Visit These Restaurants to Celebrate National Cheddar Day

National Cheddar Day, on February 13th, celebrates America's most beloved cheese – a product that's more than just a sandwich topping.

Originally created in the English village of Cheddar in Somerset, this cheese has become a global favorite. In the U.S., states like Wisconsin and Vermont have turned cheddar-making into an art form, producing some of the most renowned cheese varieties.

National Cheddar Day isn't just about food; it's a chance to understand the craft and history behind this cheese. On this day, cheese factories open their doors, restaurants prepare unique cheddar dishes, and food lovers share their experiences.

From classic grilled cheese sandwiches to mac and cheese and creative dishes, cheddar shows how one cheese can inspire countless delicious stories. If you're looking to try the best cheddar dishes, visit one of the finest restaurants where cheddar takes center stage.

Located in Pike Place Market, Beecher's Handmade Cheese lets visitors watch the entire cheesemaking process through large windows. Their signature "Flagship" cheddar ages for 15 months in their underground cellar. The facility processes 20,000 gallons of local milk weekly, and their cheese vats are equipped with transparent sides specifically for public viewing.

Menu Highlights

    Mac & Cheese: A classic dish made with Beecher's Flagship Cheddar and a blend of other cheeses.
    Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Made with thick slices of sourdough bread and melted Flagship Cheddar, served with a side of tomato soup.
    Cheddar Cheese Curds: Fresh, squeaky cheese curds made from Beecher's Cheddar, served as a snack or appetizer.
    Cheddar & Veggie Quiche: A savory tart filled with Flagship Cheddar, seasonal vegetables, and eggs.
    Cheddar Soup: A creamy soup featuring Beecher’s aged cheddar, often paired with bread or crackers.
    Cheddar Crackers: House-made crackers infused with Flagship Cheddar, perfect as a light snack or accompaniment to soups and salads.
    Cheese Board: A curated selection of Beecher’s cheeses, including their signature Flagship Cheddar, served with crackers, fruit, and nuts.

Drink Options

    Craft Beer: Pairs well with the richness of cheddar-based dishes.
    Dry White Wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc): Complements the sharpness of aged cheddar.
    Apple Cider: Its sweetness balances the savory flavors of cheddar.

Recommendations: Start with their cheese flight featuring different age profiles. The grilled cheese sandwich uses a blend of Flagship and Just Jack. Visit between 9am-2pm to watch cheesemaking in action. Their mac and cheese recipe has remained unchanged since 2003. They offer cheesemaking demos every Thursday. The cafe upstairs provides Market views while you dine. Purchase vacuum-sealed packages for travel - they'll last several weeks.

Photo Credit: instagram.com/beecherscheese/

This coastal Oregon facility, located at 4165 N Hwy 101, Tillamook, OR 97141, produces over 175,000 pounds of cheese daily. Their visitor center features elevated viewing galleries overlooking the cheese production floor. The creamery uses milk from a cooperative of 80 local family farms, with some partnerships dating back to 1909. They maintain the largest cheese aging facility on the West Coast.

Menu Highlights

    Tillamook Medium Cheddar: A classic cheese known for its smooth and creamy texture with a mild flavor, perfect for snacking or cooking.
    Tillamook Sharp Cheddar: Aged longer than the medium variety, this cheddar has a bolder flavor and is ideal for cheese boards or melting over dishes.
    Tillamook Extra Sharp White Cheddar: Known for its rich, tangy taste and crumbly texture, this cheese is great for gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches or paired with fruits.
    Tillamook Farmers' Collection Vintage Extra Sharp Cheddar: Aged for 10 years, this award-winning cheddar features nutty and sweet flavors with a unique crunch from crystallization.
    Tillamook Smoked Medium Cheddar: This cheese is smoked over natural wood, providing a deep flavor that works well in burgers or as part of a charcuterie board.
    Tillamook Garlic Chili Cheddar: Infused with garlic and chili spices, this cheddar adds a kick to any dish and is excellent for nachos or as a snack.

