Heck's Avon
Layered with American, mozzarella, Parmesan and white cheddar, the Quattro Formaggio ($10) comes sandwiched between sourdough bread. But it’s the sweet tomato marmalade that brings it all together, so you won’t need a side of soup. “The grilled cheese sandwich is an experience,” says owner Fadi Daoud. “It’s a simple sandwich, but it’s not really a simple preparation.” 35514 Detroit Road, Avon, 440-937-3200, heckscafe.com
The Lockview
Stuffed with mozzarella, arugula, lobster meat and lemon pepper aioli, the No. 11 ($10) is a multifaceted sandwich with a playful side. “All the grilled cheese sandwiches are served with Goldfish Crackers and a fun little tiki umbrella,” says owner Danny Basone. “We create things that we think would be enjoyable and fun.” 207 S. Main St., Akron, 330-252-5128, thelockview.com
Melt Bar and Grilled
Layered and stacked with honey ham, smoked turkey and Swiss and American cheeses, The Monte Cristo ($10 half, $14 whole) gets deep fried in a French toast batter and topped with powdered sugar. “We serve it with mixed berry preserves dipping sauce, so you get the savory of the sandwich and then a little bit of a sweetness from the crispy batter crust on the outside,” says owner Matt Fish. Various locations, meltbarandgrilled.com
P.J. Marley's
The Mack Daddy ($8.99) has melted Swiss, American and feta — but it doesn’t stop there. With a layer of bacon, roasted garlic aioli and a mountain of mac ‘n’ cheese, this is a decadent selection. “When you bite into it, you should have a little bit of cheese that pulls away from the sandwich before it either drips down or comes off,” says owner Jon Stahl. 119 Public Square, Medina, 330-722-6328, pjmarleys.com
Tommy's
Named after a frequent patron who created the dish at the Coventry neighborhood spot, the Quinn ($8) slathers on house-made peanut butter with colby, Swiss, cheddar, American and Muenster cheeses, green peppers, tomatoes and lettuce on toasted pita bread. “People love that peanut butter, whether it’s in a milkshake or on the sandwich,” says owner Tommy Fello. 1824 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-7757, tommyscoventry.com
