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Atlanta's best

Mac and cheese spots

Made for those who can distinguish between a mass-produced side dish and a recipe rooted in authentic tradition.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Zion Delight Southern Cuisine image 1
Zion Delight Southern Cuisine image 2
Zion Delight Southern Cuisine image 3
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Soul food restaurant

Small, self-serve soul food spot with buffet-style hot bar and daytime TV creating an informal, homey vibe. Atmosphere feels like a southern neighborhood kitchen, lively yet peaceful, with affordable prices and generous portions. Decor is minimal and cramped, emphasizing comfort over style.

Offers authentic Southern soul food with genuine Southern hospitality. Delivers a true Southern cooking experience that satisfies cravings.

Mac and cheese comes alongside fried chicken and BBQ ribs as a solid Southern comfort dish. It pairs well with collard greens and fits right in with hearty breakfast and lunch options.

People are saying

"This Southern food tastes like home-cooked meals made with love."

"You'll find authentic Southern soul food cooked with love."

"The mac and cheese was perfect."

Good to know

1

The restaurant operates on a self-serve basis; customers grab a plate and serve themselves.

2

Expect generous portions for the price, making it a good value.

3

There is a great variety of foods to try, including premium proteins like oxtails.

02
Lewis Barbecue Atlanta image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Assembly-line setup lets diners watch pitmasters slice meat, creating an interactive experience. Casual, laid-back atmosphere features indoor and outdoor seating, including a rooftop pit room with views of the BeltLine. A bar and lounge area across the breezeway adds to the relaxed vibe with country music playing.

Barbecue features a peppery bark on the brisket and a beautiful smoke ring. Sides come out authentic and rich with classic Texas-style flavors.

Mac and cheese comes out creamy and rich, standing out among the sides like greens and corn pudding. It pairs well with meats like brisket and pulled pork, adding a smooth, cheesy contrast.

People are saying

"The ribs here are so tender they just melt in your mouth."

"The mac and cheese here is great and did not disappoint."

"The barbecue here is authentic Texas style with a peppery bark."

Good to know

1

Parking is available near the pet store, with a short walk to the restaurant.

2

Expect the dining room to get crowded during peak hours.

3

Meat is sold by the pound, which is great for parties.

03
J'ouvert Caribbean Kitchen & Bar image 1

Caribbean restaurant with chic decor and a live DJ playing dancehall, soca, and hip hop that keeps energy lively. Atmosphere feels cool and vibrant, attracting a crowd that enjoys dancing and socializing. Small patio offers an option for outdoor seating.

Rich, authentic Caribbean flavors fill the menu, with dishes like perfectly cooked snapper and flavorful curry goat. The rum punch stands out as a tropical, genuine taste experience.

Creamy and rich, the mac and cheese pairs well with savory dishes like jerk chicken and curry goat. It complements the sweet plantains and hearty oxtail stew for a balanced meal.

People are saying

"The brunch here is delicious with flavorful, beautifully presented dishes."

"The food here has such authentic Caribbean flavor."

"The Mac and Cheese here is amazing, and the staff is so attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm on Thursdays and Fridays with discounted drinks and food.

2

Fridays feature bottomless mimosas from 11am to 4pm for $18 per person.

3

Half-off cocktails and appetizers are available from 6pm to 8pm on Fridays.

04
The Food Shoppe image 1
Creole restaurant

Tiny, cluttered space with worn furniture and a fragrant Creole aroma that recalls New Orleans. Atmosphere feels cozy but cramped, with good music playing in the background. Outdoor patio under trees offers a more open setting compared to the small interior.

Bold, flavorful dishes capture authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine with a fresh, home-cooked feel. The owners bring a real NOLA vibe that shines through in every dish.

Mac and cheese comes in several flavorful versions like the Voodoo BBQ and spiced chicken varieties. The chicken is seasoned well, and the sides include a notable truffle mac and cheese.

People are saying

"I thought the Bread Pudding was the best I've ever had."

"The Jambalaya here is so good, it brought tears to my eyes."

"I found the Creole and Cajun food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The Food Shoppe opens at 8am.

2

Reservations are not accepted, and seating is limited.

3

Expect some menu items to be unavailable, including wings and burgers.

05
Crescent City Kitchen image 1
Brunch restaurant

Brunch restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere with live jazz and classical music enhancing the experience. Outdoor seating provides a relaxed vibe while festive decor like a rose wall adds charm. The place draws a lively crowd enjoying personalized cocktails and a family-friendly setting.

