terms of customer service. They consistently act as if they are too cool or important to wait on you. The orders are often wrong and wait is horrible. It would be one thing if the food was amazing, it is NOT. That act like they are selling the cure for cancer but it is only a decent Grill cheese. Many of my friends swear to never come here because of the horrible service. I use to make excuses no longer. I will not be back
(1)
Billy G.

Great atmosphere and decor. TONS of beers on tap and bottled. Huge menu of food. Huge portions also. Monte Crisco was awesome. Friendly people. Huge Bar w/ tons of TVs for watching the game. Def would come back if in the area. Def worth the drive for out of towners.
(5)
Jacob A.

I have never been to a restaurant and didn't know what to pick due to how delicious they all sound/are. Trying something new is never a risk because it is a guarantee that it will be good. Cheers from your Alaskan customer, Melt. You did good. I love this place, definitely a must go. 5/5
(5)
Stef M.

Yikes! There is so much hype revolving Melt, but the place has yet to live up to my expectations. I visited this location with the hopes that it would surpass my experiences at the Independence location. Unfortunately it fell short. We had a really great server that made really great suggestions on which craft sodas we should try (go for the Sarsaparilla-a really awesome, flavorful root beer!!). Instead of fries, I opted for the side salad, and asked for a recommendation on the dressing. She suggested the ranch as they make it in house. It really was the best ranch I have ever had. I highly recommend it! When it came to the entrees things really fell flat. I ordered the Hungry Hungarian. I'm alright with sloppy, but this was out of control. This should not be a meal served in sandwich form. The bread became super soggy, and the sauce really lacked flavor. My boyfriend got the Cleveland Cheese Steak. Again, really soggy with the bread, and entirely too much going on between the bread. I'd only go back for that root beer, and a salad with that wonderful ranch dressing. I won't be ordering a "grilled cheese" here anytime soon.
(2)
Michael G.

Love this place. I want to try just about everything on the menu. Highest recommendations for the Lake Erie Monster, with jalapeno tartar sauce. A word of advice...don't get an appetizer. It's not that they're not good, it's just that your grilled cheese and mound of fries is gonna be so huge, you're not gonna be able to finish it all...even without the appetizer. I still haven't made it to dessert here yet. And I really, really wanted to try the peanut butter and jelly bread pudding (pout). Also, check out their specials of the month...some really good grilled cheese specials in there! For August 2013, their special is "The Pig Roast" grilled cheese (chipotle BBQ pulled pork, fried sweet potato, coleslaw, monster cheese), side of grilled sweet corn with roasted garlic spread, and homemade redskin potato salad. And it was just Awesome! PS - I can't believe there are people on here complaining that they give you TOO MUCH FOOD. Really? That's your complaint? Too much food? Really? Really. Really??
(5)
Adam M.

Love this place. It's usually pretty busy on the weekends and you'll probably have to wait a while to get a table, but that's expected with Melt and the wait is usually worth your time. But if you need a quick fix and don't have the time to wait to dine in, they do takeout and the wait has never been unreasonable (around a half hour from the time I called). The service is pretty solid and the people are cool. They definitely handle to flow of guests well. I would recommend the Dude Abides sandwich for anyone who's never tried (meatballs, mozzarella sticks, grilled cheese, parmesan, marinara sauce...delicious). And the beer selection is very good as well.
(4)
Stephen H.

Wow! Huge sandwiches. A lot to offer. Great decor. A great addition to Cleveland. Mushroom melt and Municipal Stadium Magic are awesome. Clean, great service, priced right. Nice area of the city! We'll be back again and again!
(4)
Bryce A.

I am really glad that Melt does not have a location in Washington DC...if they did, then I would want to eat there every day. And probably die of a heart attack within the year. A few of us made a stop here for a Sunday brunch before driving out of town. We got there just after 11 and it was fairly empty when we arrived, though by the time we were done it was fairly busy. Everything on the menu sounded amazing, which is terrible when you have to pick just one. Luckily, I was visiting with a party of 3, so we were able to get 3 different sandwiches and try them all. I ordered the War Pig "Cuban Style", which was a grilled cheese with three different kinds of pig and deep fried pickles. I also got to try the New Bomb Turkey was a thanksgiving dinner in a grilled cheese and the monthly special, which was a double decker grilled cheese with meatloaf. Each sandwich also same with a small mountain of perfectly cooked french fries. All three sandwiches were delicious, but I think that my favorite was probably the War Pig, though the fried pickles got to be a little too much as I got towards the end of the sandwich. The portions are ridiculous. The bread for the grilled cheeses is as thick as french toast, and they pile the fillings on just as thick, if not more. My sandwich (plus a good portion of my fries) was plenty for brunch, and I was still full at dinnertime. Great and friendly service, and I really liked all of the random signs and holiday decorations inside. I did not try any of the beers while I was there, but the bar has a huge draft selection to go with their huge portions. Next time I am in Cleveland, I'll definitely have to stop by a Melt location again.
(5)
Carl R.

Absolutely fantastic food, service, and atmosphere. Abundant servings and superb taste.
(5)
Derek H.

Killer grub! Cleveland has a hit here! The menu is pretty diverse and even offers vegetarian options. I was torn between two sandwiches and before ordering I asked what the bigger selling items were. When the Hot Wet Buffalo Chicken sandwich was mentioned I knew it was a 'go' as it was one I had been considering. Wow! What a great pile of food! I took one bite of the sandwich and though I had chipped a tooth- turns out it was the super-crisp breading on the chicken. I was super impressed how crisp it was from first bite to last. Ample portions of seasoned fries and a vinegar-slaw accompany your sandwich. I thought I knew what I was getting into so I hadn't eaten all day. Sadly, I couldn't finish every bite of deliciousness put in front of me.
(5)
Eric B.

Have to update this review since I now realize after going yesterday that the menu has changed. Now they have gone a la cart with their sandwiches. I usually only get 2 of the sandwiches, but by the time I add the stuff from the build a sandwich menu I'm paying more than I previously paid for the sandwich which was already high. I asked the bartender why they did this and she said she wasn't sure but that several people have expressed the dislike for the changes. She offered to get the manager, but I declined because he wasn't going to change the menu for us. We left yesterday and will more than likely not return.
(1)
Arianna O.

Everything was spot on! So Freaking Good! Everyone here seems to say it takes awhile. We are in Cleveland for the day to go to a baseball game. My husband, baby, and I got to the cleveand heights location right at 11am when they opened. no wait. some tables but not overly crowded on this Sunday morning. we were seated, served, ate and paid all within 35 minutes. I call that pretty speedy. I like the off the wall ambience ...blue ceilings... menus on the back of old record album covers. We opted for a burger with herbed cream cheese and jalapeÃ±os. We split it after hearing about it's mass size. Definitely glad we shared it. The burger was cook perfectly, the bread perfect. The herb cream cheese sooooooo melt in your mouth and married with the uncooked jalapeÃ±os....omg...I seriously can't even explain. We also loved the hand cut fries. Perfect. I seriously wouldn't have changed one single thing about our visit. Amazing. The locals really must frequent the doctors with all the major cheese intake around these parts. only sad we can't get back to this place anytime relatively soon. I highly suggest you stop here if passing through or if you happen to be one of the few locals who have never been. yum yum yum!
(5)
Min A.

My first visit for lunch, and i really enjoyed the friendly service, attentive bartender (ate at the bar). Plenty of TVs, good selection of beer and the food was very good! Home backed bread scored points in my book, too. I liked the decor, the music and the vibe. Definitely going back!
(4)
H P.

Casual, comfortable, and the food is excellent! Best sandwiches I've had, period. better than the gonzo burger or Aloysius from st Augustine....better than Chuck Liddell from Belize....take your family, always a good time
(5)
Whitney B.

Finally made it to the infamous melt. Had something with fish in it...pretty delicious. I thought it was a bit greasy bit I guess that's the nature of it. Drinks were great...good service.
(4)
Chocolate L.

Certainly my fav bar to go to and late night eat! Food is delicious n so different ! U can't get anything melt anywhere ! The staff are always friendly and nice :) the atmosphere is vibrant ... Family friendly n also good to hang out with friends or date ! I truly love this place !!
(5)
Amanda L.

I ordered the cheesesteak and all I tasted was salt between two pieces of greasy bread. Gross! Meat was flavorless-all you tasted was salt. I'll stick with the summer chicken from now on, which is excellent. The chorizo and potato is good, the purple Parma is good, the big popper is good (warning-it's so greasy you'll want to throw up after), the fries were seasoned nicely, and the slaw was good at this location. We arrived at 4:30pm, there was no wait. (Lakewood location is a whole other ballpark!) I ordered a zombie cocktail and it was gross; no flavor except for vodka (supposed to have rums). I get this cocktail at other places and it's always the same; not sure what was in this one. Server was cool, not smiley, but nice and on the ball. Kitchen took forever as they usually do, but the food was super hot upon arrival, which almost never occurs at the Lakewood location. Our friends said, "meh".
(3)
Terra H.

when it comes to a grilled cheese, there's usually not much to it, right? well if we're talking about melt then that's so wrong. there is more to a grilled cheese than some buttered bread and cheese slices-this place has reinvented the grilled cheese and they've done so in a way that leaves me pretty much in awe. the chorizo filled grilled cheese is to die for and i won't even get started on the sweet potato fries. the wait is a bit excessive, but once you sink your teeth into one of melts amazing sandwiches you'll totally understand why a wait like that is more than justified.
(4)
Bradley E.

I'll simply say that I am a huge fan of Melt. The food is consistently good (although the portions are insane, so be prepared to take home leftovers), and the beer list is always interesting (good amount of both draft and bottle choices). The service also has always been terrific and have never had a negative experience from any of the servers or bartenders. What makes Melt truly special is that they can make essentially any sandwich vegetarian or vegan. They have a few vegan cheese options and have plenty of non-meat alternatives to choose from (even though their tofu is pretty darn good too). Of course, they have plenty of meat choices too, which makes Melt a perfect place for groups that have a range of dietary preferences. They also have a build-your-own style sandwich option, if you want to keep your grilled cheese more simple. Sure, sometimes the wait can be a tad long, but the space is pretty big and I have never had to wait more than 20-30 minutes for a table. There also is plenty of seating at the bar, where it is easy to order food as well. All in all, a fun take on comfort food in Cleveland.
(5)
Jonathan W.

This is the best Melt out of the four. The portions can be too much and the drinks get pricey, but I always really enjoy myself. You can't ask for a cooler kitsch place with awesome comfort food.
(5)
Karen W.

great place! i just move to Parma few months ago and saw the place while driving home, after couple times decided to stop. I had the Montecristo sandwich, it was really good and very good size. Definelly i will come back soon.
(4)
S T.

I get why people like this place. Huge portions, and a great beer selection.This place is basically a frat bar, and if I was still twenty, and needed to pack away a few thousand calories for a few bucks, then yes, I could see the appeal. I wouldn't even care about some of the worst service in Cleveland--and I've been to three of the outlets. But if you know anything about food, the heavy handed coarse nature of this blurred out and nondescript food makes you wonder how terribly underexposed the American palate is. What is even more offensive is the positive press it's received from some news outlets. So I am really glad a local boy found a spot for himself, made good and made some money. He doesn't need me to sell this place--they are always busy. And that's just as well, cause if my opinion counted, I'd have them sell the place...
(2)
Alexandra H.

Looking for a place in the area to hang out and grab some great food with your friends on a weekend? Melt's the place for you. This is a definite spot you want to check out if you're ever in the Cleveland-area. The portions are massive - which means there's plenty leftover for lunch, dinner, or a midnight snack. The menu offers a unique variety of grilled cheese spinoffs - perfect to satisfy any craving you're having that day My favorites include the Dude Abides, the BBQ Chicken, and the Wake and Bacon. The overall decor is quirky and cool, probably more aimed at the younger adult generation. All in all, Melt's a stellar spot and one of the reasons why dining in Cleveland just rocks.
(4)
Katie W.

Unique grilled cheese restaurant that offers a great selection of beer. Delicious but I must warn you come hungry! Food is heavy! There is a bit of a wait if you come at dinner.
(5)
Jessica O.

ate here about a year ago in the restaurant while visiting family, and then came back again this year for takeout. the food is just outstanding. the mushroom melt was delicious and enough for 2 meals. prices are quite reasonable for how much food you get. would definitely come back through here on my next trip!
(5)
David Joseph H.

This is a Cleveland/Lakewood MUST. It's on my list of places I take people when they are visiting Cleveland. The food is awesome and the atmosphere is super fun. This is the original location and it definitely feels that way. The wait times are usually long (expect to wait at least an hour during peak times), but it's worth every second. Plus, the bar has great local beers on tap for while you wait. The grilled cheeses are HUGE and can easily be split. For a lighter alternative, try the brussels sprout salad.
(5)
shannon h.

Menu has reasonable prices and gluten free options. Service could have been better- took a while to get our food.
(4)
Gary H.

Good selection of beer, gigantic portions, and friendly staff. If you're expecting anything else, that's your fault. My date and I sat at the bar and had several drinks while we waited on our food- that's exactly what you should be doing here- and everything was great. The waitress was usually back in time to pick up the next beer selection by the time my glass ran dry, and after a few rounds our food appeared. I'm a big guy, and I had to work to eat half the Monte Christo. The portion sizes have to be seen to be believed, and that makes the prices very reasonable. I got reasonably drunk, completely stuffed, and had a laughing good time with my girl. That's exactly how a place like this should be- although they could stand to turn down the music a touch.
(5)
Steve K.

Some of the best food on planet earth. Believe the hype.
(5)
Mark B.

This place does not disappoint. It is the REAL DEAL! I had the Rising Sun, it was one of the best things I have ever tasted. If you are ever in the Cleveland area, this is a must visit.
(5)
Chris A.

Not sure why I haven't rated this one, yet. Ive eaten here what feels like a dozen times since I moved here last summer. I almost always do pick up because it gets a little too crowded to eat in. They always have my food ready when they say they will, though, and it's always great. I'm partial to the Dude Abides and the Parma, Italia.
(5)
Francis D.

This place is a must-visit for any out-of-towner who wants to eat food that the people in Cleveland consider "good food". My friends at Case Western took me here, and let me just say, it did not disappoint. The pricing is good (as it should be--it's Cleveland after all) and the portions are both humongous and delicious. I got to sample a few melts which were all super tasty. The one I ordered was a special called a waffle chicken melt, which is NOT worth getting. Most of the others are a tasty meal or two, however. The appetizers are also super yummy. I'm not a vegetarian but since my friends were, we ordered the Wild Tofu "Wings". Ours were tossed in bbq and thai chili aioli. The bbq ones were awesome, and the thai ones were insanely good! Next time I go back, I'm ordering more of the thai ones for sure (and may even make a meal out of them:)) Do yourself a favor and go here, order some thai wings, get a melt, and order a seasonal beer (the Christmas ale with cinnamon and sugar was the best Christmas ale I've had), and enjoy your meal. Then, go home, relax, and put away your yummy leftovers for a midnight snack or meal the next day :D
(4)
Sherry Y.

I gave the 4 stars only because my friends insisted... I would have given a three mostly because of the incredibly slow service when there were not too many tables taken. It took forever for us to get our drinks, it took foooooorever for us to get our food... It's just sad...FYI, we went there around 9pm on a Sunday As for the food, the black cat really blows my mind, the fish was cooked perfectly and the seasoning was just right. I really like the spicy kick. As for the big fat gyro meatloaf, I didn't enjoy it as much, but still a decent sandwich.
(4)
Angel M.

This was the first place I ate at in Cleveland, and man was I impressed. I'm a huge lover of the sandwich, so this place was like a shrine to me. I had the turkey sandwich with stuffing, cranberry sauce, and sweet potatoes and it was absolutely to die for. I couldn't stop saying "Mmmm" as I ate. The loaded fries were equally amazing, and I sat there astonished as this is not what I was expecting of Cleveland eateries. The sheer amount of beer on tap was equally amazing, and I could have stayed here all day trying them. It's great for lunch and even better for dinner. The portions are incredibly gigantic, so come hungry or prepared to haul half a sandwich home. This place is so good that I asked a friend driving from Cleveland to bring me a sandwich to DC. No joke. It still tasted great after a 7 hour car ride. That turkey sandwich will haunt my dreams.
(5)
Jim E.

I have to give this a 5 since it is funky and so unique! We loved the Soda in a bottle, Black Cherry and Apple! The GodFather Melt was HUGE! I have never seen a "Grilled Cheese" like that before, a must have..and the fries are delicious to! The staff was friendly to, and we really enjoyed our experience in this Guy Fieri stop! You have to check it out!
(5)
Justin C.

Great big sandwiches!! If that's your thing this is a place for you. I got the buffalo chicken sandwich and it was awesome. Along with the sandwiches the beer list is great. Very good food and atmosphere.
(4)
Vida J.

Stopped at this place for lunch while visiting Cleveland for the weekend.. Hands down best sandwich joint I've ever been too! The service was awesome the portions are huge and the atmosphere is very chill and friendly! Would highly recommend coming here especially if you are an out of stater!
(5)
Jonathan G.

This here is my favorite MELT. Fantastic beer selection and the food is fabulous. The staff is friendly. Sad that the Lake Erie Monster is no longer Walleye but it's still a great sammich. Be sure to try the amazing fried Mac-n-cheese sandwich in December. Mmm.
(5)
Ed W.

Had whatever the peanut butter and jelly sandwich is called. It had about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter and about the same amount of jelly, all in the middle of the sandwich. Fries were ok. My wife ordered a spinach salad. It was spinach thrown in a bowl! I'm not a beer drinker so it really doesn't matter if there are one or three hundred. Can get a much better sandwich at Mr. Brisket across the street. The Cleveland mural on the wall was the best part.
(2)
Yuna D.

So. Much. Food. What I learned about Cleveland (I'm from NYC), is that they give you a LOT of food for relatively cheap pricing. At least they do at Melt. The decor here is wacky cool. They have football and stuff playing on the screens, so yay. Wait time was pretty long (20 minutes), but from what my boyfriend told me, that was like the shortest wait time ever. I figured as such, because as soon as we were seated around 3:30~4:00, people just started pouring in. I guess this place really is that famous. So the menu is really extensive. They have monthly specials, and from the sound of things, they also have occasional weekend specials (my boyfriend had this sandwich called the Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon... lol). He had the monthly special this time, which was the mighty macaroni melt. I had the monte cristo, which the server told me was their most popular item. Uhhhhh freaking amazing. The whole sandwich comes out fried, so I was only able to finish half of it. The cheese and the berry preserves are sooooooooo good. I kind of felt sick afterwards; there's that much food. It also comes with a side of fries and coleslaw, which alone pretty much cover the whole plate. Leftover take homes are pretty much a must. The server also recommended the Sioux City Sarsaparilla, which I had never tried before. It's really sweet for root beer, but I LOVED it. Trying to find it in NYC, but I can't. If anyone knows where I can get it (I really don't feel like ordering it off amazon), please feel free to message me. Food was great, service was great, and had extreme food coma afterwards. Awesome Cleveland experience.
(5)
Dennis N.

HAPPY APRIL FOOLS!!!!!!! Um... this review has nothing to do w/ any FOOLING--for serious. --------------------------------------------------Â--------------------------------- I was very excited at the prospect of eating here. I was actually trying to convince a couple of our buddies to do the CHALLENGE. However, none of it went down... We arrived at about 8:00 PM and was told the wait would be nearly 2 hours. That would've meant that our dinner start would have been 10:00 PM... now this was no fault of Melt but it was certain disappointing... the bar was filled with activity so there was no way I was going to stand around drinking while waiting. I liked the fact that the had the TALL BOY cans of Pabst (24 fluid ounces) among a very extensive selection of IPAs... lots of beer here. Again, in my old age w/ my rickity knees, I can't just stand around for 2 hours drinking... for you college boys and gals out there and other youngstas, this is the place for you! The ambiance (for the 30 minutes that I experienced it before deciding to go somewhere else) was very cool. The semi-dim lighting created a warm yet exciting atmosphere. It was opening day so it was good to see some baseball playing on the LCDs that are scattered aplenty throughout the tavern-esque pub. The crowd was great--and I'm not sure if there's a college nearby but it had a very COLLEGE-Y feel. The crowd was great--again, I'm actually getting bored at how nice everybody in this town is.
(3)
Nuri G.

What you're going to find: Incredible food. Incredible, vegetarian friendly food. In incredible, sharing friendly portions. Served by incredible, happy, perky evangelist servers. Who'da thunk a BBQ TVP sandwich option for their monthly BBQ monstrosity? When I read that there were vegetarian and vegan options for their sambo of the month, I about fell out of my chair (and quickly ordered one). The fries were crispy, hand-cut, and perfect. The cole slaw had no mayo in it (and undetectable oil, if there was any... ) which was a perfect offset to the buttery bread and cheeeeseee. We also ordered buffalo tofu, and had no idea how they got the tofu so dense and perfect. One of the things I miss as a vegetarian is hot wings (I know, don't judge)... and this was the closest thing I've had in years. All sauces are homemade... and you can tell. What you're not going to find: something healthy. I don't think I saw something on the menu that'd fit into a health category... but that's not why you are here. No. You're here for the bread...and the cheese. Ooooh, the cheese.
(5)
Terri D.

DEEEELISHHHH, seriously. i have heard some people say just toooo much bread, too big, too this, too that. but in my humble opinion, how could you ever have too much of anything??? i am a girl who LOVES sauces and condiments. like loves them. i would seriously marry a bottle of mustard if i could. sad, isnt that??? ok, on to better things. back to melt. schmelt. they have theeee best condiments for dipping your heavenly plate of fresh cut fries in. they are all made in house and they are just fabulous. i have had a few different sandwiches and i have to say they were all superb plates of heavenly goodness. they are HUGE. like HUGE. always enough to have for lunch or dinner the next day. the piergi one is awesome. its a plate of comfort food in a sandwich form. i always feel like a big beached whale after my dining experience here, but i wont let that inhibit this girl from going back to melt. it warms my heart. beer selection is good. atmosphere cool vibe. servers all have fun eclectic personalities. go. eat. there. now. that is all. bye.
(4)
Alex G.

The sandwich I had here blew my face off. I had the Cuban sandwich, which came with a heaping portion of seasoned pulled pork and, maybe ham, I don't totally remember. The meat, cheese and veggies were sandwiched between two french toast thick pieces of bread. I could literally feel my arteries clogging up. I don't usually save half of my meal, but I had no choice, but I was glad I did so I could prolong the magic the next day!
(5)
Andrew M.

I'm a big fan of Melt. Let it be known. Any time I'm in need of some "I'm feeling like being alone and gluttonous," I get it to go. And it's a good spot to sit and have a few beers with friends. I've had several sandwiches from Melt, my favorites being "The Dude Abides," and "The War Pig." The bread pudding is good too. Share it though or you may wind up in a diabetic coma.
(4)
Jackie L.

DANG!
(5)
Shannon H.

