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New Yorkers 1st Choice
California's best

Casual Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese that actually tastes like real melted dairy instead of a powdered, neon-orange mess.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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01
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Simple, modern space with farm-themed decor and a large mural reflecting local roots. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy with natural light and occasional live music. Outdoor patio offers seating but can attract flies during morning hours.

Atmosphere stays casual and relaxing with a farm-inspired vibe. Meals suit breakfast or lunch with consistent comfort and family-friendly appeal.

Rich and creamy, the lobster Mac and Cheese features packed seafood and a creamy texture. It pairs well with hearty dishes like ribeye and shrimp appetizers.

People are saying

"The lobster Mac And Cheese is rich and creamy."

"The staff here is so friendly and welcoming, it's great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6 pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Breakfast ends at 11 AM, so arrive early if you want breakfast.

3

The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with generous portions.

02
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Small space combines surf shack and sports bar man cave styles with seven TV screens showing games and news. Atmosphere feels casual and lively, with a dive-bar vibe and fun music. Outlets under bar seating and a Pac-Man arcade machine add unique touches for guests.

Lobster Mac & Cheese features lobster on top and a decadent but balanced cheese flavor. It avoids artificial cheesiness and stands out as a signature dish.

People are saying

"The casual seafood here is so fresh and bursting with flavor."

"The lobster mac and cheese here is amazing and decadent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday with discounted menu items and drinks.

2

Late happy hour is available from 8:30 PM until close.

3

Taco Tuesday features three small tacos for $12.

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Seafood restaurant offers a cozy seaside vibe with a relaxed, casual atmosphere and plenty of seating. The environment feels down to earth and friendly, with great music enhancing the experience. Fresh ingredients and standout dishes like lobster rolls and bisque define the menu.

Friendly service and a casual coastal vibe set the tone here. The ambiance stays relaxed and casual with plenty of seating, making it good for a casual splurge without feeling fancy.

Creamy and cheesy sauce defines the lobster mac & cheese, which includes a generous serving of lobster. The dish pairs well with other seafood items like the grilled cheese and lobster roll.

People are saying

"The lobster mac and cheese was creamy and cheesy."

"I loved the casual lobster roll; it's a culinary masterpiece."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait for clam chowder during busy hours.

2

The clam chowder costs over $14 for a small bowl.

3

They do not provide forks; bring your own if needed.

04
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Garage-style roll-up doors open to a spacious patio with a relaxed, fun vibe. Music and multiple TVs create a lively atmosphere, while a retro arcade and cornhole area add playful touches. Noise levels can be high, especially near the bar, making conversation challenging at times.

A friendly, lively atmosphere sets the tone for both casual lunches and nights out. The spot offers a relaxed vibe with good drinks available.

Spicy options like the jalapeno Mac and cheese and Hatch Mac & Cheese stand out with bold flavors. Mac and cheese bites offer a tasty twist on the classic dish.

People are saying

"The Hatch Mac and Cheese is so tasty, especially if you like spice."

"The burgers here are juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on Mondays offers all appetizers half off, but discounts may be minor.

2

The restaurant has a fun atmosphere with outdoor seating.

3

Parking is often unavailable near the restaurant.

05
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Cozy space with literary-themed decor and comfy booths creates an upscale bar vibe. Big TV screens show sports games, and live music adds energy, though noise can get loud. Outdoor patio offers a relaxed spot for dining and conversation.

A very nice casual vibe makes it easy to relax. It suits weekday indulgence and gatherings like birthday cocktails.

Baked mac and cheese comes with garlic shrimp that is perfectly cooked, and the mac is cheesy and tasty. Some versions can be watery, so quality varies.

People are saying

"The team here is fantastic and friendly."

"The baked Mac And Cheese with garlic shrimp was the best dish."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Monday night, starting at 8pm.

2

Trivia night is every Tuesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with $2 off drinks.

