The concept couldn’t be simpler, nor could it be more in line with the times, but somehow no one in Toronto has thought of it until now: The Grilled Cheese. Whether it’s economically driven or not, we’ve seen a proliferation of spots in Toronto offering upscale takes on comfort food standards, and food doesn’t get much more comforting than the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Melted cheese between two pieces of bread - so simple and yet so delicious.

Open in the spot that used to house Goed Eten, a hole-in-the-wall Belgian Waffle joint in Kensington Market, The Grilled Cheese comes in with a well-tested menu and a built-in customer base. Unlike most spots in Kensington, the sandwich shop stays open late to serve residents, visitors, and those with the late night munchies (I can’t imagine better placement than across the street from the ever-coveted patio of Ronnie's Local 069).

Kensington resident Rob Yuill had been working at a similar spot in New York (called Grilled Cheese NYC, naturally) when the rent went up exponentially overnight. Rather than think of new idea, Rob moved the menu to Toronto wholesale. And in case you’re wondering, yes, it consists of more than just one item. There are about eight sandwiches on the menu, all variations of the classic grilled cheese, and all made with fresh ingredients bought every morning from Kensington Market. There are also a few rotating homemade soups and chilis served in the wood-worn shop.

A message at the top of the handwritten chalkboard menu reads "just like you, the sandwich grew up." This a fair motto, because even the so-called "Classic" consists of Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Provolone, and Tomato – a far stretch from the Kraft Singles and Wonderbread recipe of your childhood. Other choices include the popular Black Jack (Jalapeno Monterey Jack, Tomato, Spinach, and Black Olive Pesto) and Dill-icious (Dill Havarti, Basil Pesto, Sundried Tomato, and Onion). Each sandwich comes fresh off the grill and is served with some tortilla chips and a container of homemade hummus. A simple formula, yes, but one that everyone can agree on.