Jazz and Soul Food
http://www.tillmansnyc.com/
165 W. 26th Street – Chelsea

Tillman’s was relatively new to our ‘old hood’ when we moved out almost 5 years ago.  The neighborhood is in a constant state of gentrification.  West 26th between Sixth and Seventh is still a bit of a no man’s land, but if you find yourself there looking for either a nice cocktail, music or a nosh try this spot out.  There is one HUGE draw – the grilled cheese sandwiches!

The decor is very nicely done.  It’s sleek and clubby with cozy booths for larger parties.  Below is the back room and there is also a chic bar area.  Before 10pm its pretty mellow.

It’s too dark for iPhone pics in Tillman’s, so I had to borrow photos for this review!

There is one thing that always takes me back to Tillman’s and it is the delicious selection of grilled cheese sandwiches.  Talk about a great meal when you’ve had a few too many cocktails.  I am torn between two favorites:

Tillman’s Classic American Grilled Cheese  $13
Pullman White Loaf, American Cheese, Basil Herb Mayo & Fresh Basil served with San Marzano Tomato Soup

French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese  $14
Country Loaf rubbed with Roasted Garlic & Herbs, Gruyere, Caramelized Onion Compote served with Spiced Dipping Jus

So I am sure you are getting the picture.  Yum.  Holy fattening and heavenly food.  And both were served with a side of black-eyed peas.  And the soup is now served in a small dipping bowl instead of the glass!  Tillman’s menu includes twelve Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwich selections.  Some are really borderline in terms of being classified as ‘grilled cheese,’ but that’s OK!  I’ve not had them all, but can recommend two more:

Brie & Spiced Pear Grilled Cheese  $14
Brioche, Triple Creme Brie, Spiced Roasted Pears & Black Truffle Butter

Tillman’s Patty Melt  $13
Sourdough Bread, Prime Beef Burger, Monterey Jack Cheese, Tillman’s Spicy Mayo & Red Pepper Compote

Tillman’s tag line is ‘Soul Food Nightly’…
Tillman’s Live – Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8pm
live Soul Jam session
Sweet Licks – Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 9pm
DJ Soul, Jazz, Afro-beat and Underground Hip-Hop

Comfort food for the soul.  Good stuff.