Dishes deliver authentic New Orleans flavors with rich, hearty, and comforting tastes. Every bite offers true NOLA cuisine cooked to perfection and uniquely satisfying.

Offers mac and cheese with a twist that stands out. Combines well with fried chicken and fries for a solid meal.

People are saying

"You have to try the brunch; Mimi's service is perfection."

"The fried chicken mac and cheese was phenomenal."

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and comforting."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features discounted wings and soul rolls.

2

The restaurant validates parking for guests.

3

Reservations are recommended due to high demand.

06
Jerk vybes image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Small space with two tables and a bar offers a clean, vibrant atmosphere filled with Caribbean reggae music. Energy feels authentic and welcoming, with smiles and laughter creating a relaxed vibe. Food service is casual, using styrofoam plates and plastic utensils, emphasizing heart and care over formality.

Bold, authentic Caribbean flavors define the menu with dishes cooked to perfection. The spot offers authentic Jamaican food in a simple setting focused on flavorful, quality meals.

Fresh and tastefully prepared, the mac and cheese pairs well with jerk chicken and plantains. It stands out for its excellent flavor and complements sides like cabbage and sweet potatoes.

People are saying

"The food here tasted amazing and was full of flavor."

"I found the food and vibes to be 100% authentic Jamaican."

"I thought the mac and cheese here was amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for all customers.

2

The restaurant closes at 1am, making it a late-night option.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

07
Red Rice Restaurant & Catering image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small, clean space offers family-oriented atmosphere with friendly energy and warm camaraderie. Smells of heavenly soul food fill the air, creating an inviting vibe that feels like a family reunion. Many order food to go, reflecting a steady, welcoming flow.

Vibrant, authentic flavors bring out the soul food and Caribbean dishes. The red rice stands out with exceptional taste reminiscent of the Georgia and South Carolina coasts.

Mac and cheese comes creamy and rich, often paired with dishes like jerk chicken or fried fish. It stands out as a comforting side that complements hearty meals well.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, cooked with love."

"The authentic soul food here is packed with rich, vibrant flavors."

"The mac and cheese here is super cheesy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens at 2 PM and closes at 7 PM, but may not open on time.

2

Expect long wait times as they only allow five customers inside at a time.

3

Catering services are available for events, but plan ahead.

08
EscovitcheZ, Atlanta Restaurant image 1

Restaurant combines authentic Jamaican vibe with modern design and artistic decor featuring Jamaican icons. Live music and a DJ create a grown and sexy atmosphere with distinct areas for intimacy and high energy. Food and drinks highlight Caribbean flavors with standout dishes and creative cocktails.

Fresh, flavorful dishes capture authentic Jamaican cuisine well. Drinks like the rum punch and Bob Marley cocktail add to the genuine vibe.

Jerk Mac and Cheese stands out with its bold flavor and generous portion that can easily serve two.

People are saying

"The food here is top tier, like chef's kiss!"

"The food here is authentic Jamaican cuisine, fresh and flavorful."

"You have to try the jerk Mac and Cheese; it's great and large enough for two."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy quickly.

2

The lunch menu differs from the dinner menu, offering unique dishes.

3

Thursday nights feature comedy shows, adding entertainment to your visit.

09
Mobay Spice Atlanta image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small space with beautiful Caribbean decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Island music plays, encouraging a lively yet calm vibe. The setting offers a brief escape to the islands with photo-friendly areas enhancing the experience.

Food features authentic Jamaican flavors with fresh ingredients. Drinks and dishes capture the true Caribbean taste consistently.

Mac and cheese features a crisp golden crust with a well-seasoned interior. It comes with seafood and lobster, adding a rich twist to the dish.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from the servers were amazing."

"I found the food here to be awesome and authentic Jamaican cuisine."

"The Mac and Cheese with seafood and lobster is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers drinks and food starting at $5 from Wednesday to Friday.

2

Taco Tuesday features $5 specials on select tacos.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

10
Il Premio image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with elegant interior design featuring dramatic curtains and horse murals creates a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Lounge area includes a live piano and an outdoor bar with skilled mixologists. Steaks and pastas stand out, complemented by a top-notch bar serving excellent cocktails.

Italian dishes come out rich and beautifully presented with a genuine taste. Staff behavior feels authentic and welcoming, adding to the overall experience.

Truffle mac and cheese features a toasted crust that adds a crunchy texture over creamy, cheesy pasta. The dish appears as a campanelle gratinata with rich, savory flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is perfection, especially the NY strip."

"The staff's authentic energy made the experience feel welcoming."

