This Waterfront Restaurant Proves That Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Are Not Just For Kids
By Natasha Kayes|Published July 06, 2023
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Natasha Kayes
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I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
Remember the ooey-gooey joy of a grilled cheese sandwich? When we were kids, we couldn’t stand waiting for the hot melty cheese to cool – and inevitably burned our tongues. Only slightly older, we learned to appreciate the amazingness of pairing it with creamy tomato soup. And then we grew up. And somehow, grilled cheese was regarded as food for the littles, only found on the kids’ menu. Well, this tiny restaurant is putting an end to that thinking and proving that, at least in Ventura, California, grilled cheese is for grown-ups.
The main dining area is the lovely outdoor patio. There are a variety of table setups, from four-seat umbrella tables to bar tables, and even a long table for slightly larger groups. There are heaters for when it's a bit chilly and water bowls for your furry friend.
The view from the patio will win you over before you ever even taste the food. Watch the boats coming in and out or bobbing in the marina, or get out on the water yourself before or after your meal. You can rent kayaks and pedal boats, or even head out on a harbor cruise or whale-watching trip!
Now comes the hard part. You have to choose which version of grilled cheese you are going to indulge in, and what side to pair it with. My favorite, pictured here, is the Caprese, which has mozzarella, basil pesto, and tomato on buttery grilled olive loaf - paired with a cup of house-made tomato soup.
There is a more basic grilled cheese on the menu called The Classic, a twist on a classic patty melt called Andy’s Melt, and The 805, which is kind of like a grilled turkey club with avocado and pepper jack cheese. If you love tuna melts, order the “WTF” (What the Fish), served open-faced on jalapeño cheddar bread and topped with potato chips!
The menu says it - this sandwich which includes pulled pork, sliced ham, bacon, and cheddar cheese is “not just a sandwich, it's a Vendetta!” And that cup of creamy Mac and Cheese goodness in the background? There is no one of any age that will regret ordering that.
If you really want to go crazy, order the “What Are You Smokin’?” This one has smoked capicola ham, smoked applewood bacon, smoked gouda cheese, and a heap of Mac and Cheese, all stuffed and grilled between two slices of savory, herby rosemary bread. Yes, I have tried it. And yes, it's smokin’ amazing.
You can also enjoy a very grown-up cheese plate, with grilled bread, a tasty variety of cheeses, meats, olives, and spreads - almost like having a “deconstructed” grilled cheese sandwich.
Not feeling grilled cheese at the moment, or have a mixed group? Not only is this place a refreshing place to sit, have a drink, and enjoy the fresh air, but it shares ownership with its sister restaurant next door, The Copa Club.
You will actually receive the Copa menu, with all of its delightful Cuban offerings, together with the grilled cheese menu, so there are lots of options. In fact, there are even a couple of grilled cheese sandwiches that nod to their Cuban companion - the Cuban Reuben and The Cubano.
You don’t have to be young, or even young at heart, to enjoy a gourmet grilled cheese here! Have you been to this delicious eatery in Ventura, CA? Find everything you need to know, including current hours and menu, on the 805 Copa Club website or follow 805 Bar and Grilled Cheese on Facebook.
If you are looking for more inspiration and recommendations, look no further – we are always adding to our collection of the best and most unique places to dine in Southern California.
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