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Kid-friendly mac and cheese in Illinois

Mac and cheese that satisfies your comfort food craving in a space that is genuinely happy to have your kids around.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
FARE image 1
FARE image 2
FARE image 3
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Health food restaurant

Health food restaurant offers a family-friendly and kid-friendly environment with a spacious and cute design. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, suited for quick, healthy meals. Regulars enjoy organic, thoughtfully prepared dishes like turkey meatballs and mac and cheese.

Very kid friendly with a spacious layout and a dedicated kids area. Menu items like salmon, mac n cheese, harissa sweet potatoes, and slaw appeal to children.

Mac and cheese here is consistently described as delicious and even healthy. It pairs well with dishes like salmon, turkey meatballs, and smoked chicken bowls.

People are saying

"I found the healthy food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was very yummy."

"It's very kid friendly and quite spacious."

Good to know

1

FARE has a kids area for family-friendly dining.

2

The menu features a variety of healthy options.

3

FARE offers a spacious environment for dining.

02
Mirella’s Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Spacious interior with a sunny back patio and natural light creates an open, inviting setting. Calm, well-lit atmosphere supports a homey vibe with top 100 music and multiple TVs showing sports. The place suits groups and families, offering kid-friendly amenities and a comfortable bar area.

Kids get crayons, paper, and juice boxes upon arrival. The menu offers chicken and burger sliders, plus fries and kids cups for easy dining.

Lobster Mac and Cheese features rich lobster pieces and a creamy cheese sauce. It pairs well with other items like wings and sweet potato fries.

People are saying

"The food here is really, really good and flavorful."

"It's really kid friendly, they even give the kids crayons and juice boxes."

"The lobster Mac and Cheese is worth trying."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour well drinks are $5.

2

The restaurant offers a great restaurant week deal for $45 that includes a steak option.

3

Daily food specials are available during happy hour.

03
JD's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Simple, spacious barbecue restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like family. Lounge and event space offer room for gatherings with TVs and a bar area. Friendly energy and good music create a relaxed vibe.

Kids enjoy the fries and find the food tasty. Meals are easy to share, making it simple for parents and children to eat together.

Mac and cheese comes baked and creamy, often paired with turkey tips, rib tips, or wings. It blends well with sides like dirty rice, yams, and baked beans, adding rich flavor to the meal.

People are saying

"These ribs just fall right off the bone."

"The mac and cheese was very cheesy and tasty."

"The fries here are so good, my son loved them."

Good to know

1

The takeout service has little to no wait, making it convenient.

2

Order in advance to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

3

JD's BBQ is open late night on Friday and Saturday for late diners.

04
JJ's Bar-B-Q & More image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers St. Louis style BBQ with tender pork steaks and meaty ribs that draw strong praise. Atmosphere feels welcoming and family-style with relaxing music and a smoky aroma. Menu is limited but focuses on quality smoked meats and classic sides.

Kids enjoy the ribs and finish the Mac & Cheese quickly. The menu offers delicious brisket that even picky eaters appreciate.

Creamy decadence with a perfect baked crust defines the Mac and Cheese here. It pairs well with brisket and baked beans, making it a solid side choice.

People are saying

"The American Food brisket is tender, juicy, and full of flavor."

"These ribs are so tender, they just fall off the bone."

"The mac & cheese here is creamy decadence, making it a kid-friendly favorite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended as they close at 6pm.

2

Expect some menu items to run out by the end of the day.

3

Parking is available right in front, with additional options nearby.

05
Cheesie’s Pub & Grub image 1

Bar and grill with groovy ambiance featuring lights, TVs, and a full bar creates a cozy and chill atmosphere. Chalkboard tables and a gaming area offer interactive entertainment for kids and adults. Popular for gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and reasonable prices, it draws a busy crowd looking for casual dining and drinks.

Chalkboard tables keep kids busy while waiting. Staff hands out deep fried peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and a giant handful of bubblegum to children. Some kids' meals may miss sides like fries.

