Day one of Say Cheese Month brought me to Eddy’s Burgers at 956 Rogue River Highway in Grants Pass, where melted cheese takes center stage for a good cause. Throughout the month, participating eateries across Josephine County are spotlighting their grilled cheese creations in support of the Josephine County Food Bank. It is a simple concept that blends community spirit with comfort food, and Eddy’s wastes no time reminding diners why the grilled cheese sandwich remains a timeless American favorite.
For this event, Eddy’s is serving a traditional grilled cheese that leans into nostalgia without sacrificing execution. Six slices of American cheese are layered between thick-cut white bread, creating a sandwich that is unapologetically classic. There is no attempt to reinvent the wheel here, and that restraint works in its favor. Sometimes the most satisfying meals are the ones that honor tradition.
I chose to customize mine with the available add-ons, opting for ham, mayonnaise, and mustard. The additions elevated the sandwich without overpowering its core identity. The ham added a warm, savory depth that complemented the creamy cheese, while the light spread of mayo and mustard introduced just enough tang and richness to round out each bite. Eddy’s allows diners to tailor their sandwich to their preferences, a thoughtful touch that adds flexibility without complicating the menu.
Cooking a grilled cheese may sound simple, but it is a delicate balance of temperature, timing, and patience. Too hot and the bread scorches before the cheese melts. Too cool and the sandwich dries out while waiting for that perfect gooey center. Eddy’s clearly understands the craft. The bread arrived golden brown, evenly toasted from edge to edge, with a crisp exterior that gave way to a soft, warm interior. The six slices of American cheese melted together into a smooth, cohesive layer, achieving that signature stretch when pulled apart. Every bite delivered warmth and comfort in equal measure.
The ham was heated thoroughly, blending seamlessly into the molten cheese without disrupting the sandwich’s structure. Nothing slid out of place. Nothing felt rushed. It was a grilled cheese that respected its ingredients and its diners.
The sandwich was served with a side of fries, and they deserve their own mention. Crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, the fries were seasoned generously but not overwhelmingly. They carried just enough salt and spice to stand on their own, yet paired perfectly with the sandwich. Eddy’s house-made fry sauce added another layer of nostalgia. Creamy and slightly tangy, it evoked memories of classic drive-in dining and familiar Northwest flavors. The sauce tied the plate together, offering a satisfying dip for both fries and the occasional corner of grilled cheese.
Say Cheese Month is about more than indulgence. It is a reminder that local restaurants can rally around a shared cause while showcasing their culinary strengths. Eddy’s Burgers sets the tone with a grilled cheese that proves comfort food does not need reinvention to impress. Sometimes six slices of perfectly melted American cheese, well-toasted bread, and a side of seasoned fries are exactly what the moment calls for.