06
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Casual chicken wings spot with big bar, pool table, and military homage on the wall creates a friendly, down-to-earth vibe. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively, fitting for hanging out with friends over food and drinks. Decor and setup clearly reflect a local hangout feel.

Atmosphere feels casual and family-style, matching what you'd expect from a BBQ joint. The vibe suits a relaxed meal with comfort food.

Rich Mac and Cheese comes with bacon and pairs well with brisket and ribs. It stands out as a favorite dish alongside coleslaw and toast.

People are saying

"The Mac and Cheese here is outstanding."

"The brisket and ribs are so tender, it's amazing."

Good to know

1

The menu has lower prices under new management.

2

Air conditioning is now available for comfort.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to typical BBQ restaurants.

07
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Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Mac and cheese features a mild bleu cheese that makes it rich and creamy. It cooks to perfection and offers a divine flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and well-crafted."

"The Mac and Cheese here is divine, rich, and creamy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

08
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Rustic restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a dog-friendly patio that includes complimentary treats for pets. Atmosphere feels friendly and community-oriented with smooth music and a casual vibe. Strong focus on barbecue and craft beers, featuring brisket and a variety of margaritas.

Lively atmosphere sets a casual tone here. The spot feels relaxed and welcoming, making it a solid choice for easygoing meals.

Brisket shines in the Brisket Mac n Cheese and the smash burger mac and cheese. Mac and cheese also appears in a burrito with waffle fries and a big rib, all fried with cheese wrapped around.

People are saying

"The Mac And Cheese is piping hot and gooey."

"The casual brisket tacos are tender, juicy, and excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 6 pm with a buy-one-get-one-free deal on draft beer.

2

There is only one restroom available for about 80 people.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and dog-friendly.

09
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Upscale restaurant with classy decor and a striking wall of whiskey casks creates an elegant, masculine vibe. Live music, including saxophone and guitar, plays at times, sometimes at a loud volume that can affect conversation. Whiskey selection and barrel-aged cocktails stand out as key features.

A hip, casual vibe sets the tone with a striking wall of whiskey casks adding to the decor. The ambiance stays warm and inviting throughout.

Big meaty pieces of lobster stand out in the lobster mac and cheese. The dish is rich and highly recommended by servers.

People are saying

"The lobster mac and cheese is creamy with a generous amount of lobster."

"The lobster mac and cheese is creamy with big meaty pieces of lobster."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers more drink options and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Tomahawk Tuesdays feature special pricing on tomahawk steaks.

3

Parking is available on the street or in the side lot.

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Restaurant resembles an old town style with 200 years old look and insanely comfortable chairs. Atmosphere is casual yet classy but often very loud due to poor acoustics and close seating. Offers high quality meat with a focus on wagyu and a mouthwatering cocktail selection.

Busy and upbeat vibe blends with a laid back and casual atmosphere. The setting feels relaxed yet maintains a touch of class.

Lobster Mac and cheese stands out with a strong garlic and creamy flavor. The dish pairs well with Brussel sprouts and offers a rich, savory experience not suited for mild tastes.

People are saying

"The wagyu steak here is cooked to perfection and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

Expect wait times of 3 hours or more due to understaffing.

3

Entrees cost over $98, with sides charged separately.

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Soul food restaurant offers a laid back atmosphere with warm lighting and wood accents that create a cozy, inviting space. Clean, shaded outdoor seating adds a peaceful vibe. Music plays softly, enhancing the relaxed, welcoming mood.

Warm lighting and inviting atmosphere create a relaxed setting. The spot blends true soul food with California fast casual for a simple, casual meal.

Rich and flavorful, the mac and cheese comes well seasoned and served hot. It pairs well with fried catfish and collard greens, all fresh and tasty.

People are saying

"The casual fries were delicious, hot, and fresh."

"The mac and cheese here is rich and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served until 2pm on weekends.

2

Parking is easy to find in the Northwest parking structure.

3

Prices range from mid $20s for small portions.

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