Mac and cheese stands out as amazing and pairs well with tomato soup. It comes highly recommended alongside wings and sandwiches.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"I highly recommend the tomato soup and Mac And Cheese."

"It's so kid friendly, they even brought food to my car!"

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm.

3

Discounts are available for first responders.

06
Chubby’s Hot Chicken image 1
American restaurant

Small space with nostalgic brick wall portraits and nods to Chicago music history creates a relaxed, lively vibe filled with the scent of spices and crispy chicken. Music and old kung fu movies play loudly, adding to the friendly, community feel. Busy evenings bring a buzz of energy without overwhelming the atmosphere.

Kids enjoy the nuggets and mac and cheese here. Chicken tenders come with no heat, making them kid-friendly.

Mac and cheese pairs well with chicken dishes and wings. It comes as a side option and consistently tastes delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is spicy, flavorful, and amazing."

"The Mac and Cheese is so cheesy and creamy."

"The nuggets here are a big hit with kids."

Good to know

1

Chubby's Hot Chicken is not open on Sundays and Mondays.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 PM, limiting evening visits.

3

You can choose the level of heat: mild, medium, hot, or none.

07
Little Rock Stock Cafe image 1

Small dining area offers a rustic, homey vibe with a charming southern belle decor and no flat screens. Atmosphere feels friendly and nostalgic, reminiscent of old-school BBQ joints. A gift shop adds a quaint touch to the cozy space.

Kids find good meal options with perfectly sized sandwiches and tasty burgers. The place feels kid friendly overall.

Smoked mac and cheese stands out with a rich, authentic flavor far from processed types. It pairs well with brisket and pulled pork, making the sides consistently tasty and homemade in feel.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is so tender and juicy."

"The pulled pork here is the best I've had outside of the South."

"I found the smoked Mac and Cheese to be very tasty."

Good to know

1

They have a wide variety of unique BBQ sauces to choose from.

2

They make their own sausages on-site for fresh flavors.

3

Prices are low for the quality and quantity of food.

08
Hangry Cluck image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers freshly made fried chicken sandwiches with bold, flavorful spice levels. Cozy space features quirky décor and funny signs that create a welcoming, friendly vibe. Portions are generous and good value, attracting a crowd that appreciates quality and atmosphere.

Kids enjoy the Nashville hot chicken sandwich and the Mac and cheese here. The chicken often becomes a new favorite for younger diners.

Super cheesy and full of flavor, the mac and cheese stands out as a satisfying side. It often comes as a generous portion and is popular with kids.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and fresh."

"The chicken here is delicious, well-seasoned, and crispy."

"Their Mac and Cheese is super cheesy and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The portions at Hangry Cluck are large, perfect for sharing or a big appetite.

2

Everything is made fresh on-site, not from frozen ingredients.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean and organized environment.

09
Dave's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Spacious interior showcases graffiti art that creates a street art gallery vibe. Energetic atmosphere features loud music that fills the space, making conversation challenging. Seating options accommodate groups, supporting a lively dining experience centered on crispy, flavorful chicken.

Kids enjoy the chicken, often calling it the best they've had and wanting it daily. Manager Bob checks in to make sure families have a good experience.

Creamy texture and extra cheesy flavor define the mac and cheese here. It often comes alongside meals like chicken tenders or sliders, making it a common side choice.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with your food order."

"I thought the chicken sandwich was better than many others I tried."

"The chicken tenders were perfect and my son said it was the best ever."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, which could be frustrating during busy times.

2

The online ordering process is seamless.

3

Customer service received a 10/10 rating.

10
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1

Elegant restaurant with stunning windows and Instagram-worthy décor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with perfectly curated music. The vibe is lively and friendly, enhanced by attentive service and a beautiful city view. The space balances upscale soul food dining with a fun, electric energy.

