Meltdown on 30A Got Gooey Goodness

Meltdown on 30A pays homage to something that is all too often taken for granted. Consistency.

They say that change is the only thing that’s certain besides death and taxes. After surviving a crazy election season, we’re finally welcoming the first signs of Fall at the beach. Like it or not, change is in the air.

With grilled cheese on the brain, people are lining up outside Meltdown on 30A for some comfort in the form of melty grilled cheese and soul-warming soup. A craving that only one of Chef Jim Shirley’s creations could satisfy. And that’s not about to change.

Don’t let the food truck fool ya. Meltdown on 30A is an unpretentious Seaside gem that has become one chef Jim Shirley’s most successful restaurants. Chef is also the mastermind of Great Southern Café, The Bay and 45 Central - all local institutions. It’s safe to say he’s got the Midas Touch.

From Brie and Bacon on Cranberry Walnut Bread to the Classic Grilled Cheese, everything on the menu is golden. Keeping it classic has its perks. Yellow American cheese on Texas toast is the perfect companion for a cup of Tomato Soup. Ask them to serve it crustless and skip to the gooey parts.

The Cuban McConnell is named for Chef’s right hand man, Billy, who’s not actually Cuban by the way. The sandwich, on the other hand, is all Cuban. Gruyere melds perfectly with pickles, pulled pork, brown bag ham and Billy’s mustard sauce. Some would agree it’s the best melt on the menu. 

Embrace diversity with the Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil, Meltdown on 30A’s take on classic Caprese. Simple and savory as is, you can opt to add Prosciutto for some next level flavor. If meat is what you crave, look no further than the Meatloaf Melt stacked with mozzarella, meatloaf, marinara, ham and swiss on sourdough.

The Red, White and Blue shows its patriotic flair with blue cheese infused brie, bacon, caramelized onion and balsamic reduction tomato. Pair it with a Budweiser and a bag of Salt and Vinegar Kettle Chips to continue with the Americana theme.

At Meltdown, kids and adults alike love walking off the beach and up to the window to place their order, then finding a table in the shade for their picnic. People watching from sidewalk tables is a Seaside pastime, made even more fun by browsing Meltdown’s selection of super-soft cotton t-shirts that declare, “I had a meltdown on 30A”. A must-have souvenir for toddlers and preschoolers alike…and their parents.

At Meltdown on 30A, dedication to consistency extends to their drink menu, where you can get organic chocolate milk, organic apple juice and organic fruit and veggie pouches for growing happy, healthy kids. For the adults - sodas, nostalgic IBC root beer, healthy green tea, wine and cold beer are all there to make your grilled cheese experience familiar and wonderful.

When you gotta have grilled cheese, head to Meltdown on 30A on Airstream Row in Seaside. The food truck is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Walk up to order and grab a seat in the shade. Call 850-231-0952 for more information. Get your daily lunch inspiration on Facebook.