Bites Nearby: Melt Bar & Grilled

— Almost single-handedly, Melt Bar & Grilled is changing the perception of the age-old toasted cheese sandwich. But instead of the flat version your mom served, made with two slices of Wonder Bread and one slice of Velveeta, the cheesy concoctions at Melt tower high above the plate.

The menu lists more than two dozen enormous grilled cheese variations, all served on hefty Texas toast. These include the renowned Parmageddon constructed from two potato and cheese pierogies, vodka kraut, grilled onions and sharp cheddar.

But there’s also a list of grilled cheeseburgers such as the Blackened Blue Burger, featuring blue cheese sprinkled on a cast-iron blackened patty.

Of course, there are plenty of add-ons, so you can make your grilled cheese reflect your distinct personality. There are piles of veggies, surf and turf options (crab cake, anyone?), and a load of freshly made sauces and dips.

If you're brave and think you can chow down 13 different cheeses piled onto three slices of bread, which is paired with fries and slaw, then take the Melt Challenge. 

And in the event you fall head over heels for Melt, you can show your love by getting a Melt logo-inspired tattoo and receive 25 percent off for life. Just make sure your design is pre-approved by management, because you’re making a permanent commitment.

13463 Cedar Road, 216-965-0098. Open: Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m. to Midnight, Sun. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.    Prices: Gourmet Grilled Cheese $5.50 - $13, Grilled Cheese Burgers $8 - $11.50