Staff show great patience and friendliness with kids, making celebrations feel extra special. Managers and servers invite families back and ensure everyone is well taken care of during events like birthdays.

Mac and cheese comes as a rich, creamy side that pairs well with dishes like surf and turf or fried chicken. It stands out for its comforting texture and classic flavor that complements collard greens perfectly.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The mac and cheese here is creamy and comforting."

"It's really Kid Friendly for birthday celebrations."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs until 7 pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

11
Chicago Chop House image 1

Restored brownstone with early 1900s decor and photos of local celebrities creates a traditional steakhouse atmosphere. Live piano music plays softly, adding to the luxurious and old-fashioned vibe. Comfortable seating and personalized touches enhance a refined dining experience.

Staff create a welcoming atmosphere for kids and make celebrations feel special with personalized attention. Meals include kid-friendly options like fettuccine Alfredo alongside adult entrees.

Lobster Truffle Mac and Cheese serves as a large, shareable side. It combines rich lobster with creamy truffle flavors in a generous portion.

People are saying

"I found the steak to be tender and flavorful."

"You have to try the lobster mac and cheese; it's amazing."

"They made my son feel special and welcome for his birthday."

Good to know

1

During the 40th anniversary, all food ordered was 40% off.

2

Valentine’s Day celebrations offer special menu items.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays.

12
PassionEats Soul Food Restaurant and Catering image 1

Soul food restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with beautiful decor and a spacious banquet facility suitable for large family gatherings. Live entertainment like R&B and blues bands adds to the phenomenal vibe. The space feels clean and comfortable, blending a down-home feel with elegance.

Children enjoy the light, fluffy cornbread that tastes like cake. Staff show extreme hospitality to kids and families during events.

Creamy texture and rich flavor stand out in the Mac and cheese here. It pairs well with dishes like beef short ribs, smothered pork chops, and lemon salmon.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the greens and mac & cheese, is delicious."

"The food here is so flavorful, it's an experience."

"The mac and cheese is super ooey-gooey."

Good to know

1

The banquet room can accommodate up to 25 guests for events.

2

There is plenty of off-street parking available for visitors.

3

Food is served counter-style, so be prepared to order at the counter.

13
Three Bros Hot Chicken (Halal) image 1

Halal restaurant offers Zabiha halal chicken with crispy fried chicken and unique menu options like chicken tikka bowl and bubble tea. Atmosphere feels welcoming and family-oriented with laid-back beachy music and notable wall art. Prices stay reasonable while serving big, juicy sandwiches and excellent wings.

Staff keep kids' belongings safe and offer extra drinks for them. Menu includes authentic buttered chicken and strawberry bubble tea that kids enjoy.

Mac and cheese comes nice and hot with a crispy, spicy topping. Some versions are loaded, though occasionally dry and tasting like leftovers.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is juicy, spicy, and packed with flavor."

"The chicken here is so good, you'll love it."

"The Mac and Cheese was nice and hot with a crispy, spicy topping."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait of 45 minutes or more if you don't order ahead.

3

The restaurant serves 100% Zabiha Halal food, including beef bacon options.

14
Hangry Joe's Nashville Chicken & Wings image 1

Bright, open space with cool interior and awesome art creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Music volume varies, sometimes loud enough to affect conversation. Self-order kiosks offer a quiet option for ordering.

A wide variety of kids' meals keeps picky eaters happy. The soy garlic chicken nuggets stand out as a favorite even for kids who usually avoid chicken.

Spicy and loaded versions stand out with heavy sauce and a pungent kick. The loaded mac and cheese mixes crunchy and soft textures for a rich experience.

People are saying

"I found the chicken sandwich to be delicious and juicy."

"This place is so Kid Friendly, my picky eater loved the chicken nuggets."

"The Mac and Cheese is cheesy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Hangry Joe's Nashville Chicken & Wings serves Zabiha halal.

