Grater Grilled Cheese
Sandwich shop · San Diego ·

Grater Grilled Cheese

Sandwich shop · San Diego ·

Chef-inspired grilled cheese, lobster mac & cheese, truffle fries

grilled cheese
mac and cheese
friendly staff
lobster grilled cheese
philly grilled cheese
birria grilled cheese
great service
takeout
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by Eater
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null
Grater Grilled Cheese by null

Information

5618 Mission Center Rd #1002, San Diego, CA 92108 Get directions

$10–20

Order delivery
See Menu
Restroom
Accepts reservations
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Cozy

Information

Static Map

5618 Mission Center Rd #1002, San Diego, CA 92108 Get directions

+1 619 458 9611
gratergrilledcheese.com
@gratergrilledcheese

$10–20 · Menu

Features

•Restroom
•Accepts reservations
•Popular for lunch
•Popular for dinner
•Cozy
•Trendy
•Family friendly
•Good for groups

Last updated

Jan 14, 2026

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@eater
391,688 Postcards · 10,991 Cities

16 Spots for Takeout Sandwiches | Eater San Diego

"Grilled cheese sandwiches headline the menu at this Mission Valley shop. Order from one of ten shop creations like the lobster grilled cheese or make your own custom sandwich with choice of bread, spread and add-ons like BBQ short ribs or Buffalo-fried chicken." - darlene-horn

https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/16-spots-for-takeout-sandwiches
Eater
Grater Grilled Cheese
@eater
391,688 Postcards · 10,991 Cities

42 North County Restaurants With Takeout and Delivery Options | Eater San Diego

"A selection of grilled cheese sandwiches is available for takeout at the Del Mar location. Phone and online order using code “30OFF” receive 30% off." - darlene-horn

https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/north-county-vista-oceanside-encinitas-carlsbad-del-mar-restaurant-takeout-delivery-to-go
Grater Grilled Cheese

Terra D.

Google
Delicious food! There are only three tables inside, but they have outside seating. It was busy but didn't seem overly so. I went on my lunch so I could eat there and come back to work within an hour. Unfortunately it took 20 minutes to get the food so I wasn't able to eat during lunch. The employee was very nice about it and gave me a bag of chips when I asked for her to make my order to go instead of dine-in. I got the pesto chicken and it was just as advertised. Lots of cheese and good chicken. They have fountain and can sodas. There is also one unisex restroom.

King R.

Google
The food was incredible. I had the birria sandwich and it came with the beerus sauce. The sauce was not great but the sandwich was incredible. Highly, highly recommend going here. We ate outside which was nice and the service was great. The people were very nice. I highly recommend going here. I will be going back.

Samantha H.

Google
I’ve been a regular patron of grater grilled but this was my last time coming here. The service was really slow, I said hi to the cashier/cook and he ignored us. Seemed to be doing all the cooking by himself. He wasn’t able to take our order until standing there for 10 minutes, no greeting no “I’ll be right with you.” Further more we had a guy sitting at a table cussing on the phone loudly next to us that other patrons had to get up and leave. Then we go to get our black cherry sodas and it’s completely out. None of the other drinks were carbonated. We wanted to sit down and eat but all the tables were sticky and dirty. Very bad vibes.

Mary “Mom's Travel Team” L.

Google
The food was tasty and seemed fresh. The fries and onion rings weren't piping hot - but not cold and they did have good flavor. Each of our sandwich teams had dill spear with chili flakes sprinkled on - we requested an exchange to get spears with no chili flaked and it was granted. The decor is cute but needs a little maintenance. The staff were friendly and courteous. One sandwich order request was missed - requested no Chipotle mayo but the sandwich did have the Chipotle mayo. Location wasn't too busy, we were there approx 1pm on Saturday afternoon. The chairs and tables remind me of an ice cream shop.

Caleb A.

