Virginia’s Most Beloved Mac And Cheese Isn’t Found In Richmond
Norfolk had me at the first forkful, and no, I wasn’t in Richmond hunting comfort classics. I was parked at 345 Granby Street, staring down a skillet of Black Truffle Mac and Cheese at The Grilled Cheese Bistro, wondering how a side dish could hijack the whole show.
The place is small, the flavor is loud, and the lines prove I’m not the only one doing cheese math on a Saturday. If you’re ready for gooey proof that Virginia’s cheesiest love story lives on Granby, keep reading.
Black Truffle Mac and Cheese Skillet
Truth be told, I came for grilled cheese and stayed for the mac that whispered my name. The Black Truffle Mac and Cheese arrives creamy, deeply savory, and dotted with earthy truffle that doesn’t bulldoze the cheddar.
Each bite coats the noodles with velvety sauce, balanced by a gentle garlic note and a peppery finish. I once tried to share, but the fork drifted back to my side like it had a GPS. Order it as a side or find it topping specials, and watch conversations pause.
The texture hits that sweet spot between silky and substantial. It’s the dish I measure other macs against, and it hasn’t lost yet.
Parmesan Chimichurri Fries Sidekick
Let’s talk side hustle, because these fries work overtime. Hand-cut potatoes arrive hot, crisp, and showered with Parmesan, then brightened by chimichurri that brings herbaceous zing.
I ordered them “to share” and mysteriously forgot to pass the basket. The texture stays sturdy even under sauce, which matters when you’re swiping through mac or bisque.
Reviewers rave for a reason: the seasoning is layered, not loud. I pair them with the mac to toggle between rich and lively, like flipping tracks on a playlist.
If you think fries are filler, this basket changes minds and priorities in one crunchy minute flat.
Loaded Baked Potato Grilled Cheese
Here’s the sandwich that made me laugh at my own appetite. The Loaded Baked Potato Grilled Cheese stacks cheddar, potato, bacon, and fixings between toasted bread, delivering that comfort punch with precision.
I added a side of mac and basically engineered a starch symphony. The interior stays melty while the crust keeps its crunch, and the seasoning leans savory without salt overload.
It’s shareable, but you might negotiate hard. I’ve watched tables go silent after the first bite, which is the best compliment.
Pair with bisque for a creamy counterpoint, then close with a fry for texture. That’s lunch, solved.
Johnny Appleseed Bites And Bisque Break
Sweet meets savory in a combo that surprised me more than it should have. The Johnny Appleseed bites weave Granny Smith slices with cheddar and bacon, then turn charming with a dip into tomato bisque.
The tart apple brightens the richness, and the crunch snaps through the melt like a crisp chord. I alternate bites and sips until the bowl says stop.
If you enjoy contrast, this pairing makes the mac feel even creamier when it reenters the chat. It’s also great for first-timers testing the waters before committing to a full sandwich.
Balance is the name, satisfaction the result.
Outdoor Seating and Compact Comfort
Space is cozy inside, which makes the sidewalk seating a smart play on mild days. I’ve snagged a window counter seat and watched Granby Street do its thing while the kitchen fired perfectly timed plates.
Service stays friendly and quick even near closing, and staff guide you through the menu without upsell vibes.
Portions lean generous, so plan on leftovers. Most sandwiches and sides land in the low to mid-teens, with boards and salads running higher, a fair trade for the quality and consistency.
If you’re driving, street parking lines the area, though rush hours get competitive. Arrive a touch early for prime tables and stress-free munching.
When To Go And How To Plan
Timing matters, and I learned it the delicious way. The bistro currently opens Wednesday and Thursday 11 to 4, Friday and Saturday 12 to 7, Sunday 11 to 6, closed Monday and Tuesday.
I’ve beaten the rush by arriving just after open, then lingered long enough to feel like a regular. Call ahead or check the website for menu updates and seasonal items.
The spot is popular and compact, so expect a brief wait during peak lunch windows. The payoff is worth it when that mac lands hot and fragrant. Bring a friend, split plates, and cover more ground.
How To Order Like You Mean It
Strategy makes heroes here, and mine starts with mac on the ticket every time. Add a core sandwich like the Loaded Baked Potato or seasonal pick, then request Parmesan Chimichurri fries to balance richness.
If indecision strikes, the Tasting Board solves everything in one tray. I ask about specials, because truffle accents and limited sandwiches rotate. For seating, window counters deliver prime people-watching while you plot your next bite.
Finally, box the leftovers before you overdo it. Tomorrow-you will send grateful messages.