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Top picks in Illinois

Mac and cheese spots

Made for those who view a bowl of baked mac and cheese as the ultimate benchmark of comfort.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Gourmet Butter Delights Soul Food and Bakery image 1
Gourmet Butter Delights Soul Food and Bakery image 2
Gourmet Butter Delights Soul Food and Bakery image 3
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Small space with a drive-thru option offers authentic soul food in a warm, family atmosphere. Rich, cheesy mac and cheese pairs perfectly with catfish and greens. Impeccably clean with standout desserts makes every visit special.

A mix of cheeses creates a rich blend in the mac and cheese. It pairs well with dishes like catfish and greens, making it a solid side choice.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the Banana Pudding Cheesecake; it's addictive."

"The Mac and Cheese here has a perfect blend of cheeses."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru is available for quick service.

2

Parking is limited due to other businesses in the strip.

3

Desserts include a great selection of cakes and cookies.

02
We're Outside image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small shed with spacious outdoor seating creates a laid-back vibe with classic R&B tunes. Pulled chicken sandwiches come with homemade mac and cheese that tastes great and pairs well with baked beans. Clean, charming spot perfect for casual and family gatherings.

Pulled chicken sandwiches come with a side of homemade mac and cheese that is flavorful and delicious. The mac and cheese consistently tastes on point and pairs well with baked beans.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was the best I've ever had."

"The ribs and pork steak here are fork tender and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

The prices are reasonable for the portion sizes and quality of food.

2

Expect generous portions, especially for the ribs.

3

The place is clean and well-maintained.

03
FARE image 1
Health food restaurant

Enjoy a family-friendly spot with a warm, welcoming vibe and organic dishes like turkey meatballs. Kids love the healthy mac and cheese, which pairs well with salmon and smoked chicken bowls. Spacious, cute design makes quick, healthy meals easy and fun.

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 loved the salmon, especially with the mac n cheese."

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

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.

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

St. Louis style BBQ shines with tender pork steaks and meaty ribs. Creamy, baked crust Mac and Cheese pairs perfectly with brisket. Family-style vibe and smoky aroma create a welcoming atmosphere.

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."

"You have to try the peach cobbler; it's delicious."

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
Puff Shack BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Bright, airy space offers a laid-back vibe with Southern charm and friendly hospitality. Mac and cheese features smoked Gouda for rich flavor, perfectly seasoned and delicious. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating creates a genuine barbecue experience.

Smoked Gouda shines in the mac and cheese, earning high praise for its rich flavor. Sides like the mac and cheese are seasoned well and consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The brisket here is tender, juicy, and the best I've had outside Texas."

"The smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese here is amazing."

"I found the Banana Pudding here to be great."

Good to know

1

Smoked jumbo chicken wings are $1 each on Wednesdays.

2

A slab of smoked ribs, cole slaw, and one side is available on Sundays.

3

Rib tip specials are offered on select days.

06
Street Food Kingz image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Puerto Rican cuisine shines with authentic street food and large empanadas. Mac and cheese fries are exceptional, often paired with shrimp or meats like chicken and steak. Casual, quiet spot focuses on pick-up and delivery in a simple, industrial setting with restaurant-quality dishes.

Papas locas with chicken or steak come topped with creamy mac and cheese. Mac and cheese fries stand out as exceptional. Shrimp pairs well with the rich mac and cheese.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reminds me of home."

"These empanadas are so delicious and flavorful."

"I found the Mac and cheese delicious and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Prices range from $10 to $20 for most dishes.

2

Portion sizes are generous, often enough for sharing.

3

Online ordering is available and relatively easy to navigate.

07
Mirella’s Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Spacious interior and sunny back patio create an inviting setting. Lobster Mac and Cheese offers rich lobster and creamy sauce. Kid-friendly amenities and a comfortable bar area make it great for families and groups.

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."

"The outdoor patio is a great sunny and spacious seating area."

"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.

08
Cheesie’s Pub & Grub image 1

Bar and grill offers a groovy ambiance with lights and TVs. Enjoy amazing mac and cheese paired with tomato soup. Chalkboard tables and a gaming area provide fun for all ages.

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.

09
Hangry Cluck image 1
Chicken restaurant

Enjoy bold fried chicken with spicy kick in a cozy spot filled with quirky décor and funny signs. Sides like super cheesy mac and cheese come in generous portions, making it a great value for families and friends.

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."

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

"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.

10
Spice Queen Vegan and NonVegan Soul Food image 1

Small spot with intimate vibe and cozy decor feels like an auntie's kitchen. Jazz and praise music set a soulful, authentic mood. Mac and cheese is exceptionally good, pairing perfectly with fried chicken and vegan dishes.

Soulful sides include mac and cheese that stands out as exceptionally good and amazing. It pairs well with dishes like fried chicken and vegan dinners with multiple sides.

People are saying

"The soul food here is delicious and exactly what I needed."

"I had a vegan smash burger and it was FREAKING AWESOME."