Google
This place was pretty tasty, and the menu was really appealing. Tons of options; I personally, went with the Philly Grilled Cheese. The Philly steak was tasty, and the peppers and onions cooked well for a classic Philly taste. My fiancé went with the Nashville Hot Chicken grilled cheese. Her only wish was that the sandwich itself was a little more cheesy. The sandwich was loaded with buffalo hot chicken, which was extremely delicious topped with some Cole slaw that was had a little twist to it. Both grilled cheeses were served with a pickle and we chose to get an order of the grater fries and also a house salad to share. The grater fries were PERFECTLY crisp. The house made ketchup and ranch dressing that came with it was *chefs kiss*. I personally HATE ranch, but I loved this! The salad itself was topped with shredded Colby and Monterrey Jack and had croutons and diced tomatoes. The dressing was a champagne vinaigrette. My only wish would be to add a couple more dressing options. I love vinaigrette, but some may have a craving for like a nice French, Catalina, etc. Overall I’d give a solid 4.6 stars. So I’m rounding it up to 5 and giving them the benefit of the doubt. I finished my food and was full and delighted, so they earned it.

iTech C.

Google
Great grilled cheese and fries, creative menu! Definitely worth a visit, everything was delicious.

James C.

Google
The Grater Grilled Cheese only has one location in central San Diego, so I had to try it and see if the hype was worth it. I ordered the Fiery Torta Grilled Cheese and my friend ordered the Avocado Grilled Cheese sandwich. They were both really good! The bread was toasted to perfection with the right amount of butter. The ingredients were fresh, and of course there was plenty of cheese. The crunch you get when you bite into these sandwiches is exactly what you want when you think of a great grilled cheese sandwich. The staff here was friendly and efficient. This location is clean and run really well. I will definitely be back. Eat up!!!

Brenna I.

Google
I came here twice across two days, I have been sick and needing some comfort food. I ordered pick up the first time and it was easy. The food was sooo good. The basic was chewy and cheesey without being overpowering. The tomato soup was solid. I came again today bc I was craving it again. It took a minute for me to be helped. But the service was quick. A few college aged kids eating in the restaurant. They have a happy hour from 2-6 where they have 15% off of some menu items. Will be back!
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Maykynzie S.

Yelp
I've changed my review to 5 star because the owner immediately reached out to me and made it right. Excellent customer service! I must've caught them on an off day, but otherwise I highly recommend this place! I've gone here multiple times, get a grilled cheese with bacon and ham added, comes to $18.29. Quite pricey for a grilled cheese but normally it's worth it. Today I picked up an online pre order at 6:10p and the sandwich that was made was made poorly. Definitely not $18 sandwich worthy so I was really disappointed... the bacon was really really soft, the bread tasted stale, and the edges of the sandwich were dry so not much cheese was there. Normally the bacon is crispy, cheese is plentiful and it has the perfect crunch. Not to mention when I came in, the two people working didn't acknowledge me for a bit...
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Darryl N.

Yelp
Good Sandwich house, located in a small food court of a strip mall. Great place to grab a quick meal. Portions are large, so maybe share or enjoy the meal. There is limited interior and shared exterior seating. We ordered the Mushroom Mac n cheese, plain 5 grilled cheese, plain fries and tomato basil soup. It was a lot of food and very tasty. They have bottled and can drinks as well as a soda fountain. My wife prefers teas and fresh lemonade, but she ended up with water because the options were limited. Good lunch meal, no issues. took about 15 minutes but not a bad wait. No table service, if seated outside you have to go back in to get food.

Jett D.

Yelp
The buffalo mac was delicious! The chicken was super tender and the cheese was perfect! Also, the cashier was very kind and considerate of what we wanted to order!
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Leanna N.

Yelp
I like the $4 smash burger deal but my favorite is the LA Pastrami grill cheese for 15.99 - worth the money becasue the bread is nice and crunchy and the pickles on the side are the best
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Tessa A.

Yelp
Soon as I walked in, it was so chill. The young ladies greeted me and my daughter so kindly welcoming, they let us know what the days special was. It was just an awesome experience the food, of course delicious and amazing thank you. We will be back.
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Chidozie E.

Yelp
Came here earlier in the week and ordered the Philly cheesesteak and Nashville hot chicken grilled chicken. Both were decent however they both needed more cheese to them. When I eat a grilled cheese I expect it to be cheesy. Also inside is a little small and noisy but they do have outside seating. I came during lunch hour so it was pretty busy and it took a little over 10 minutes for them to finish but it wasn't too bad. It's a one and done for me but I can't knock it.
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Maira R.

