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Local picks

Mac and cheese spots in St. Petersburg

A bowl of mac and cheese that feels like a proper American meal rather than a side dish afterthought.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Fatty's BBQ & Soul Food image 1
Fatty's BBQ & Soul Food image 2
Fatty's BBQ & Soul Food image 3
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Southern restaurant (US)

Hole-in-the-wall spot with colorful artwork and a welcoming vibe creates a sense of community and camaraderie. The atmosphere feels like ordering from family, with mouthwatering aromas drawing people in. Known for top-notch barbecue and perfectly cooked sides, it offers great prices and a cool, intimate setting.

Barbecue ribs and pulled pork stand out with rich flavors. The Mac and cheese matches a cherished family recipe, paired well with baked beans and collard greens seasoned with a unique spice mix.

Baked Mac and cheese stands out with well seasoned flavors and a taste that matches a classic family recipe. It comes perfectly cooked alongside other sides like greens and baked beans.

People are saying

"The barbecue here is some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought this BBQ was the best I've had in Florida."

"The American Food here, especially the mac and cheese, is like my auntie's recipe."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available for $11, offering great value.

2

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

Takeout is a popular option due to limited indoor seating.

02
The Ball Joint image 1
Restaurant

Industrial space with concrete floors and minimal decor hosts a festival-like atmosphere blending energy and chill vibes. Art galleries and an outdoor stage add to the community-focused setting where lively music and open-air dining happen. The spot feels welcoming and spacious, perfect for quick bites or relaxed gatherings.

Grilled cheese balls come with a side of tomato bisque that creates a nostalgic flavor. Mac and cheese appears in a unique, delicious form, especially as balls that stand out.

Bacon Mac n cheese stands out with rich flavor. The mac and cheese balls offer a unique twist. Meatballs paired with mac and cheese create a fantastic combo.

People are saying

"These meatballs are juicy, packed with flavor, and way better than I'd expect."

"The American food, especially the meatballs and mac and cheese, was amazing."

"I devoured the meatball Mac and cheese; it was fantastic."

Good to know

1

Expect a lively atmosphere during college football Saturdays with special promotions.

2

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during busy times.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

03
Just 1 Taste of STL image 1

Restaurant offers authentic soul food with large portions and well-priced menu items. BBQ features fall-off-the-bone ribs and phenomenal turkey ribs, alongside crispy catfish and flavorful pork belly burn tips. Atmosphere reflects genuine passion and a welcoming vibe.

Brisket and BBQ stand out with incredible flavors. Sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and peach cobbler complement the main dishes well.

Mac and cheese stands out with its rich flavor and pairs well with sides like baked beans and collards. It complements dishes such as brisket and beef tips, making it a solid choice on the menu.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket and mac and cheese, is incredible."

"The seafood here is seasoned and cooked to perfection."

"The mac and cheese here is top notch."

Good to know

1

Portions are large, making it great for sharing or leftovers.

2

Prices are reasonable considering the quality of the food.

3

Authentic soul food and BBQ options are available.

04
The Blu Halo St Pete image 1

Bright blue baby grand piano and circular bar create a luxurious atmosphere with live piano music enhancing the vibe. Lounge area buzzes with energy while dining space offers a quieter, classy setting. Specialty cocktails and fresh, high-quality food complement the sleek, modern design.

Steak and seafood dominate the menu with dishes like ribeye, veal chop, scallops, and grouper. The shrimp mac and cheese and shrimp and grits stand out alongside truffle fries and a spinach salad.

Shrimp features prominently in the creole mac and cheese and the shrimp mac and cheese dishes. Both versions highlight seafood in a creamy, cheesy base.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is attentive and professional."

"The American Food, especially the shrimp and steak, was out of this world."

"The shrimp on the mac and cheese was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on appetizers and drinks; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The restaurant has convenient parking available right out front.

3

Outdoor patio seating is available for guests who prefer dining outside.

05
Salty J's image 1
Restaurant

Bar space offers numerous TVs tuned to sports and a lively atmosphere with a mix of ages. Outdoor seating complements the inside/outside feel, while music ranges from dance to rap with great sound quality. Friendly patrons gather after work for cold beer and good food at fair prices.