It is a very good thing that I live nowhere near this place. My life expectancy would plummet dramatically. The sandwich I had there was just so darn good no amount of reason, willpower or moderation would be able to keep me from eating here way too often. After reading about this place here on Yelp and a few other sites I decided to give it a try. Lucky for me, it was on a weekday so there was no wait. I instantly liked the place based solely off of the classic arcade cabinet glass decorating the beer coolers. (Note to self: find somewhere to buy those!) First order of business was to get a beer (aided by the bartender that was a quick task to accomplish despite the large list) and start deciding what sandwich to try. I knew that it was to be a grilled cheese, but even with that narrowing it down there was still a very lengthy list to read through. I eventually decided on the Big Popper. The bartender stated that this was a very good choice, but she did warn me about the raw jalapenos. No problem, bring it on. This thing was amazing. By far miles away from any grilled cheese I've ever had. Heck, this may just be the best sandwich I've ever had. Chedder and cream cheese, fresh raw jalapeno slices on thick toast, battered and deep-fried, then dusted with powdered sugar and served with a berry compote dip. I live in the Dallas area, home of the Texas State Fair, which every year has many people competing on who can create the best deep-fried item. I've tried a few of the winners over the years, and none of them hold a candle to the Big Popper.
(5)
Ali L.

Great service, excellent Bloody Mary's and cardiac food! So worth it! The one thing I was looking forward to coming all the way from Oregon.
(5)
Eli G.

Awesome! No pics = no memory, but each sandwich is more than enough for three normal eaters. They are also very happy to combine any individual ingredients from one sandwich to another. Sold spot to check out should you be trapped in Cleveland.
(4)
Mike H.

Melt bar and grilled is the suture that pulls the skin of the hipster community together in Cleveland. Food is always excellent, draft beer selection is both huge and affordable, service is good, and the interior is a pleasure to look at. The fried sandwiches, both the Monte Cristo and the big popper, are certainly the greasy stars of Melt, I would suggest out of towners try these. However, their menu has many excellent options. Buffalo fried tofu salad? Plain grilled cheese kindergartner? Melt burgers? All excellent choices. Be sure to enjoy with beer. Not all is rainbows and butterflies however. The wait at the melt can sometimes be atrocious, food can be greasy / heavy, and beards are quite large among the staff (possible pro or con, ahaha).
(5)
Tim W.

So while in Cleveland during a freak snowstorm we decided to wait out the storm and give Melt a try. We had heard about it from Man vs. Food and some Food Network show. We went on a Saturday night and the place was packed. I couldn't believe that I found a parking space right outside the front door. (FYI. parking at the meter is free on Saturday nights at least) We walked in and told the hostess how many where in our party. She then gave our daughter a "Elmo" name tag and told was the wait would be 1 hour and 45 minutes. I didn't mind so much as we had just came from my test drive of my Cayenne at Porsche of Beachwood so I had a ton of Porsche brochures to read to past the time. I have come to the conclusion that the bar area takes up the majority of the space hence the long wait times. To my utter joy and excitement, 40 minutes later we were called and seated, 1 hour and 5 minutes before we were told we would be! For drinks I had a pop and my wife and daughter both had Sioux City Cream Sodas. A cool thing I like about Melt is that the menus are on the back of album covers. I had Michael Jackson Thriller. My wife had Cindy Loper and our daughter had Madonna. Talk about a 80's party, all we needed were stone washed jeans and some neon. Wow I'm old! LOL! I got the Monte Cristo (honey ham, smoked turkey, swiss, american, beer battered, mixed berry preserves), my wife got the Parma Italy (breaded chicken, sun dried tomato pesto, roasted garlic & provolone) and our daughter got the 1/2 combo which is 1/2 half kindergarten, soup cup and salad. My Monte Cristo was EPIC and the girls enjoyed their's as well. Our only complaint is that there is no kids menu and my wife's bread was a little over toasted. Our waitress Rebecca was outstanding and never let our glasses get empty. So is Melt deserving of all of the hype and 2 hour waits? In my opinion........... YES!
(5)
Chris L.

Family in town visiting? Have they been to The Melt? Out of town colleagues in the office? Have they been to The Melt? We take everyone here. Why? Because there's no other place like it. Because almost everyone loves it. Because we know they won't leave hungry. Because they have 36 taps!!!! 36 taps!!!! In fact, we may come here more for the bar than for the food these days. So, my opinion of the melt has bobbed up and down a little in the last three years, but I think the real clincher is that we can't stay away. We keep coming back again and again. We love sitting at the bar and sampling some of their varied beers. Did I mention they have 36 taps?!?! But... if you're not sure... you may not like the melt if you don't care for fried foods, or if you don't like beer. Actually, both of those can be mediated. They typically have a good vegetable plate and they have quite a selection of mixed drinks as well.
(5)
Brittany L.

Amazing!!!! Stopped here over the weekend on a trip from Pittsburgh because we have heard how good the food is! We were more than pleased with the service and delicious heaping plates that my hubby and I received. 5 stars!
(5)
Adam M.

I never visit Cleveland without a trip to Melt. There's probably a sandwich for everyone, and the beer selection is top notch. The kitchen can make meatless versions of many of their classic sandwiches. The purple parma, big popper, and mushroom melt sandwiches are unstoppable, but be warned that the portions are big! Enjoy!
(5)
Aaron T.

Like most people, we heard about Melt from watching Man vs. Food, so we went out of our way to give the restaurant a try. Their menu is excellent. However, we showed up for the grilled cheese 5 lb. challenge, so skipped all the excellent menu selections for the challenge sandwich. The sandwich itself has 14 different cheeses, served on 3 large slices of artisan bread. To complete the challenge, the participant must also finish a pound of fries and 1/2 pound of vinegary cole slaw. The sandwiches are dairy overload, but surprisingly the flavor overload from all the cheeses is delicious! The challenge is nearly impossible to finish, and it also proved to be for us. However, the quality of the sandwich and cheeses, everything was fantastic! I'd recommend a visit here, even if you aren't visiting for the insanity of the Melt challenge.
(5)
Cheryl T.

A great place for cheese lovers. Everything comes with cheese! I think I will spend more time crafting my own sandwich next time instead of choosing one they've presented on the menu.
(3)
Peter S.

Good food. A little pricey for grilled sandwich in a bar. If you get there before noon be prepared for a long wait as they make all the carry out call in orders before they start in the orders from walk ins sitting at a table who didn't order in advance. At 11:20 it took 30 min to get food. We were the only ones in the place for most of that time and placed our order within a minute or two of arriving
(3)
Kee V.

Honestly, I wasn't expecting much from Melt. The concept sounded so gimmicky to me and I was sure I would't like it. I was very wrong. I ordered the Godfather and my friend ordered the special, the Prime Time Au Jus Melt. The lasagna layered inside the Godfather sandwich was great! The idea of pasta wedged inside Texas toast sounds like a bad one but it worked. I think they throw the lasagna on the flattop to give the pasta some texture and crispiness. Whatever they're doing in the kitchen, they got it right. The Prime Time Au Jus melt wasn't as good however. There was not only roast beef but also a layer of mashed potatoes inside. The mashed potato layer made everything feel mushy and my friend found it unpleasant. It was the complete opposite texture of the Godfather. Maybe if they replace it with a fried potato croquette, it would result in a better sandwich. Just a thought.... I also want to give props to our server David(I think it was David). Something about his demeanor just made lunch that much more enjoyable. He seemed to genuinely enjoy his job and always had a smile when checking on us. It's the little things like that that elevate a restaurants rating. If I ever need to carbo load in the Cleveland area, this is the place to do it!
(4)
Stephanie S.

My bestie and I went to the melt recently. They were very busy. We waited long for a table but service was fast and friendly. Didn't mind waiting as we enjoyed our purple haze beer. I got the monte cristo sandwich, it has ham, turkey and cheese and it's fried like French toast served with a jelly compote. We loved there French fries and could do without the coleslaw. I love the decor!!! Maybe next time we will go in between lunch and dinner so we don't have to wait so long. Thanks melt for the great food.
(4)
Rob P.

To the folks who say "you shouldn't have to wait 2 hours for a grilled cheese" - I say: DON'T! Please, I'm begging you, if you think you can whip up a grilled cheese sandwich at home of similar or better caliber, be my guest. I've tried with all my might to clone Melt at home; I've come close on some sandwiches, but it's not as easy as you'd think. Look people, most of us grew up toasting two slices of bread with some American cheese in the middle. The fact Melt serves something that's also called "grilled cheese" does not mean it's the same thing. Get this out of your brain. Here's something a lot of reviewers don't seem to know/understand: Melt (the original one in Lakewood) started as a bar - the fact that the sandwiches became such a hit was a nice surprise. BUT, the thing that Melt is really awesome at is being a bar! Do you like beer? Just look at their craft beer list. Few bars in town are going to have a list that good, and at decent prices to boot.
(5)
Kelly R.

I visited Melt with a girlfriend, arrived at 5:00 on a Friday night, and the place was filling up fast. I ordered the Melt Margarita, which was a bargain at $5.50. It was very good, fresh muddled lime, on the rocks. I ordered the Rising Sun Melt sandwich which contained cheese (of course), battered shrimp, spicy kimchi and lettuce. The sandwich was tasty and accompanied by pickles, spicy slaw, and seasoned handcut fries. I only ate half of the sandwich, because it was huge! I probably won't return anytime soon, just can't wrap my head around the calories and fat grams. The ingredients were fresh and prepared well. This place is definitely worth a visit, but just not on a regular basis.
(3)
Kenny Y.

Imagine picking up a piece of toast. Now, imagine dunking it into a huge vat of butter a few times, and maybe swirl it around a bit. Now grill it with a piece of cheese until the cheese melts and oozes and slowly permeates into that fresh layer of butter. Now, add a few toppings. If your mouth waters after hearing that description, then melt is for you. If you are experiencing a gag reflex from the thought of all that cholesterol, then steer clear. Now, take that beautiful, extremely buttery piece of toast and toss it into the deep fryer for a few minutes. That's the Monte Cristo. I actually feel sorry for my friend for accidentally ordering that.
(2)
Micheal R.

Great place to go. Food is heavy, almost enough for two meals. Service is always good. Four star is because the Cleveland Cheese Steak I had last night was just okay.
(4)
S A.

Delicious but overwhelming grilled cheese sandwiches like none you have had before - JalapeÃ±o poppers and Purple (eggplant) Parma were the ones we tried. Both good but we took home half of each sandwich which is a lot of food to waste otherwise. I would recommend they keep the same taste but reduce the quantity/calories. Otherwise a good place to go with your friends if you plan to share sandwiches
(3)
Katherine M.

Can't get enough! Vegan and love this place but it does prove that vegan isn't always healthy ;)
(5)
Liz J.

I enjoyed this place! I DO feel it is overrated, but it was good. Also, I don't see how anyone could have an entire sandwich to themselves. One half is a sandwich itself!!!! On this visit we had the BLACKENED CHICKEN SALAD: veeeeeery good, definitely the best thing we ordered. HOT ITALIAN: it was good but felt like it barely had any meat which shouldn't be the case with this sandwich. BUFFALO CHICKEN SOUP: it was really good as well, but if you're not of fan of celery(which I'm not) then do not get it SPIN/ARTICHOKE DIP: okay, least fav thing, says creamy but our was cold and chunky. Also, HUGE pieces of artichoke. Overall, I was satisfied and food was good, but I feel it os overrated.
(4)
Steven S.

Lives up to the hype. The other reviews have covered the amazing food, so I am going to hype the beer list. It has about two dozen great brews in tap at any given time. The best part, though, is the price. Almost the whole list is $5, or about what they cost elsewhere at happy hour. Oh, and make sure to get the special Thanksgiving sandwich in November.
(5)
Camden H.

The Cleveland Cheese steak was amazing. The best sandwich I've had ANYWHERE. The sandwich was loaded with juicy beef brisket, mushrooms, onions and peppers. The sauce was sooo good. The fries were great and plentiful. The spinach artichoke dip was wonderful. Lots of spinach (not overly cheesy.) The chips were seasoned and dusted in Parmesan. Great flavor. This place would do amazing in Charlotte! Hint, hint!!
(5)
Ryan S.

This place is the ultimate comfort food showdown. It's decor is unique and gives a very loved atmosphere. The food is amazing though. The menu is full of unique grill cheese sandwiches all of which are fantastic in your mouth. The Monty cristo is one of my personal favorites but every sandwich is tasty. One of my favorite locations in Cleveland to eat.
(5)
Caleb T.

Wow... What can I say about this place? It's a bar and grill where you go to have about 50 types of grilled cheese sandwhiches. It's greasy, disgusting, loaded with fat, and hits just about every pressure point on the comfort food chart you can think of. It's four kinds of fucking delicious. Short version, it's yummy. Go there, go early to avoid the rush, buy a peanut butter and banana grilled cheese if you have the balls, and don't think youself unmanly when you dip even your fries into the berry preserves dipping sauce that comes with it (oh, that delicious berry preserve dipping sauce, my heart pines for you still)... Long version: I flew out to Cleveland to meet my girlfriend's family for Thanksgiving. Now anyone who has ever had Thanksgiving before knows that only their own family cooks Thanksgiving dinner the right way and no one (and I mean, but no one) can even come close to topping your Aunt Tessa's, locally famous, hot and whipped, raccoon and radicchio casserole. They just can't! So, right off the bat I was in the mood for something to help make up for the lack of my mother's mashed potatoes in my gullet. I've heard of this place on a number of different Food Channel shows and my girlfriend and her brother both loved it, so I was ready to spend a Saturday night at Melt Bar and Grilled. When you enter the door, the place is packed to the gills with many a group waiting outside. For some people this is a put-off; for myself, it's a sign of good things to come. And when you're with friends, family, people you like and / or want to get to know, you should have no problem spending an hour or so waiting for a seat while you laugh and drink beer. We got three seats at the bar within 5 minutes despite the throngs of happy diners, so no problem there. The atmosphere is crazy, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Halloween decorations strung everywhere like the first few months of Kindergarten exploded all over it. The bar is laced with video game plaques from the 80's (FROGGER, REPRESENT!) and the menus are printed on the back of vinyl ablum covers. I was lucky enough to be graced with Wham!'s, very own, 'Make it Big.' I know you men out there are jealous, don't be hatin'. We waited close to 45 minutes for the food, which was surprising for the content, but it was delicious nonetheless. I had the potato and chorizo grilled cheese. Perfect amount of spice, enough cheese to give the sandwhich that gooey feel, without being a gloppy mess, and soft potatoes that were cooked well enough to melt on the tongue perfectly (as opposed to being undercooked crunchy or overcooked cinders / paste). The bread is thick cut sourdough, making it a bit overly chewy, but good. The sandwhich itself was one of the smaller ones, so I was able to polish off the whole thing, but don't expect most of the others to be the same. My girlfriend had a Parma, Italy. Tasty and huge, but it paled in comparison to her brother who opted for a Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana grilled cheese. Holy Mary, Mother of Fuck, that was delicious. For those of you who don't understand flavor combinations and just go, "oh, my god! Peanut butter on grilled cheese! EWW!", know that sweet and salty are ... FANTASTIC together! Next time you're snacking chocolate covered pretzels, caramel popcorn, peanut M&M's, or Chex Mix, remember that you scoffed at the thought of this sandwich. Weirdos. And they have Stone Pale Ale! I live in San Diego County, that micro brew is a staple here. But traveling 2500 miles and seeing a local Arrogant Bastard Ale on tap was a trip. Apparently its a top seller for them, too! So, to wrap up, this place was brilliant. Great atmosphere, great food, great fun. I thoroughly reccomend it. The only reasons I'm giving this a four instead of a five star rating are that I'm a stingy bastard when it comes to my ratings, I can easily see how the wait times (for both sitting down AND getting your food after ordering) can detract from some peoples' experiences, and even though the food was damn tasty, it wasn't that damn tasty that makes my nipples hard enough to cut diamond. That is saved for a select few. If you're in town, make a point to go here.
(4)
Justin B.

The wife and I decided to drive out to the Heights to go to melt rather than deal with the crowds at Lakewood. It was pretty dead when we went (noon on a Saturday). We were a bit concerned that it was near-dead when we went, but the quality was just as great, and the service was superior to what we have experienced due to the lack of crowd. We will return.
(5)
Megan M.

Melt is amazing. There are signature sandwiches but you can also create you own. I selected the Westside Monte Cristo - a combo of ham, turkey, cheese that is battered and fried. As any good 'cristo, it is served with preservative. O-M-G it was heavenly. Be warned! You are getting a crazy large amount of food. Each sandwich is served with an amazing tomato soup and a side. If that wasn't enough, you are also given goldfish crackers to accompany your soup! If I am ever back in Cleveland, I'll be sure to hit Melt up.
(5)
Amanda N.

So, I was working in Cleveland and heard tales of this amazing grilled cheese restaurant and all I could think was "I must try this place!" and I am insanely glad I did. I've bragged on this restaurant to anyone who will listen and am a little miffed that they don't have locations nationwide. First and foremost, their beer selection is phenomenal! Craft beers a plenty! They put a lot of thought into their selection and the bartenders are very familiar with it and offer excellent recommendations based on your tastes. We tried a creme brulee stout that was out of this world. We introduced one of our coworkers to IPA and now he's hooked on them. lol So, even if you don't go for the amazing food...the beer selection and knowledgeable staff are worth a visit. The food....was...awesome. The sandwiches are HUGE and stuffed full of deliciousness! We had a large table of chatty coworkers who hadn't seen eachother in a long time and once our food arrived ....conversation stopped. lol Others at the table ordered straight off the menu and all of them made "mmm" noises as they happily ate their sammiches. I built my own with bacon, pepperjack cheese, grilled onions and avocado....it was awesome. They put SOOOO much bacon on it! It was glorious! They need to open one of these in Austin, TX so I can eat there all the time! lol
(5)
Tarrah T.

Loved this place! Friends took me here on a visit to Cleveland, and it was definitely a win. The sandwiches were HUGE...two meals worth, at least. We had an order of pierogi, which was super tasty, and I tried the curry chicken sandwich. Line was long, so we just sat at the bar and had really great service. It was a pretty heavy meal, but definitely worth doing every once in a while!
(4)
Vi L.

I came here because I kept hearing people rave about this place, but after going, I wondered, "why the hype??" After eating there, I feel like a sack of lard. Completely greasy, heavy, and gross. I ordered the pierogies as an appetizer: The cabbage was good. The (2) pierogies were ok but weren't super flavorful. We asked our server for suggestions for sandwiches, and he was really nice, explaining in detail which ones were good with which modifications. I don't think I've ever really understood the concept of a calling something a grilled cheese when there's a ton of other stuff on it. The sandwiches are basically thick buttered pieces of bread with cheese (the grilled cheese part) - plus other fillings inside... But those other fillings basically convert the dish into a greasy sandwich with cheese in it. I got the Chorizo & Potato sandwich w/fried egg on it (on recommendation), which was ok, but maybe too big, a little soggy past the top piece of bread, and again, not full on flavor. My friend got the Big Popper w/bacon, which was all pretty amazing on first bite, especially with the fruit sauce and funnel cake-like bread w/powdered sugar on it, but after that, it felt like I was just clogging my arteries every time I took a bite. This sandwich was probably one of the more unique items on the menu though. The fries that come with the sandwiches were really heavy and most of them were fairly soggy. In all, good service, some interesting sandwich concepts, and large amounts of food (definitely big/dense enough to split 1 plate between 2 people). If I were ever to come back, I would probably just get an appetizer and maybe split a salad. Despite it being what they're famous for, I could do without the sandwiches.
(3)
Traci N.

There are over a hundred and fifty reviews for Melt already, but I feel the need to share my thoughts! In list form... YAY! 1. Grilled cheese mecca! The menu* is famous for its intensity, but even the basic "kindergartener" sandwiches (I suggest smoked gouda!) are delicious. *The menus are also printed on the back of album covers. Fun. 2. Unique atmosphere and decor inside. You will never run out of things to look at. 3. I always have leftovers. Half a sandwich and a mountainous pile of fries is more than enough for me. 4. A great beer selection--especially during pumpkin ale season! BOO! 1. There can be an hour+ wait if you show up at the wrong times. Prepare for an especially long wait if you go during the weekend, especially Saturday or Sunday night. 2. The bar tends to run out of the best beers on tap during busy times. (Pumpking on Halloween weekend, I'm talking to you. Actually, EVERY pumpkin beer AND Octoberfest AND everything else I tried to order that weekend, I'm talking to you.) 3. If I go to the gym the same day I go to Melt, I regret doing anything healthy for myself earlier in the day. The "blahhhh, so bad and SO good" effects Melt has on me more than cancels anything healthy I did for myself that day. If this doesn't happen to you, tell me your secrets. 4. If you order a sandwich to go, CHECK IT BEFORE YOU GET HOME. The only time I did this, they gave me a completely different sandwich, and as it turned out, one that I couldn't even force myself to eat because it had all of my least favorite meats and ingredients on it. --This is the reason I gave Melt 4 stars rather than 5. I threw that sandwich in the trash and it was too late to go back and exchange it for another. TIPS: 1. Park on a side street rather than at a meter. There are sneaky ways to avoid paying for parking! 2. Go for an early or late lunch on a weekday to avoid the wait. I SUGGEST YOU TRY: 1. Bringing your out-of-town friends here. It is a good Cleveland experience. 2. The November sandwich of the month. It involves turkey, stuffing, butternut squash, and a cranberry sauce for dipping. Thanksgiving in a grilled cheese sandwich. 3. The BBQ chicken sandwich. 4. The brussel sprouts, as a side. I'm not sure if this is a regular menu item or just a reoccurring side special. 5. The spinach pie sandwich.
(4)
Jeff B.

OMFG. I can not believe this was the first time I ate here. 1st thing I would like to address are the haters. I do not understand the hate. I really call it like I experience it. That is pretty much my mantra. Example: someone asks me" do these jeans make me look fat?" My answer is "no eating at Melt makes you look fat!" Well if your going to put really really unhealthy shit in your body, you had better seriously enjoy it! And this was 1st class unhealthy crap. By golly it was good to the last bite! This place was sandwich perfection. I have not had a Monte Cristo since maybe college. And you know what? It was worth the weight!!! Cooked to perfection with oozing cheese, and a very crunchy outside, This was the most Kosher sandwich I had ever smashed down. This was a life changing event! No heart attack yet. I split that and the meatball sandwich with a friend. There were multiple huge meatballs. I really could have split one sandwich but what the hell! The fries were pretty tasty as well. They were a little dark but well worth it! Oh yeah and the beer selection is pretty fab. Lots of IPA's. Melt you are a playa and I sure as hell don't hate!.
(5)
Eugene T.

My wife and I took our daughter there on Friday night. We wanted to know what all the hoopla is all about, this place used to have 3 hour wait. We didn't have to wait at all when we got there about 9pm. I am still trying to understand what the big deal about this place is because we were truly disappointed. We ordered Cleveland Cheese Steak (their take on Philly Sub) on a gluten-free bread and our daughter ordered Kids Burger. All the sandwiches were very greasy (which could be good or bad but for us it was little to greasy). The biggest think about the sandwiches is the bread and not the substance itself. The sandwiches were over-peppered and our daughter's burger was like a plain burger - nothing special. Fries were average. We did like the Vegetarian Chilly, it had a bit of a kick to it. Don't think we will be going back there
(2)
Jen M.

Revised and updated menu. At least the menu includes small plate salads and new appetizers. There are also lots of "add-ons" to choose from. Personally, I think Melt is just okay. If huge portions are your thing then you will dig it. I'm not into that. I think there are way better places to eat.
(3)
Jill K.

We were passing through on a road trip to Minnesota and found this great bar and grill! There are a bunch of beers on tap! This place brings a whole new meaning to grilled cheese!! I had the potato bacon bomb, amazing!! This sandwich tastes like a loaded potato skin but 10 times better!! Their French fries are to die for.....get a side of ranch for dunking!! The service was great and very friendly! The atmosphere is hipster and fun!!
(5)
Mark L.