Tasting

    Cheese Board: Create a cheese board featuring various Tillamook cheddars paired with crackers, nuts, and fresh fruits like apples or pears.
    Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Use a combination of Tillamook Medium and Sharp Cheddar for a deliciously gooey sandwich.
    Mac & Cheese: Incorporate Tillamook Sharp Cheddar into your mac & cheese recipe for added depth of flavor.
    Pairing with Beverages: Enjoy Tillamook cheddars with craft beers like IPAs or stouts, or pair the extra sharp varieties with bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon.

Recommendations: Time your visit to catch the cheese packaging process between 10am-1pm. The squeaky cheese curds are best eaten within hours of production. Their cheddar flight compares different aging periods. The cafe's grilled cheese uses a blend of five different cheddars. Factory tours run hourly. Less crowded during winter months and weekday mornings. The ice cream shop uses their aged cheddar in a unique sweet-savory sundae. Purchase factory-direct cheese at special prices.

Located in southern Dallas near the intersection of Interstate 20 and Interstate 45, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen reflects classic Texan dining culture. The restaurant specializes in home-style cooking prepared entirely from scratch each morning. Their kitchen begins daily preparations by making signature sauces and dishes using fresh ingredients, with a particular focus on their house-made cheese preparations.

Menu Highlights

    Santa Fe Spinach Dip: A creamy blend of spinach, artichokes, and cheddar cheese, served warm with tortilla chips.
    Cheddar's Cheese Fries: Crispy fries topped with melted cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and served with ranch dressing.
    Homemade Chicken Pot Pie: A comforting dish filled with chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce, topped with a flaky crust and often garnished with cheddar.
    Cheddar's Cheese Smothered Chicken: Grilled chicken breast topped with melted cheddar cheese and served with two sides.
    Cheddar's Classic Cheeseburger: A juicy beef patty topped with melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles on a toasted bun.
    Macaroni & Cheese: Creamy macaroni made with a blend of cheeses including cheddar, baked to perfection.
    Buffalo Chicken Wrapper: Grilled chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, wrapped with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese in a flour tortilla.

Drink Options

    Craft Beer: Pairs well with the richness of cheddar dishes, especially the cheese fries and burgers.
    House Wine: A light white wine complements the creamy flavors of the spinach dip.
    Iced Tea: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that balances the savory dishes.
    Lemonade: Offers a sweet and tangy contrast to the richness of cheddar-based meals.

Recommendations: The lunch combo offers best value for cheese-based dishes. Cheese sauce is made fresh every morning. Weekday lunch specials feature additional cheese options. Ask about off-menu cheese variations. Portions are large enough for sharing. Best seating for watching kitchen preparation is near the open kitchen area. Arrive before peak lunch hours to avoid long waits.

This family-owned restaurant exclusively dedicates its menu to grilled cheese variations. Grilled Cheese & Co. began as a food truck in 2011 before establishing this permanent location. Each sandwich features locally sourced cheeses and breads, with recipes developed through extensive testing and community feedback.

Menu Highlights

    The Chicken Popper: Sliced jalapeño, grilled chicken, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese spread on ciabatta, priced at $13.99.
    BCT: Smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, and diced tomatoes on ciabatta, priced at $13.99.
    Chicken Chesapeake: Crabby dip, cheddar cheese, grilled chicken, and bacon on ciabatta, priced at $16.99.
    Sweet Caroline: Pulled pork topped with cheddar cheese, red onions, and BBQ sauce on ciabatta, priced at $13.99.
    Mac Daddy: Shredded pot roast with mac and cheese and cheddar cheese on ciabatta, priced at $13.99.
    The Rancher: Grilled chicken with cheddar cheese, smoked bacon, and ranch dressing on ciabatta, priced at $13.99.
    Crabby Melt: Crabby dip with Monterey cheese (includes cheddar) on ciabatta, priced at $14.99.
    All Cheesed Out: A blend of American, cheddar, Swiss, provolone, and Havarti cheeses on ciabatta, priced at $12.99.

Recommendations: The Crabby Melt represents their signature Maryland-inspired dish. Weekday lunch specials offer different cheese combinations. Pair sandwiches with homemade tomato soup. Limited seating, so arrive early during peak hours. They offer catering for events featuring their signature melts. Ask about monthly rotating specialty melts. Vegetarian and gluten-free options available upon request.

