Gourmet grilled cheese tops the menu

Making a home-style favorite into a gourmet offering is something Wes Anderson likes to do.

Anderson, who recently opened The Cheese Hawk at Lot IA-3-3 Townsend Way, has had great examples in both his mother and elder sister for cooking.

His mother, Margaret Anderson, cooked at the Little League ball fields for many years, he said. And, his elder sister, Tina Bangs, cooked and served at the Blackhawk Cafe for 20 years.

Grilled cheese is easy to make and quick, Anderson said, explaining that he had researched options on what to offer for some time. Anderson perfected his technique grilling the sandwiches at home.

"I took some time off and scoped out lunch in Pea Ridge," he said. Anderson worked at a WalMart warehouse for 15 years. He said his wife and children will help work the business.

Anderson said depending on how busy he is at the time, most orders can be prepared in five to seven minutes. For a larger order, calling ahead of time is helpful, and he said he can have that ready in about 15 minutes.

"It's freshly made and there are lots of varieties," Anderson said. "There are 22 different sandwiches."

He offers gluten-free bread and hot soup -- tomato basil, broccoli and cheddar and French onion. A half-sandwich and soup are options on the menu.

So far, the Ragin' Cajun and the ham and cheese are the most popular sandwiches.

He also offers shaved ice which he said should be more popular this summer.

Emergency personnel on duty (in uniform) are offered a discount, Anderson said.