I should confess that the only thing I eat here is the Westside Monte Cristo. I tried to branch out by going with their bratwurst sandwich once, and that is a mistake I would never make again. Not to say that it wasn't good, but the Monte Cristo is that much better, and I fear ever betraying it again (though I've got my eye on the peanut butter/banana). The Westside Monte Cristo is an already good sandwich that is brought to life by the donut-like batter, powered sugar, and the raspberry dip. Ohhh, the raspberry dip... I'm getting ahead of myself. Just order it, eat it, and thank me later. The location is a nice one for me, since I only live a couple blocks away. The food is not nearly as good as the westside location, but on the plus side, the place is not nearly as busy. Between the two, I would rate this location a 3.5 and the other a true 4 due to food quality and overall atmosphere. Decor is your typical sports bar and grill setup. Service is serviceable, but more attentive if you sit at the bar. Parking, like most places on the east side, is kind of tough. It's always packed, and I find myself parking in spots designated for nearby businesses not named Melt (with no issues to date). Sides were not good. I'm just being honest. The fries were greasy and grease-flavored. The cole slaw was dry (no sauce at all?). Their sole purpose is filling out the rest of your plate. One more thing to mention is their impressive selection of beer. Was able to try all kinds of beer I never knew existed. From high ABV, to foreign, to unique brews. Creme brulee beer? Yes, please.
(4)
Richard H.

Yes its trendy. And yes I know.. Grilled cheeses are awesome. I have given Melt 2 tries so this isn't a snap judgement. This time we tried the Monte Cristo and the BBQ Chicken. In no way are they worth $10 each and yes I can and have made a better sandwich at home. On a positive note, at this location i didn't have to wait for a table. Walked right in and sat down. There really isn't much to say. It was OK.. Just not great. Unique idea, fantastic concept.. Fantastic beer selection. But i am going to a place that specializes in Grilled Cheese Sandwiches.. How wow'd can you get? Perhaps there is that one sandwich that everyone gets that i haven't.. Maybe that makes all the difference. Then again maybe your a drunken truck driver that finds these sandwiches so fantastic that you deem it necessary to belittle others and use vulgarity in your review. However you wrap it up, deep fry it, smother it or swear about it.. At the end of the day its a very average sandwich served with some damn good fries.
(2)
Stephen K.

Server was great. Environment was great. I ordered the Parmageddon which is a potato and onion pierogi. I thought it was okay, not as flavorful as I thought. The sandwich was huge and came with fries. It was a little messy but worth it. Definitely would go back to try something different. I like places that bring a lot of food and this place didn't disappoint. If you want lots of food, come here.
(4)
Frank C.

I am mixed about Melt. I really really wanted to love this place, but the parking at this location sucks, the employees are hipsters that think they are to good for you and there was hardly any tables in the place. Wait times were high. Maybe it was just the bartender we had, but she was nasty and seemed to hate life. I def would not go out of my way to go back. The reason for 3stars is 1 star is for the concept of the restaurant and the decor. I liked it, very different and had a unique feel. Another star was for the menu, They have so pretty awesome grilled cheese sandwiches and FRESH CUT fries. And another star because I feel it deserves more than 2. But just for the record the employees of this place def ruined my experience, felt uncomfortable.
(3)
Richard F.

I have been here several times and have enjoyed it. We tried it again last night and I was very disappointed. They have shortened the menu choices and raised the prices. I will give them props on their beer selection and beer pricing. I also particularly like the buffalo tofu appetizer, so I most likely would return for those items. The sandwiches...not so much!
(2)
David W.

I thought this place was going to be too hipster-y for me but I was pleasantly surprised. They have an amazing beer menu and the sandwiches are incredible. I had the Korean War Pig melt and was blown away. The fries are really good but totally unnecessary. We got the peanut butter bread pudding and unfortunately it wasn't very good. Would definitely come back the next time I'm in town.
(4)
Stewart P.

I went to this location instead of the other one which is closer to my side of the city hoping that, just maybe, the wait time wouldn't be as ridiculously long. You see, I am a Melt fanatic, but even the cheesiest fan has a hard time waiting 2 hours to eat with 2 kids in tow. Unfortunately, this location had just as long a wait as the other. This time I ordered 'The Dude Abides' - a sandwich packed with deep-fried cheese sticks, marinara, and meatballs. It was previously a monthly special that was brought back due to popular demand. My wife got the West Side Montecristo (her fall-back option, which is, in my opinion, their best sandwich). I thought my Dude Abides was a fantastically good idea and overall was very tasty but I found the meatball to be very dry. I think that if I get it again I will ask for extra sauce in case the meat comes out dry again. Our server was slightly unfriendly, but since she was very attractive, I will choose to overlook her less-than-awesome attitude. Besides, most people don't go to Melt for the service - heck, after waiting for 2 hours to eat, you'll be begging for them to just throw it at you. So, long story short, Melt is always tasty... I just wish that they could manage to feed my family without having to make it a whole evening event.
(4)
Rob S.

I for one am sick of people bitching about Melt. The common complaints seem to be: -- guh, I hate waiting for food -- shyeah, it's only grilled cheese. I can make it at home and it's totally better. First off, you can make it this good at home? THE FUCK YOU CAN. Everyone who's watched an episode of Good Eats now think they're a gourmet cook. Great. Also, waiting? I went to a Max & Freaking Erma's last month and had to wait a half hour for a table during Saturday lunchtime. I waited 45 minutes at Melt today for a table during Saturday lunchtime. If that's asking too much for you, then get the hell outta here. There seems to be a historically Cleveland mindset of hating places/people/businesses that somehow get too big for their britches. Oh, they were on the Travel Channel. Lame. Oh, they're getting press. Lamer. For Christ's sake, in any other city those would be actually good things. Every single person I've taken from out of town has raved about this place, from my latte-sipping friends in Seattle to my hipster douchebag pals from Brooklyn. In the final analysis, Melt serves fantastic food, has a great waitstaff, a crapload of great beers on tap, and a distinct welcoming vibe. If that's not your thing, well, then it's your loss.
(5)
Aaron W.

I opted to try the Spinach Pie ($8.50): a grilled cheese-concoction of wilted garlic spinach, roasted red peppers, grilled onions, and feta cheese in between two thick pieces of sourdough bread. It was served with fries and their sweet slaw. One of my friends -- who lives in Cleveland -- said the wait for food could be brutally long. Perhaps I went at a good time, or maybe it's because I placed a takeout order -- but I got my food within 15-20 minutes. The feta was the star for me here. Just that added saltiness from the cheese imparted an extra boost of flavor in this one. The sweet, peppery slaw is a lovely side dish for this grilled cheese, and the stubby fries were cooked well. There are a number of great grilled cheese choices here, and I found it hard to pick just one. Melt Bar and Grilled has great food and a lively atmosphere! Hope to come back one day!
(4)
Kaitlin D.

While I gave the other location five stars, this one only gets four for a couple of reasons. 1. I'm sentimentally attached to the Lakewood location. 2. While it is nice to have a little more elbow room, I don't feel like I'm friends with everyone who works here, whereas when you walk into the Lakewood location, they treat you like they've been waiting all day to see you. The Cedar location is more of a "bring ten people and take over a corner of the restaurant" place and the Lakewood location is more of a "bring your date or best friend and lean in real close to hear each other, but also know what the three surrounding tables are talking about" place. But, this is Melt and a Melt is a Melt is a Melt. There's still a stellar menu of crazy sandwiches that will cover your hand in grease, fries that make you feel like you're at a county fair, and beer to no end. There's also still a wait every night, and you have to fight for bar seats. And you will more than likely have some crazy leftovers that will reheat fairly well in the oven tomorrow night. I still love Melt, but I loved it more when it was unique. Also, I'm still mad that brunch was axed. I could really go for an apple sausage waffle right now.
(4)
Funglin W.

I've always been told how GREAT this place was going to be, even for those who don't love grilled cheese sandwiches. And i've also been told how long the wait was. First, it seems like everytime I go (twice) no matter what time of the day, there's a 2 hour wait. What I don't understand is how inefficient the restaurant makes of their room layout. The place is so big and there are so few tables. Not just that, it seems like every time I go in, there's always empty tables but the wait is still 2 hours. Now for the food.. i'm not a fan of grilled cheese sandwich and after melt, i'm still not a fan of grilled cheese sandwich. The sandwiches served here is just so oily and greasy. Despite that, the bottom of the my sandwich is always soggy and soft and not pleasant to eat. To give Melt some credit, I can understand why so many people are in LOVE with this place. First, it is great for a group setting. Second, they give large portions so it's totally worth the price if you love the food. Third, the type of grill sandwiches they have are awesome. There's all kinds of flavors mixed together and different choices that it's pretty exciting to read and try through. Do I think people should come and try this place? I do just because I do know a lot of friends who LOVE this place. I personally find it way too hyped up but definitely worth a try to see what you think of it!
(2)
ten m.

Ughhhhh. I can barely muster the energy to write a review. Just thinking about eating here makes me want to vom. I was waaay excited when I heard there was a restaurant specializing in grilled cheese deliciousness, with homemade bread, deep fried yumminess...a full bar. I was prepared for the wait - 40 minutes - knowing full well we'd just find a seat at the bar. What I wasn't prepared for was the heat, hotter inside than out with a broken ac. I suppose even that would have been tolerable if the smell of sanitizing soap wasn't mixing with fried grease and wafting through the already stagnant air. An off duty employee - very nice guy - was the only saving grace if the place, being that he was super polite and confirmed we could just share one order. Sadly, even that was too much. We split a Monte Cristo, a monster of a sandwich with some sort of berry preserve side (which the server forgot to bring out) that tasted like the oil it was fried in hadn't been changed in days. We ate the sandwich, walked out happy for the experience, and within ten minutes regretted every bite we'd managed. I could never eat here again, even if I lived in Cleveland. Apparently they've had a lot of "haters" reviewing, but I give em three stars for concept - I say my experience, however, wouldn't merit even those three. In short: if you're going to deep fry something, do it well.
(3)
Bridget B.

Interesting and exciting menu. We loved everything we ordered. We also enjoyed the atmosphere. When in Cleveland, we will come back for sure!
(5)
Kim K.

This place is amazing! I have been to both locations and like both equally. I personally have have the Monte Cristo, which is freaking amazing! I have also had the Big Popper, the Reuben, the Parmagedeon and you can't go wrong with any of those. Keep saying I am going to try something new, but it is hard to deviate from the deliciousness of the ones I have had. Well worth the wait. Nice vibe inside.
(5)
Drew K.

We've been to the Cleveland Heights melt twice. Both times we waited a minimum of 30 minutes, but the wait times were overshadowed by the impressive beer selection, quick and friendly service and excellent food. The portion size makes for a great value (including next day's lunch).
(4)
David F.

The peanut butter and jelly grilled cheese was suuuper good. Might be the best pbnj i've ever had. Also had the parmageddon, and that was delish as well. It was packed when we came, so the food came out quickly. My family and I just loved every bite of the grilled cheeses. The next time I go back, I'll try the Big Popper or the Spinach Pie. I'll probably get the pbnj as well!! Great selection of beer!
(4)
Lizi C.

The Melt has a great selection of beers on draft that are all very reasonably priced. (36 draft beers to be exact) The food, meh, I guess it tastes good, but lets be honest, it's fried buttered bread, topped with copious amounts of cheese, excessive meat and other random high calorie tid bits. The menu is out of control. It's like whoever made it decided to take every sandwich and make it as unhealthy and fattening as they could. A meatball sandwich with deep fried mozzarella sticks? Seriously? So since it was going to be one of those kinds of meals (the hard on the heart, thick in the thighs kind of meal) I ordered the Melt Burger which was pretty much a huge greasy burger with cheese. I was disappointed they didn't serve tomato, lettuce and onion with it. Only a burger sandwiched between two buttered/fried pieces of bread with lots and lots of American cheese. Of course the burger tasted good, but it was super greasy. All sandwiches come with a mountain of fries and a scoop of coleslaw. On a prior visit I tried the BBQ chicken sandwich which was grilled chicken slathered with copious BBQ sauce and topped with globs and globs of cheese. I guess if you were paying for the number of calories you get for the dollar this place would be the best deal in all of Cleveland! I'm hesitant to give it 3 stars, because honestly I don't like this place and won't be coming back. But to be fair, I guess if a deep fried, cheesy pigout is what you are looking for at a reasonable price, stop no further, the Melt is it. Bottom line: The beer selection is fantastic. A meal here will be a greasy, cheesy piggy pig pigout of epic proportions at a reasonable price. Service is polite, but slow. You will also have to wait a long time to be seated.
(3)
Alex G.

Okay so let me start of by saying that I am a melt addict, & I don't plan on getting help anytime soon. It's that good. The atmosphere is so cool & eclectic. The wait may be insane if you go during normal dinner or lunch hours but it is so worth it. Also you can avoid the wait by watching the side bar areas & grabbing a seat their when they become available. I've had an hour plus wait & then waited for a seat at the side bar, which was about a ten minute wait. I live in chagrin falls & will drive over to Cleveland heights whenever possible to grab a sandwich. & I am always bringing friends who have never been there. Melt is the best thing ever, hands down.
(5)
Tony H.

Woo! My 100th Review! Introducing, my new hit single... [To the tune of the theme to "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air"] Now this is a story all about how I took a little trip to Cleveland town. And I'd like to take a minute to tell you how I felt; I'll tell you how I enjoyed my night at a place that's called Melt. Head east on Cedar Rd., up in C Heights, where the wait can run an hour even on weekday nights. So we chilled at the bar and enjoyed a few beers, getting set for the awesome feast that would soon be near. When a table was fresh, then we had a seat. Rock music decorations on the walls were sweet. I got the chicken parm pesto and soup, tomato; our awesome server named Rebecca said, "That's the way to go." I savored every bite, half a sandwich was plenty. With the fries and gooey cheese, it was all pretty heavy. No room for dessert and had to loosen my belt But I guess that's what happens when you walk out of Melt. We. Had. Awe-some service by the sweet Rebecca with her killer looks, knowledge and sweet tattoos, brah! I left Cleveland happy with great memories thanks to good friends and Melt, serving killer grilled cheese.
(5)
Jennifer G.

Yum, Yum! I cannot wait to go again - it was that great. Knowing the portions were large, my husband and I shared their August special - Slow roasted chipotle BBQ pulled pork, Fried sweet potato, Fresh crunchy slaw, Muenster cheese, Grilled sweet corn with roasted garlic spread & Homemade redskin potato salad. It was delicious! We also tried the August drink special of the Watermelon Boba and some other mojito type drink. Both were really good. Since we split our meal, we opted to try the Peanut Butter and Jelly Bread pudding. Now this was something that I wish we had skipped. I just didn't think it was all it was cracked up to be. If I'm ever in the area again, I would definitely return and try a different sandwich or two.
(4)
Normsb A.

Funky downtown place with lots of great beers and some crazy grilled sandwiches. Visited from NC and our family said we had to experience this place. Somewhat of a wait, come early. Really helpful wait staff, excellent food and plenty of it.Had 2 couples so we each ordered something different and shared, so much we boxed it up for later. This is a Cleveland must do when visiting, highly recommend....they even bring the Que Melt too y'all. :o)
(5)
Cara L.

Oh no she isn't.. Oh yes she is! That's right. I'm doing it. I'm writing a review of Melt! *GASP! (The world just screeched to a halt) I can hear the whispering already. Well guess what? I like Melt. There. I said it. If I could give it 3.5 stars, I would. Please do yourself a favor and go into this restaurant with the notion that you're getting a SANDWICH, not a elegant, 5-start meal. Notice out front that the sign doesn't say, Blue Point. I feel like Melt has been getting a lot of backlash from it's own backyard since it's popularity spiked. It's a grilled cheese sandwich restaurant, people. And an innovative, locally-owned one at that. I'm proud. Do I think it should get more publicity than our amazing orchestra, art museum and many other incredible CLE attractions? No. But folks are seeing a positive side of Cleveland and I, for one, am very happy about it. The world is getting a glimpse into our city's creatives, innovative entrepreneurs and talent. So, how is that a negative again? The Lakewood and the Cleveland Heights locations have both given me the same, great experiences. Yes, I waited too. I also starved to death and died. Oh that's right, no I didn't! Grab a seat at the bar and you'll cut your time by 75%. On my most recent visit to the Heights location, I walked in at lunch and there was no wait. Keep in mind that Melt is a popular restaurant. It's just good to see a Cleveland business doing so well! The food? Well, it is delicious! And by delicious, I mean a melty, cheesey, comforting indulgence that might make you feel a little guilty for not running the day before (or ever, in my case). I've had the Wake-in Bacon, the Parmageddon, and a regular grilled cheese with tomato. I've yet to be disappointed, but I'm never without leftovers! The fries are fresh-cut and tasty - nothing too fancy. But the vinegary, spicy coleslaw makes for the perfect in-between-bites palette cleanser. Oh, and did someone mention that the beer selection is awesome-sauce? Everyone has? OK, I just wanted to make sure. (Psssst...you can park in the Rite Aid parking lot across the street for free.)
(4)
Janice S.

Still an overhyped greasy spoon to me. I came here again with a group of people. This time I thought I would try to remove what didn't like last time, to get bread that wasnt dripping with grease when i bite into it. I tried asking for no or even just a little spread on my bread. NOPE. They refused to do it. They claimed that their bread is pre margarineized. So again, all I tasted was greasy salty slices of bread and not my tasty innards. Why can they substitute so much for vegetarians and not other folks who want to taste the contents of my sandwich and not just the greasy bread? Now i didn't come here trying to find a low cal meal. I just want to be able to taste the comforting goodness of the sandwich insides. I honestly can't when my bread is dripping with grease. Given this, I can do so much better at home, where i can really taste my comfort food and without the upset stomach. However, I do need to give credit where credit is due. The tomato soup was damn good stuff! Servers and hosts are friendly too. But I will not be back unless it is just for the bar. I still love the knowledgable bartenders and selection. Kudos to them!
(2)
Jennifer C.

In a gist: a lot of indians, not a chief in sight. Seriously. Who's running this place? I'm not the type to hate on a restaurant purely because they have had nothing but glowing reviews. However, there are some serious flaws with this place, which thankfully isn't expensive or I'd have throw a temper tantrum the likes of which would have gone down in Cleveland history. First and foremost. We waited 30 minutes for a table. The place was not crowded, it had a good number of customers, but nothing that well-run kitchen and a competent wait staff couldn't have turned over incredibly quickly. Though pleasant, the wait-staff clearly had zero direction. Or perhaps they're all too young to know that TIPS means "To Insure Prompt Service." I waited for 5 minutes after my crab-cakes (their label, not mine) arrived to get silverware which should have been on the table when I sat down. This was after looking around and waving at various waiters trying to get SOMEONE'S attention. Boxes had to be inquired even after we were clearly finished. And the bills took a separate trip from the waitress which was beyond ridiculous. Along with this, the kitchen clearly had no direction either. There should be little to no wait between appetizers and entrees. There should be some kind of quality control (you know, to make sure customers are getting good meals) which was obviously lacking. And someone better make sure that my food gets to me HOT. On to the food itself. Here's the problem with doing simple, well-known food: You have to be REALLY freaking good. If you're going to do sandwiches, those better be the kind of sandwiches that make your knees knock, cry out for Jesus, and grip the sheets just to maintain control of your sanity. Suffice to say, my nipples didn't even get hard. The crab cakes were a conundrum. They were made by someone who had heard of the concept of a crab cake, tried one from the frozen food section, and then decided to whip one up. Granted, I know you'll say, "But Jennifer, why on earth would you order a crab cake in a sandwich place?" BECAUSE IF YOU'RE GOING TO PUT IT ON A MENU, IT BETTER BE AMAZING. And I love crab cakes. There might have been crab in it. I don't know. The outside was crispy, the inside looked like something someone had put through the blender, froze, and then put it through the blender again. What was interesting though, was that the flavor was delicious. If I convinced myself I had ordered crab pate, I would have been delighted. The right combination of savory and spicy, the flavor itself was robust and held its own. The only mildly redeeming moment on the waitress' behalf was that the manager took it off the bill when I mentioned it had a horrible texture. And then she told me it was a common complaint. THEN WHY HASN'T THIS BEEN FIXED?! Again, where are the leaders in this place? The corn salsa deserves it's own special little paragraph. You know the taste when you don't completely clean off a charcoal grill before using it again two weeks later? Yeah. The corn salsa tasted like that. G. R. O. S. S. I also had the mushroom burger. I asked for medium and got rare. Which really isn't a problem in my book, but I have to wonder how many people ask for medium, get rare, and then die in horror (because, quite frankly, Americans eat most foods WAY over cooked). Again, piss-poor communication in the kitchen and zero quality control. Is there even a chef back there? I'll even take a pretend chef as long as he or she actually looks at the food going out! The bread was mush, the cheese had long solidified, and the fries were either soggy or tasted like they had been refried from the night before. The best thing on the plate was the slaw. It was crisp, vinegary, and actually quite nice. I could eat a bucket of that stuff if you let me. So. Yeah. It was my first visit to Melt, and it will most definitely be my last. I'm not looking for a 5-star meal from a sandwich place, but I am looking for a decent meal. When I start looking longingly at the Dairy Queen sign reflecting in the window and view it as a sign of HOPE, only to have my soul crushed when I realized there is no DQ near by and it's actually hanging in the restaurant....yeah, that's bad.
(1)
Roxanne O.

I love Melt, but not this location. Does that make any sense at all? probably not, but I can say my past two experiences have been just ok. The servers seem more apathetic and less enthusiastic about the food. When asking for things, I almost feel like I'm bothering them, where as at the Lakewood location, the servers seem much more lively. I'd gladly wait over an hour to have a pleasant dining experience than walk right in and sit down and feel unwelcome. Not cool, Cleveland Heights Melt staff. Even the food doesn't taste as good to me, which shouldn't be the case. Maybe it's because every time I've been there, it's been a challenge to get my server to bring me more than one drink. (service at the bar hasn't been much better...even with very few people at the bar eating or drinking) I still love Melt, but I think I'm going to make the trek to the original location to get the great food and service that seem to be lacking in Cleveland Heights.
(3)
Dave M.

Melted cheese makes everything better. This place is decadent and the definition of comfort food. Awesome beer selection too.
(5)
Lauren R.

The Cuban melt is my favorite so far (get it with honey mustard instead of brown). I've also had the Monte Criso which was the shiz and the Rising Sun melt, which I was not such a huge fan of. I once ordered the blackened chicken salad and it was KIND OF AMAZING. You could actually taste that the chicken was grilled and the combination of bleu cheese crumbles and crispy onion straws was definately something to write home about. Also, the fries are an experience; order a side of Russian dressing to dip them in. Trust me.
(4)
Rachael N.

I think this place was way too hyped up...that it didn't rise to my expectations. 3.5 stars. After waiting 1.25 hours to be seated at 3pm on a Sunday afternoon (yes, 3pm!), we sat down to order. My friend got the wake n bacon, and I got the smoky russian. After waiting another 30 minutes, our food came out. I mean, c'mon, it's a Sunday afternoon and your restaurant isn't THAT busy! First, the sides on the plates. The fries were drenched with salt and pepper. BLEHHH. The coleslaw was one of the driest things I've ever tasted. BLEHHH. Then the sandwich! Don't get me wrong, the bread on it was great. But everything else? I didn't even think my gouda cheese was all that great..there was so little of it. I mean, isn't this suppose to be a grilled cheese place? It was just, overall, WAY too salty. My friend felt the same. I was a tad disappointed with MELT. Why did it not live up to my expectations? Sure, they have a crazy amount of selection of beer and sandwiches, but still..... I just wasn't impressed. The quality of sandwiches....just wasn't that amazing. I'm kind of disappointed, Melt! Did I order the wrong item? :P
(3)
Dennis B.

