My new favorite grilled cheese . . .

As far as grilled cheeses go, I'm a simpleton. Generic unsalted butter, any ole' bread and some melty cheese (and yes, sometimes I do use "American") are all I need. Of course, I had my share of gussied up versions, but I always go back to the basic-classic with a side of tomato soup - especially if I'm making it at home.

That is, until I had Andy a.k.a. Windattack's version at his recent honey-themed supper party several weeks ago. Words, and even the photo above, simply doesn't do it justice. My tastebuds were lost in heaven between the homemade honey challah, slices of avocado, a drizzle of avocado honey and the wine-bathed Drunken Goat cheese that Esi of Dishing Up Delights brought. The eggy bread was not too greasy and still had that satisfying soft crunch when I sunk my teeth in, the cheese was rich yet flavorful enough to distinguish it from ordinary and, ahem, "American" cheeses (I call it "Goat-Lite") and the contrast between the slightly savory cheese, the sweet honey, and the "greenness" of the avocado was purely paradise for my palate.

The dozen or so other honey-paired dishes and tastings served that night were delightful revelations too (and I give props to Andy for throwing together a dinner bash resembling those simply-elegant soirees I keep reading in food magazine spreads . . . relaxed enough for everyone to have a casual, good time but with a definite eye to detail, best exemplified in the rustic-chic table decor - Sandra Lee, take a pointer, PLEASE! - and the lavender honey-prosecco shooter amuse - served in a shot glass made out of lavender-embedded ice!) But that grilled cheese definitely lingered and haunted my mind... not to mention inspiring me to do something beyond the basics the next time I fix one up.

And Andy and Esi, I totally see you two entering next year's Grilled Cheese Invitational!

Read more about Andy's "Sugar, Ah Honey, Honey" party on his blog, or on foodblogging friend and fellow guest Anna at her blog Banana Wonder.

Rest of my photos of this party here.