"The mac and cheese here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is convenient for customers visiting the restaurant.

2

The restaurant has a self-ordering system that is easy to use.

3

The kitchen fry area appears greasy and messy.

11
Dunning Pour House image 1

Cozy bar offers a laid-back vibe with multiple TVs and a darts back room for fun. Mac and cheese shines with excellent flavor, pairing well with wings and cheesesteaks. Music stays lively but lets conversations flow easily.

Mac and cheese stands out with its excellent flavor and solid quality. It pairs well with other items like wings and cheesesteaks, making it a reliable choice.

People are saying

"The bar food here is delicious, especially the wings and burger."

"It's a great local spot for food and drinks."

"The mac and cheese here is excellent."

Good to know

1

Wednesday features $14 buckets of domestic beer.

2

Enjoy $5 margaritas on special nights.

3

Bi-weekly blind draw events occur on Wednesdays.

12
McMae's Tavern & Grill image 1

Simple interior and sports bar vibe create a lively, family-friendly tavern. Buffalo chicken and Southwest flavors make the mac and cheese rich and creamy. Warm temperature adds to the energetic environment on busy weekends.

Buffalo chicken flavors stand out in the mac and cheese options. The Southwest Mac n cheese offers a distinct twist. Both versions deliver rich, creamy textures.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are so friendly and helpful."

"I found the bacon avocado chicken wrap to be excellent."

"I found the buffalo chicken Mac and Cheese to be insane."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to high traffic.

2

The tavern offers large portions suitable for sharing.

3

Weekly specials are available and worth trying.

13
Wing Zone Hot Chicken & Wings image 1

Chicken restaurant offers a quiet atmosphere with bold flavors in wings and sandwiches. Creamy mac and cheese pairs well with Thai wings and funnel cake fries. Space feels small and warm, ideal for takeout.

Creamy texture stands out in the mac and cheese here. It pairs well with other items like Thai wings and funnel cake fries, all delivering solid flavor.

People are saying

"I found their chicken sandwich to be the best I've had."

"The boneless wings here are excellent, especially with the Thai chili sauce."

"The mac and cheese here is awesome, some of the best in town."

Good to know

1

Online ordering and pickup is easy and convenient.

2

They currently offer a deal where ordering online gets you 6 free wings.

3

Pricing is cheaper than other wing places in the area.

14
North Center Prime image 1

Steakhouse blends sleek modern design with a cozy, upscale vibe perfect for romantic nights. Enjoy lobster mac and cheese, creamy and rich, often paired with hearty mains like NY Strip. Bar offers a nice view, making it a great spot for drinks or dinner.

Lobster Mac and Cheese appears as a frequent side, paired often with dishes like NY Strip, crab cake, and lamb. It features rich lobster flavor and a creamy texture that complements hearty mains.

People are saying

"I thought the steak was tender and juicy."

"The steak here is amazing, perfect for Date Spots."

"You have to try the lobster Mac and Cheese."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5 for two hours on Saturday nights.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Expect to pay around $400 for a meal for two with drinks.

15
JD's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Spacious barbecue spot offers a warm, family vibe with a lively lounge and bar. Mac and cheese is baked and creamy, pairing perfectly with turkey tips and dirty rice. Friendly energy and good music make it great for gatherings.

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."

"These chicken wings are fried perfectly and always fresh."

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

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.

16
Jesse's Soul Cafe image 1

Family-run spot shines with huge portions and a homey cookout vibe. Creamy, rich homemade mac and cheese pairs perfectly with smothered pork chops and oxtails. Lively atmosphere and caring service make every visit memorable.

Homemade mac and cheese stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor. It pairs well with dishes like smothered pork chops, oxtails, and shrimp dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and amazingly cooked."

"The mac and cheese was homemade, not a box blend."

"You have to finish with the banana pudding."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the side of the building.

2

Expect to wait an hour or more during busy times; calling ahead is recommended.

3

The portions are very large, often requiring a to-go box.

17
Quentin Tap image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza spot blends old school rock and hip hop vibe with a lively bar and warm feel. Brisket mac and cheese shines with rich, creamy flavor. Multiple TVs show sports, adding to the fun. Cocktails and pizza get strong praise.

Brisket mac and cheese stands out with its rich brisket and creamy texture. It pairs well with other hearty dishes like pizza and sandwiches.

People are saying

"I loved their pizza, especially the great crust."

"Their smash burgers are amazing and highly enjoyed."

"I loved the brisket mac and cheese; it was fire."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday with a $5 entry fee.

2

Half-price burgers are available on Wednesdays.

3

They offer daily food and drink specials throughout the week.

18
Gracie O'Malley's Portage Park image 1

Irish pub buzzes with electric atmosphere and loyal crowd. Mac and cheese shines with melty cheese curds for creamy richness. DJ spins tunes, adding to gritty, blue-collar vibe rooted in city pride.

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."

"The American food, like the burgers and nachos, is fantastic."

"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.

