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The 15 Best Grilled Cheese in San Francisco

For those craving a comforting and classic meal in the bustling city of San Francisco, a grilled cheese sandwich is always a solid choice. Whether you prefer a simple buttery grilled cheese or one with gourmet ingredients, this city has a plethora of options to satisfy your cheesy cravings.

With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go for the best grilled cheese in San Francisco. From food trucks to trendy cafes, each place offers a unique take on this beloved sandwich. Luckily, this list compiles the Best Grilled Cheese in San Francisco to help you narrow down your options and find the perfect spot for your next gooey, cheesy fix.

How we chose and ordered them

This selection of grilled cheese in San Francisco weighs each business's reputation, which anyone can check online, against how much of its work is devoted to this service. Those that do exactly this, and have done it well for years, come first.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Quick overview

Our top picks

Choose a business to go straight to its entry.

#1
Ham & Cheese Deli
4.9195 reviews
#2
La Fromagerie Cheese Shop
5.049 reviews
#3
Cheese Plus
4.5503 reviews

All options

Weigh 15 local options side by side

Ham & Cheese Deli, San Francisco#1
What it does well

  • Customers enjoy the great selection of tasty sandwiches and tomato soup.

  • The owner creates a fun vibe with SF memorabilia.

  • Visitors feel right at home, especially with the awesome breakfast menu.

Ham & Cheese Deli

4.9195 reviews
5501 California St, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States

Ham & Cheese Deli is a beloved sandwich shop located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services, including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers rave about the fun atmosphere and the wide selection of tasty sandwiches available.

La Fromagerie Cheese Shop, San Francisco#2
What it does well

  • Delicious sandwiches and charcuterie boards

  • Excellent selection of cheeses and wines

  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff

La Fromagerie Cheese Shop

5.049 reviews
2260 Chestnut St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States

La Fromagerie Cheese Shop is a must-visit destination for cheese enthusiasts in San Francisco. This cozy cheese shop offers a wide selection of gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, wines, and delicious sandwiches that customers rave about.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

Whether you're looking to indulge in a French-inspired grilled cheese sandwich or pick up gourmet ingredients for a DIY cheese board, La Fromagerie Cheese Shop has you covered. With a 5.0 rating and glowing reviews, it's clear that this cheese shop is a gem worth exploring.

CLocal choice
#3
What it does well

  • Delicious sandwiches made with fresh ingredients

  • Great cheese and drink selection

  • High-quality bread and pastries

  • Excellent customer service with a warm ambiance

Cheese Plus

4.5503 reviews
2001 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Cheese Plus is a renowned cheese shop located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of service options including kerbside pickup, delivery, in-store pick-up, and in-store shopping. Customers can enjoy amenities like gender-neutral toilets and Wi-Fi. The shop is known for being LGBTQ+ friendly and providing a quick visit experience.

With a rating of 4.5 stars, Cheese Plus has gained the trust of many customers. Reviewers have highlighted several key points:

Despite a few negative reviews, the majority of customers have praised Cheese Plus for its exceptional offerings and inviting atmosphere. Visit their website or stop by their shop to experience the goodness for yourself!

Freddie's Sandwiches, San Francisco#4
What it does well

  • Authentic sourdough bread that reminds of childhood

  • Great selection of sandwiches with high-quality ingredients

  • Friendly staff and reasonable prices

Freddie's Sandwiches

4.7550 reviews
300 Francisco St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Freddie's Sandwiches is a beloved sandwich shop in San Francisco known for its delicious sandwiches and friendly service. They offer a variety of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers rave about the quality of the sandwiches and the welcoming atmosphere of the shop.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

La Fromagerie Cheese Shop, San Francisco#5
What it does well

  • Fresh ingredients and generous portions

  • Delicious and diverse menu options

  • Casual and trendy atmosphere

La Fromagerie Cheese Shop

4.7186 reviews
101 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94104, United States

La Fromagerie Cheese Shop is a cozy restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco, offering a delightful selection of cheeses and gourmet sandwiches. The place is known for its breakfast and lunch options, making it ideal for solo dining or grabbing a quick bite. Customers can enjoy dine-in services in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

Some popular choices include the Le Toulouse sandwich with duck, figs, arugula, and Spanish sheep's milk cheese, or the Parisian sandwich. The menu also features delicious macarons and a variety of vegetarian options for those seeking lighter fare. Customers rave about the fresh ingredients and generous portions offered at La Fromagerie.