Yelp
Vanessa was friendly and great to work with! She helped accommodate my order. She was great at handling clients are they flooded in. I've had a great experience so far, and I haven't even taken a bite yet!! I can't wait.
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Luz G.

Yelp
Okay, the food is delicious and the service is excellent. I got the Avocado grilled cheese and omg . My bf got the NY party melt and he wants to go back for another. The cherry on top is the service- example Vanessa! She is helpful and patient with customers. I'm definitely going back for more.
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Danielle S.

Yelp
For fast food grilled cheese, Grater is where it's at! They had a pretty wide selection of options for additional fillings - we got the lobster and the firey torta with a side of fries to share. The grilled cheese were an expected amount of greasy :) The parking lot is shared with other businesses but there is plenty of spaces to accommodate everyone.

Terry B.

Yelp
From quality of food to service was excellent. Ambiance is fine for a sandwich shop. Very comfortable inside with AC.
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Chanel Y.

Yelp
The grilled cheese was pretty good. But what really stole the show was the Mac and cheese! I'd come back just for that. Clean restaurant and nice employees, will definitely be back to try something new!
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Karley M.

Yelp
filthy, rude people. food is disgusting and to say it's salty is an understatement. the red sea has less salt than this guys food. there is a huge hole in the wall in the hallway to the kitchen. music is blasting to an unbearable level, saw a previous review after going here that someone found a hair in their food and that sounds about right for this grease trap. seriously want my money back.
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Lizzy R.

Yelp
Quiet, cute little place to eat at. Parking was very easy for us on a Sunday. I enjoyed building my own sandwich. The fries were crunchy! It was very tasty! A bit expensive but what isn't these days. Employee taking orders was friendly. No complaints besides price. It was expensive for two people. We paid almost 45$ for two sandwiches, ONE fry, and two drinks.
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Melissa B.

Yelp
I typically only like lobster by itself and also have never even had carne asada fries but the lobster fries peaked my interest and let me tell you they did not disappoint! The fries were perfectly cooked with a crust on them and the house cheese pulled from the plate with the fork all the way to my mouth. The lobster and krab were perfectly scattered around to get some in each bite. And to top it off their pale ale chipotle aioli was the perfect dipping sauce to pair with the fries. I highly recommend this as you definitely get your money's worth because the portion is huge.
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Daniela V.

Yelp
Classic Smash, If you are looking for a good chicken burger, I recommend it, it is delicious!!! Service 10/10
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Jon L.

Yelp
i usually like this place, foods a little salty but it's good. unfortunately i probably won't be coming back after finding hair in my sandwich. that's nasty.
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Briana S.

Yelp
I love this place so much they make the best grilled cheese and the pb&j is so bomb also fruity pebble Rice Krispie is amazing the guy at the front is super sweet and hardworking
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Jason B.

Yelp
I've been to this joint several times, but somehow never wrote a review... Ordered the carnivore, thick crispy toast with ozzy cheese and juicy beef patty...I opted for the garlic spread, but didn't taste much. Came with a pickle spear... they have the black cherry stubborn soda, which is always good. Food was good, service was at the counter, but prices are just too high. It's a novelty once a year kind of place for me, this joint does not make the list...

Bryan H.

Yelp
Ordered a fountain drink, 12oz for over $3. Soda dispenser wasn't working properly and produced nothing but foam. I asked for a refund but they wouldn't. Pure trash.
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Bravo IG _foodiebravo M.

Yelp
The breakfast sandwiches are so good here. The eggs are fluffy and perfectly seasoned. Don't forget those crispy tots.

Wendy L.

Yelp
I don't usually leave reviews, but these carne asada fries with fresh tomato deserve it! The fries were perfectly golden and crispy, loaded with tender, juicy carne asada that was seasoned to perfection. Honestly, I would 100% recommend it to anyone.
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Leanne H.

Yelp
Delicious sammiches recommended by my sis! We stopped in for a quick bite on a Saturday for lunch. The place was empty, the employee was nice and patient, and the sandwiches came out fast! We shared the buffalo chicken sandwich and smoked belly sandwich. The smoked belly had a sweet sauce and was a bit messy, but delicious! Would definitely come back!
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Tran J.