The Vermont Country Deli is a long-standing local deli that celebrates regional cheese and farm-to-table cuisine. They source cheeses exclusively from Vermont creameries, with many coming from within 50 miles of the shop. The deli features an extensive selection of local cheddars, showcasing the state's renowned dairy production.

Menu Highlights

    Travelin' Turkey Sandwich: Sliced turkey breast with sharp Vermont cheddar, cranberry sauce, mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato, served on homemade bread.
    Breakfast Sandwich: Freshly scrambled eggs with your choice of bacon or sausage, topped with Vermont cheddar cheese on a toasted English muffin or bagel.
    Pulled Pork Sandwich: Maple pulled pork served with sharp cheddar and coleslaw on a fresh bun, combining sweet and savory flavors.
    Mac & Cheese: A customer favorite made with a blend of Vermont cheddar and other cheeses for a creamy and flavorful dish.
    Sesame Chicken Salad Sandwich: Chicken salad mixed with sesame dressing and topped with Vermont cheddar, served on your choice of bread.
    Chili: Hearty chili topped with shredded sharp Vermont cheddar, perfect for a comforting meal.
    Grilled Cheese: Classic grilled cheese sandwich made with generous layers of Vermont cheddar melted between slices of fresh bread.

Photo Credit: facebook.com/vermontcountrydeli/

MACS is a unique gastronomic project born in the heart of the cheese paradise - Wisconsin. The restaurant owners experiment with the classic American dish, offering over 15 unique mac and cheese variations. Each recipe is a result of deep exploration of local cheesemaking traditions and culinary experiments.

Menu Highlights

    Original Mac: A classic dish featuring a rich blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, served in a hot skillet with a side of bread for dipping.
    Buffalo Chicken Mac: Macaroni and cheese topped with spicy buffalo chicken and drizzled with ranch dressing, incorporating sharp cheddar for added flavor.
    Carnitas Mac: A hearty combination of pulled pork mixed into creamy mac and cheese, topped with cheddar and served in a skillet.
    Jalapeño Popper Mac: This spicy version includes jalapeños, cream cheese, and cheddar, creating a flavorful kick in every bite.
    BBQ Chicken Mac: BBQ chicken combined with macaroni and cheese, enhanced with melted cheddar for a smoky flavor profile.
    Popeye Mac: Spinach and artichokes mixed into the mac and cheese, topped with cheddar for a delicious twist on the classic dish.
    Mac & Cheese Melt: A grilled cheese sandwich made with their signature mac and cheese and melted cheddar, served with chips and pickles.

Drink Recommendations

    Craft Beer: Pairs well with the richness of the mac and cheese dishes.
    Soda or Iced Tea: Refreshing non-alcoholic options to balance the cheesy flavors.
    Milkshakes: A sweet treat that complements the savory nature of the mac and cheese.

Recommendations: Come for evening tastings of chef's special recipes. Order the "Chef's Experimental Mac" - a dish that changes weekly. Plan your visit during local gastronomic festivals. Participate in mac and cheese cooking masterclasses conducted by the restaurant's chefs.

Photo Credit: facebook.com/MacaroniAndCheeseShop/

The Farmhouse Tap & Grill is a farm-to-table gastropub that partners directly with local creameries and cheese producers to create innovative dishes featuring the state's celebrated cheddar. The historic building, once Burlington's McDonald's, has been transformed into a culinary destination that highlights the best of Vermont's artisanal cheese culture through their carefully curated burger and craft beer program.

Menu Highlights

    Cheddar Ale Soup – A smooth and creamy soup made with rich cheddar cheese and served with garlic croutons.
    Mac n' Cheese – Classic macaroni and cheese made with a cheddar sauce, caramelized onions, and topped with herb breadcrumbs for added texture.
    LaPlatte River Angus Farm Beef Burger – A juicy beef burger topped with Cabot cheddar cheese, arugula, and house-pickled red onions.
    Black Bean Veggie Burger – A hearty black bean burger topped with whipped chili-lime feta cheese (includes cheddar) and served with curried kraut and arugula.
    Vermont Heritage Grazers Pork Burger – A pork burger featuring Bayley Hazen blue cheese (similar to cheddar), arugula, apricot mustard, and spicy pickles.