19
Burger Papi image 1
Restaurant

Miami-inspired decor with neon palm trees sets a vibrant scene. Poblano Mac and cheese offers a rich, creamy texture with a spicy kick. Music spans every genre, creating a lively atmosphere that welcomes a diverse crowd.

Poblano Mac and cheese stands out with its rich, creamy texture and a hint of spice. It pairs well with other bold dishes like the chilaquiles burger and green posole.

People are saying

"These burgers are huge and delicious."

"The atmosphere here is so lively and cool."

"I loved the poblano Mac and cheese; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Half-price appetizers are available from 9 to 11 pm.

2

A late night gratuity fee of $5.60 is added after 9 PM.

3

The price for 8 wings is $16.

20
The Staley image 1
Sports bar

Large sports bar offers a man cave vibe with huge screens for games. Creamy mac and cheese topped with garlic breadcrumbs and chicken stands out. Free arcade games add casual fun beyond watching sports.

Creamy texture defines the mac and cheese, topped with garlic breadcrumbs and chicken. It pairs well with other tasty sides like mozzarella sticks.

People are saying

"The food here is unique, delicious, and top-notch."

"The staff here is super friendly during live sports."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted on game days; plan accordingly.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to bills on game days.

3

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

21
Johnna's Cafe image 1
Soul food restaurant

Outdoor patio with loud music and BYOB creates a lively vibe. Soul food shines with fall-off-the-bone chicken and seasoned pork chops. Broccoli mac & cheese offers creamy texture and rich flavor, perfect with catfish and yams. Reasonable prices and a VIP section add community charm.

Broccoli mac & cheese stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor. It pairs well with dishes like sauté catfish and yams, making it a solid choice for comfort food.

People are saying

"The soul food here is amazing, especially the fried chicken and mac & cheese."

"The Mac And Cheese here is amazing."

"I loved eating on the outdoor patio."

Good to know

1

Johnna's Cafe is BYOB.

2

Johnna's Cafe accepts only cash, Cash App, or cash payments.

3

The outdoor patio is available for dining.

22
Vegan Now 2 Go image 1
Vegan restaurant

Vegan fast food spot serves addictive umami mac and cheese with kale, blending comfort and bold flavors. Jerk tacos and fried cauliflower add spice and crunch. Relaxed vibe and cute decor create a welcoming space for all.

Mac and cheese features an addictive umami taste and often comes with kale greens. It pairs well with other flavorful dishes like jerk bites and fried cauliflower.

People are saying

"I found the food delicious, hot, and fresh."

"The vegan food here is amazing, especially the comfort food options."

"The Mac and Cheese has an addictive umami taste."

Good to know

1

The hot bar costs $9.95 per pound.

2

They only accept cash, which may be inconvenient.

3

Credit card payments incur an extra $8 charge.

23
Matisse Tavern & Grill image 1

Gastropub shines with heated outdoor patio and cozy vibe. Mac and cheese features smoked cheddar garlic flavor that's truly godly. Craft cocktails and warm lighting boost the inviting energy.

Smoked cheddar garlic flavor stands out in the mac and cheese. The dish is consistently described as delicious and even godly by multiple visits.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the rosemary chicken."

"The food and drinks here are fantastic, especially the creative cocktails."

"I thought the Mac and cheese here was godly."

Good to know

1

The kitchen stays open late until around 1:00 or 1:30 a.m.

2

Happy hour offers 50% off appetizers on Sunday and Monday nights.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

24
TriBecca’s Sandwich Shop image 1

Tiny sandwich shop offers a Midwest kitsch vibe with cozy seating and lively music from metal to karaoke. Mac and cheese is rich and creamy, especially the loaded pepper jack. Sides like tots and broccoli salad add great variety to the menu.

Loaded and pepper jack mac and cheese stand out with rich, creamy flavors. Sides like tots and broccoli salad complement the extremely good mac n cheese well.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be great."

"The bread here is amazing, light, crusty, and chewy."

"I found the loaded Mac and Cheese to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Seating is first come, first serve.

2

They only accept credit cards, so be prepared with one.

3

The shop includes tips in the price, no need to tip separately.

25
All-Out Smoke Pit image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic space with warm lighting and friendly energy creates a cozy, family-friendly vibe. Rich, flavorful mac and cheese pairs perfectly with baked beans and hearty brisket. Good music and crackling wood add to the welcoming, homey feel.

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 mac and cheese here is excellent and flavorful."

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.

26
Shooters Bar & BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Large bar with tons of TV screens creates a lively sports vibe. Mac and cheese is very good and pairs well with sweet potato fries. Outdoor seating offers people watching in a laid-back, family-friendly spot.

Offers very good mac and cheese with several awesome options. It stands out among other solid sides like sweet potato fries and fried pickles.

People are saying

"You have to try the fried ribs; they're amazing."

"I loved the smoked turkey and brisket; the servings are huge."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese options were awesome."

Good to know

1

The portions are huge, so bring an appetite or order less.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours due to limited seating.

3

The parking situation isn't great, with very few spots available.

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