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Upscale grilled cheese in New York

A grilled cheese that respects the quality of the bread and cheese rather than just melting a slice of plastic between two pieces of toast.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
UT47 Kitchen & Bar image 1
UT47 Kitchen & Bar image 2
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Tiny restaurant with few tables and an intimate, cozy atmosphere in a residential setting. Offers a small outdoor space surrounded by potted plants, creating a friendly vibe. Known for excellent vegan and vegetarian breakfast options and rich, flavorful cocktails.

The environment feels casual elegant with a very elegant look. Presentation stays simple yet elegant throughout.

Sweet baked bacon grilled cheese stands out with white cheddar, basil pesto, and freshly sliced avocado. Options include gluten-free and vegan versions, all praised for their rich flavors.

People are saying

"The vegetarian eggs Benedict was wonderful and incredible."

"The sweet baked bacon grilled cheese panini was delicious."

"It's an elegant and cozy place with a calm, inviting atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for groups of 3 or more due to limited seating.

2

Expect long wait times during busy weekend brunch hours.

3

The restaurant only serves bottled water for dine-in customers.

02
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse image 1

Brazilian restaurant offers a spacious, elegant setting with a central buffet featuring a large salad and fruit bar. Servers bring various cuts of meat directly to tables, creating an interactive dining experience. The atmosphere is lively and noisy, attracting a mix of guests including families and tourists.

Elegant atmosphere combines with a sophisticated ambiance and beautiful decoration. Rich flavors match the warm and welcoming setting.

Grilled cheese comes as squares with honey, offering a sweet twist. It stands out for its quality and pairs well with sides like yuca fries and grilled pineapple.

People are saying

"The food and service here were excellent and satisfying."

"It's so elegant and refined here."

"You have to try the grilled cheese with honey; it's a must-have."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is offered all day, every day.

2

Make a reservation on Thanksgiving Day to secure a table.

3

Expect long wait times, especially during dinner hours.

03
RH Rooftop Restaurant at RH New York image 1

Rooftop restaurant atop a furniture store offers amazing city views and an upscale atmosphere with crystal chandeliers and cozy hedged tables. The crowd skews mostly female, ages 20-35, creating a lively yet elegant vibe. Outdoor terrace opens in good weather, enhancing the varied dining experience.

Elegant chandeliers and a garden feel create a wide open layout with a swanky, sophisticated atmosphere. The decor is stunning and adds to the exquisite ambiance.

Truffled grilled cheese stands out with rich, savory flavor. It pairs well with lobster roll or comes alongside crispy artichokes and salads for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The rooftop setting is stunning with breathtaking views."

"It's an elegant place with a stunning, gorgeous atmosphere."

"You have to try the truffle grilled cheese; it's exquisite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to secure a table, especially during busy hours.

2

There is a one-hour time limit for tables, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant does not serve cocktails, only limited drink options.

04
The Franklin Wine Bar & Bistro image 1

Intimate space with elegant decor and a marble bar creates a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Crowd is colorful and relaxed, often filling the small venue early. The vibe blends wine bar charm with a lively, fun energy.

Elegant decor sets a sophisticated tone while the atmosphere stays fun and inviting.

Grilled cheese stands out with its rich, melty texture. The Franklin Melt pairs chicken confit for a savory twist.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so warm and friendly."

"The wine selection here is truly impressive and well thought out."

"I'm still thinking about ordering the grilled cheese."

Good to know

1

The wine bar gets pretty packed, so arrive early if you want a table.

2

The ordering process is done through a QR code, and food/drinks are brought to the table.

3

The establishment has happy hour every day with $10 glasses of wine.

05
Sadelle's New York image 1
Breakfast restaurant

High ceilings and close tables create a loud, crowded atmosphere with an authentic SoHo café vibe. The space features beautiful decor with green accents and a lively crowd that brings Manhattan brunch energy. Fresh bagels and smoked salmon add to the bustling, energetic feel.

Chic, elegant architecture creates an inviting atmosphere. The House Salmon stands out as a classic, elegant signature dish.

Grilled cheese sandwiches come with tomato soup or avocado toast. The grilled cheese is often paired with eggs and is known for being satisfying and quieting for kids.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, crispy everything bagels here."

"I thought the grilled cheese was great."

"The French toast here is delicious and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the place gets packed quickly.