Drink Options

    Craft Beer: The rich flavors of cheddar pair well with local craft beers available at the restaurant.
    White Wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc): Complements the sharpness of the cheddar in various dishes.
    Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing non-alcoholic options that balance the richness of the meals.

Recommendations: Visit during Vermont Cheese Week for special pairings. Try their signature Farmhouse Burger with aged Vermont cheddar. Book a spot at their seasonal cheese and beer pairing events. Don't miss their rotating selection of local cheese boards featuring limited-batch cheddars.

Franklin Barbecue, an iconic Texas barbecue destination, has revolutionized the art of smoked meats, with special attention to their signature cheese-infused dishes. While famous for their brisket, Franklin Barbecue has elevated barbecue sides through creative use of regional cheddars in their mac and cheese and cheesy grits.

Menu Highlights

    Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage – Sausage with jalapeño pieces and spicy cheddar cheese. One of the most popular dishes on the menu.
    Cheddar Cheese Fries – French fries served with a rich cheddar cheese sauce.
    Cheddar Bacon Fries – French fries topped with bacon and cheddar cheese sauce.
    Cheddar Burgers – Includes options like double cheese burgers or triple patty burgers with pickled vegetables and sauces (tartar, BBQ).
    Cheddar Cheese Sticks – Crispy breaded cheddar cheese sticks.

Recommendations: Arrive early (lines start at 6 AM) for their special smoked mac and cheese. Order the cheese-stuffed jalapeño sausage when available. Try their rotating selection of regional cheese-enhanced sides. Book a smoking class to learn their signature cheese and meat smoking techniques.

The Spotted Pig is a legendary West Village gastropub that changed New York City's dining scene, known for blending British pub culture with American cuisine. Chef April Bloomfield transformed this space into a culinary landmark.Their menu highlights include a famous blue cheese burger and creative cheddar-infused small plates that reflect sophisticated urban gastronomy.

Menu Highlights

Cheddar-Topped Burger: While The Spotted Pig was famous for its burger with Roquefort cheese, it’s possible that a variation or custom option could include sharp cheddar as a substitute.
Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Gastropubs often feature comfort food like grilled cheese sandwiches made with sharp cheddar, though this would depend on the menu at the time.

Recommendations: Request the off-menu cheddar tasting board. Schedule your visit during their monthly cheese and wine pairing evenings. Try their signature burger with aged sharp cheddar. Explore their rotating selection of small plates featuring unique cheddar preparations from local and international producers.

Photo Credit: instagram.com/thespotteddognyc/

The Melt is a fast-casual restaurant celebrating the art of cheddar-based cuisine in the heart of San Francisco's tech district. Founded by a tech innovator, they specialize in elevating cheddar through carefully crafted grilled cheese and mac & cheese dishes. The restaurant sources premium cheddar from small California dairies, showcasing the state's diverse cheese-making traditions.

Menu Highlights

    Meltburger: A 1/3 lb Angus-Wagyu beef burger topped with sharp cheddar, jalapeño-pickle mix, and Melt sauce.
    BBQ Bacon Meltburger: Features cheddar cheese, smoked bacon, crispy onions, and Memphis-style BBQ sauce.
    Double Meltburger: Two patties with double the cheddar cheese.
    Mac Daddy: Creamy mac ‘n’ cheese made with sharp and medium cheddar, combined with smoked bacon.
    Three Cheese Classic: A grilled cheese sandwich made with sharp cheddar, muenster, and fontina cheeses.
    Impossible Meltburger: A plant-based burger featuring cheddar cheese along with jalapeño-pickle mix and Melt sauce.

Recommendations: Request their rotating "Cheddar of the Month" special. Join monthly cheese tasting events featuring local cheddar producers. Order their signature aged cheddar flight to explore regional cheese nuances. Check out behind-the-scenes cheese selection process shared on their social media channels.