2

The restaurant is Hafsah certified, and the signage indicating this is very visible.

3

They have a hotness level for any taste.

15
All-Out Smoke Pit image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic space with weathered wood accents and warm lighting creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Friendly energy fills the air, complemented by good music and the faint crackle of burning wood. The environment feels welcoming and homey, inviting guests to relax and enjoy.

Mac & cheese appeals to picky kids and teens. The place draws families during events like village trick or treat. It offers familiar comfort food that resonates with kids from various backgrounds.

Rich and flavorful, the mac and cheese stands out even for those who usually avoid it. It pairs well with other sides like baked beans and complements hearty dishes like brisket and ribs.

People are saying

"These ribs are so tender and seasoned really well."

"The smoked meats, especially the brisket and tips, are really good."

"The chicken here is so juicy and flavorful, it's a kid-friendly favorite."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is take-out only, with no seating available.

2

Expect long wait times, often up to two hours during peak hours.

3

Prices for two takeout meals are approximately $40.

16
Matt's Barbecue and Bourbon Bar image 1

Barbecue restaurant with outdoor patio featuring live music and picnic-style seating creates a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Smoky aroma and Texas-style barbecue set a distinctive atmosphere. Evenings bring a lively energy with music and social outdoor gatherings.

Staff ensures families have everything they need. The spot is clearly kid friendly and popular for Bar-B-Q among kids.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing barbecue; it was tender and full of flavor."

"The Mac and Cheese was creamy and cheesy."

"It's a really nice and kid-friendly environment."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Thursday at Matt's Barbecue and Bourbon Bar.

2

Open mic night on Thursdays features local talent and is very popular.

3

The beef dino rib is only available on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

17
Papa Ray's Pizza And Wings Naperville image 1

Takeout and delivery spot with a few rarely used outdoor tables offers a cozy atmosphere despite limited seating. Pizza features huge slices and thin crust, with spicy, flavorful wings complementing the menu. Affordable prices and convenient ordering through apps make it a solid choice for a quick, satisfying meal.

Kids enjoy the pizza here, showing clear preference and enthusiasm. The food appeals even to picky eaters, including those selective about chicken flavor.

Varieties include spicy pepper and Italian beef mac with creamy, cheesy sauce and a mix of giardiniera and sweet green peppers. Buffalo chicken mac offers a flavorful twist, while rib tips add a tender touch.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was delicious."

"The pizza here is a huge hit with kids."

"The Mac and Cheese here is super cheesy and creamy."

Good to know

1

Papa Ray's primarily operates as a takeout and delivery restaurant.

2

The restaurant is open 7 days a week and closes at 10 pm, including holidays.

3

Delivery is available through Uber Eats and DoorDash.

18
Butcher and the Bear image 1

Steakhouse offers a dark intimate atmosphere with sophisticated, elegant vibe and beautiful decor. Live singer performances add to the swanky bar area ambiance. High-quality steaks and expertly crafted cocktails define the experience.

A 16 oz Black Onyx Ribeye offers a bold, juicy, and flavorful option that appeals to kids. Casual visits with young children create a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly and full of flavor."

"The Mac and Cheese was cooked to perfection."

"It's so Kid Friendly, my daughter loved her 16 oz ribeye."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for a table on Saturday nights.

2

Happy Hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers; don't miss it.

3

The 'Girl Dinner' special on Sundays includes two martinis and caviar fries for $29.

19
ARTHOUSE image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers great views of a river and downtown area with a laid-back but fancy atmosphere. It features comfortable half booths and a unique interior with art elements, though art presence varies in quality. The space tends to be very loud, making conversation difficult at times.

A kids charcuterie with fruits, goldfish, veggies, and cheese keeps children happy. Options like a grilled cheese with braised beef and a burger offer simple, tasty meals for little ones.

Mac and cheese features a nice crunchy top and a tasty, creamy interior. It appears as a side and in dishes like mac n cheese with shrimp, consistently delivering rich, satisfying flavor.