2

Expect a wait of about 30 minutes for food during busy hours.

3

Bottled water costs $10, even if not requested.

06
Burger & Lobster Bryant Park image 1

British restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with perfect lighting and a big space featuring a bar and high tables. The vibe is friendly and casual, filled with a happy hour crowd and comfortable seating. Live singing adds a personal touch to the energetic environment.

Clean and elegant decor sets a sophisticated atmosphere. The vibe feels a little fancy but still private, with a great music playlist enhancing the experience.

Lobster bisque comes with a lobster grilled cheese sandwich. The grilled cheese pairs well with the bisque, making a rich, flavorful appetizer.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here really good and packed with flavor."

"The vibe here is so elegant and welcoming."

"The lobster grilled cheese with the bisque was amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers cocktails for $10 and fried calamari for $10.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

3

The restaurant has a private dining room available for events.

07
Double Chicken Please image 1

Small, Japan-inspired bar splits into two distinct rooms: dark, refined backroom with craft cocktails and lively front room offering draft drinks and casual bites. Atmosphere feels chic and sexy, with innovative cocktails and standout chicken dishes drawing a dedicated crowd despite long waits.

The back room offers a cozy, sophisticated ambiance with some of the most unique and sophisticated concoctions. Drinks throughout maintain a sophisticated quality that fits the environment well.

Grilled cheese options include a bolognese grilled cheese and a hot honey chicken sandwich. The grilled cheese chicken sandwich is crispy and flavorful.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are inventive and unlike anything I've tried."

"The bolognese grilled cheese was incredible, rich and flavorful."

"The upscale drinks here taste just like the dishes they're named after."

Good to know

1

Reservations are definitely needed, as they sell out quickly.

2

Be prepared to wait outside for at least an hour on weekends.

3

The wait time for the coop side can be 3-4 hours.

08
Overstory image 1
Cocktail bar

Rooftop bar with 360-degree panoramic views of the city skyline and sunset creates a magical atmosphere. Outdoor terrace features heated seating and blankets, enhancing comfort while enjoying the breeze and city lights. Music and a disco ball add to the refined yet welcoming vibe that defines the space.

Cocktails here are high end and sophisticated with a delicious taste. The spot feels elegant and suits a classy drink in a lively setting.

Grilled cheese features a unique artichoke combo that stands out. The sandwich offers a delightful, rich flavor that makes it a satisfying choice.

People are saying

"The views here are absolutely breathtaking."

"The upscale views here are truly spectacular, especially at sunset."

"I loved the grilled cheese sandwich here; it was a delightful treat."

Good to know

1

There is a one drink minimum to access the 64th floor.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

A $75 per person minimum spend is required for seating.

09
Beauty & Essex image 1
Restaurant

Entrance through a pawn shop leads to a hidden speakeasy with gorgeous chandeliers and a grand staircase. The interior divides into smaller rooms, each with its own dimly lit ambiance and stylish decor. Music stays at a comfortable volume, creating a sleek, social vibe suited for evening gatherings.

Elegant atmosphere blends with a cozy environment and a fun vibe. Popular tunes play at just the right volume, keeping the setting familiar yet upscale.

Grilled cheese appears in a unique form as tomato soup dumplings served on ladles. This includes a version with smoked bacon that stands out as a culinary highlight.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"It's a classy, elegant place with a sophisticated, inviting atmosphere."

"I'd go back just for the grilled cheese tomato soup dumplings."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table.

2

Parking costs $90, which is quite high.

3

The entrance to the restaurant is through a pawn shop.

10
Dominique Ansel Bakery image 1

Small bakery with tight indoor space and a crowded, lively atmosphere. Back garden offers quiet outdoor seating with flowers and Wi-Fi, providing a contrast to the busy interior. Known for innovative pastries and a warm, welcoming vibe.

Elegant awning and a charming facade set a refined tone. Desserts stand out for their sophistication and intriguing flavors. Cuisine feels fresh and elegant throughout.

Cheesy and tasty sandwiches stand out here, often described as amazing and even one of a kind. Some versions could be better cooked through, but the flavor remains impressive.

People are saying

"The DKA, a caramelized croissant pastry, was incredible."

"The upscale bakery is famous for its cronut with monthly changing fillings."

"I found the grilled cheese sandwich to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Get to the bakery before 10am to avoid a long line.