I have a couple of friends that frequent and rave about Melt like it's the second coming of Christ, so when I was in the area to visit them, we decided upon Melt for dinner; because in their words "we have to try it". It was recommended to me that for my first Melt experience that I go with the straight grilled cheese. What arrived was a large "grilled cheese" consisting of basic bread, soggy from grease, barely toasted, and a boat load of fries. Taste was second rate, comparable to a greasy spoon diner. For a place that supposedly serves "gourmet grilled cheese", my expectations were high. I expected artisan breads, blends of cheeses creating a unique flavor, touches like heirloom tomato, and prepared using proper technique (like actually grilling the sandwich till its toasted). What I received was none of that and is barely memorable. From what I can tell, Melt is nothing more than hyped up bar food focused on quantity, not quality. The grilled cheese spin is a gimmick no different than Panini's putting french fries in a sandwich. By the way, the restaurant is more akin to a Panini's than anything even remotely higher class. Food & Wine just put together a list of the top 25 best grilled cheese sandwiches in America, and Melt didn't make the list. Ironically, Lola made the list with one of their sandwiches and they not even a grilled cheese specialty shop (#21 out of 25). This should tell you something about the quality of Melt's food: foodandwine.com/slideshoâ€¦ If you're a simpleton whose primary objective in life is to fill up your obese gut on greasy bar food while slugging down a beer, this place is for you. Fortunately, I am none of those things and consequently I will never return (unless I'm dragged there against my will). I was going to rate this place one star, but as long as I compare it only against its closest competitors ( bar food joints), it rates a little better. Note: my friends keep on telling me that the Cedar location of Melt has numerous quality control issues and that the only way to really experience Melt is to go to the original Lakewood location. They say it has something to do with Matt Fish not being physically there and that the line cooks and employees have a don't care attitude. I'm open to give it a shot again if I'm in the Lakewood area, but Melt sure as hell has a high threshold to cross after being so lousy the first time.
(2)
Andrea Z.

So ok. It's famous now because it was on Man v. Food. That's cool. And although many places raise their prices after such recognition, they seem not to have done so. That's also cool. Beer selection - very cool/huge. Decor/atmosphere is awesome - tons of Cleveland nostalgia - when I was there once they were playing Major League on the TV (juuuuuuuust a bit outside!). A fun place for sure. The food is really good - I've had a few of their different grilled cheese offerings and they've all been great. The fries and slaw that comes with the sandwiches are good too. I know some people say the burger was gross but you know, that's kind of like ordering a steak at IHOP. Order what they're known for and you won't be disappointed. The only downside to this place is the wait. DO NOT go there on any night if you are starving. You will wait a decent amount (like an hour or more if they're busy) for your table. After that, you still will wait at least a half hour-45 min for your food. The first time I went, shortly after the eastside location opened - we waited for nearly 3 hours door-to-food time (we sat at a table that time). Recently, though, we went at about 1pm for lunch and found a couple of barstools within 10 minutes. The thing about this place is that there is more bar seating than table seating and the bar turns over MUCH faster. I recommend the bar seating if at all possible. Put your name on the list for a table, grab some beers, and then keep on the lookout for bar stools. Chances are you'll be able to snag some spots. You KNOW about the wait. If you've read some reviews, you can't say you weren't warned. Don't go there starving especially if you've got your heart set on a table. But the food is damn good so go early, have a beer and enjoy!
(4)
Elaine N.

Had to try this place because everyone raves about it and it was also featured on Triple D! The wait is ridiculous on a Friday or Saturday night. So we went first thing on Saturday when they opened...we were seated immediately and the food came out quickly. First off, I'm not a huge grilled cheese person so I had the Fish and Puppies. The meal was HUGE and I ate less than half of it. The fish was cooked well and tasted really good. The portion was just too big for me. The service was great, our waitress definitely knew what she was talking about. I would visit here again, but next time would share a meal with someone.
(3)
Jess T.

Melt is very unique, and has a distinct hipster feel. There can be a bit of a wait, since there is not a ton of seating. These days we are in the 5:00 dinner crowd due to our small child so not an issue for us. We have learned that its not a great idea to go out to eat at 7pm, if your child's normal bedtime it 8pm. Your welcome. They do not have a kids menu. We ordered our son an entire meal thinking we could take home the left overs. We could have EASILY also shared our food with him. All the sandwiches were delicious. I can personally recommend the September Special - the Flying Felafel. It was very good! There is a large drink menu, craft beers and soda. All in all a great dinner out. I have no complaints about the sandwich, the service, the atmosphere, or the drinks. I did think that the sides were peppered too much. All sandwiches come with a side of coleslaw and fries, and these were great except for the amount of pepper! The coleslaw was good - it was fresh, light, crisp, and could have been so much better. The sides we got had so much pepper that it was almost border line inedible. Here's hoping that it was an off night for the pepper shaker . . . . .
(4)
Kyle H.

Melt is.. awesome! I was honestly not really expecting a whole lot from the online menu due to the high prices for a grilled cheese place, but I'm very glad to have given it a shot. The prices are indeed high, but the portions are huge. I had been going to Winking Lizard quite a bit due to its closeness, but Melt is a much better value. A dollar or 2 more for nearly twice as much food. I could barely finish, but I wanted to so badly because everything tasted amazing. I had the veggie burger, which is served on bread like a sandwich, with smoked gouda. The burger itself was thick and perfectly cooked with a mild sweetness that you don't usually find in a veggie burger... but it worked. The fries were very well done... not those greasy stringy fries you find at a lot of pubs. They went perfectly with sriracha mixed with some ketchup. The coleslaw was also way better than I thought that it would be. I'm not normally a huge fan of vinegar based slaw, but this stuff was some of the best I've ever had. I don't know what they put in the stuff, but it probably involves crack considering how impossible it is to stop eating. The beer selection is also quite good with pretty fair prices even durning non happy hour. I will absolutely be back, and when I eventually move from Cleveland after school I have a feeling that this place will be missed the most. The only downside is that parking can be a bit of a challenge, but that seems pretty common around this area.
(5)
Jessica M.

what?! who are you people?? i have never waited at melt. actually, i take that back. i waited for 30 minutes once for a take out order. the hostess was apologetic almost excessively i felt like and gave us a $5 gift certificate for next time. awesome. other than that i have not waited. granted i've always only sat at the bar! which is awesome! because you can see all the beers they have on tap, which is an awesome selection. being vegetarian, i love their vegetarian substitutions. you can also customize everything, make your own sandwich, add things, sides, whatever! i've tried a few of these things here and they have all been good. the eggplant parm thing, the cleveland cheese steak with seitan instead of meat, the jalapeno popper thing. oh man so delicious. greasy, oily, but delicious. they have tofu too! the plates are huge - every sandwich comes with fries and cole slaw. honestly it's too much food, i can barely finish half my sandwich. but that means leftovers! yum. if you are too much of a health nut to eat greasy food, even once in a while, don't come here. i got the tomato soup once, it was kind of too fancy.. it was all chunky with garlic and chives. i would have rather have had just had a campbell's style tomato soup. oh i didn't mention how friendly the people who work here are! one of the bartenders gave us like a 3 minute speech about the menu and how it worked. so helpful! i still don't get the wait thing. sit at the bar!
(4)
Conrad R.

Thanks to the great hype machine from MvF, tourists from near and far are drawn like moths to a flame. This review is waaay longer than usual because we were a table of four and I don't know when I'll be in town again. I'm psyched that this bar offers an impressive variety of craft beers and signature drinks. I just stuck to one: Great Lakes Dortmunder Gold. It's not available back home and I enjoyed...hmm...maybe four+ pints? Just the right thing while lounging in the bar between scenes from Labyrinth (1986 Jennifer Connelly & David Bowie) on TV and chatting before your table is ready. I would be happy to eat at the bar just the same. We started with the Melt Peirogi: two large doughy pockets with creamy potato and cheese filling, topped with a healthy dollop of sour cream, sprinkled with shredded cheese, green onion (but the menu says grilled onion), and "napa vodka kraut". I'm not familiar with nvk, but it was ok...reminded me of chopped, sauteed cabbage in balsamic vinaigrette. A good starter to share. Next was my side salad. I was actually impressed that the "small" bowl had a generous amount of fresh greens accompanied by julienned red peppers, sliced cucumber, and crumbled feta. I'm getting full between the beers, pierogi bites, and the salad. After mulling the possibilities, my final selection is the Municipal Stadium Magic. I originally wanted to try a Polish po boy while I was in town, but ran out of time (I'm hoping hoping hoping to make at least one final stop before my airline flight). The bratwurst in my sammy was dee-lish along with the blend of nvk, peppers, and smooth melty cheese between the signature thick slices of buttery, grilled bread. So my cousins ordered extra fries instead of the cole slaw. I enjoy the texture and crunch that cabbage adds, but my slaw was dry (meh!) and the small scoop seemed more like a garnish, overshadowed by the massive breadwich and heap o' fries. Two of the cousins talk about trying something different on the menu, but they always order the same: Melt Burger & Fat City Burger. Both looked meaty and delicious. My other cousin tried something different: BBQ Chicken. She didn't care much for the sweet BBQ sauce. She said it tasted like BBQ potato chips. I took a bite and agreed that the sauce seemed similar to bottled KC Masterpiece from the grocery store. Our waitress was friendly and came by several times to check on us for drink refills. No room for dessert this time, but I hear they're pretty good too. This moth would gladly return if the opportunity presented itself.
(4)
Hannah D.

It lived up to the hype for me. I had heard horror stories about long waits and the food being overrated, blah, blah, blah...whatever. I thought it was very good and would love to go back again. You should try it at least once to decide for yourself if you like it. We sat at the bar (there are plenty of seats) and our food came out in a reasonable amount of time. I had the Northcoast Shores grilled cheese (handmade crab cakes, wilted garlic spinach, roasted red pepper, herbed cream cheese). It was super yum, and I was so full by the end I couldn't finish it. Decent number of beers on tap if that is your jam. I'm a big cider fan and loved that they had Wyder's Pear Cider on draft. We were able to snag street parking out front but I think there is a one hour limit, so be careful of that. There was a lot in the back but it was totally full when we got there. I think there is street parking on some of the side streets in that neighborhood.
(4)
Kristin H.

Melt is soooo good! The place is always super busy and a little noisy inside, so we usually order our food for carry out. I try to get a different sandwich every time I'm there, but my husband is loyal to his favorite, which is called "the dude abides". His is basically a meatball sandwich with mozzarella sticks and marinara sauce - really good. My favorite that I've ever ordered is called "new bomb turkey" which basically tastes like thanksgiving on a sandwich. Delicious! I really don't know if you can go wrong with anything here. Everything I've had has been sooo good. I've tasted the Parma, Italy; the cleveland cheese steak; the curry chicken melt; and the peanut butter banana. The portions are huge, and I usually save the other half of the sandwich for later. If I heat it in the toaster oven, it tastes just as good as the first time. If you live close, I recommend getting carry out so you don't have to wait so long to taste the deliciousness!
(5)
Scott M.

This was our first time at Melt (or any grilled cheese restaurant). It was fairly busy mid-day, with patrons waiting an hour for tables but we went right to the bar for seating. We ordered the Cuban and Chorizo grilled cheese sandwiches and thoroughly enjoyed both. The fries were delicious too - I loaded vinegar, hot sauce and salt on mine. Several hours later and we're still massively full and will gladly return another time. I took a star off for being a bit under-staffed but we were happy with the experience in any case!
(4)
Jeff T.

Why not, I'm making Melt my 50th review. I'm still a little hung over from the weekend and was going through reviews and finding new friends when I noticed Melt and thought to my self, that sounds pretty damn good right now. I also suggest reading the other reviews, these people on Yelp know what they are talking about. Only things that rubbed me the wrong way about Melt and by no means will this prevent me from going back were the following. 1) Wait (service)-Gotcha, but when the first thing that the hostess says is that it will be more then an hour just so you know, instead of hi, welcome to Melt, that kind of bothered me. Did get a spot at the bar in 45 minutes and waited another 45 for food. No biggie, already forgotten. 2) Food - Food was good to really good. I went with the special of the month. One of the pieces of bread was the ass end of the loaf and didn't over up my sandwich, not to mention they cut it extremely thick which made it a little chewy. Really was hoping for some Au Jus but didn't get it. We also ordered Ahi Tuna app that never even came out to the bar, this left us a little pissy too. They didn't charge, no biggie. 3) Checking out- We waited another 20 minutes or so for our check. We were trying to make room for other people but no go, once again we were left waiting. Like I said before, these are the only things that p'd me off but I have the patience of a Saint so I'll go back especially for the spicy cole slaw, that was a nice surprise. I'll probably go with the Monte next time or the straight up grilled cheese. Solid 4 stars, must try, I know the owners read all the reviews they find online, I just hope they follow through and your experience is a little better then mine.
(4)
Christina K.

We went here for dinner, ending our Cleveland adventure. I saw the place on Man V Food and it was definitely on my list. They have a good amount of vegetarian options, and I really had a hard time choosing. Ultimately, I chose between the eggplant sandwich and the mushroom melt and ended up with the mushroom melt. So yummy!! Caramelized onions make ANYTHING and it certainly was awesome on this sandwich. It was like french onion soup on bread. YUM. The fries, I wasn't so keen on - yes they were hand cut and fresh and crunchy, but they weren't super flavorful. Could have used a frying in either tastier oil or a seasoning. The coleslaw is vinegar based, which is a welcome addition to the fatty cheesyness that is their sandwiches. I'd love to return and try the eggplant one, the spinach one, or the jalapeno one, but the plates are HUGE. I only ate half, and that was good enough for me. My coworker had the half regular grilled cheese, salad, and cup of tomato, which looked like a much better portion. I would totally recommend that Melt make half specialty sandwiches (not just the regular) with a soup/salad. That would be AWESOME. Otherwise, I just need a friend to come and split everything with me. Oh yeah, and also the tomato soup was reaaally salty. Flavorful, but salty - Melt, please cut the salt. PS the wait was supposed to be an hour and a half for a table, but luckily we found room at the bar. By 8, the place had pretty much emptied out. Most plates are around $8 which is soo cheap. Cleveland, your food is so cheap!!
(4)
Jack C.

I've been a vegetarian for years, and never have I encountered more accurate, inventive, and delicious meat-substitutes as I have at Melt. I've tried upwards of ten different menu items and have enthusiastically enjoyed each one - to my knowledge, my omnivorous peers have been equally positive about their experiences. The portions are huge, the environment is fun, and the cuisine is unique. Literally the only negative comment I can conjure up is that the wait for a table can get really, really long, but, if anything, this attests to the quality of Melt's product and the restaurant's iconic status within the community.
(5)
Robert F.

A must stop when in Cleveland. Amazingly large selection of grilled sandwiches and micro brewed beer. I had a spicy chicken sandwich with avocado on it and it was simply awesome.
(5)
David T.

Melt certainly made my experience in Cleveland very memorable. In fact, I celebrated my 20th birthday there! The menu is unique and the place is buzzing with people. The sandwiches are totally awesome - however, the best part really is having a sweet drink menu. There is a huge selection of not only beers but ROOT beers. It really doesn't get much better than a greasy grilled sandwich + a delicious 'boutique root beer'. If you're not from the area, you should definitely check this place out! The murals here are cool too but I think I prefer the Lakewood location.
(4)
Tuesday's S.

4.5 stars. In from out of town, and so in true gluttony (no, we didn't finish it all, and didn't even try), we ordered the Monte Cristo, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, and Dude Abides. The Monte Cristo was fantastic. A little greasy, with oozy cheese, and a delightful raspberry jam. It will probably be the best Monte Cristo you'll ever have. Nothing wrong with a deep fried deli sandwich dusted with sugar! The Buffalo Chicken Sandwich was the sleeper hit. We figured it would just be a nice counterpoint to the evening, and it truly was. the slaw on top was fresh, zesty and just made the sandwich. Unfortunately, we're both not huge blue cheese fans, so we should have tried to substitute the cheese. Once we hit the heavy blue cheese in the sandwich, we lost momentum and had to abandon the effort. The Dude Abides is a meatball and mozzarella sticks on a garlic bready bread, with marinara sauce. It was good, and certainly gluttonous, but its flavors didn't really hit a high note at any point. It was tasty, but heavy, and probably not what I'd choose for a whole sandwich unless I had a lot more marinara to dip it in. The fries with the sandwiches are terrific and offer a nice break from the grilled cheese monotony. I'm eager to return to try some of the other seemingly delicious combos.
(4)
Boon K.

The sandwiches are huge and there is so many to select from and if that doesn't appeal to you, there is whole other list and you can create your own. I wanted to try to their creation and waitress recommended the Mushroom Melt and their special the reuben. I love the bread and it was buttery, crispy, and just like a texas toast. The mushroom were good but after the 3 bit the onion got to sweet for me. I moved on to the Reuben and it was really good not the best I have had but the bread was the best part. The fries are good and I was not a fan of the cole slaw, kinda bland. The girl scout chocolate mint breading pudding was really good. I like the idea of the place but my artery was not so happy and I felt full until Lunch the next day.
(3)
Renee H.

Loooove Melt! The food's always fantastic (in an amazingly gluttonous way). I usually swap out fries for a salad. Good luck to ya if you want to sit at a table or have more than 2-3 people. The place is tiny but the bar seats alternate fairly quickly. You park across the street by the dollar store but there's always plenty of it. Love it.
(5)
Ace S.

Busy---but love the first come-first served "wall bar" option. Excellent beer selection too. I don't get the hype on this place tho...it's the food that makes us fat-assed and lazy. That said, I like "fat-ass" food from time to time and if you do too, Melt fits the bill. Portions are very generous - buy one meal and share it with your dining partner.
(3)
LaVerne G.

I love this place too. I went here on a date with a friend. Since then I've been back several time. I've introduce two people to Melt's and they like it too.
(4)
Lynn S.

I loved the big popper
(5)
Stephanie M.

I've lived in Cleveland now for almost 6 years and it's taken me this long to visit Melt. Actually that's not entirely true. Twice now I've attempted to go but due to insanely long waits and random closures (Yes, I went to take a friend there it and was closed - for a vacation for the employees), I've yet to enjoy. However a few weeks ago my roommate to me for my birthday. We went early, as to ensure we would not have to wait in the ridiculous line, and were seated right away. Our server, whose name I wish I could remember, was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. He made recommendations for me, the first timer, and made sure we had adequate time to decide between the delicious sandwiches. He was a really great server. I went with the "Dude Abides" and my roommate the special of the month. Both sandwiches were enormous, with meat/cheese/sauce pouring out the sides. They were fantastic! Seriously, super delicious. So if you haven't tried Melt yet, I suggest you do.
(4)
Alexa H.

This place gets 5 stars because my boyfriend and I fantasized about eating the other halves of our sandwiches for approximately 7 hours--the duration of the drive from Cleveland to NJ. We were thinking about finishing our leftover sandwiches because these delicious things are so large, I cannot imagine eating one in a while sitting. Plus the giant pile of fries and slaw also on the plate. I had a Parmageddon because really, how can you pass up pierogies in a sandwich? I was rewarded and the kraut was not super-fermented, which I enjoyed. The boyfriend had a Might Macaroni as part of the Christmas in July celebration. He really lucked out, as this is usually a sandwich served only in December. Deep fried macaroni & cheese plus cheese between two fantastic slices of bread. He added roasted garlic which can only improve things. To top things off, the kind gentleman at a nearby table sent us a plate of fried Twinkies at the end of the meal. Magically light for something deep-fried and filled with the kindness of strangers. I would go back to Melt in a heartbeat. If only it was not 7 hours away!
(5)
Joshua N.

This place is pretty good! I like the variety of grilled cheese sandwiches available. Any grilled cheese aficionado will get a little weak in the knees at the possibilities. Although I enjoyed it, I still enjoy throwing a few slices of wheat onto a pan with some American cheese and doing it myself from time to time. It is definitely worth a try, and after consuming a few pounds of cheese you can come to your own conclusions!
(3)
T R.

Greasy, heavy, not a fan
(1)
Fran H.

Don't expect to finish a whole sandwich there, unless you want a serious food coma the next few hours. The West Side Monte Cristo is deep fried, ham and cheese goodness. The Peanut Butter and Banana with sweet cream cheese is probably my favorite, and it's good for the vegetarians! Watch out for long waits, especially on weekends (a 2hr + wait is not uncommon).
(4)
Alexander B.

While not as charming a locale as the West side location, they have clearly learned a thing or two about how to run a crazy busy restaurant that doesn't take reservations: half the place is a giant bar that you can drink at while you wait. And this is no doubt part of the charm of Melt. By the time you eat your sandwich, you're two IPAs in, and greasy food is guaranteed to taste good. But you don't need beer goggles. These slices of cheese between giant slices of white bread toasted with butter are just fantastic. Of course, many people complain about the wait. I can say that over the last year, the wait time has decreased dramatically (don't everyone rush over, now...). Our standby favorite sandwiches include: - Chorizo, - PBJ with banana and extra Bacon. - Winter Chicken - Big Popper (spicy deep fried sandwich) - Kindergarden (Try it! Just cheese and bread, but it shows why everything is good) - The burgers are all excellent. That's a third of the menu, so it's really hard to go wrong. The specials are often equally fantastic, my favorite being the turkey dinner around thanksgiving. A slice of sweet potato never tasted so good. But why five stars? I mean, five stars? Well last time I went, I ordered the blue cheese burger RARE. As in, I'm sick of getting hockey pucks (from other establishments), so I want to make it clear this thing should be at least pink. Of course, the burger came out RARE, and it was one of the best burgers I've ever had. The meat was so good, it really was the right way to eat it.
(5)
Meg J.

The original location of Melt is on Detroit Avenue in Lakewood, and it got so popular that they built one on the East side as well. Let me warn you: it's always busy. Go here for innovation and creativity, not gourmet-ness. The decor is interesting, and I love their menu/branding art. This restaurant is recieving national attention and while most people are just ga-ga over it, there are some who walk in with great expectations and leave without them having been met. Anyways, my friend and I got our sandwich to go (thus avoiding the wait), took it to the park and split it. It was plenty of food for both of us. The Monte Cristo is DELICIOUS! The fries are just OK. I've got pictures and a link to the menu on my blog ( whatsincleveland.blogspoâ€¦ ) if you're curious.
(4)
Kristyn T.

melt is the best! every time i visit cleveland i make it a point to go there as many times as possible. i love the beer selection! the bartenders are super nice, especially Steve, who on my first visit recommended the Left Hand Brewing Company Nitro Milk Stout which has since become my favorite beer. It's a shame that a brewery located in Colorado doesn't distribute to my home state of California yet I've come across Left Hand even as far as Boston. bummer. of course, i've never seen so many grilled cheese varieties EVER. my favorite is the municipal stadium which has bratwurst, sauer kraut, grilled peppers, and american cheese. yum... and it's reasonably priced. bonus. all of my clevelander friends and family always complain about the ridiculous wait times there, but i've actually never had a problem. even at their busiest, i was able to walk up to the bar and get a seat and order off of the full menu. i even went so far as to get a tattoo of a melt grilled cheese so that i could be in the tattoo family. 25% off for life! too bad i live 2500 miles away, but i will be back in ohio soon enough to visit my family, and to visit melt.
(5)
Mike J.