Whether you're in the mood for a classic ham and cheese sandwich or something more unique like the duck and fig combo, La Fromagerie is sure to satisfy your cravings. Stop by and experience a taste of France in every bite!

Mission Picnic, San Francisco#6
What it does well

  • Smiling employees and delicious food make Mission Picnic a lovely spot in the Mission.

  • Great-sized sandwiches, well-constructed with fantastic bread, and quick service.

  • High-quality sandwiches in a modern atmosphere with friendly staff.

  • Delicious vegan options and a convenient location for a quick bite.

Mission Picnic

4.4170 reviews
983 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Mission Picnic is a popular sandwich shop located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy their fast service and tasty sandwiches which are highlighted as a popular choice for lunch and solo dining.

The business has received 170 reviews with an impressive rating of 4.4 stars.

Overall, customers appreciate the friendly staff, quick service, and delicious sandwiches offered at Mission Picnic. Whether you're looking for a quick meal or a relaxing dining experience, Mission Picnic is a top choice in the San Francisco area.

Deli Board, San Francisco#7
What it does well

  • Delicious and perfectly balanced sandwich combinations

  • High-quality ingredients and fresh flavors

  • Great value for the price, despite being on the pricier side

  • Fast service and friendly staff

Deli Board

4.61,072 reviews
1058 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Deli Board is a renowned sandwich shop located in San Francisco. This establishment offers a variety of comfort food options and quick bites perfect for lunch or solo dining. Customers have praised the meticulously balanced flavors and fresh ingredients in every sandwich, making it a must-visit spot in the city.

The reviews highlight some key points:

With a high rating of 4.6, Deli Board continues to attract locals and tourists alike with its delectable sandwiches and cozy atmosphere. If you're in the mood for a top-notch sandwich experience, this establishment is definitely worth checking out!

Bite, San Francisco#8
What it does well

  • Absolutely mind blowing sandwiches that redefine the concept of a meal.

  • Fresh, tasty sandwiches with friendly service that never disappoints.

  • Small shop with a great selection of sandwiches, salads, and wraps.

  • Best sandwich in San Francisco with a diverse and delicious menu.

Bite

4.6482 reviews
912 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Bite is a beloved sandwich shop located in San Francisco that offers a variety of tasty options. Customers rave about the delicious sandwiches and friendly service. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.6, Bite is known for its Fast service and variety of offerings, including Comfort food, Healthy options, and Late-night food. Customers appreciate the no-contact delivery and takeaway options available. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a hearty meal, Bite has something for everyone.

The Melt, San Francisco#9
What it does well

  • The best grilled cheese sandwich with flavorful tomato sauce

  • A culinary journey with standout dishes like the Sicilian chicken melt burger

  • Personalized service and customizable options for a delightful dining experience

  • Unforgettable burgers like the double meat burger with superb taste

The Melt

4.33,022 reviews
925 Market Street, 5th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

The Melt is an iconic American restaurant located in the vibrant city of San Francisco. With a stellar rating of 4.3, this establishment is known for its delicious offerings and welcoming atmosphere. Customers rave about their experience at The Melt, highlighting key points such as:

Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a leisurely meal, or a tasty burger experience, The Melt has it all. With service options like delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, this restaurant caters to every preference. Additionally, their outdoor seating and kerbside pickup options ensure convenience and comfort for all patrons. So, why not visit The Melt for a truly delightful dining experience?

Tony Baloney's, San Francisco#10
What it does well

  • The veggie burger on sourdough roll is a must-try.

  • Loaded-up bagel sandwiches for breakfast are a hit.

  • Delicious sandwiches despite the unassuming exterior.

  • Old school deli with traditional hot breakfast options.

Tony Baloney's

4.6271 reviews
1098 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Tony Baloney's is a beloved sandwich shop located in the heart of San Francisco. They offer a variety of delicious options, including coffee, comfort food, and quick bites. Customers can enjoy their meals in a casual atmosphere or opt for takeaway service.

Recent glowing reviews rave about the friendly staff, generous portion sizes, and the overall quality of the food. Guests praise the veggie burger, reuben, and New York Italian sandwich options. With a commendable 4.6 rating from 271 reviews, Tony Baloney's is a must-visit for anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying meal in San Francisco.