"I returned three times for the truffle mac and cheese."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

Public paid parking is available across the street.

3

Parking enforcement is strict, and aggressive booting occurs.

11
Fat Matt's Rib Shack image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small barbecue shack with classic southern style and signed posters on the walls creates a cozy, soulful atmosphere steeped in blues and local history. Live music often plays on a small stage, adding to the unique vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer a casual setting on a busy street.

Ribs here are fall off the bone and packed with authentic Southern barbecue flavor. The vibe matches the food with a messy, original rib shack feel.

Sides like mac and cheese and collard greens match the main dishes in flavor. Adding a side of mac and cheese offers good value and taste.

People are saying

"The ribs here are tender and fell right off the bone."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was great."

"I tasted authentic Southern barbecue, the ribs slid right off the bone."

Good to know

1

Live music happens from Wednesday to Sunday, starting around 7pm.

2

Expect longer wait times for large groups from 6:30 to 8:00 PM.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving via rideshare.

12
The 57th Fighter Group Restaurant image 1

WWII aviation theme shapes a unique dining space with a runway view where planes take off and land nearby. Large dance floors indoors and outdoors energize the atmosphere, complemented by a huge patio with a grass area for kids. The vibe blends lively music from a DJ with casual, family-friendly elements and an avgeek paradise feel.

Walls display authentic WWII photographs and a Third Reich flag brought back from a GI. The entrance mimics a sandbag bunker leading to a real fireplace and a bunker-like atmosphere inside.

Creamy texture stands out with a good balance of seasoning. Mac and cheese pairs well with fried catfish and fish n' chips, offering a well seasoned and not overly cheesy dish.

People are saying

"The DJ played great music that got everyone on the dance floor."

"It felt so authentic with all the old military vehicles and sandbags."

"The mac and cheese was well seasoned and good."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes between 3 and 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Reservations are recommended for holiday dining, especially on Thanksgiving.

3

Parking is ample and free, making it easy to visit.

13
Virgil's Gullah Kitchen & Bar West Midtown image 1

Former firehouse converted into a soul food restaurant with outdoor patio and garage doors that open to partial skyline views. Music from a live DJ creates a lively atmosphere that energizes the space. Decor highlights cultural pride, blending a cozy vibe with vibrant energy.

Offers an authentic taste of home from Charleston with fresh, genuine soul food. Serves as a spot where people from different places can enjoy real American flavors.

Mac and cheese stands out with a rich, creamy texture and deep flavor. It pairs well with fried wings and turkey collards on the After Church plate.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and more than enough!"

"The service here is so inviting and makes the experience worth the wait."

"I was impressed by the mac & cheese; it reminded me of my grandmother's recipe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7pm with great drink specials.

2

Reservations are advisable due to limited seating inside.

3

Expect delays during special events like themed parties.

14
Irie Mon Cafe image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Caribbean restaurant offers a small dining area with a bar and lounge featuring a DJ and lively music. Atmosphere combines a warm vibe with some challenges in cleanliness and space. Food stands out for authentic Jamaican flavors and is considered among the best in the area.

Authentic Caribbean cuisine shines through with Jamaican jerk chicken and pan chicken that taste like home-cooked meals. The food is consistently flavorful and true to tradition.

Mac and cheese comes with a rich, creamy texture and pairs well with dishes like oxtails and jerk chicken. It stands out as a favorite side alongside traditional Caribbean flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the jerk chicken was fantastic."

"I found the Jamaican food here to be the most authentic I've ever had."

"The Mac and Cheese here is worth every penny."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect potential wait times during peak hours.

2

The oxtail plate price increased from $30 to $36 recently.

3

The kitchen often runs out of Jerk Chicken, so arrive early.

15
Spice House Midtown image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Caribbean restaurant with live jazz and DJ entertainment creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Spacious, private covered patio offers a comfortable, secluded dining experience. Known for strong rum punch and authentic spicy jerk dishes, it draws a crowd seeking vibrant flavors and upbeat vibes.

Authentic Caribbean food comes from cooks who bring real flavors to dishes like oxtails. The atmosphere matches with Caribbean vibes and a great playlist.

Lobster shrimp mac and cheese arrives looking amazing with a rich, creamy texture. It scores a perfect 100, highlighting its exceptional flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the service is top-tier."

"The Mac and Cheese here is amazing, thanks to Jasmine and F.A.'s service."

"I loved the authentic oxtail, rice and peas, and plantains."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10 for self-parking and $11 for valet.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 7 PM with $5 cocktails and $15 hookahs.

3

Game night occurs every Wednesday evening.

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