We stopped here on our way from Chicago to Boston in a day. I love grilled cheese but I'm a lactard so I wasn't sure how this place was going to treat me. I was awestruck when I found out that there are tons of options for vegetarians and vegans. We did have to wait about 30 minutes during lunch time but it was so worth the wait. We'd spent the weekend hitting up places in Chicago that had been featured on TV shows or had gotten rave reviews and this was the absolute best of the weekend. Our waitress was super friendly and kept my water topped off the whole time (which was a little dangerous because we still had 10 more hours to drive). I got the vegan pig roast which was the monthly special and it ruled. The potato salad was so good as was everything else on the plate. The other two in my group agreed that this was probably the best thing we'd gotten. If they'd let me open one in Boston I'd totally do it.
(5)
Richard W.

We went for the first time and I would definitely say they need a defibrillator at each table. No matter what food you order it is definitely huge. It's like going to a restaurant and ordering a large bowl of soup and you get a 16" bowl with a shallow 1 cup of soup in it. The Melt Sandwich is mainly a thin slice of meat or substance, double dipped or more in thick batter, deep fried in whatever, placed with other items to make it thicker, piled with about 400 calories of cheese, put between an inch of bread on each side, lathered with butter or cooking oil (or battered again) and the grilled or fried to a dripping golden brown. The fries that it comes with can not even soak up the oil since they are saturated themselves. I realize that many people would love this type of food and that it is what our medical system thrives on (if the patient has money). You can not find any nutritional information for a good reason. They have not made one capable of measuring this stuff and it would cause them to lose a lot of business. We took home our left overs with the intention of making a more healthier sandwich on some whole wheat bread. After stripping away the bread, filler, bread crumb crust, etc. we were left with a greasy piece of chicken (Italian Parm) and a thin layer of Eggplant (eggplant parm). It was so greasy we decided not to add bread and just to eat it with the left over fries. We were sick to our stomachs all night and vowed never to go back. Good luck to those who do not care about health.
(1)
Kumar S.

Loved the food and ambience. Burger comes with fries, add a drink that's all you need, huge portions. Great place to hangout
(4)
Emil F.

They seriously need to shut this place down. The food is a bit too good. I've gotta say though I am scared I'm gonna get fat! I eat there about once a week and I savor every delicious morsel.
(5)
Kerry H.

We were heading to Cleveland for a weekend away while the Red Sox would be in town. After searching through recommendations on Food Network, my pregnant self was sold on heading to an all grilled cheese restaurant. We headed to this location on our first down in town for lunch. The staff was super friendly and service was very quick. I ordered the Parmagedon and it was exactly what I was in the mood for. Perogies and cheese on a sandwich? Awesome! My boyfriend ordered the Prime Rib melt, which was the special of the month. It was fantastic, especially with the delicious horseradish sauce on the side. So many great options on the menu, and we were really pleased with every aspect of our visit. Of course, we needed to get out to walk it all off afterwards, but it was well worth the visit!
(5)
Steve W.

A grilled cheese bar? Heavenly. Tons of vegetarian options. I went with a Godfather. It was awesome. I got a meal out of each half of the sandwich. This did leave me feeling pretty gross afterwards.
(4)
Mike N.

Ok so the hype is dying down and we were able to be seated without a wait. Prior to this, we have only been eating takeout and I was less than impressed. The decor is funky, eclectic Cleveland-esc. The menu is interesting. The tomato soup is amazing and the salads are fresh and generous in size. Now we get to the prime reason to go to Melt- the sandwiches. Yes you can get grilled cheese, plus a variety of specialty sandwiches and burgers. They are all large portions and flavorful. For my taste, they are much too starchy, with bread slices way too thick. I am the minority opinion in my family, however. Fries are good, cole slaw is different and with too much of a vinegar taste to suit me. The Breakfast Burger stands out as a star item. Beware the Pierogi Sandwiches. Service is attentive and pleasant. Overall, a solid experience.
(3)
Justin H.

Abnormal grilled cheese, abnormal place, abnormally great. You like jalapenos, cream cheese, and funnel cakes? Get The big Popper. A deep fried grilled cheese sandwich with the previously listed ingredients. Their french fries are also tasty. Check out their website for their list of many different sandwiches. The bar is very large, and they have many great beers on tap. I have been here only once, and it was just before noon. Melt looks like a lot of fun later at night. (They were having a Big Lebowski viewing that night. My generation's Easy Rider!) The only bad thing seems to be... get there, and get there early. The line builds astonishingly fast. It is easy to see how this place is becoming a Cleveland icon.
(4)
Erin S.

Another overrated Cleveland restaurant. Sub par grilled cheese big effing deal. I don't get the fools who are constantly raving about this place like its the greatest thing since sliced bread. I could make a better grilled cheese at home any day and not have to wait 3 freakin hours to get it. The only good thing about this place is the decor and the fact that I met the love of my life there.
(2)
Becky H.

Ridiculously busy at all times (good for the owners & the servers though, right?!!) for my first time there, it was definitely worth the wait... though I may only go when I am back in town and taking other first timers with me. Special occasion type stuff. At times, though, Melt feels like the hot guy you had a crush on for, like, ever... only to find out he's all pretty/no gritty. He just kinda lays there being awesome and you should thank him for the privilege of waiting 4 hours for him to come by for a booty call. The food, however, is pretty awesome and usually worth the wait. AND they were all too happy to deal with food allergies for those of us that needed special food handling. If you are celiac or have a gluten allergy, they'll let you bring in your own bread for one of their yummy sandwiches... because that's what ya came here for, isnt it??? :)
(4)
Todd K.

I don't make it to Cleveland often, but when I do, I'll be back to Melt. I went with my aunt, who said "I'm NOT waiting 2 hours at dinner time for a grilled cheese sandwich, so let's go for lunch when the wait isn't so long," and I completely agreed. So we did. Her Monte Cristo was perfect, and I had the August special with the falafel... it was one of the best sandwiches I've ever eaten. And there was way too much food on one plate to eat at one time... definitely easy to make 2 meals out of one. And they have a great selection of mainstream and craft beers. I loved the menus, both from a presentation standpoint (very original idea), and from a content standpoint - almost too many choices. The employees were all very friendly. If you're into the conservative scene with all of the employees wearing uniforms, this may not be your spot. (It had a vibe similar to my current Phoenix favorite, Postino). Needless to say, we decided that we'd definitely wait the two-hours at dinner time for the experience.
(5)
Winston C.

Great food and alot of it. Extensive bar with some great beers! Plan on a long wait tho!
(4)
Matt V.

Metl is one of only two restaurants I have been to where I will gladly wait more than an hour for a table. I have never had a sandwich that wasn't amazing although I can particularly recommend the God Father and the Count de Monte Cristo. All of the portions are large enough to cover two meals. If you have enough room for dessert it is also amazing.
(5)
Daniel L.

Went there this past weekend. It was fairly crowded for a Sunday evening, and we had a 30-minute wait. I had the Parmageddon sandwich, which is basically grilled cheese with pierogies in the middle. It was delicious. I would definitely get this again. Unfortunately, we had no room for dessert. The beer list was also pretty extensive. Our server was quite knowledgeable about most of the beers on the list, which I appreciated. I'm knocking one star off because of the parking situation. It's mostly metered parking in the area.
(4)
Colleen Z.

Food here is absolutely delicious. I've tried the Lake Erie Monster, Dude Abides, Wake n Bacon, a burger, the fries, the chocolate chai bread pudding, the strawberry bread pudding, the fried pierogi...always beyond awesome. However...make sure that you are not in any sort of rush when you go here. Not only will the wait range from 0 mins to an hr, but on occasion I've had waitstaff that were UNBELIEVABLY slow. On my last visit we waited 10 mins to give our drink orders and had to ask the waiter to take our food order, the food itself took a little long considering there are only about 20 tables in the whole place and only 1/3 were full. The food was good, but...the waiter only came back once--one friend never had his drink refilled and then we sat there for 15 min trying to get the waiter's attention to get the bill and boxes. I had to call over another waitress to bring him out from the back, and when she did, we waited from 6:30 to 7:10 for him to come back. Eventually I had to go up TO THE BAR to ask someone to let me pay and they said "only" our waiter could ring us out, so I had to stand by the kitchen door...pathetic...to personally grab him and hand him my credit card. In the time we stood at the bar waiting to pay, they'd cleared our table, sat a new group, and had brought out their drink orders--seriously! It's a good thing my friends and I are decent people because we almost left without paying. I wish I could give 5 stars, but there's no way that being treated like that by waitstaff won't sour an experience. It would be one thing if any of the 3 employees we asked for help had actually helped us ring out, but the (apparent) policy about swiping our card ate up way too much of our evening. You will love the food, just...make sure you have 2-3 hours to spend at Melt.
(4)
Michael S.

Dear Melt, Your food, beer selection and general take on the restaurant biz is A-OK. Dear Melt Bar Staff, You suck so bad it makes me sad. I will continue to frequent your establishment because I enjoy your tasty beer and relatively low douche factor, but I've pretty much given up on receiving anything other than poop and pee service.
(3)
Maura B.

I use to think no one made better grilled cheese than my mom... then I went to Melt! WOW! They know how to make a grilled cheese! I decided to venture away from "The Kindergarten" and be spontaneous and order a grilled peanut butter and banana melt! Possibly the greatest food decision I've ever made in my life! I am proud to say I ate the ENTIRE thing and still have dreams about this sandwich! I need to make another trip up to Cleveland soon just so I can go back to Melt! The service was great- we had about a half hour wait for a table on a Saturday afternoon- but it was well worth the wait!
(5)
Adam C.

My favorite all around restaurant in Cleveland. Hands down the best draft beer prices and selection I have ever seen at any bar!!! They have over 15 craft beers on draft (no bud or miller lite in site) and tons of bottled beers. The food is amazing! Sandwiches range from $10-12 and i have yet to see anyone leave without a box . My girlfriend and I go once a week and split a vegan sandwich melt and the BUFFALO TOFU! Prepare yourself for a wait or do what I do and settle in at the bar. Melt is a must try if you live or are visiting Cleveland!!!
(5)
Shannon H.

Melt in numbers: 5: people in our party (me, the Mister, mom, dad, bro) 90: minutes we were told the wait was 3: times we fed the parking meeter 6: times I nagged my mom to ask how much time was left before we got to sit down 1: times she actually asked 115: minutes we actually waited 3: times the Christmas Story played (the run it on a loop in the TVs) 20: plastic lawn ornaments I counted (before I lost track) 24: Grilled cheese sandwiches to choose from 12: times my stomach growled 3: Sandwiches really I wanted 60: minutes we waited for our sandwiches 3: times I tried to convince my family it'd be worth it 8: iced tea refills 5: happy tummies Was it worth it? For me, yes. While the wait was really annoying, it gave me time to catch up with my family and spend quality time together with minimal distractions (other than my growling stomach). The food was, as expected, delicious. I ordered the Grilled Peanut Butter, Banana and Cream Cheese Sandwich. Dear Melt, next time, don't skimp on the peanut butter, OK? After waiting for a few hours, I think I deserve more than a tablespoon. Otherwise, delish. The Mister ordered the West Side Monte Cristo, which included honey ham, smoked turkey, swiss, american, beer battered and mixed berry preserves He compared it to an orgasm. I had a bite and tend to agree. TMI? It's OK we're all friends. My brother ordered The Big Popper, which had fresh jalapeno peppers, cheddar & herbed cream cheese, beer battered and mixed berry preserves. I can't remember what my dad ordered. And I didn't dare get within his personal space to investigate -- I know better than to mess with a hungry man My mom was a whimp and ordered a salad. Don't bother, I already made fun of her.
(4)
Pamela M.

Managed to get out here for a quick lunch with dad after picking him up from the airport, it was early and we didn't wait for a table, but there were only a couple open, the place would definitely fill up fast during peak hours, I would suggest coming here off-peak or be very prepared to wait a good deal of time for your table! Ferris Bueller was looped on the TV screens, very apropos since I was playing hooky from work for the afternoon :oP I gotta say, I loved the "vinyl covers as menus" thing they have going on there, I got a Bob Seger album and my dad got Tom Jones.....the day I get a Journey album it will be coming home with me! Loved the retro decor, especially all the Dairy Queen signs, lent the space a cool vibe. Food was good, I had the pierogi melt (can't remember the actual name on the menu) and it was pretty good. I'm going to maybe take some heat for this, but the portion was WAY too big....I could only finish one half of the sandwich. I wish they had an option for a half portion on their menu, it's such a waste of food. Fries were excellent, very crispy. Didn't try the coleslaw since I was too stuffed from the sandwich. And my favorite thing about the restaurant?? They serve grape nehi....oh yeah, Radar's favorite drink, and it's totally awesome!
(3)
Sue M.

Noisy, loud and really greasy. Call your cariologist when you leave...
(1)
Arjun B.

In Cleveland for business (Blodgett Welding Seminar at Lincoln Electric); I was told to visit this place. Okay, ...so I wasn't told, so much as ...I enjoy Guy Fieri. They were also on "Best Thing I Ever Ate" recently. I was sold on the premise. Surprisingly enourmous boozahol selection; no complaints there. The wait (at ~7pm) was going to be 45 minutes for a booth; no wait for the bar area. (This makes sense, as the bar is abnormally large ...and appears to make up roughly 60% of the square footage.) Portions are very generous. Service was very good: despite the "45 minute wait to be seated," I had my food in under 10 minutes. At the suggestion of the gentleman behind the bar, I had the "Parmageddon." (Parma is apparently a largely eastern-European suburb of Cleveland; makes for quality kielbasa and pierogies and the like.) Grilling pierogies apparently makes a world of difference from what I've had before. And the kraut or cabbage (?) was pretty brilliant - the kind of stuff that would outshine the corned beef in a reuben. (Sacrilege to say, but true.) Not bad, Cleveland. I didn't get to see a butter cow. But not bad.
(5)
Robert J.

Both my wife agree, way overated, mediocre grilled cheese sandwichs at best. Not worth visiting a second time. Must be all the hype of rave revues, 'cause it certainly is NOT the food.... yuk
(1)
Matt F.

I see that a lot of people were very turned off by the wait time for Melt. To be honest, if I had to wait over an hour for a grilled cheese sandwich, I'd probably be a little miffed as well. Fortunately, my girlfriend and I were visiting Cleveland for a few days and managed to swing by Melt in Cleveland Hts at about 2:30 pm on a Friday. I guess it was the magic hour, because we waited for maybe 2 minutes before being seated and we we ordered, ate, and were out of there within about an hour. I really liked Melt. I thought the pop culture/ 80's icon decor was really fun and I thought that using old record sleeves for menus was very creative. The servers and hosts all were very friendly as well. The food was really good! I ordered a special -- something with spicy barbecued pork. Along with a side of fries and cole slaw. All were great - especially the bread! My dining companion ordered a mushroom melt, which I also think she enjoyed. The portions were very good sized for a reasonable price. In fact, I only ate about half of my sandwich - and the rest of my leftovers were promptly eaten by my relatives, which is a good sign (although most of my family is not that picky). We were also able to order a vegan kindergartner (plain grilled cheese) for my brother to go - which I think he liked! I was also impressed by the bar, which had a great selection of beers. My girlfriend HATES beer, but they even had one that she enjoyed - Lindemann's Frambois. Next time I am in Cleveland, I will definitely try to stop by Melt again.
(4)
Chez S.

wow. I am still in awe (days layer) of my lunch at Melt. I came into Cleveland on business and my friend would not stop talking about Melt. I had high expectations walking in and I was not disappointed! the decor was cheesy (no pun intended) but fitting. the menu choices were varied. I came in expecting just a bunch of grilled cheese options but there was plenty more. amazing salads, soups that sounded fantastic, a daily special vegetable (that days was roasted corn on the cob with garlic butter-yum!), a wide array of sandwiches and even vegan options. I had to have a grilled cheese. I ordered the Wake 'n Bacon with added avocado. it was divine. they serve their sandwiches with fries and coleslaw. I subbed out for a salad. I never even touched the fries and only ate half of my sandwich and was completely satisfied. an added bonus-a really awesome selection of microbrewed sodas (LOTS of root beer-my fave) and what looked like a rotating menu of beers. I cannot wait for my next trio to Cleveland and I NEVER thought I'd say that about Cleveland of all places.
(5)
Jerry A.

I went to this place for the first time with my son for dinner. I had the Cuban sandwich. It was huge and it was good food. The coleslaw was also excellent and so where the fries. My son on the other hand and that of just getting a plain burger. Although he's not very picky he does not like a lot of cheese in his sandwiches.
(4)
Jarrett H.

On a recent day-trip to the Cleve, my girlfriend and I were told that we should stop in Melt - a place which exclusively serves variations on the Grilled cheese - before our show since it was in the area. I read up a little bit(Already having been sold on the idea) and decided it was a must. So we finally show up at Melt, and the first bit of quirk we find is that instead of taking your name, they assign you a name on a nametag. I received the honor of waiting as Elvis. Tom Selek and King Tut sat on either side of me as we buckled in for the one-hour wait. Now, don't be fool here - yes, the wait is long, but that belies the nature of this place. Melt has three times as much bar seating as it does table seating. Hungry? Saddle up. We could have grabbed seats at the bar within 5 minutes of our arrival - but since we grabbed a quick snack on the way up we decided that the hour would give us time to make room and grabbed beers instead. By the way, the selection here is great. Local and favorite crafts, a couple being rarities. After about 50 minutes we were seated - the menus handed to us were printed on the backs of album covers. I got disco-pop superheros The Bee Gees while my girlfriend received contest-television star Paula Abdul. Everything on the menu sounds heavenly, with about 5-10 appetizer selections and 20-30 sandwich selections, it is fairly overwhelming. Having mental overload, I decided to play it safe and go with Yelp's favorite, the Monty Cristo. My better half chose the Parmageddon - being from Pittsburgh, we are suckers. Our eyes had originally caught the pierogies and the ultimate fries appetizers - but she got pierogies on her sandwich and you could upgrade the fries that came with your meal for $2.50, so we passed on appetizers. -- By the way, you can sub any cheese you get for their list of about 10, or add, or swap for vegan options. Thankfully so, because you get a massive amount of food at this place. These sandwiches are stacked high, and everything else is piled on to the place. There is no negative space on this presentation - fries, cole slaw, and sandwich overwhelmingly take over the plate. My sandwich arrived deep fried in a copious amount of batter and sprinkled in powdered sugar. It tasted like half funnel cake, half delicious grilled cheese - magnificent I thought, but next time I could go without the sweetness for a more savory choice(Not to say it wasn't savory at all - it was a good mix). The fries, cole slaw and parmageddon shine due to one thing in my eyes - an uninhibited use of an underutilized spice - black pepper! There is a monstrous amount used in this place, it permeates just about anything it can. It's a flavor I really enjoy, especially with the saltiness of cheese. This cole slaw was also very good on it's own - while I usually like creamy cole slaw more, this was sweet and very good. At the end of the meal, neither of us had finished more than half of our plate. Our takeout boxes had to have weighed a pound each. We made a pretty big dent in my ultimate fries but hers were almost entirely untouched. The total bill(Minus our beer) was less than $25. Why not five-stars? I feel like the service is a bit too laid back. Multiple times I saw food sitting up on the counter for a few minutes before it got picked up, which when food is being fried or grilled so heavily, those seconds can be precious. Also, I saw many parties leave and their tabled remained empty for up to 10 minutes before they were cleaned and re-used. In a place with probably a 2 hour wait period(When I left, I saw people I was waiting with still waiting - there are only about 15 tables) those tables should be cleared and re-seated in minutes. I saw a lot of takeout orders go out, as well. Bottom line, this place is awesome. If you don't like long waits, feel free to sit at the bar, there is plenty of room. If you have a big group, maybe order takeout - I saw a girl leave with 9 sandwiches to go. But it is definitely delicious.
(4)
Jonathan C.

Good Sandwich place. I had the Oct. special: Meatloaf with mashed potatoes (on bread as a melt, of course). Friendly bartender. Nice beer selection. Fries are so-so. I would recommend it to anyone. I wish they would have the 13 cheese sandwich in the 5 lb challenge on a smaller scale just to try it! In terms of the wait, go alone and sit at the bar!
(3)
Evan B.

Great sandwiches, great beer selection.
(4)
J. H.

Gamechanger. 'Nuff said.
(4)
Teenie K.

Melt perfectly exemplifies when something falls short of expectations that begin and only continue to rise as the wait gets longer. For one thing, Clevelanders, it is a grilled cheese sandwich. Not a ride at an amusement park. Not Missoni at Target. I would consider myself a being of reasonable patience, but sitting in Melt for 3 hours waiting on said grilled cheese sandwich greatly tests the limits of my threshold for hunger. Probably in the 4th hour, a little after 9 pm, the sandwich appears. It is thick and looks unhealthy. I ate it. As you can see, it was not very memorable. Come to me, and in under 600 seconds I will make you a grilled cheese sandwich.
(2)
Martin S.

I have been to both locations. I prefer the one in Cleveland heights, as the wait time at the West side location was just ridiculous...also they did not have half of the on-tap beers in stock. The one in Cleveland Heights has always been a good experience though. They have an amazing beer selection, but you're obviously going to go here for the sandwiches and secondarily the beer. I can recommend the Parmageddon and the BBQ chicken. My friend ordered the monster grilled cheese, the entire thing is deep fried..it is delicious, but I recommend popping a Lipitor while you are eating this heart stopper. Overall, this is very trendy sandwich bar, that could do with a little better customer service.
(3)
Will W.

Ahhh Melt. When I first moved to Cleveland I had to check out the DDD episode with it just to see what I was getting myself into. My first trip about a year ago was not so great as I had a small meal before meeting up with friends there on the spur of the moment. Going to Melt is all about planning. Now, the wife and I will decide on the sandwich we want and only order one. This is key. I have tried many times to finish a whole one on my own, and have failed miserably each time. SHARE. We also order the house salad with house dressing. I was really impressed by it the first time I ordered it, and have gotten it each time since. The tangy bleu cheese and the sweetness of the dressing, really make for a unique salad that I wish I could replicate at home. We usually try different craft sodas when we go and have not come away disappointed. The ambiance is great, typical bar, but they always have on great TV channels ranging from sports, to Boomerang and Cartoon Network. If there was one aspect that I would choose to be a little disappointed with, it would be the service. We've never had a truly terrible server, but usually things just seem a little hectic. Trying to flag someone down for a refill or condiment can be a challenge at times. That being said, going to Melt is definitely an experience that everyone should have! I recommend it!
(4)
Eric M.

What isn't there to love about this place. There's a beer list so long it takes up mutliple pages of the menu. The staff is awesome and very knowledgeable on both the food and drinks. And then there's the giant selection of different sandwiches. I had the special which was a Prime Beef sandwich with horseradish and mashed potatoes on it, along with a side of au jus to dip in. Yes, it was amazing. I had samples of the crab cake one, the perogi one, and the chicken parmesean one which all tasted amazing. I was so stuffed on the sandwich I barely ate any of the fries or the cole slaw, so I can't comment on those. I'm def looking to go back here anytime I'm back in Cleveland.
(5)
Justin B.

Hard to find a seat for two so we decided to sit at the bar. Great alternative to just waiting 1hr or a seat. Got out food really fast and the bar tender was really friendly. Very trendy place to be. My date got a pulled pork sandwich, I got the Melt Pig Roast. Delicious and a little spicy! Will definitely go again and recommend this to everyone!
(5)
Amia W.