Colombo’s, San Francisco#11
What it does well

  • The mousetrap sandwich was average with a lack of cheese oozing out.

  • Some customers found the sandwiches disappointing in flavor and texture.

  • Good selection of food options with parking available nearby.

  • Customers appreciated the outdoor seating and cute interior of the restaurant.

Colombo’s

4.3754 reviews
1 S Park St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Colombo’s is a cozy restaurant located in San Francisco. The place offers a variety of dining options such as Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and even Dessert. Customers can enjoy Alcohol and Beer as well as have Vegetarian options. The atmosphere is described as Casual and Trendy, making it a popular spot for University students and Groups.

The Melt, San Francisco#12
What it does well

  • This is a fast food restaurant similar to Shake Shake in NYC, offering innovative menu items like salads alongside burgers.

  • The service is relatively fast, even during busy times, and the food is flavorful and delicious.

  • Clients appreciate the unique offerings, such as the Melt Burger, Steak and Fajita Mac 'n Cheese, and Beef Patty Melt.

  • Customers enjoy the warm ambiance and top-notch service, even during late-night hours, making it a must-visit spot in San Francisco.

The Melt

4.5864 reviews
455 Market St at First, Suite #140, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

The Melt is an American restaurant located in San Francisco that offers a variety of mouthwatering dishes that keep customers coming back for more. With a rating of 4.5 stars, it's clear that patrons love the food and service at this establishment.

Whether you're craving a tasty burger, a comforting mac 'n cheese, or a delightful sweet treat, The Melt has something to satisfy every palate. With options for outdoor seating, delivery, and dine-in, this restaurant caters to a wide range of preferences. So, next time you're in San Francisco, be sure to stop by The Melt for a memorable dining experience.

Tommy's Joynt, San Francisco#13
What it does well

  • Ordered pastrami..cold meat, dry bread, weird consistency pastrami... Rubbery. Coleslaw lacked acid or lemon components. 3 out of 10. I've had better before. Felt like 3-day old bread. If a meat thermometer was in the eat in the steamer tray, would have been at 110F since the pastrami was out of the juice and steam and in the 70F atmosphere of the restaurant. (Kevin G.)

  • Busted…I went full throttle. Ordered the Jack Tar which includes a little bit of all meats, and there was about 8 different types of meat, it was bonkers…and hearty. I also ordered a carrot cake and soda, both sweet and tasty. The bartender was cool, and while I was glad they had non-alcoholic beer, my brother was happy they had good price gin drinks. Always fun to stop in for a quick dinner, and always affordable. SF staple. (Carl Foisy)

  • Another great visit to Tommy’s Joynt! Tommy’s is a SF icon and a definite visit. It’s vintage, a bit dark, but amazing food…served via a serving line. There’s also a bar for those just looking for a drink, while I enjoyed the spaghetti and meatballs. It’s on Van Ness, which is a busy street and parking can be a hassle…but don’t let that keep you away. (Brett Austin)

  • I only tried the sandwiches (pastrami and brisket) it was okay… it’s no Katz deli but the Au Jus was nice! Wish they had pickles for the sandwiches. meat was a bit dry for both without dipping in the au jus. But for the price and if ur craving it, then it’s good. Everyone inside was eating the oxtail pasta… I should have gotten that. It looked and smelled good. (eriCa)

Tommy's Joynt

4.43,849 reviews
1101 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Tommy's Joynt is a beloved restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services like Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Visitors appreciate the fast service, great beer selection, great cocktails, and sporty atmosphere of the place. Known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, Tommy's Joynt also caters to individuals with wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating. Customers have left reviews praising the hearty meat dishes, affordable prices, and delicious comfort food. Some have highlighted the old-fashioned charm of the restaurant, which adds to the overall dining experience.

Metro Caffe, San Francisco#14
What it does well

  • Great spot for cheesesteak sandwiches and burgers with friendly and efficient service.

  • The metro cheesesteak combines savory, cheesy, and spicy flavors perfectly with hot and crispy tater tots.

  • Cheesesteaks are solid with good cheese tots, but the onion and pepper toppings are not standard, and some experiences were a bit dry.

  • Service can be lacking, with unfriendly staff and inconsistent closing hours, but the food quality is still good.

