Back to the Future?!?
The Pop Shop: If you’re a fan of the TV show, Throw Down with Bobby Flay then you might be familiar with the Pop Shop in Collingswood, NJ. A few seasons ago Bobby challenged them to a grilled cheese showdown in which he pulled off a narrow victory over South Jersey’s finest grilled cheeser. My first time going to the pop shop, I totally understood why Bobby chose this place for the grilled cheese show down: They have too many grilled cheeses! There are so many on the menu it’s overwhelming, because they all sound so delicious and they are constantly adding more. The Pop Shop atmosphere is just blaring as you walk in the door. It’s reminiscent of the soda shops and diners of the 1950s complete with a checkerboard floor. The place is loud and bright so if you’re looking for a quiet meal, keep walking. But, if you can deal with the noise and want to enjoy a great meal at a family friendly establishment this is the place. Everything at the Pop Shop is retro including the menu. It is designed like a newspaper with different options in an article setting. You can see a copy of this on their website. They have a lot to offer for everyone, including vegetarian options, and they serve breakfast through out the day. They also have a soda fountain. I’m not talking about your typical soda machines found in any restaurant. I’m talking a 50s style soda fountain complete with different syrups to give you that delicious drink. I ordered a cherry vanilla coke, which is a personal favorite. For my meal, I decided to stick with a grilled cheese as that is what they are known for. I ordered the Frazer: Jack cheese, grilled chicken breast, chipotle mayonnaise mixed with jalapeños and onions on sourdough. As a side order, I ordered Maryland fries (fresh cut potatoes covered in Old Bay seasoning). The grilled cheese came out and it was massive; huge slices of Sourdough overflowing with grilled chicken and gooey melted cheese. The chipotle mayo blew me away and I wish I was able to take some home with me. This meal was heaven, every bite being a mouthful of something. There were no vacant bites of only bread that you get with some “gone wrong” grilled cheeses. The fries were an excellent addition, giving a little kick with their homemade spicy ketchup. You couldn’t go wrong with it. The Pop Shop also has a huge ice cream and dessert selection, but by the end of the meal, I could barely move let alone take on a dessert. Maybe next time.
-J
Price: $$ - moderate
The Pop Shop’s Location: 729 Haddon Ave. Collingswood, NJ
The Pop Shop’s Website: www.thepopshopusa.com