Melt is the best place for grilled cheese! Also have an amazing beer selection, and always are changing their specials.
(5)
Carey L.

From the moment you walk in the door, you know this place is more than grilled cheese. From the eclectic decorations on the walls, to the eccentric servers delivering mounds of deliciousness, to the knowledgeable bartenders that help you hand pick your libation, Melt is an experience all visitors to Cleveland must have. Now that the "4 hour wait" is a thing of the past due to more locations, you can drop in and cozy up to the bar almost immediately. As someone who loves their cheese, but loves their hops even more, the one-two punch of "Sandwich of the month" and a myriad of both draft and bottled beers makes every trip to Melt a unique experience. Gigantic sandwiches at reasonable prices are accompanied by mounds of coleslaw and fries, or you can make it all fries, or all slaw. For a minimal fee, they even allow those health conscious patrons (there ARE more calorically responsible selections than others) to change to a veggie of the day or side salad. Vegans and vegetarians beware. You will not escape satiety. They have dreamed up alternative versions of even there most carnivorous selections, and even the finely tuned palate of a corn-fed Midwesterner might have trouble differentiating. So, whether you are a Man vs Food follower conquering local challenges, an aunt or uncle entertaining the nieces and nephews, or the slow-pitch softball team making a pit-stop to rehydrate, Melt Bar and Grilled has what you are looking for! I have even contemplated a small tattoo for their tempting lifelong discount! Good luck picking just one sandwich to try!
(5)
Joe R.

Another fantastic experience at Melt East. We arrived well after 10:00 pm, thereby missing the brutal wait, and were served promptly and attentively by the excellent Anthony. My first experience with the Breakfast Burger proved that Melt does burgers as well as they do their signature grilled cheese. The patty was juicy and cooked perfectly, the bacon crisp and of exactly the right thickness, and the eggs cooked expertly, so that the yolk was gelatinous but not runny. BBQ Hoisin Brussels sprouts made a fantastic starter, and the fries were even more heavenly than usual: We got the impression they were seasoned more heavily than in the past, something I hope is a permanent change. Honestly, folks, I don't see how you could do better for the price.
(5)
Keith M.

Melt...I know I did. Into the chair and then into my car and I drove around in a carb comma for the rest of the damn day. The food is more than a Man V Food show, it's tasty, with attention to detail. Not often you will see a "craft soda" section on a menu, and I urge all to try some. Boylan Birch Beer when great with my Build your own sammich. Which I did with great pride, my Turkey, avacado, jack chee, L&T with some red onion and honey mustard was OUTSTANDING. No room for dessert, but I saw what they were dishing out, and I wish I had some room. OH and the fries were totally outstanding too!!
(4)
Steven T.

Refreshing place to eat. The prices are reasonable. Portions are huge so you may want to share
(4)
Jen L.

Very good food and a fun atmosphere. My husband and I stopped by here after a strong recommendation, and I'm glad that we did. We ended up sitting at the bar, because the wait for a table was almost an hour. I ordered the 'parmageddon' which had pierogies, kraut, onions, and cheese. It wasn't exactly what I had imagined (the kraut wasn't very flavorful), but it was good nonetheless. My husband ordered the el diablo burger and felt the same way - not quite as flavorful/spicy as he had hoped. The fries are delicious. They include coleslaw with the meals, but I wasn't very impressed with that (again, kind of bland). The alcohol selection is great and unique - we tried the banana bread beer, which I actually liked. Our bartender/server, Steve, was a great guy and very helpful and kind. I would definitely go back, but I would probably try something different.
(4)
Justin L.

Good meal, but I fail to see the cult-like draw. I knew what I was getting into, and was delighted to only have to wait for 15 minutes for a table during lunch. I don't think I've ever seen a "restaurant" with such a high ratio bar seats to table seats, but that's not a positive or a negative, here. Objectively, my Monte Cristo was really awesome. I got a fried egg on it per my server's recommendation, and the sandwich took a good year off my life, which means it was a good sandwich. The fries were fries - good thick fries, but nothing earth shattering. The slaw, I really liked. I like a good vinegary slaw, and this had a little spiciness to it, too - not "heat" but spice. Really good! Yes, they have a good beer selection, but I was surprised to see only one Great Lakes beer on draft. Surprised and disappointed. Ultimately, while the tacky plastic figurines and DQ sign were charming, I failed to see Melt as anything other than a sandwich restaurant. In that regard, it was great. I'd have gone 4-stars maybe had my meal not been SO over the top. The dessert menu looked awesome, but there was no way in hell. Fried twinkies, reese's cup banana bread pudding, holy cow. I wanted all of it. Unfortunately, none of us got through more than half of our sandwiches. 4-5 stars, I reserve for a place where I leave completely overwhelmed with how wonderful the dining experience was. To have to take half of my lunch and all of my dessert home just to be able to experience everything Melt had to offer, isn't my idea of a complete experience. I'll try to stretch my stomach next time and be better prepared.
(3)
Ari G.

I'm from Michigan and for Valentines Day I planned a surprise trip for my boyfriend to road trip to Cleveland. We went to the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame and, after prior research , decided we should trust the Food Network and eat at Melt. To say the food was spectacular is an understatement. We started out with the Crab Cake appetizer which was phenomenal. Accompanied by garlic infused veggies, the cakes went great with the spicy sauce served up on the side. For dinner I got the "Winter chicken" sandwich, which I highly recommend with avocado. My boyfriend ordered the "Fat City" burger, only to be pleasantly surprised by the size of the sandwich. This monstrosity is not for the faint hearted. Topped with three meats including the burger itself and whatever cheeses and condiments you adore, one bite and you are glued. If we are ever in the Cleveland area again, we will be coming back. Five stars well deserved.
(5)
Donna K.

Grilled Cheese Mecca. I haven't been to the original location. Yet. My group stopped by the newer of the two after the Browns-Steelers massacre. The wait for 4 was an hour to an hour and a half. Two of us sat at the bar to wait for the other half of our party where I got heckled for my fabulously GOLD Steelers hat. (Oh well, it's not my fault your football team is a joke. Some Clevelanders could take a cue from my beloved Buffalonians; realize that their team sucks and just have fun with it!) We grabbed a drink (I, a Caipirinha; The dining companion, a draft pear cider) and just ended up eating at the bar which is probably why we had such a great time. Our neighbor to the left was a riot, as she enjoyed her last evening of family-free sanity. Anyway, on to the food. The french fries on my plate disappeared with a quickness. They were probably some of the best fries I've ever had. Definitely blanched in mass quantities and then cooked to order right before your plate is sent out. Fabulous. I got the spinach pie, with bacon. mmmmmm Adding bacon is always a smart move. My dining companions tried the monthly special (a paprikash concoction), the Tokyo Tuna and the Winter Chicken. I didn't hear any complaints. The paprikash was gonzo, so I took the rest of those fries with the half of my sandwich that I couldn't finish. Next time I'm in town, I'll hit up the original locale prepared with a snack for waiting and great company.
(4)
John C.

Great ambience - lively, active, good looking bar seating. Very nice service. Overly greasy food. My gallbladder had to work over time for this meal. It seemed like a college rugby frat designed the menu.
(3)
Randy T.

Melt is the place in Cleveland for solid bar food. It's amazing how many different things can go into a grilled cheese sandwich. The portions are very large - I've gone several times with friends and have never seen someone not take part of the Godfather sandwich (lasagna on a grilled cheese sandwich) home. Every sandwich comes with a heaping portion of fries, which are very well seasoned and my favorite fries in Cleveland, and coleslaw, which tends to be lighter than coleslaw served at other restaurants. My favorite sandwiches are the chorizo and potato and the blackened chicken sandwich. There are also very creative "sandwiches of the month" which I often wish would be part of the regular menu. Two pieces of advice - go at an off-peak hour, as the wait can be long during normal lunch and dinner hours. And don't expect a salad to be a healthy option - you'll get as much bacon and cheese on your salad as you will get greens.
(4)
Jeff B.

How could anyone not like this place. This is pure craziness on a sandwich that will make you come back for more! On the website they also take suggestions for new sandwiches. The food is incredible and Cleveland is lucky to have someone like Matt Fish to deliver the best Sandwiches hands down!! And if you are feeling crazy you can do the 5lb challenge. Yes that is right 5 pounds of cheese, 14 different cheeses. Plus the dining atmosphere is very cool. Great place well run!! Amazing food. But make sure you are hungry!!!
(5)
Ashley H.

Was told we had an hour and a half wait at 2:30 on a Saturday, no problem we bellied up the bar and ordered 3 of my FAVORITE COCKTAIL EVER, the "Kir Royale". There were 3 of us so this is perfectly acceptable. Another round of drinks later we actually got seated in about 45 minutes. At this point my lightweight mother was feeling no pain and I, the responsible DD had to sit out round 3. Insert sad face here. Anywho, what I love about Melt is that you can make up your own sandwich and they are not rude about it at all. I ordered the mushroom melt and added turkey. It was amazing and so much better than the last sandwich I invented there. Loved every second of it and we had a great waitress. Mom and best friend were quite chatty on the trip home after their 3 drinks of the delightful jesus juice and I was rather annoyed I hadn't brought grandma along to drive. Love it, would go back in a heart beat. Only thing that sucks is parking BRING QUARTERS there are meters everywhere and the bartender told us they are strict on parking.
(5)
Matt J.

First off, get past the wait. It's good food and you're going to have to wait for it. Yes once you get seated you're going to have to wait some more, but that's because everything is made to order and is fresh. The food is totally worth it though and there's an incredible beer selection. If you think it sounds good on the menu it WILL be good. I'm partial to the Hot Italian with banana peppers added in, though you'd be hard pressed to find a bad sandwich.
(5)
Anthony I.

Being from Colorado I had heard of Melt from Man Vs Food and Guy from the travel channel. I ordered a custom sandwich, but also found all the grilled cheese options were amazing. I had a great customer service and awesome food experience. I would recommend it to anyone! Awesome.
(5)
Julie C.

Melt is known to have fantastic sandwiches with a hole-in-the-wall taste. The menu is comprised of multiple themed variations from the classic grilled cheese. The first time I came here, I ordered the Monte Cristo due to my love for the classic Disneyland sandwich. Unfortunately, I was extremely disappointed in how doughy the sandwich was from the overkill of bread and breading. As a result, I was initially disappointed by the restaurant but knew there had to be something more to this place. But after coming back the second time, I was completely sold on Melt. I ordered the summer chicken, which was amazing and completely redeemed the restaurant for me. All of my friends also enjoyed their sandwiches and we had a hard time debating between complete food coma or putting down the second halves of our sandwiches. The bottom line is that the sandwiches here are good and will definitely satisfy most tastes. However, just be sure that you pick the right sandwich for you -- not everything here is going to satisfy everyone. The wait is shorter than they tell you. Case in point, we were told it'd be an hour and we ended up getting seated in 20 minutes. There's also seating at the bar for anyone that's 21 and over. Just be sure to avoid really busy mealtimes by going in relatively earlier or later.
(4)
Tiffany E.

Always great food... my fav drink there is peach cider yummy..
(5)
Amanda G.

I know I'm jumping on the bandwagon here...but this place is awesome. I recently checked out the new location in Cleveland Heights and had an awesome time and an incredible meal. I was prepared for a long wait and was quoted 45 minutes by the hostess, but quickly found a seat at the bar, ordered a delicious drink, and was given a table just a short 10 minutes later! The service was fun and attentive and it was hilarious watching some of the sandwich creations that came out of the kitchen. I personally ordered the monthly special (some sort of delicious roast beef/horseradish/potato monstrosity) and have been craving it ever since -- hopefully they serve it again! Go check out Melt with an open mind and some patience, and you'll have a great time.
(5)
Stefanie D.

This four star rating comes with some warnings/suggestions: The sandwiches here are great, you just have to order the right one. I would recommend sticking with something that is based on deli meat. They also have a good selection of beer and a big bar to occupy you while you wait for a table. This being said, there is a long wait, which seems in part due to non-efficient service and lack of tables (note all the dead space by the bar). My first of two experiences here we had a large group, for which they only had one table to seat us. We had to wait 2 and a half hours for the other party to leave the table before we could sit down. I would recommend coming with a small group of people and then sit and order at the bar.
(4)
Liz P.

Melt Bar and Grilled of Cleveland Heights is top-notch! Took some friends who had never been there recently and they positively raved about it afterwards. They have a huge food menu, and a huge drink menu (with pear cider!) so it's impossible to go wrong. They also have monthly and sometimes weekly specials that are definitely worth a try. They even seem willing to accept substitutions--I've even had the servers suggest some delicious-sounding modifications. I would recommend that you be fully prepared to get a seat at the bar and wait for a table. You can enjoy a beverage (or several) and maybe an appetizer. The bar is full service as well so you can eat there if the wait is too long for you. Bartenders and servers are helpful and cheerful, even late in the evening. The only thing I'm not in love with is the coleslaw, but the sandwich you get is essentially a meal in itself. The fries and appetizers are decent. But I can't say enough good things about the grilled cheese! I'm so glad they brought this place over to the East Side--the short trip makes it that much more delicious.
(5)
Alicia H.

This was my first visit to this location. We arrived at 8:00PM on a Tuesday evening. The hostess said it would be an hour wait for a table of two. We managed to grab bar seats immediately. While the bartender who served us was very friendly, we did not receive our order for over 50 minutes from ordering. My husband ordered a sandwich (the PB one) and I ordered a small side salad with the veggie of the day. My veggie special was barely warm. I like the food, but until both locations improve their dine-in experience, I'll be sticking with to-go orders.
(3)
Indrany D.

(I have not been to the original Lakewood location.) Arrived at about 10pm on a Wednesday night. The place was packed, but we were seated immediately at the only available table. Our server told us the wait would be an hour for sandwiches, so we ordered beers and the spinach and artichoke dip (on our server's recommendation) while we waited. The spinach and artichoke dip was tasty, and we actually filled up pretty quickly on that. Our sandwiches arrived at about 10:45pm. I'd ordered the "Purple Parma," which is basically an eggplant parm sandwich. My partner ordered the "Lake Erie Monster," which was basically fish and chips on a sandwich. Both sandwiches were pretty much exactly as we wanted and expected. The food wasn't amazing, but it was a good experience. We're excited about this option on the East Side, especially that it's open at 10pm after a long, interstate trip. We've had trouble finding food at this hour in this neighborhood. Also, they have a great beer selection, and I really liked the plastic Halloween and Christmas decor. Edited to add: Have been a few more times. Sat at the bar once, when tables were full, and I highly recommend it. Not worth waiting, especially if you don't have to. Also, not the place to go if you're really really hungry RIGHT NOW. I've taken it down from 4 to 3 stars because... well, I just can't go there all the time. Had to go 3 times in 1 month because of guests and, wow, that was way too much Melt.
(3)
Jackie S.

Like the original location, the food is greasy and cheesy. It never fails that I THINK I can eat the whole sandwich, but rarely make it past the first half. Also like the Lakewood location...be prepared to wait. A long time. A long, long time. Don't walk in when you are already starving, or you will get very frustrated and your stomach may begin to digest itself. Go a little bit BEFORE you are hungry, so you are "just right" when you finally get to your table. :) In other words, plan ahead. Don't just drop in and expect to get a table. Now, if you are willing to be flexible...both the bar AND the long counter against the far wall are first-come, first-served. I put my name in, then watch like an eagle for seats to open at one of those places. Usually gets me a seat within 30 minutes instead of 1.5 hours. I've tried the parmageddon (pierogies and cheese, plus vodka slaw), but would probably not order again since the slaw contained my arch-nemesis...caraway seeds. This trip, I ordered the mushroom melt. Portabellos, caramalized onions and provolone. Really good, but be warned it has a LOT of mushroom flavor. I would have liked it much better with some additional flavor. (I might get the Cleveland Cheesesteak next visit...which is the same, plus flank steak). For those with families...no kids menu is available, but I ordered one Kindergardener and split it among two 5-year olds. Perfect. Planning out my next visit already! :)
(4)
Sophie B.

Whatever it is, have no fear, It CAN be deep fried. Whole sandwiches in fact, stuffed with cheese, jalapenos, jam, meat, you name it, make the plunge, into the vat of boiling oil. Don't misunderstand - my deep friend spicy blackeyed pea greens and cheese sandwich was really tasty ! Just make sure you wash it down with beer! There is a rather fabulous selection to choose from. Random thought - note to Melt - have you considered biofuels? Shame to waste all of that fryer oil.
(3)
Jennifer S.

Well, we went opening night, and it was crazy. We put our names on the list and we were told that it would be a four hour wait. It ended up being a 2 hour wait. So, that isn't too bad. My complaints is that they were not utilizing their space properly. They had more than enough space to wait, as in, it was bigger than the section for tables. After that, the bar was huge. There just was not a lot of seating. They could definately have added at least 5-8 more tables for guests and still had enough space for those waiting for a table. The food is good, we waited maybe 20-30 minutes for our food to come out. The food was tasty. We picked out the Hot Italian and a burger with muenster cheese. Both were good. Came with plenty of fries and slaw. We definately came home with leftovers!
(4)
Anne N.

This was my first Melt experience - I'd never visited the Lakewood location but have heard good things. We were told initially the wait was an hour and 45 min, which seemed ridiculous, but were told we could sit at the bar and be served immediately. Upon finding seating, we order a beer, appetizers, and sandwiches. The beer selection was great and arrived in an extremely timely fashion. The appetizers came shortly after and relatively timely. Among our group of 3, one ordered chili, another ordered the tomato soup, and the spinach artichoke dip was shared. Everyone seemed pleased with all three items. I was especially impressed with the spin dip because it seemed like a fresh take on a cliche menu item. It was a bit thicker and had a more intense cheese flavor. Although "dip" is used loosely because of the thickness. We ordered three separate sandwiches. All 3 of us were pleased and only finished 1/2. I ordered the "Hot Italian" and would recommend it to anyone that likes a regular Italian sandwich, although it was pretty basic. Unfortunately the real issue came with waiting for at least an hour and a half for our sandwiches. My issue is not that of impatience; it's more of an issue of lack of resources. The bar and dining room were full but people weren't busting at the seams. This indicates to me the kitchen is unable to accommodate the seating capacity of the restaurant - and this seems like a pretty huge restaurant mistake. But it's new and working out kinks I'm sure. It's a hip place for young people that I think would be super fun for happy hour. The decor is funky and likable. So I'll give them the benefit of the doubt, but I'm not in a hurry to go back.
(3)
Colleen M.

This is one of my favorite Melt locations in Cleveland. When going to Melt especially on the weekend expect to wait a while. Typically I get take out from here because its quicker but I have eaten in and had a wonderful experience. I have never had a bad waiter or waitress and the entire staff is very friendly. The food is delicious and they give you more food than expected. I LOVE Melt and everyone should try this palce at least once!!!
(5)
Nicole K.

Melt is my favorite. If I've ever craved food from any restaurant, it's been a chorizo and potato (with jalapenos!) from Melt. I love you Melt.
(5)
Amelia D.

I have a serious Love/Hate relationship with Melt. My first 3x that I ate (or attempted to eat) at Melt were awful. 2 hour waits on a weekday evening or mid afternoon and then cold food. However, I recently moved within a 5 minute walk to this particular location, so we've been eating here a lot more. We usually get take out or walk over, put our name in, walk home and then come back an hour or so later closer to the time that our table will be ready. The food, in my opinion, is hit and miss. Some of the sandwiches are amazing and others are things that I could make at home and have them taste way better. I do love that they have a vegetarian option for most of the sandwiches on the menu. I don't love that this place is a grilled cheese place and that you get very little cheese on your sandwich. I also am not especially fond of how greasy their bread is or that fact that I never seem to get pickles with any of my sandwiches. I will continue to eat Melt on occasion, when there is a special sandwich that I'm interested in or have a friend in town who is dying to go. Aside from that, there are plenty of other local places that make considerably more amazing food with a significantly shorter wait time... and plenty of pickles.
(3)
M W.

Best chicken sandwich I have ever eaten. Great fries. Nice atmosphere.
(5)
Margaret V.

Went into the Cleveland Heights location last night. The evening started out well enough but shortly after we placed our order at the bar it started to go downhill. Our server became less and less attentive to us but did manage to pay lots of attention to the patrons on either side of us, to the point where we would ask him for something and he would proceed to do something for them and then do some busy work before he got around to us again, usually forgetting altogether what we had asked him for. The final straw was when he took our credit cards to cash us out then set them down on the other side of the bar where we could no longer see them and proceeded to make drinks and do busy work cleaning up the bar for at least 10 minutes before another bartender saw our cards, ran them and brought them back to us. The worst part is that when we spoke to the manager about this her only response was "sorry that happened, I'll have to talk to him." I've had excellent service here before and this was just such atrocious service from Caspian and Jen that I'll reconsider the next time I think about eating at Melt.
(1)
Ann N.

The food is great. The service is always wonderful. It might take a while to get a table, but it is well worth the wait.
(5)
J H.

Yes, the food is big tasty and messy and the beers are plenty. Yes, I ate like a pig. Yes, I fell in love (lust) with a punker girl half my age who works there. it wasn't busy when I was there at 5pm on a Thursday and i shot the shit with many of the workers there, who were all sweet as the raspberry sauce that came with my Big Popper sandwich. `Nuff said suckahs! if you are near this place forgo the local Whole Foods and Panera and come get some!
(4)
Tim C.

Nothing to rave about..... Nice environment and food was OK, but not up to all the hype. Especially for the price.
(3)
Craig L.

I loved the west side location of Melt, but I live on the east side. I was very happy when they finally opened a location on the east side of town. Any review that talks about how long you have to wait should be ignored. Yes, we know that the place is popular and has a very long wait. Work with it, or don't bother coming. My choice is to pick a day to do brunch and show up right at 11 AM when they open. The last time I went, we arrived as they were unlocking the doors and were the second table seated. We had our food by about 11:20 after looking at the menu and getting drinks. You show up at 12:15 you won't get seated for quite some time. You should know this coming in. Enough of that. Melt is exactly what it is supposed to be. Great sandwiches and burgers, great beer selection and a cool atmosphere. The last time I went, I had the breakfast burger, which had cheese, tons of bacon, and a fried egg on top. The fries there are incredible and I only had a taste of the coleslaw because I wanted to eat the other stuff. My wife had the Parmageddon and I have had the Monte Cristo before too. I can't imagine there is a bad thing on the menu. Also, the service has been pretty good and friendly considering how busy they are all the time. Of course since this restaurant has been featured on TV it is bound to get the backlash. Just skip that part of the storyline and enjoy Melt because it delivers exactly what it says it will. Don't punish them because lots of people want to go there.
(4)
Bonnie C.

As a devoted Food Network fan, I was of course beyond excited to see Cleveland make its mark on its shows through its new restaurant Melt. I did my due diligence and read through Yelp reviews so I knew I was in for a killer wait. My friend and I arrived at around 5:15pm on a Wednesday, and had no problem finding a seat at the bar. Others who were waiting for a table had a 30 minute wait. I went with the Monte Cristo, and we hunkered down for a 30+ minute wait on our food (even though the place was barely full!) When the food arrived we were more than ready to chow down, and luckily the portions were HUGE. I pride myself on being able to eat quite a lot and I only ate half the sandwich and maybe half the fries. But to be honest, the sandwich wasn't amazing. They definitely have some creative ideas: the fries are to be dipped in the berry preserves sauce and the bread on the Monte Cristo itself was something like a funnel cake. However, the sandwich dripped grease while I ate, and the bread to cheese/ham ratio erred on the side of too much bread. I am not the healthiest eater, but I felt the sandwich was too heavy. It's artery clogging food at its best, full of fat, grease, and salt. Had I been drunk, this would have been heaven. The fries were good and next time I would opt for the Ultimate Fries and a lighter sandwich. By the time we were done with our meal at 6:30pm, the place was filling up fast and there people were eyeing our bar seats like hawks. There was even a waiting line for the bar seats! All in all, I don't know if it was worth the hype, although I would try it out again, as long as it was at an off-peak time.
(3)
Arpana U.