Metro Caffe

4.1149 reviews
247 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

Metro Caffe is a popular cheesesteak restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for serving comfort food and quick bites, Metro Caffe is a go-to spot for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Customer reviews rave about their cheesesteak sandwiches and burgers. One customer described the chicken cheesesteak with mushrooms and fries as a taste of home, while another praised the savory, cheesy, and spicy flavors that came together perfectly in the metro cheesesteak. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

If you're looking for a taste of Philadelphia in San Francisco, Metro Caffe is the place to be!

LLocal choice
#15
What it does well

  • One customer had a subpar experience due to food handling practices.

  • Another customer recommended the Toulouse sandwich and highlighted the delicious combinations available.

  • A vegetarian customer loved the vegetarian sandwich offered at the shop.

  • Another customer praised the Californien sandwich and appreciated the right amount of heat in the habanero sauce.

La Fromagerie Cheese Shop

4.333 reviews
100 1st St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

La Fromagerie Cheese Shop is a charming spot in San Francisco that offers a delightful array of cheeses, sandwiches, and salads. The shop provides service options like no-contact delivery, delivery, and takeaway to cater to customers' preferences. Customers appreciate the quality and affordability of the food offerings and enjoy the extensive cheese selection.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

If you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy delicious sandwiches and cheeses, La Fromagerie Cheese Shop is a must-visit!

Quick summary

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Ham & Cheese Deli 4.9195
#2La Fromagerie Cheese Shop 5.049
#3Cheese Plus 4.5503
#4Freddie's Sandwiches 4.7550
#5La Fromagerie Cheese Shop 4.7186
#6Mission Picnic 4.4170
#7Deli Board 4.61,072
#8Bite 4.6482
#9The Melt 4.33,022
#10Tony Baloney's 4.6271
#11Colombo’s 4.3754
#12The Melt 4.5864
#13Tommy's Joynt 4.43,849
#14Metro Caffe 4.1149
#15La Fromagerie Cheese Shop 4.333

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On the map

Map of Grilled Cheese in San Francisco

Embark on a tasty adventure in San Francisco, where grilled cheese sandwiches reign supreme. Indulge in gooey, cheesy goodness at various eateries around the city. From classic combinations to unique twists, there's a grilled cheese for every palate. Explore the map below to discover the best spots to satisfy your cravings.

How to pick Grilled Cheese in San Francisco

  1. Location and accessibility.
  2. Price range.
  3. Menu variety.
  4. Quality of ingredients.
  5. Customer reviews and ratings.
  6. Atmosphere and dining experience.

Common questions

What are the best places for grilled cheese in San Francisco?

If you're looking for delicious grilled cheese in San Francisco, be sure to check out popular spots like The Melt, American Grilled Cheese Kitchen, and Toasty Melts. These restaurants offer a variety of options, from classic grilled cheese sandwiches to gourmet creations with unique ingredients. Whether you prefer a simple cheddar and sourdough combination or a more elaborate grilled cheese with brie and truffle oil, you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings in San Francisco.

Are there any vegan or gluten-free grilled cheese options in San Francisco?

Yes, there are several restaurants in San Francisco that cater to dietary restrictions by offering vegan and gluten-free grilled cheese options. Places like Seed + Salt and Grilled Cheez Guy offer plant-based and gluten-free versions of the classic grilled cheese sandwich for those with special dietary needs. These options often feature dairy-free cheeses, gluten-free bread, and a variety of innovative fillings to satisfy all tastes while accommodating dietary preferences.

What is the history behind San Francisco's love for grilled cheese?

The grilled cheese sandwich has a longstanding tradition in San Francisco, dating back to its early days as a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines. Many San Franciscans have fond memories of enjoying grilled cheese sandwiches as children, making it a nostalgic comfort food for many residents. As the city continues to embrace innovation in the culinary scene, local chefs have put their own unique twists on the classic grilled cheese, elevating it to a gourmet experience enjoyed by foodies and casual diners alike.

What are some popular variations of grilled cheese in San Francisco?

In San Francisco, you can find a wide range of creative variations on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, including options like truffle mac 'n' cheese grilled cheese, Hawaiian-style grilled cheese with ham and pineapple, and even dessert versions with Nutella and bananas. Restaurants in San Francisco are known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to grilled cheese, offering unique combinations of cheeses, breads, and fillings to create memorable dining experiences. Whether you're a purist who prefers a traditional grilled cheese or an adventurous eater looking to try something new, there's a variation for everyone in San Francisco's diverse food scene.

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