Yelp
Came here for mac and cheese day because I just had to! I got the Loaded Mac n Cheese loaded with bechamel sauce, house cheese blend, butter fried lobster, Krab mix, crispy onion, and parsley. There are 3 main things that I look for in a mac n cheese. 1. How was the noodle? Is it perfect? Yes, this one was al dente 2. Is it cheesy enough? Yes, there's so many different cheeses that worked well with each other and gives it a creamy but some salt to the taste. 3. Does it have a good cheese pull? YES, INDEED IT DOES! And the pull keeps on going and going! There are some pieces of lobster, not too many pieces. It's not rubbery or salty. It was plump and buttery. I like the crispies to give it a different texture to the mac and cheese itself. The mac and cheese was flavorful and I am totally coming back when I am in the mood for some! Always a great service! Everyone is kind and genuinely looks like they love what they do. The inside has a rustic like decor.
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David K.

Yelp
OK - how can a kid's treat turn into an adult secret pleasure? Grater did that - that was hands down the best grilled cheese I've ever had. And as I'm munching on my sandwich - two doors down is Grater Salad. So you get your grease at one spot and finish it with veggies at the other. Staff was extremely helpful since it was my first time here. Excellent suggestions. Also like that they are one of the few places that does the craft soda machine - y'know real sugar in your drink instead of corn syrup. This place is fast and tasty!
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Luciana G.

Yelp
Do not understand the hype. We tried the lobster grilled cheese, the veggie grilled cheese, the mac & cheese with bacon, and fries. The lobster did not taste good. The lobster tasted very fishy and the chipotle aioli was not a good combination. The veggies were yummy but ratio of veggie to cheese was not balanced; too many veggies vs cheese. It overpowered the grilled cheese part. It was just a veggie sandwich. Also kinda bland. The bacon on the mac looked undercooked. The fries were good. Very expensive. Lunch cost $70 which I feel is a lot for fast casual and for food we didn't want to finish. Left feeling really disappointed and mad at myself for wasting this much money. Would not come back.
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Sequara M.

Yelp
OMG. This macaroni and cheese is some of the best I've ever had! The prices are good and there were great options for my kids. My son really liked his cheeseburger. It looked really yummy and the fries were on point.

Marc D.

Yelp
The Smoked Belly Grilled Cheese. Increíble!!! Pedí el sándwich de queso a la plancha Smoked Belly. ¡Sin duda lo recomiendo! ¡Queso cremoso! ¡Mucha panceta! A la plancha, perfecto. ¡Excelente personal! ¡Volveré a pedir el mismo sándwich!
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Suri Y.

Yelp
This was sooo cheesy!!! The cheese pull was amazing. You would think a grilled cheese sandwich isn't a lot but this place definitely gives you big portions. I got so full after eating this! They have so many different types of sandwiches so there's plenty of options. I ordered online and I had no problems picking up my food. Easy place to find in the plaza!

Nancy K.

Yelp
Love the cute establishment, grilled cheese and friendly staff. Burgers and fries are also on menu. Great place for college people on a budget.
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April T.

Yelp
Great service and food is delicious. Recommend the pastrami with grilled onions!! Has order ahead which is convenient during busy hours.
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Avneet P.

Yelp
I was really craving a grilled cheese and tomato soup and Grater was nearby so I decided to give it a chance. I got the basic 5 grilled cheese, but added bacon and got a side of the tomato basil soup. The first bite of the grilled cheese was amazing, I got garlic spread in it and wow that was a game changer! I immediately had high hopes for the soup, but unfortunately it wasn't good. I didn't even finish it. That's the only reason I took 1 star off. It's not that it was particularly bad, but it ruined the flavor of the grilled cheese when I dipped it , and on its own wasn't very flavorful so just not worth it. The grilled cheese though? I'd eat that every day! Sooo good!
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Russ S.

Yelp
I like to try the grilled cheese from anyplace I go to. I usually go to Crest cafe or Bread and Cie. Decided to try Grater in MV. Worst. Sandwich. Ever. The bread was literally coated with the green from where they prepared it. Could not even finish half of it. Now I understand why the La Jolla location closed. Disgusting.

Michael S.

Yelp
Excellent sandwich! Better than my favorite birria truck. You must try! We like the torta without jalapeño.
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Char H.