I went to this Melt yesterday after raves from my sister for quite some time about Melt in general (and recently seeing it on Man v. Food). I had a great time. They told us repeatedly that dine-in was 1 1/2 hours, carry-out was 45 minutes. If you don't want to wait - don't come here, you've been warned. My group found 5 seats at the bar together (on July 4th weekend) where we had an amazing time. The bartenders that were serving us were really nice and helpful. Juan is awesome! He told us about the drink specials and even let us try some Blueberry drink and Lavender Mojito. He was really funny, cute and helpful to Melt newbies. My friend also got Hotel Phuket, cucumber/thai drink, really good. The sandwiches: Oh WOW. If you don't want greasy, fall-out of the bread goodness, then don't go here. It's piled high, cheesy, bad-for-you amazingness. I got the Chorizo&Hash brown, it was AWESOME. (My mom doesn't like chorizo and tried my left over, she loved it.) My friends ordered The Godfather (lasagna sandwich, it was so-so), Big Popper (jalapeno pepper one--awesome, but spicyyy), Parmageddon (pierogis-really good), Summer Chicken (also really good). (Sidenote: At the bar, it took about 35 minutes for our sandwiches to come out) Overall we were very satisfied with our meals, the warning about the wait, the bartending staff, and the cheesy goodness that made up the sandwiches. I'd go back in a heart-beat.
(5)
Vera V.

This is just to chime in with others to say that Melt worked out the kinks of the early days, and while you still do sometimes wait a long time for a table (hey: that's because everyone wants to come here) you no longer wait an unreasonable time after placing your order. The beer list is inspired; the sandwiches are devilishly delicious; the service is extremely patient, flexible, and friendly; and the decor is as fun and kitschy as anyone could wish for. Always great choices for vegetarians. I love that the patrons are so diverse: it's a great cross-section of Cleveland every time. After our first visit, we've never been disappointed, and we are definitely regulars. It ain't health food, but it is definitely delicious and always fun to go.
(5)
Isabel G.

When we decided to go to Melt, it was because our kids had been raving about the place and bringing home piles of big left over sandwiches. But once I had the chance to go we were a little disappointed. I thought that the sandwiches would be good, tasty and creative. We found that they were however, not that creative, and way too loaded in calories. We liked the big huge space with an eclectic atmosphere. Anything will taste great with lots of melted cheese, but in some cases, you want a more flavorful offering, they lack the craft and the art of cooking. I am glad that we went but we will not return.
(2)
Adam L.

2 hour wait on a Wednesday night. Sorry, it doesn't matter how good the food is if you turn away more people than you serve. This place will be struggling to stay open through 2011. Mark my yelp.
(1)
Marty D.

The amazing Melt. My goal is to eat everything on the menu assuming I don't clog my arteries first. That said, it would be worth it. I've still got a few to go but I've had the majority of their sandwiches. Let's talk about the wait and just get it out of the way. I've never waited for a table at Melt. What's my secret? Don't go when everyone is The fact is you should expect a wait when you go to a popular place at night. (I once waited 90 minutes for mediocre Olive Garden but that's another story.) My recommendation is to hit it between 2 and 5:30 during the week and before 1 on the weekends. You should at least find a bar seat using this strategy. Second, you can wait awhile for the food. Some days are faster than others. The kitchen is extremely tiny which is why they eliminated the brunch menu. Quite bluntly, the kitchen didn't have the space to do it. It's Melt's biggest flaw but it's not a big deal and neither is meter parking. Get out of the burbs and into the city, folks! :) And if you have to walk a little for a parking spot, well thats good considering the pounds of cheese devoured at Melt. Now, let's focus on drinks. Melt has one of the best beer selections in town. Anytime I see someone drinking a Bud in here, I wanna go over there and slap them. There are too many amazing beers here and they are priced very reasonably. If you want something softer, they a terrific selection of classic soft drinks from Yoohoo to Birch beer and Sasparilla. No reason to stick to plain old Pepsi here. Now, we get to the food and I don't consider Melt gourmet. There are gourmet grilled cheese places in the USA and Melt doesn't stack up to them for the most part. I do think Melt IS creative and it's darn tasty too. My personal favs are the Parmageddon and the Godfather. You also can't go wrong with the specials of the month. The only one that's disappointed me so far is the BBQ Chicken. Melt's fries are great and to those who complain that the slaw is dry, well it's supposed to be! Its not deli coleslaw. The slaw here is Asian vinegar which is meant to cut down on the cheese and the grease. It seems that some people are missing the point of it and are expecting creamy summer slaw which it isn't supposed to be. Melt's bread is yummy and it's one of the most vegan and food allergy friendly places in town. It is hard to ever make it to dessert here but take home the fried twinkies. Your stomach will thank you later. I've always had good service here. I'd like to see a half sandwich/salad option besides the kindergarten on the menu but that's a minor quibble. Melt is a casual fun place and I'd recommend it to even the pickiest of eaters.
(5)
Colin A.

So I've been a longtime fan of this restaurant. However, upon the first visit to my hometown branch of this local spot, I was extremely disappointed. You shouldn't have to wait 2 hrs for a grilled cheese lunch. The family next to me who were on the same time schedule left before they got served after probably waiting close to 3 hrs. (they had a disabled child). The restaurant is designed to have people wait with an enormous bar, ample waiting room, & limited seating. The Lakewood location had similar problems even after expanding. :( They have a great menu, decent beer selection, cute/quirky staff. Sorry owners this isn't how you keep customers coming back for more. I probably won't be returning any time soon.
(2)
C Mack N.

Hype. If you could clear away the kitchen, food and all the ink this would be a Great bar. The list of draft specials is stupendous and the quality of those pours (particularly at happy hour prices) is nearly as good as one can get. However, and this is significant, the kitchen is here to stay, producing some awesome hits and some awful blows but more than anything dire frustration. Apparently, the "Point" of this place is to be a sort of "lifestyle" event as opposed to something resembling traditional restaurant service. The staff is the most ill trained around and you will WAIT for as much as a napkin, not to mention food or drink. Sitting at the bar (precluding family and, specifically, children) is the ONLY option and even then even if the place is all but empty you can expect to wait a good 5 minutes or more for someone to offer to get you a beverage. The only person with both relevant service industry experience coupled with the old fashioned belief that the customer is first and right seems to be some chap with experience in the airline industry - which sorta makes sense, because when I'm at Melt the experience is very much Like being trapped on a jet stranded on the tarmac- if only the government's three hour rule applied here.
(2)
Marianne M.

The food is amazing and addicting. The service is slow but nice and worth the wait. LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!
(5)
J W.

I assumed a place in Cleveland should at least be able to make a grilled cheese sandwich. It seemed like the sort of food that should be simple enough and fit in with the Midwestern traditions. I was very wrong. We got the Hot Italian and the Kindergarten with chedder/provolone and bacon. Both sandwiches were soggy and there was no hint they were ever crispy. Certainly not at all toasted. And honestly, for a place called melt there was very little cheese. The fries were fine and the slaw was okay. The service was responsive, they had a good selection of beers on tap and bottled sodas. The interior was nostalgia kitsch with many local Cleveland references and pictures. But the food was just not good. For a place that specializes in grilled cheese sandwiches, they need to learn to make one. Next time I am in town I'll go to Tommy's, the B Spot or Yours Truly.
(2)
Asim S.

it's soooo good, but so unhealthy...but still sooooo good. service is awesome, ambience is really hipster cool, food comes out fast. It's so unhealthy though...so fatty, and heavy...but so darn good
(4)
Margot H.

Fucking shit customer service. Have very little respect for the customer, as they are so confident with the massive crowds of undiscerning college students. What a joke! Is this supposed to be a "trendy location." Please.
(1)
Kathryn T.

Ever since Melt opened their Cleveland Heights location just up the street from my house, my boyfriend and I have been semi-regulars, typically dining there about once a month. The food is moderately priced (the two of us can typically get a meal for around $20 total, though the fact that we're non-drinkers likely curbs the overall cost of our dining experience) and the portions are extremely generous. We're typically able to make two meals out of what we order and bring our leftovers home to heat up in a skillet or in the oven. Since Melt makes their grilled cheeses on thick, "Texas Toast" style bread, they hold up well to being refrigerated and reheated later on (though I wouldn't recommend hanging on to leftovers for more than a day or so.) Knowing that I can barely make a dent in most of Melt's over-stuffed sandwiches, I often opt for the half combo (a smaller grilled cheese served with a cup of soup and a side salad.) In addition to having some great entrees, Melt also offers a nice selection of appetizers and sides that can be easy to miss out on. Be sure to ask about their soup of the day as they often craft inventive options out of leftover sandwich ingredients (the last time I was there I had a great Dortmunder "ham and cheddar" soup.) There's typically a lengthy wait during peak lunch and dinner hours. Depending on the size or your party, you may be given a wait time of anywhere between one and three hours (I've noticed that they tend to inflate the wait time and occasionally parties find seating at the bar, which is first come first serve, or get fed up and leave, which can shorten the time you spend waiting.) Honestly, I wouldn't recommend dining at Melt with a party larger than four people. Though they do have one very large booth, the restaurant really isn't designed to seat larger parties. It may seem like a fun idea to get a group of friends together for drinks and gourmet grilled cheese, but you'll likely spend several hours waiting only to be grouped together over a constellation of round tables (alternatively, the staff may ask if your party is open to being split up and seated in different areas of the restaurant.) As a duo, my boyfriend and I have had very good luck with short wait times. If there isn't a table for two open, we're typically able to grab seats at the bar within a few minutes of arriving. If you live nearby and don't want to chance a long wait, they do offer carry out. It's worth noting that Melt is vegetarian and vegan friendly and offers a small selection of vegan cheeses, so don't feel like you have to miss out on the experience of dining at Melt if you're a vegetarian or vegan. In addition to having vegan cheese on hand, they also typically offer a vegetarian or vegan alternative to their monthly special. The restaurant has a small metered lot accessible from S. Taylor, but if you want to save your quarters there's free parking on neighboring residential streets (just be prepared to walk a block or two.)
(4)
Michael S.

Their Tokyo Tuna Melt took me on an emotional journey and has remained in my heart ever since. There is probably not anything more that I can say about this place that other people have not, but Melt does grilled cheese better than any other gourmet grilled cheese place I have ever been to. Regardless of the fact that I have not been to an other gourmet grilled cheese place; Melt is special and is a 'must try' for the East Cleveland area.
(4)
Laura C.

While waiting for our meals to arrive, a guy seated at the table next to us told my friend and I that his meal was so good he "wanted to cry." When our food was served shortly after we couldn't help but agree. Large portions and endless options for creating traditional and exotic grilled cheeses. My friend and I loved our meals so much that we ate until we were way past full. She got cheese fries with vegetarian chili, I had a grilled cheese with portobellas, avocado, grilled onions, and roasted red peppers. Sandwiches come with a mountain of fries, and are some of the best I've ever had. Atmosphere is fun and funky, cocktails are delicious, and food a must for any cheese lover like me!
(5)
Carol l.

My first visit to Melt didn't impress me in the least. My friend and I waited thirty five minutes and then another twenty five for our food. Don't get me wrong our grilled garlic portabella mushroom was awesome, but the wait was a real turn off. My daughter is in from California and the one place she missed in Cleveland was Melt Bar and Grilled. She was craving the Smokey Russian so I decided to give it another try, but to be honest I was not looking forward to the wait. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there was no wait and we were served pretty fast. The food and the waiter were both really good. The trick is to not visit on holidays or when kids are out of school. I also think that sharing is a really good idea.
(5)
John G.

Not impressed.....the wait time is just terrible...2 hours? Food was ok, but nothing I should be waiting for over 2 hrs to get. Waitress was very nice but you might need your earplugs in there cause it gets loud,
(2)
Nicole P.

4 stars instead of 5 because there is always a crazy long wait. Other than that this place is fantastic. Sandwiches are HUGE, yummy and original. Go with an empty stomach! To avoid the insane wait you can order to go.
(4)
Mir E.

BEFORE YOU READ PLEASE UNDERSTAND THIS PLACE IS NOT FOR OLD PEOPLE!!! So with that said if you have an issue with your server having tattoos then this is not the place for you either! First time at melt and i must say i did enjoy myself. Sat at the bar while we had a 45 minute wait which was decent, it was really crowed so space was limited. I would suggest a larger location. Bartender was pretty cool kinda hippy but cool she helped as much as we needed and I never felt rush loved her wish I could remember her name. 45 mins flew by while we drank and talked now for the food. LOVED IT but for sure could not finish it. The portions are nice like really nice I had the black and blu cheese burger with fries. A lot of blu cheese prob won't get it next time we go but if u love not like love blue cheese go for it. Service was decent just the elbow space, like I said before space. I wouldn't recommend coming with like a party of 10 prob not more than 3 to be honest but hey whatever floats your boat.
(4)
Janice M.

Wasn't overly impressed - I expected more after all of the hype. Food was good, not great and the combinations of food offered are interesting, but it's grilled cheese and fries. Service was good, location was not.
(3)
Ben H.

You know a restaurant is good when people are tattoing thier bodies in order to get a small discount off their grilled cheese sandwich. The problem is that everyone feels the same way which often results in 30-60 minutes waiting for a table. They do a decent job of entertaining you with Santa Clause figures next to Halloween costumes in the decor, but is there any food in the world worth waiting an hour for? The sandwich selection is great, but the beer selection is even bettter - I believe there are at least 60 beers on the menu. Unfortunately, the service is pretty crappy. We sat at the bar & waited 15 minutes before anyone asked whether we wanted something to eat or drink. Like many other restaurants, it all depends on what you want. If you're starving hungry, put no importance on calories & don't care how you feel after you eat, check it out. For roughly $25-$30 OTD, you can stuff yourself at least twice & enjoy nearly any beer you can imagine.
(3)
Walter K.

I love coming home to Cleveland especially now that this place exists. I can't describe to you how amazing this food is, you just need to go find out for yourself.
(5)
Scott G.

Keep in mind that even once you get seated here and place an order, you are likely to wait 60-90 minutes for your food. Fine if you know this in advance and are looking forward to a few beers and a leisurely evening, but not at all acceptable otherwise. The food itself is generally good and shows some creativity, but also occasionally poor execution. After several visits to both locations I am starting to wonder if there is more sizzle here than steak. All of the publicity and media attention seems to have gone to their heads a bit or maybe caused a loss of focus on what matters -- food and service.
(3)
Max E.

Eat a good sandwich and drink good beer.
(4)
Jong S.

ahh the venerable melt, the stuff of conversions and wild challenges. This place Is everything you've ever wanted from an american bar/restaurant. With great atmosphere and almost all tasty grilled cheese creations, you'll secondly definitely be coming back for more. Only downside is that you'll probably need to wait a really long time for your seat.
(5)
Jason Y.

Melt has the best sandwiches around. The Monte Cristo is highly recommended, however you can't go wrong with any of the other choices on the menu. Melt also has a variety of unique flavored Root Beers on their menu. The wait can be hours long however so do not go on a tight schedule (and they don't take reservations). If you are short on time, calling for takeout might be a better option.
(5)
Luis M.

The Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana was very tasty, with the side of mixed berry preserves. Mmmmm. My friend and I had split our sandwich halves and a good thing we did... Mmmmmm. Her Parmaggedon was even better than mine. Very well worth the 30 minute wait!
(5)
Barbara D.

My sister and i went to this for the first time. Nice, fun, kitschy atmosphere and pleasant efficient service, but after that, meh. Their slaw is extremely dry, in fact, there's no dressing; the fries look much better than they taste as they were not crispy or flavorful. I had a smoked gouda with bacon and tomato sandwich and u could barely taste the smoke or the gouda...tasted more like cheddar with a hint of smoke and the bacon was fatty and the tomato tasteless. I liked the texas toast, which is the only bread for their sandwiches, but it would be nice to have other options, especially when the whole menu is already limited by stuff with cheese. The other entree was a turkey sandwich with similarly disappointing results. When it first comes to the table, u think wow, then the taste just doesn't measure up. The menu appears creative and imaginative, but unfortunately, not the results.
(2)
Lo L.

A delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese- a far cry from the waxy, yellow Kraft Single slapped between two buttered pieces of toasted white bread... On a recent visit to Cleveland, we made it to Melt, which was made known to us by Man V. Food. The place was packed- we put our name in and waited with about 30 others for a table. We figured we could be really efficient if we looked at the menu so that we knew exactly what to order, but it wasn't that easy. Everything on the menu sounded so good that 60-90 min after I thought i had made up my mind, I was tongue-tied when the waiter asked what i wanted to order. I made a quick decision, and ordered the Westside Monte Cristo. It was probably one of the best last-minute decisions i ever made. This gourmet grilled cheese sandwich had ham, turkey, swiss and american cheese between 2 thick slices of white bread that was then beer-battered and deep fried. YUM. To top it off, they give you a side of berry preserves for the perfect combination of sweet and salty and chewy and crunchy. All of us were satisfied with our orders, but I don't think you can really go wrong at Melt. The portions are huge (I barely touched the fries and slaw that come with the sandwiches) and the servers are fun and full of energy.
(4)
Joe I.

I doubt I need to say it, but this place has a lot of hype. Because of that, there is one hell of a wait for this grilled cheese bar. However, if you are patient (hour's wait, minimum), Melt will not disappoint. The beer selections is amazing. Dogfish head and Great Lakes for miles. Then there's the food. All the food is cooked to order(sushi grade tuna? Bananas!). The sandwiches are gigantic and crispy, the cheese overflowing, and no runny grease. I don't live in Cleveland, I don't much care for the city, but Melt is all the reason I need to weather the Cleve. Go there, eat, and be merry.
(5)
Danny C.

To those folks who complain about the wait and length of time to get your food--go sit at the Bar or hit Wendy's drive-thru. This place is always busy and with good reason. It's a really unique bar and grill. So far I've had The Wake and Bacon, The Hot Italian and The Summer Chicken. They are so simple but perfect grilled cheese sammich spins. It's always hard to pick one but that's part of the fun. Alas there's always home cut fries and homemade vinegar based slaw to join the selection of your choice! On a side note...a few glasses of Kentucky Bourbon Beer on tap and Caspian's bartending really complete the Meltwich experience!
(5)
Kate J.

Probably one of my favorite restaurants of all time. There are so many options, especially vegetarian options, and everything is AMAZING. It's a dirt cheap place to eat too- about 10 bucks for HUGE portions of a sandwich, fries, and slaw. My mom and I usually split a plate when I go with her because it's impossible to finish a plate on your own. The atmosphere is fun and their menus are on the backs of vinyl record covers. The service has always been good, and we've never waited for a table. I am, of course, speaking only for the Melt on Cedar Rd, because I've never been to the other locations and I've heard the wait is always longer at them. But even if you had to wait for a table, I'd say it would be worth it.
(5)
Dallas S.

First time being there and loved the heck out of my sandwich! Best Cole slaw and great fries. Will go back! Couldn't give a five star because they gave us the wrong beer. Then asked for it back or we would have to pay for it! The catch: they saw us drink the beers........ they weren't going to serve them to anyone else? Right?.....hopefully!
(4)
Michael L.

I'm a clevelander and have been to the Melt Bar and Grilled in Lakewood and loved it. Tonight my girlfriend and I decided to go to the one on my side of town, the Cleveland Heights location. After going to the original (in Lakewood) I would have to say this site seemed manufactured. Seemed like the owner was trying to capitalize on it too quickly. We wanted to get a table but the wait was 45-60 min. For a two top. Ended up at the bar. They have a great selection of beers across the USA. I had a Brooklyn wheat and an anchor steam. A total of 36 beers on draft. My food was good (hot Italian melt), but my girlfriend got the tuna melt and said it was good but didn't come out rare as expected. Service was great. Not pushy or nonexistent either. Would I go back, yes, but only for the food, not for the decor...your best bet is takeout!
(4)
Nick Z.

We only had to wait 45 minutes for a table. I was told that is good for Melt standards. Our server was really slow and she only had 2 of the maybe 12 tables in the restaurant. Ordered a Sprite to drink...it was moderate...Food was pretty good and the atmosphere is cool. Overall, I would go here maybe on an annual basis.
(3)
John P.

I've had several amazing sandwiches here. If you manage to have space for anything else, the fries are great and I like the cole slaw with a bit of malt vinegar splashed on it. The last sandwich I had was the one weekend only Breakfast Club. It truly was amazing, savory, delicious (and HUGE). I do have a couple criticisms, one being that the service isn't that great and waiting isn't fun and I believe they could add more tables and use the space a bit more efficiently (but they'd have to expand the kitchen). Anyways, affordable delicious food and awesome beer selection for the win.
(4)
M K.

Not living in the area for years I didn't know about the hype surrounding this place. We went today, a Monday, at 4pm and had no wait which is what many reviewers have complained about. The restaurant was about half full with nearly nobody at the bar. Catching up with a friend I hadn't seen in awhile got us talking and the waitress was somewhat pushy in trying to get our order. I understand this need as it means a faster turnover of tables but the place wasn't even starting to get busy yet. This was just a minor problem. The food was outstanding. We both got the sandwish of the month which was perogies, chicken, provolone and paprika. It was incredible. The size of the sandwich was surreal and I literally had to bring half home. I usually don't care for leftovers but this sandwish was a must in terms of being consumed for another meal. I didn't have any of the beers although it did seem they had a good selection and that that bar area would be a fun time later in the evening. We found out that we could park in the Rite Aid parking lot across the street which turned out to be no problem. Overall pretty good. If I had to wait two hours like others it may have been a different review but I was happy with the place.
(4)
Nathan V.

This place is way overrated. I went here a couple of weeks ago and was really not impressed. I figured any place that would make you wait 2.5 hours to get a table and then an additional 45 minutes for food, it might actually be impressive. It was really anything but.
(1)
John K.

The new melt is absolutely fantastic. Wonderful atmosphere just like the old one, and now there isn't an hour long wait! Had the "big Popper" which is basically a sandwich-sized jalapeno Popper with cream cheese. It was fantastic although I hate how the menu doesn't tell you when its a fried sandwich. Awesome as always.
(5)
Raquel T.

The food is awesome and the atmosphere is great. The wait is long but they tell you ahead of time. Skip the wait and sit at the bar, there are plenty of tv's to watch and the other people there are friendly.
(5)
John K.

The sandwiches were too big and messy to manage. The portions were generous. The fries were too mushy and salty. The soup had a weird, vomit-like texture. Service was OK.
(3)
Barbara H.

Saw the story on the food channel and had to try it while in Cleveland. It was awesome, everything I expected and more. Long wait to get a table, but well worth the wait. A must-do whenever we are in town.
(5)
Jordan T.