2

Each month, a new flavor of the Cronut® is unveiled, drawing eager crowds.

3

You can't find any cronuts after 1 PM.

11
Clara Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Spacious dining room with triple high ceilings and large windows offers natural sunlight and views of a museum setting. Atmosphere stays quiet and intimate, supporting easy conversation with a cozy, refined vibe. Guests find it a peaceful retreat with comfortable seating and an upscale feel.

Fresh, inventive recipes come in an elegant tall turn of the century space. The atmosphere feels soothing, beautifully designed, and comfortable for an upscale dining experience.

Classic grilled cheese uses fresh ingredients and pairs with tomato soup. Preparation varies, with some versions more flavorful than others. Service can be slow, sometimes taking 30 minutes for orders.

People are saying

"The food here was fantastic and delicious."

"It's an elegant, quiet space with a gorgeous dining room."

"I thought the grilled cheese was the best I had ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended during restaurant week due to high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times during restaurant week as the restaurant is busier.

3

The restaurant week menu is available for lunch and dinner service.

12
Employees Only image 1

Dimly lit bar with wood paneling and a functioning fireplace creates an old-fashioned speakeasy vibe. The space is packed and loud, making conversation difficult and seating scarce. Creative cocktails and an interesting crowd add to the energetic atmosphere.

Elegant cocktails and sophisticated options define the menu. The atmosphere stays captivating and mysterious, drawing a sophisticated crowd every night.

Truffle grilled cheese stands out with its rich, savory flavor. It comes with crispy fries and serves as a solid, satisfying option for a quick bite.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing and well executed."

"It's a cool spot with a great 1950s vibe."

"It's an upscale place with a mysterious, elegant vibe."

Good to know

1

You need reservations for food at the speakeasy.

2

You can walk in for drinks at the speakeasy.

3

The 12am burlesque show is a highlight of the experience.

13
Sarabeth's Central Park South image 1

Bright and elegant space overlooks Central Park with an outdoor seating area offering a chill vibe. Atmosphere is lively and often noisy, especially in the large back room. Popular brunch spot draws crowds, featuring unique cocktails and must-try pancakes.

Bright and cozy with an elegant vibe that feels like a sunny brunch near the water. The décor and even the bathrooms carry a sophisticated charm that wraps the space in warmth.

Grilled cheese toast features a special sauce that stands out and pairs well with tomato soup. Portions lean small but deliver incredible taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here really delicious and healthy."

"The Upscale breakfast here uses the highest quality ingredients."

"The grilled cheese toast was incredibly tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to wait up to 45 minutes for a table without a reservation.

3

Brunch special may not be available for long; arrive early.

14
Grand Salon at Baccarat Hotel image 1

Glimmering crystal chandeliers and opulent furnishings create a classy, intimate atmosphere with a sophisticated vibe. The lounge hosts a lively crowd in a setting that feels both peacefully sumptuous and buzzing. Elegant decor and a well-studied color scheme define the space's upscale character.

Elegant interior and a well studied color scheme set a sophisticated tone. Luxurious decor and Baccarat crystal accents create a breathtaking ambiance in the Grand Salon.

Grilled cheese comes with a tomato soup that adds a nice touch. The sandwich and soup pair well and taste delicious.

People are saying

"The tea here feels so opulent in the stunning, elegant bar."

"The atmosphere here is elegant, with exquisite details and soft lighting."

"I loved the tomato soup with the grilled cheese."

Good to know

1

Afternoon tea is priced at $140 per person.

2

Reservations are required for afternoon tea at least a day in advance.

3

The bar opens at 4 PM.

15
Friedman's image 1
Gluten-free restaurant

Dining room features Broadway-style singing staff creating a lively and fun atmosphere. Ornate, historic interior with authentic design lacks sound dampening, leading to high noise levels. Offers gluten-free options and a gluten-free dedicated fryer, attracting those with dietary restrictions.

Elegant and calm atmosphere with ornate plaster work and sophisticated decor. The space feels classy and old, creating a relaxing vibe.

Simple and delicious grilled cheese pairs well with tomato soup. The sandwich is straightforward but satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the gluten free pancakes to be amazing."

"The grilled cheese with tomato soup is really good."

"It's so elegant and classy here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups.

2

The restaurant offers Broadway night events where servers perform.

3

Food service starts at 3:30 PM, but drinks are available at the bar before that.

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