Fried pickles and Mac and cheese bites stand out as popular choices. The menu includes homemade Mac and cheese served as a side, along with loaded nachos and a Mahi sandwich option.

Fried Mac and cheese bites stand out as a popular item. Homemade Mac and cheese appears as a side option and in a Mac and cheese sandwich.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and pretty good."

"The American food portions here are huge, you'll have leftovers!"

"The Mac and cheese was a very good side."

Good to know

1

Salty J's is open until 2am.

2

Happy hour offers $2 beers and wells during select hours.

3

Tuesday nights feature taco specials, making it a popular night to visit.

06
Brooklyn South image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop with throwback city deli vibe and local neighborhood atmosphere. Offers indoor and outdoor seating with window views for people watching. Known for authentic, highly praised sandwiches and a friendly, welcoming environment.

Homemade Mac and Cheese stands out with its rich, creamy texture and pairs well with pork. Sandwiches like the beef and cheese brisket and turkey melt offer fresh, hearty flavors that satisfy.

Homemade in house, the mac and cheese is rich and filling with a fresh, authentic flavor. It pairs well with pork and sandwiches, and tastes even better cold the next day.

People are saying

"I thought the Cuban sandwich was very good and right-sized."

"I loved the sandwiches; they felt like a superhero cape."

"The American Food sandwiches were stuffed with flavor and generously filled."

Good to know

1

The breakfast sandwich is available all day.

2

Expect a total bill of around $70 for four sandwiches, chips, and drinks.

3

The shop is located on Central Ave in a fun part of St. Pete.

07
Roam Restaurant & Bar image 1

Small, cozy space with intimate vibes and modern, upbeat decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Live music, including jazz and DJ sets, energizes the environment, making it lively rather than quiet. A fantastic bar complements the setting, blending restaurant and club elements.

Savory Lobster Mac and Cheese stands out with rich flavors. Sides like broccolini Mac and cheese and classic versions pair well with mains and come highly praised for being immaculate and delicious.

People are saying

"You have to try the chargrilled oysters; they're a must-have."

"The American Food here, especially the steak, is cooked perfectly."

"I loved the Mac and Cheese here; it was immaculate."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM with a great selection.

2

Karaoke night happens weekly, providing a fun atmosphere.

3

Expect a $5 fee for using a credit card on your bill.

08
J-New's BBQ & Grill @ J-New and Mom's Catering image 1

No-frills, walk-up BBQ joint offers generous portions and reasonably priced bowls with a variety of flavorful options like ribs, brisket, and oxtails. Atmosphere feels casual and welcoming with complimentary Rum Runners adding a unique touch. Consistently busy spot known for smoky, tender meats and well-seasoned sides.

Smoked meats like brisket and pulled pork offer fall-apart tenderness and rich flavor. Fried chicken comes smothered and pairs well with sides like candied yams and macaroni and cheese.

Rich and creamy texture defines the Mac & Cheese here. It pairs well with BBQ chicken and greens for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ chicken was some of the best I had ever tasted."

"I found the Mac and Cheese to be delicious."

"The American Food, especially the ribs and pulled pork, was tender and smoky."

Good to know

1

J-New's BBQ & Grill is a takeout eatery with a variety of items to choose from.

2

The wait time is generally short, making it convenient for quick meals.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

09
Fire Water image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers cozy hippie vibe with bright, colorful indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly, encouraging easy conversation. Menu focuses on vegan and gluten-free dishes, attracting both vegans and non-vegans with flavorful, creative options.

Mac and cheese stands out with its creamy texture and unique flavor. Desserts like key lime pie and cheesecake offer a sweet finish, while the reuben sandwich delivers a tangy, flavorful bite.

Creamy and flavorful, the mac and cheese features house-made vegan cheeses that give it a unique and comforting taste. It stands out as a gluten-free vegan option with a very cheesy and rich texture.

People are saying

"I was so impressed with the fresh, delicious vegetarian food here."

"The Mac and Cheese is creamy, flavorful, and comforting."

"The American Food here, especially the mac and cheese, is creamy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch due to high demand.

2

Expect higher prices, with entrees averaging $22.

3

The entire menu is vegan and gluten-free, catering to dietary restrictions.