A few months ago me and my parents had decided that we wanted to try a new place to eat out. We had previously noticed that this Melt was normally not to crowded. When we arrived we were seated right away and our order was taken, the service seemed a bit slow for a place with so many servers and when our food did arrive it was good but not worth the prices they charge. Alone this would have merited three or maybe even four stars, until I bit down on a French-fry and CRUNCH! At first I wasn't even sure what happened and continued eating until I felt around the back of my mouth with my tongue and found a rather large chunk of molar was missing. We told the restaurant manager, who was fairly kind and took down our information and told is to call corporate. I got my tooth repaired but when we tried to call corporate, no one ever answered, they have yet to contact us and for this horrendous treatment (and apparent lack of food safety standards) this Melt gets the lowest rating possible.
(1)
Sarah T.

I had to know what the hype was about! Very open, casual atmosphere. The food is simply oversized portions of the childhood favorite - thick cut slices of bread, well buttered, and essentially fried, filled with cheese and other goodies. I think everything is served with coleslaw and fries, though my fries were cold.
(4)
Sina S.

I must say that Melt is an amazing place to try various entrees of cheeses. The portions and prices are very generous and makes to have a great time while dining. The most annoying thing about Melt is the wait time. I understand that waiting for a great service and food is expected, but sometimes the wait is 2.5 hours! I'm sorry, but I am not waiting 2.5 hours to eat, that's an airplane ride somewhere. My limit is usually in the range of 30 minutes to 1 hour TOPS. We got lucky and went between 2-5pm, so the wait was 20 minutes. The menu was so delicious just to look at, I couldn't decide what to eat! Even though the Melt challenge tempted me, I knew I did not want to ruin my first experience at Melt possible rolling out of the restaurant. I decided to try the Grilled Peanut Butter, Banana, and Cream Cheese sandwich that came with fries and slaw. All I have to say is AMAZING! I have never tasted a sandwich like that and was very impressed. The portion was so great that you could get overstuffed on just that. The selection of root beers was very cool. For dessert, I had fried twinkies. Although very yummy, it wasn't as good as I expected it to be. If it wasn't for the constant long periods of waiting for a table, i would give it no less than 5 stars.
(4)
Lynn T.

i like this place a lot, but i don't like the fact that they can only cook 12 sandwiches at a time, which creates these odd waits ONCE YOU ORDER of 45 mins or more for your sandwich. it's simple math to figure out how many seats are in the restaurant and install a sandwich grill large enough to accommodate. Melt, PLEASE get it together and install another grill or do whatever you need to do to address this logistical problem. you can serve more food to happier customers!
(4)
Aaron L.

This place is very overrated. Way too much bread for the below average meat they buy. I got what is supposed to be some awesome burger called Fat City Burger. they put so much honey ham on it that was about all the flavor i got out of the first 2 bites. so i pulled the ham off in order to get a real sense of the flavor of the beef. 1 more bite later and still not a good taste i pulled just the meat out, all alone and tried that, terrible. the other plate i got was The Parmageddon which was 2 potato & cheese pierogi, fresh napa vodka kraut, grilled onions, sharp cheddar. i only took a couple bites because the combination of all those ingredients did not taste good together. both sandwiches, if they were 4 inches in height, bread accounted for 2.5 - 3 inches of that. way too much bread for a flavorless sandwich. maybe that's how they get you thinking what you're eating is good, throw some bread with butter and maybe a touch of garlic all toasted to hide the terrible ingredients they have. i would bet my life they don't use fresh ingredients everyday. i guess their is a chance I bought the wrong dishes but i got what I typically get and what they recommended as "this will get you back here" not even for a coke
(1)
Renee D.

went here tonite with my family for my dad's birthday he was so excited to try the new place on the corner was he excited to wait 1 hour and 1/2 with horrible service? I don't think so as well as being SO loud where you can't even hear the person next to you ? I think not and the food.. nothing to wait that long for.. I don't recommend wasting your time in this BAR. it's NOT a restaurant
(1)
David B.

After two dinners at this location, I am pleased to announce my official delegation of the best 'for your money' restaurant in Cleveland. Not only is the food delicious and the beer selection is awesome, but the atmosphere is very appealing. the management does a wonderful job making sure the customer gets what they want. I have two awesome experiences and hope to enjoy similiars ones in the future.
(5)
Al B.

This is grilled cheese heaven with combinations of cheese sandwiches that I've never even thought of. While I didn't have any on my last visit the beer selection is vast and outstanding. if I offer one warning other than being careful not to over eat it would be understand that YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE TO WAIT TO BE SEATED. There aren't a lot of tables and the bar fills up quickly so walking in starving may not be the best idea.
(5)
Jeff D.

Great restaurant, large selection of grilled cheese even vegan grilled cheese. They have loaded fries with regular or vegetarian chili (great twist). The selection of beers is great but most of all the price is not too high. At times the restaurant may have a longer than usual wait because of a smaller dining room, but I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(4)
Colin C.

Maybe the best place we have found in the Cleveland area so far. We are from the California Bay Area and moved here for med school 7 months ago. We were spoiled by the quality and variety of the food in the Bay, so our first couple months in Ohio were tough. Then we found Melt and it kicked us out of our food depression. A 25 pound grilled cheese sandwich can cure all illnesses. It honestly feels like the sandwiches are the weight of bricks. I can eat a lot of food (a whole medium pizza in one sitting), and I can barely finish my meal at Melt. Alone with the hulking sandwich you get a mountain of slaw and fries. This is the ONLY place that i have ever considered splitting one entree with my girlfriend. And it's not just giant, it tastes great too. There's a big selection of sandwiches with different types of meat, cheese, and other stuff on them. And if you don't like grilled cheese (aside from being a dirty communist) there are other things too. Clearing your plate at Melt may clog a couple arteries, but it is surely worth it.
(5)
Dan W.

This place is great. the menu has plenty of great sandwiches to choose from, but after trying it, if you like it, you really need to get the emails so you can see what the sandwich of the month is(it's usually worth trying!). Also, the coleslaw is pretty good. It's the only that I'll eat, no mayo and has a bit of a kick too it. Sometimes it can get a little crowded and the wait can be long-ish, but worth it to get a Melt fix.
(5)
Jon H.

This place is awesome. It's unlike any restaurant I have been to before. The size of the sandwiches, the imagination, the ingredients, the quirky atmosphere...so fun and tasty. I had the Westside Monte Cristo and loved it. It consists of honey ham, smoked turkey, swiss and american cheeses all in-between two thick slices of bread, then battered and deep fried, and served with a side of mixed berry preserves. It's like a funnel cake engulfed your Thanksgiving leftover sandwich - which makes it at least 3x better. This is one of those unique dining experiences that leaves you wanting more. The next time I'm in Cleveland you better believe I'm coming back!
(5)
Meghann T.

Stopped here, hung over the day after a wedding in Beachwood. It was a first stop prior to going to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. I fell in love, once I walked through the doors. This place is seriously quirky. Lots of cool people work here. Our waitress was bitchin'. Full bar, and from what I could tell, there were at least 50 beers on tap. They have everything! The menu is so rad, it was printed on the back of record albums. I wish I would have taken more time to browse; I ended up getting the Wake and Bacon, and it wasn't until days later, when I learned they had a Monte Cristo sammy. BLURG! I loved the atmosphere, and the service was pretty good. Pricing was within my ballpark. It's kind of a "must see" if you are in the Cleveland area.
(3)
Kristin B.

Just incredible. I had the Parmageddon which includes pierogies! Locally made, at that. Customized it by asking for carmelized onions and a side of house made BBQ sauce. The slaw served on the side was delicious scooped up with bites of sandwich. It also comes with fries which I requested Ultimate style, meaning topped with vegetarian chili, sautÃ©ed peppers & onions, etc. Highly recommend! And, super great for me, Melt can adjust almost anything for vegetarians or vegans. Thank you!!! The menu will please anyone and the portions are even bigger than the menu. Really wanted the house made bread pudding for dessert but just couldn't stuff myself any more. Staff is wonderful. They really know the food. And they don't rush you. LOVE this place!!!
(5)
Gabby C.

Tofu wings are good. But service is terrible at this location. They told us to leave by 6 because of the super bowl and we have been waiting for 45 minutes to eat our food. It isn't busy at all. Also took 15 minutes for someone to acknowledge that we were sitting at the bar. Pretty crappy experience over all.
(2)
Ellen A.

Amazing food. Had the Cleveland cheesesteak and couldn't have asked for a more delicious meal. Terrific service and well worth the drive from Pittsburgh to enjoy it. Guy And Adam from the Travel Channel didn't exaggerate at all on this place. Absolutely wonderful. Too bad I didn't have room for the fried Twinkie!
(5)
Greg N.

Great food! I had the Lake Erie monster here and it was perfect!
(5)
Omid T.

What do you think of when you watch an episode of Man v Food. Stomach ache? Well the thought of eating a fancy grilled cheese does sound. This brings me back to the memories I had when I was little kid and my sophistication was very limited to a basic grilled cheese. I want to thank to Man v Food for the long wait, actually I'm one of those non locals that normally cause the JAM around here. I walked in and noticed the bar takes up half of this place and the dining area took up another half. No wonder there is always a wait here!!! I sat at the Bar for an hour and the place had a HIPSTER feel for Cleveland standards. The bartender was very attentive considering the crowd and prices for their beers were very reasonable with most of the beers running at $4. They had a very big drink list with a variety of craft beers and imports. I decided on New Hollad Ichabod. That HIT THE SPOT!!! I looked at the Menu and stared at the Melt challenge. You basically have to devour over 5lbs of food that includes 13 different cheeses, 3 slices of grilled bread and a pile of hand-cut fries & slaw WITHOUT ANY RESTROOM BREAKS. I passed. I split the Monte Cristo ($10) and THE Cleveland cheese steak ($11.50). When they served it up it was a lot bigger than I imagined it to be. The bread slices are almost 2 inches thick and there is a LOT of melted cheese (you have plenty to choose from)!!! For my taste, the cheese was a little too overpowering and there was too much bread. I have a big appetite and I couldn't even finish the meal. I felt like such a sissy!!! Would I come back? Yes but I would be more cautious on what I order. There is TOO MUCH cheese and bread for my taste, but I like the service, the crowd, and the alcohol selection.
(4)
M. A.

Great for vegans because they have a vegan cheese option--and it's good, too! Very rare and welcome. Most of their meat sandwiches can be made vegetarian--they use well-prepaired seitan (wheat gluten) instead of the meat. Not so good for gluten-free... too bad. They could offer a gluten-free bread choice. They do at least let you bring your own gluten-free bread for them to use, but that seems like a halfway solution. The food is very good, but I only go occasionally when I'm really hungry! It's terrible for you! Lots of carbs, lots of fat. I love it! But not all the time. Maybe they have healthy options, but that's not why I go to Melt. I go for huge greasy vegetarian sandwiches and great seasoned fries. They lose a star because the wait can be surprisingly long, and because you sometimes get packed in elbow-to-elbow with strangers, and because parking is very limited, and requires quarters. Go at off hours to avoid these problems. I have not had a problem once seated: service has been fine.
(4)
Michael B.

Melt is our go to pig out place. Fantastic food, great beers, super service, awesome environment. There's something for everyone here. Highly recommended!!
(5)
Emiko V.

I've eaten at both locations, but this was the site of the most recent trip. I will say that Melt is an experience - the interesting decor (the menus are glued to the back of old record sleeves - genius? I think so!), the even more interesting menu options, the beer list - the entire set up is crafted to make you feel like this is one of the most unique places you've ever eaten at. For a girl who isn't too keen on cheese (I know what you're thinking...I get it all the time), I love this place. The food is OH SO GOOD and totally innovative. My absolute favorite Parmageddon - a grilled cheese sandwich complete with pierogi and kraut?? SIGN ME UP! And if you're a beer lover, then you'll be one happy, soon to be stuffed diner because there are TONS of options for you to choose from. My only gripe about this place is the location. Situated at the corner of a pretty congested intersection, getting here is no easy task. Parking is limited so be prepared to be royally frustrated before you even set foot in the place. Also be prepared to wait for a table - hey, what do you expect when you've got a sandwich called the Godfather on the menu? I would say practice some patience and give this place a go because it's totally worth it. P.S. If you're daring enough, try the challenge! It's not that expensive and totally worth the story once it's over. Just remember not to drink too much because you can't leave the table once this monster hits the table!
(4)
Muriel A.

YUM! I came in with a huge group. We had to wait a while but this was no big deal as there is a huge bar with tons of different (Reasonably priced!) Beers. There are also tons of tvs with sports channels... Definitely helped to pass the time... For dinner I had the bacon and egg grilled cheese... um hell yes... There was a ton of bacon on it and the egg was perfectly cooked. The bread was crispy... Super filling! I had the half fries half slaw on the side. You still get a huge pile of fries! And the slaw wasn't dressed with mayonaise which I really liked. No. The food here isn't health food. But if you're passing through Cleveland and in the mood for some guilty pleasure I highly highly recommend. This place did not disappoint!
(5)
Robert H.

Beer selection (draft & bottle) is very good. The sandwiches are OK but not great. The cheeses are ordinary quality and as these are the stars of a grilled cheese restaurant. I would have expected better. You don't get any bread choices so you will be eating thickly sliced Texas toast. Fries were OK but not crisp like I like them. All in all I would go back because of the beer selection and the sandwiches don't detract too much from the beer.
(2)
Leah F.

Melt is my favorite restaurant in all of Cleveland and I've lived here my entire life. Every one of their sandwiches that I've tried have been amazing. My favorites are the Waken Bacon, the Monte Cristo, and the Big Popper. Their 1/2 Combo is SO great and a lot of food for the price. There are a lot of "hipsters" but that's their theme. If you can get past that and evaluate just their food - it is amazing!
(5)
Matthew D.

I was trapped in a hotel outside of Cleveland so I turned to my trusty Yelp! App for a little help on dinner. With a little luck and a huge assist from the DoubletTree for shuttling me farther than they were supposed to I was able to have dinner at Melt Bar & Grilled. Now I admit the thing that drew me to the place besides the high star rating was all the mentions of the location's appearances a few prominent cable TV shows. I thought even if it was a little cheesy, at least I could have a fun experience. I am happy to report, there is nothing cheesy or hokey about this place, it is awesome with a side of kick-ass! Make no mistake this place is a bar, the U-Shaped bar dominates the restaurant with a few tables lining the outside wall. It has a great neighborhood feel even with all the TV notoriety and it felt like I was the only person who didn't walk to this place from my house. I was able to a sit at the bar farthest from the door between a couple of friends and a family of five. I was handed my menu which on the other side was an album cover from the 80s, I loved it. The staff was very knowledgeable about all of the beers (and there was a laundry list of them) and even had pairing suggestions with the food, not something that I expected at a bar. Nice touch. Even though the place was packed the bartender, upon learning it was my first time there, took his time with me and walked me through sandwiches they are famous for, the Man vs. Food challenge item (a monster grilled cheese featuring 13 different cheeses, 3 slices of grilled bread and a pile of hand-cut fries & slaw. Over 5lbs of food) and the beers to go with it. I settled on the Westside Monte Cristo which is honey ham, smoked turkey, swiss, american, crispy battered & deep fried, with mixed berry preserves. It was great, I highly recommend it. To drink I had a Brooklyn blonde ale and the special of the night, a North Peak Archangel (I felt the need to support a home state brewery from Michigan in Ohio). To Recap: The Good: The decor, the menus, the staff, the sandwiches, the beer list, the patrons. I was made to feel like one of the gang. The Bad: It didn't look like there was much around it, so it needs to be your destination for the night, not a starting point. But this place can pull it off. The Band This Restaurant Most Resembles: Marilyn Manson, an Unique Ohio experience!
(5)
Pat P.

I thought the food was good, but not stellar by any means. Certainly not the healthy place to go if that's a concern for you. It was a little pricey, but I think most people can get two meals out of it, because portions are huge! I did like the decor, and the service was great, so this is a place I'd recommend.
(3)
Alex M.

I had the purple parma and this sandwich is a belly buster. All of the sandwiches are huge. The atmosphere is really cool and the employees are just as interesting to look at. The food tastes great and you get lots if it for what you pay. Not to mention they have a great draft beer selection.
(5)
Sonya P.

If I didn't get wicked heart-burn after eating here (my stomach can't handle what it used to!), I would probably be here all the time! The creativity and wildness that is on this menu is wonderful! I had the After School Special, and when they say "fried thick cut bologna," they aren't fooling around! It was at least 1/2 in thick! Yum! And it all melded perfectly with the sweet & spicy pickles and house made ketchup chips! What a unique place!
(4)
David J.

I love Melt. I've been to the one in Independence several times when I lived down there and now that I am up in Cleveland Heights, just a few blocks from this location, I've ordered twice from here within a month. It's that good. I recommend getting The Dude Abides with Lasagna. It's like $18 but totally worth it. You probably will only eat half.
(5)
Keith B.

It was awesome. Fun atmosphere great beer selection and great comfort food. I had the godfather. It is lasagna between two pieces of garlic bread. It was as delicious as it sounds.
(4)
Vanessa J.

I was to pleased with my experience at Melt. Even on a Saturday afternoon, the wait was minimal. The facilities were very clean and eclectically enjoyable. Our server Lee was efficient, personable and had great product knowledge, We waited a very short time for our food. I was pleased there was a build your own option. I chose that and my dining companion had The Dude Abides. Both were enough for two meals with the geneous servings of fries included. The Margarita alas tasted like spiked lemonade. It was good and refreshing. I can not wait to go back to Melt again! Next time; Chicken Parm!
(5)
Christopher C.

I like melt. I liked it more when they had a burger on the menu. I would say that the burger was probably the best thing on the menu. I find this location is really easy to get a table / seated, and is usually pretty dead during the week. Which is good and bad - good because there is no wait, bad because it makes the place feel kind of lame. They have a great beer selection too - lots of TV's, the place could easily market itself as more of a bar too - but it doesn't.
(4)
Brittany M.

This place has a great, unique atmosphere and awesome food! Besides having a ton of delicious and HUGE-portioned grilled cheese combinations, Melt has some incredible appetizers and other small dishes too! My favorite would definitely have to be their tofu wings in their sweet BBQ sauce. Also , the service was great. If you're in Cleveland and you don't go to Melt, you're truly missing out!
(5)
Jody E.

The food was great. I brought a friend here from Boston and she loved it. We sat at the bar around 3pm on a Sunday, so there wasn't a wait for food. Even though it was an off time to eat, the place was still pretty full. We ordered two different grilled cheese sandwiches to share. The Mac and Cheese one was delicious but I was so full after 3 bites (granted, I eat like a bird). My friend finished her half despite feeling overstuffed just because it was too delicious to stop eating. The Cleveland Cheesesteak was great too, although much easier to eat. While the food was fantastic, the attitude of the guy at the bar was not. He treated us like our presence was an inconvenience and had other bartenders and staff bring us our food and check up on us. That was probably for the best since they were MUCH nicer and significantly more pleasant. Overall we had a great lunch and my friend was impressed!
(4)
Merlin C.

The Monte Cristo is amazing. That was my first sandwich. You can probably split any of these between two people if you factor in the sides. Second time I came here, I did the MELT challenge, where you have to eat a 13-cheese, 5 lb grilled cheese sandwich plus cole slaw plus fries without going to the bathroom. I managed to finish the entire sandwich but couldn't do the sides at all. I pretty much failed to strategize and should have taken a little bit of each thing (sandwich, cole slaw, fries) in circles or just gone kamikaze and eaten the thing messily and manically. If you end up doing the melt challenge, block out a couple days for recovery. I threw up in the glove compartment on the way home and won't even get into gastrointestinal issues.
(5)
Lord Edwin C.

I'll be honest, it took me a while to get on the "MELT-Train." I initially found in overly kitschy, the portion sizes too overwhelming and some of the sandwiches rather pedestrian. But, I kept coming back--trying new sandwiches, exploring their apps and salads--and began to appreciate this place more and more. Their sandwiches are massive and it's easy to "stay safe" here, like with the Monte Cristo or the Wake & Bacon, which are both good. There are a number of sandwiches, however that merit a try. The Korean War Pig is so good. It's adventurous with kimchi slaw and pear onion relish, but mixes in familiar flavors like pulled pork and muenster cheese. The Mushroom Melt is an incredibly "meaty" option with complex flavors from the very sweet port onions and the spicy, fresh arugula. I'm not a fan of the sweet slaw and was happy when they moved away from automatically including it with your meal. I know people like it, but I prefer my slaw to be more vinegary. The fries are decent, treading that line of crispy and soft and always well seasoned. I prefer them in the Hangover Fries! Poutain with pork belly and a fried egg? What more can you ask for? Also, their Fried Green Tomato appetizer is delicious. Crispy, slightly spicy with a little freshness. I also like that this place can be enjoyed by those erg dietary restriction and limitations, offering many vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. This is a Cleveland institution and rightly so, so I highly encourage you stop in and try something ADVENTUROUS. You won't be disappointed.
(5)
Yvone R.

The only downside is that they don't take reservations and the wait is usually 1 hour or longer. NOW TO THE GOOD STUFF!!!! Hubby and I decided to try MELT for our anniversary, after hearing nothing but great things about it. Hubby had, "The Dude Abides" and I had "Chorizo & Potato" and added a fried egg and avacado per the waiter's advice. Hey, if I cared about calories, I wouldn't have come here. The sandwhiches are so big that we only had 1/2 of a 1/2 and the slaw is to die for. The fresh french fries were SOOOOOO good too! Not too much salt and had a wonderful crunch on the outside with soft potato on the inside. It could not have been better! For dessert we tried the fried twinkies and were rewarded with a wonderfully fried twinkie with a raspberry sauce. It melted in my mouth. IT WAS FABULOUS!!!!! The parking was less than desirable, but the service was wonderful. We always had something cool to drink and napkins to wipe our hands with. We never felt neglected even in the busy place! I CAN'T WAIT TO GO BACK!!
(5)
Dominique K.

I'm a big fan of grilled cheese sandwiches, so we made sure we sought this place out on our last visit to Cleveland. Thank goodness for our in-car GPS as we found this place without too much trouble. On-street parking or parking in a metered lot behind this small strip of businesses. The cutesy atmosphere with lighted pumpkins, Santas and all manner of strange lawn ornament-type decorations made it feel a little like visiting a beloved basement rec room. You can get grilled cheese here, but the hook seems to be that they have a large variety of sandwiches that -include- melted cheese as a component. My dining companion had a hot Italian sandwich and I had the aptly named Parmageddon (a grilled-cheese-and-pierogi combo). Our sandwiches came with a large portion of cole slaw and a HUGE portion of fries. Be prepared for to take home leftovers...or to possibly consider splitting a meal. I particularly liked my rough-cut fries and the plump pierogi...a Cleveland classic. The pierogi alone on my sandwich was as big as my face, so the sandwich was massive...sadly, we couldn't finish our meals in one sitting...our hotel didn't have a mini fridge...and we didn't have a cooler...so half of our meals ended up going to waste :( We stopped in around 5 p.m. on a weeknight, which worked out fine for us...no wait.
(4)

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Address : 13463 Cedar Rd
Cleveland Heights, OH, 44118
Phone (216) 965-0988
Website https://www.meltbarandgrilled.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:00 am - 10
Mon : 11:00 am - 10

Specialities

Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : Yes
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Loud
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No

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Melt Bar & Grilled

13463 Cedar Rd, Cleveland Heights, OH, 44118

Melt Bar & Grilled Menu

Starters

Salads

Gourmet Grilled Cheese

Grilled Cheese Burgers

Add Ons

Other Good Stuff

Desserts

Healthy Meal suggestions for Melt Bar & Grilled

Starters

Salads

Gourmet Grilled Cheese

Grilled Cheese Burgers

Add Ons

Other Good Stuff

Desserts

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