Relatively simple to make, a grilled cheese sandwich has the power to evoke nostalgia. The combination of bread and gooey American cheese can turn back the clock to school lunches or mom’s kitchen with one whiff. Four Long Island grilled cheese restaurants are experts on mixing delicious tastes with a trip down memory lane.
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Say Cheese, Long Beach

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By offering signature melts in a casual atmosphere, Say Cheese is known to satisfy. Quick, fresh and very tasty, the maroon and yellow space has over a dozen grilled cheese sandwiches to choose from. Fan favorites range from the mighty mac with creamy housemade mac and cheese and sharp cheddar to the aristocrat made with certified Angus Beef short rib, crispy fried onions and horseradish and chive havarti. There are also countless make it your own options and of course the classic white bread with American cheese. Pro Tip: any of the sandwiches fare wonderfully with Parmesan truffle fries, french fries, sweet tots, house slaw or classic tomato soup. Phone: 516-442-5807 | Address: 655 E Park Ave Click to go
AJ’s Gourmet Grilled Cheese Shop, Bay Shore

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Located on Montauk Highway, AJ’s Gourmet Grilled Cheese Shop is a comfort food haven. There’s French onion soup, homemade potato chips and of course indulgent grilled cheese sandwiches. The Southern-pork combines tender slow-cooked pork with cheddar cheese, while the apple bacon sandwich is both sweet and savory. The fun and cozy spot also boasts tempting dessert options like Oreo churro sticks, bacon crazed shakes and baked s’mores pouches. Remember, swimsuit season is still a few months away! Phone: 631-647-9292 | Address: 182 Montauk Hwy Click to go
MELTology Grilled Cheese, Mt Sinai

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Clean and inviting, this gourmet restaurant provides Long Islanders with grilled cheese flavors they can’t live without. Customers rave about the buffalo grilled cheese with a bleu cheese dressing calling it “the best they ever had.” Another crowd-pleasing melt is the honey bbq. It comes with melted cheddar, honey bbq chicken strips, applewood smoked bacon and ranch dressing. Phone: 631-509-0331 | Address: 5507 Nesconset Hwy Click to go
Melt Shop, Garden City

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Praised for its creative selections, the Melt Shop has gained a fan base at the Roosevelt Field Mall. It’s the perfect place to refuel after hours of shopping. The portions are generous, the flavors are fresh and the service is speedy. Make sure to try the burger melt (American and NY cheddar, pickles, caramelized onions and burger sauce on country white) or the truffle melt (muenster, arugula, black pepper and truffle oil on country white). The place has gluten-free bread too! Phone: 516-405-3221 | Address: 630 Old Country Rd Click to go