Houston's Top Dish

The best grilled cheese in Houston: True foodies know this isn't kids' stuff

National Grilled Cheese Day came and went Friday, but there is still time to reflect upon one of the greatest culinary inventions since sliced bread — which just so happens to be the building blocks of the greasy-spoon staple (click here for the history of grilled cheese).

While some may scoff at the humble sandwich as "kid food," the grilled cheese is a versatile little concoction that continues fascinate the most experienced of chefs looking to take an American diner classic to new heights.

Foodie town that it is, Houston offers some impressive options. Here are some picks from the CultureMap staff along with some suggestions from our grill-cheese-loving readers.

And keep in mind that the celebration goes on — April is National Grilled Cheese Month.

Down House

I myself swear by Down House's grilled cheese sandwich, which features a glorious combination of gouda, chèvre and local heirloom tomatoes . . . all served between two slices of rye from Slow Dough Bread Company. Plus, it comes with an amazing bowl tomato bisque for anyone who likes to dip.

Max's Wine Dive

Listings editor Joel Luks had a very serious look on his face when described the grilled cheese at Max's Wine Dive — a sandwich so good, he'll break his vegan dietary habits for a taste of its provolone and roasted red pepper pimento.

Golden Grill

For Whitney Radley, there's not a damn thing wrong with anything on the menu of Golden Grill, a food truck dedicated to the art of combing bread and cheese.

Buffalo Grille

CM photo guru Barbara Kuntz rocks the classic grilled cheese at Buffalo Grille when the mood strikes her. You even have the option of adding bacon.

Blacksmith

CultureMap marketing manager Emily Goetz stands by Blacksmith not only for its carefully-crafted coffee drinks, but for one of the most memorable grilled cheeses in town.

Fan faves

Moved by the lure of grilled cheese, our readers have flooded us with thoughts and suggestions. Don't miss Kenny & Ziggy's, Pinewood Cafe in Hermann Park and The Counter as well as food trucks options like like Ladybird, Speers Rolling Bistro and Mr. Sizzles Curbside.

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flying into Houston

Chopped champion's Indian-spiced fried chicken joint opens in Midtown

One of Houston’s most dynamic chefs has unveiled his take on fried chicken. Pok Pok Po is now open in Midtown.

Located at 3201 Louisiana, the restaurant is the latest concept from chef and Chopped champion Jassi Bindra and business partners Surpreet and Preet Paul Singh, the trio behind Indian fine dining restaurant Amrina in The Woodlands. Bindra’s fried chicken recipe uses a gluten-free flour and starch batter that’s seasoned with Indian Kashmiri red chili powder along with other herbs and spices. It’s pressure cooked to ensure the meat stays both juicy and crispy.

The certified halal chicken is available as strips, sandwiches (made with thigh meat), and chicken breast bites.Those looking for a heartier meal, can get their chicken served on top of sidewinder fries or in the “Rice & Shine,” which includes basmati rice and Bindra’s “Desi kimchi.” Beverage options include Akra, an American-style lager that’s brewed in India, cannabis-infused drinks from 8th Wonder and non-alcoholic options such as sodas and a mango lassi.

“At Pok Pok Po, we’re creating something that’s not just a meal but an experience,” Bindra said in a statement. “We’ve taken everything people love about fried chicken and given it a twist with bold, gluten-free recipes and flavors that truly speak to the diversity of Houston.”

While most counter service restaurants are designed primarily for to-go, Pok Pok Po’s 55-seat dining room caters to those who want to enjoy their meals. It features banquette seating and a white-and-black motif that will also be present at Bol, the restaurant’s sister concept that’s opening soon.

The two restaurants occupy part of the former Artisans space. Medium Rare, an affordable steak frites restaurant from Washington, D.C., recently opened next to Bol and Pok Pok Po.

Courtesy of Pok Pok Po

Pok Pok Po is now open in Midtown.

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