I'll be honest, it took me a while to get on the "MELT-Train." I initially found in overly kitschy, the portion sizes too overwhelming and some of the sandwiches rather pedestrian. But, I kept coming back--trying new sandwiches, exploring their apps and salads--and began to appreciate this place more and more.
Their sandwiches are massive and it's easy to "stay safe" here, like with the Monte Cristo or the Wake & Bacon, which are both good. There are a number of sandwiches, however that merit a try. The Korean War Pig is so good. It's adventurous with kimchi slaw and pear onion relish, but mixes in familiar flavors like pulled pork and muenster cheese. The Mushroom Melt is an incredibly "meaty" option with complex flavors from the very sweet port onions and the spicy, fresh arugula.
I'm not a fan of the sweet slaw and was happy when they moved away from automatically including it with your meal. I know people like it, but I prefer my slaw to be more vinegary.
The fries are decent, treading that line of crispy and soft and always well seasoned. I prefer them in the Hangover Fries! Poutain with pork belly and a fried egg? What more can you ask for? Also, their Fried Green Tomato appetizer is delicious. Crispy, slightly spicy with a little freshness.
I also like that this place can be enjoyed by those erg dietary restriction and limitations, offering many vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
This is a Cleveland institution and rightly so, so I highly encourage you stop in and try something ADVENTUROUS. You won't be disappointed.