10
The Neon Lunchbox image 1

Retro punk and neon-themed restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with nostalgic 80s and 90s decor and live music events. The space balances laid-back lunch vibes with party energy on weekend nights, featuring small tables, a bar, and board games for socializing.

Brisket comes lean with no fat, offering a spiritual BBQ experience. Mac n cheese, brisket sliders, and flavorful chicken wings stand out as key American dishes here.

Gooey mac and cheese features prominently, often paired with smoky brisket in sandwiches. The Charizard mac n cheese stands out for its rich, creamy texture and bold flavor.

People are saying

"It's a cool retro place with 80s and 90s vibes."

"The Mac And Cheese here is gooey and changed my entire life."

"The American food here feels like a childhood memory come to life."

Good to know

1

They host trivia night every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Karaoke happens every Thursday at 9pm; a two-drink minimum applies.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

11
Kings Fried Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers down home feel with simple, worn furniture and limited dining space. Atmosphere stays relaxed with very good vibes and a focus on takeout. Known for exceptional fried chicken and honey butter biscuits, it serves affordable, generous portions including halal options.

Fried chicken stands out as the highlight, known for its crispy, flavorful coating and juicy meat. The biscuits melt in your mouth, and prices stay really reasonable, making it a solid spot for classic American comfort food.

Offers homemade mac and cheese with a great flavor that is not overly cheesy. Pasta tends to be well cooked but sometimes a bit soft.

People are saying

"These honey butter biscuits are amazing and a must-try."

"This American food's fried chicken is juicy and crispy."

"The mac and cheese is great, and the chicken is tender and crunchy."

Good to know

1

They serve HALAL food for dietary needs.

2

Prices are reasonable, with generous portion sizes.

3

The restaurant mainly offers takeout with limited seating.

12
Big C's Chopped BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Smoky barbecue aromas fill the air around a take-out-only spot known for tender ribs and juicy smoked meats. The atmosphere is casual and convenient, with no seating and limited parking. Large portions and great value attract those seeking authentic barbecue without fuss.

Brisket, ribs, and chicken come with classic sides like mac and cheese, yams, and potato salad. Apple pie rounds out the meal with a perfect finish.

Mac n cheese comes with rich, creamy texture and pairs well with collard greens and baked beans. It complements hearty dishes like ribs and yams nicely.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is the best I ever tasted."

"The Mac and Cheese here is so good, especially with the collard greens."

"The American Food chicken was delicious, moist, and smoked."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is take-out only with no dine-in options.

2

Expect generous portions; one serving can easily feed two people.

3

Prices are reasonable, with rib tips costing $12.

13
Lorene's Fish House image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot with carry-out focus and limited outdoor seating during renovations. Atmosphere feels like a hole in the wall with a casual, straightforward vibe. Known for fried pork chop sandwich and spicy, garlicky boiled peanuts.

Mac and cheese comes out super cheesy and piping hot. The bacon cheeseburger lacks cheese, but sides include tater tots and mac and cheese.

Super cheesy and served piping hot, the mac and cheese stands out as a rich, creamy side. It often comes paired with other items like tater tots or garlic rice.

People are saying

"I found the American food here to be excellent."

"The fish here is mouthwateringly delicious."

"The mac and cheese was super cheesy and piping hot."

Good to know

1

Currently, most orders are to-go due to renovations.

2

There is some outdoor seating available during renovations.

3

Breakfast is served until 12 pm, with last orders at 4:30 pm.

14
Ruth's Chris Steak House image 1

Steak house offers an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere with beautiful dining rooms and spacious, well-spaced seating. The vibe suits cozy date nights and features free valet parking and occasional TV games. Guests enjoy expertly crafted cocktails alongside perfectly prepared steaks and lobster mac and cheese.

Steaks melt in your mouth, paired with sides like macaroni and cheese and sweet potato casserole that stand out. Crab cakes start the meal, while Brussels sprouts and crimini mushrooms add variety.

Lobster mac and cheese stands out with its rich lobster flavor and creamy texture. Sides like this are generous in size and cooked to perfection.

People are saying

"The steaks here are cut and cooked to perfection."

"The American Food steaks were cooked perfectly, truly as good as I've had anywhere."

"The lobster mac and cheese here is excellent and perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

3

Valet parking is available for $10 plus tip.

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