Yelp
I am sorry that I have to write this post. I have been going to this location for about 2yrs and the food is always really good, and the service is excellent. But today it was NOT. I ordered the buffalo fries (2nd) time, the fries were really good BUT the chicken was so hard I could not eat any of it. It all went in the trash. This cost me $12.92. I will think twice about going again, we are all having a tough time but once in a while I like to treat myself. I basically I threw away 1/2 of the cost. Reheating the food too many times does this, think twice about this process. Char

Aly S.

Yelp
It's one of my favorite spots to enjoy a delicious tomato soup and an amazing grilled cheese sandwich. Shout-out to Tim and Janile they always deliver the best customer service!
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Jennifer H.

Yelp
I have eaten from Grater food trucks at various events around the city. Their food is fantastic. I found myself near their brick and mortar store so I decided to pop in for a bite to eat. It is centrally located in the strip mall off of Friars Road and Mission Center Road in the valley. The inside is tiny with only three tables that can accommodate ten people. Make sure they you are not in a hurry as your order takes about 12 minutes to cook. I didn't mind waiting to get hot and fresh food. Vanessa warmly greeted me with a smile and welcome as I walked up to the register. I ordered the Philly Cheesesteak with roasted garlic aioli (spread) and pomme frites. My grilled cheese sandwich was so huge. I could only eat half of it. It was greasy, messy and delicious. It had a great ratio of cheese to meat to caramelized onions. I would highly recommend it. Maybe not for a first date but if you want a snag good and hearty meal! The paper bag that the pomme frites comes in is surprisingly deceiving. I thought it didn't look like a lot but the portion size was quite big. The potatoes were cooked perfectly. Nice and crispy with a special coating of parmesan. The little bag is very conducive for snacking in your car.
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Cherie F.

Yelp
The lobster grilled cheese is absolutely delicious! The flavor is unique with a little bit of spice with all that glorious creamy cheese and sweet lobster.
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Faith F.

Yelp
I had the birria grilled cheese and it was flavorful. The consomé was alright it was lacking flavor. The food was out in about 10 mins so not a long wait. The servers were nice and helped me with recommendations. Along with there being seating inside and out. It's a cute sandwich spot.

Ari L.

Yelp
The person at the front named "Tim" was extremely rude ! Horrible customer service! It seemed like anything I asked, for he had a problem with.
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Omar R.

Yelp
Philly grilled cheese was amazing! I highly recommend and with some roasted garlic spread it's the best!
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Beau Y.

Yelp
Fancy grilled cheese. Fancy Mac and cheese. A win for for world. Get you some right now
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Eric M.

Yelp
The grilled cheese and tomato soup was the best. This place has great customer service, and good
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timothy m.

Yelp
Cheeeeesy. Good service, has the impossible burger and cheese and stuff. I'm writing this so I can get free chips which is cool too I guess.
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Raquel A.

Yelp
Greasy all around for the grilled cheeses and the fries. I ordered the Nashville and I expected there to be Buffalo sauce on my chicken but there was none. I needed that punch. There wasn't enough slaw either. It was a letdown. I ordered the asada fries and it was not good at all, there was so little meat, it was a joke. The meat was also a cross between ground beef and asada. It was super weird. My husband order the pork belly sandwich and that was good and so were his lobster fries. The restaurant staff gets 5 stars, super attentive and nice. The bathrooms were very clean. Table we sat at was dirty. Sadly, I won't be eating there again.

Luna G.

Yelp
OH MY GOD! BEST GRILLED CHEESE PLACE EVER! Cheese melts in your mouth, the bread is toasted to absolute perfection and the seasoning on the meat OH GOD THE SEASONING ON THE MEAT is to die for! Super friendly staff, def recommend eating here
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Rose C.

Yelp
This place depends. Sometimes it's perfect and sometimes it is good. I think it is delicious but sometimes it's a little less quality than other times. Service was just business like. Nothing out of the ordinary but not rude either.
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Genie E.

Yelp
Food was delicious . Will definitely be coming back again lobster grilled cheese and truffle fries so good
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Heather S.

Yelp
Love this place! The truffle Mac is my fave! Great service and made the order quickly. Definitely recommend!
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Hanafi M.

Yelp
Really great employees! Good outdoor dinning and clean. Plenty of parking and not too expensive. Unfortunately the food did not meet my expectations.