People are saying

"I found the burgers and fries to be delicious."

"The grilled cheese and charcuterie board are a huge hit with kids."

"The Mac and Cheese here is so tasty with a nice crunchy top."

Good to know

1

Reservations are advisable if attending a show at the nearby theater.

2

Parking can be limited; consider using nearby garages or be aware of the 90-minute street parking limit.

3

You can choose any side off the menu with your entrée at no extra charge.

20
Big Ed's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Huge, clean space with a cafeteria-style dining area creates a spacious, casual vibe. Live jazz and a full bar add to the lively atmosphere, while comfy couches offer spots to relax. Known for top-tier barbecue and a variety of sauces, it blends great food with a fun, family-like energy.

Kids get decent portions with their meals and receive a protective smock to keep clothes clean. The place has a family-friendly vibe that makes kids want to come back.

Baked mac and cheese features a rich, creamy texture with a crispy top. It pairs well with smoky burnt ends for a hearty combo.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket; it's some of the best American food around."

"I found the mac and cheese to be very flavorful and delicious."

"The chicken tenders were good and my daughter loved the ribs."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid missing out on menu items as they sell out quickly.

2

Free meals are offered on Thanksgiving Day, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Some menu items are only available on specific days, so check ahead.

21
Gracie O'Malley's Portage Park image 1

Irish pub with two bars and TVs everywhere creates a loud, electric atmosphere especially during sports games. The crowd feels welcoming and loyal, turning strangers into friends by kickoff. A DJ adds to the energy, making it a gritty, blue-collar spot rooted in city pride.

Groups with kids find lots of patience and kid-friendly options like chicken tenders, fries, and cheese curds. Kids enjoy Golden Tee arcade games and get served with kids cups and attentive service.

Melty and cheesy textures define the mac and cheese here. Cheese curds add a rich, creamy layer to the dish.

People are saying

"The bar staff here makes you feel like a regular."

"It's really kid friendly with lots of family options."

"I loved the Mac and Cheese because it was melty and cheesy."

Good to know

1

Game night happens every Wednesday with fun activities and prizes.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer $1 tacos, making it a great budget-friendly option.

3

During Bears games, expect a lively atmosphere with fans cheering and celebrating.

22
Bell Heir's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with relaxed atmosphere and inviting music creates a welcoming vibe. Walls feature a mural tribute to the owner's grandmother, highlighting family recipes. The place offers unique menu options and generous portions, drawing a crowd that appreciates authentic Chicago BBQ.

Kids enjoy the brisket pizza and other dishes like the brisket mac and cheese and brisket burger. Staff stay patient and welcoming even when kids get cranky.

Brisket Mac n Cheese stands out with its bacon topping and sweet BBQ sauce, delivering rich, flavorful bites. Turkey dishes come stuffed or topped with creamy, seasoned mac and cheese and homemade barbecue sauce.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the brisket, is so tender and delicious."

"The food here was amazing and fresh."

"The brisket pizza is amazing and my kids loved it."

Good to know

1

The menu has changed recently, so check online for updates.

2

Portion sizes may be smaller than expected; plan accordingly.

3

They do not offer public restrooms for dine-in customers.

23
Signature Steak image 1
Restaurant

Upscale sports bar with modern black-and-white decor and large screen TVs creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Dim, private lounge offers a contrasting intimate vibe with great music. Signature cocktails and well-crafted drinks stand out amid close seating and energetic crowds.

Chicken tenders and fries stand out as a kid-friendly meal option. Shrimp pasta for kids can be heavily seasoned, sometimes requiring adjustment to suit young tastes.

Sides include creamy mac and cheese that stands out. It tastes delicious and consistently impresses.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are thoughtful, indulgent, and expertly executed."

"The Mac And Cheese here did not disappoint."

"The chicken tenders and fries are the best meal for kids."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

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