Best Patty Melts: 5 Chain Restaurants on Texas Toast
The patty melt – a glorious collision of burger and grilled cheese, often served on thick-cut Texas toast – occupies a special place in American comfort food. I first encountered its magic during boarding school in the Detroit suburbs, Michigan, at a late-night haunt called Hunter House. A friend offered me a bite of his slider-style patty melt, and I was instantly hooked. It’s a simple pleasure, but one worth seeking out. If a trip to Michigan isn’t in your immediate future, here are five chain restaurants where you can find a reliably satisfying patty melt on Texas toast.
Whataburger: A Texas-Sized Take on a Classic
According to Michelin-trained Chef Andrew Owens, Whataburger’s patty melt stands out from the crowd. Owens describes it as a “beast” – a massive stack of juicy beef patties on golden Texas toast, generously topped with melty Monterey Jack cheese, perfectly grilled onions, and a spicy pepper sauce. The customization options, like adding jalapeños or bacon, only enhance the experience. You can find their menu here.
Sonic Drive-In: A Nostalgic, Occasional Treat
The Sonic Patty Melt is a limited-time offering, appearing on the menu periodically. It features a quarter-pound beef patty, two slices of American cheese, grilled onions, mayo, and mustard, all served on thick Texas toast. Although it can be a bit greasy, many diners praise its comforting flavor. One Reddit user described it as “the best thing Sonic ever had.”
Waffle House: A Simple, Satisfying Option
Waffle House keeps things straightforward with its patty melt, featuring Angus beef, American cheese, grilled onions, and mayo on griddled Texas toast, served with pickles. It’s a reliable choice for a quick and satisfying meal, particularly when paired with their famous hash browns.
Huddle House: An “American Classic”
Huddle House’s Classic Patty Melt is described as an “American classic,” consisting of two beef patties, melted American cheese, caramelized onions, and mayo, all served on Texas toast. One Facebook user simply called it “very tasty.”
Steak ‘n Shake: The Frisco Melt – A Steakburger Transformation
Steak ‘n Shake’s Frisco Melt takes the patty melt concept to another level. Chef Andrew Owens calls it “magic,” highlighting the use of double-thin, smashed steakburgers, gooey American and Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, and their signature Frisco sauce. It’s a nostalgic diner experience that delivers on flavor and satisfaction. You can view their menu here.
The enduring appeal of the patty melt lies in its simplicity and comforting flavors. Whether you prefer a massive, fully-loaded version or a more streamlined take, these chain restaurants offer a convenient way to satisfy your craving for this classic American sandwich. And while my first encounter was at a beloved local spot in Michigan, it’s clear that the patty melt’s appeal extends far beyond the Great Lakes region.