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Intimate mac and cheese in Chicago

Made for those who believe comfort food is best enjoyed in a quiet, low-key setting.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Soul Food Lounge image 1
The Soul Food Lounge image 2
The Soul Food Lounge image 3
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American restaurant

Small, contemporary space combines live jazz saxophone with beautiful decor to create an inviting atmosphere. The vibe feels intimate and soulful, drawing a crowd that appreciates well-crafted soul food and a relaxed setting.

Atmosphere feels intimate and welcoming, suited for quiet dinners or small gatherings.

Truffle lobster Mac and cheese features al dente pasta with lobster that is noticeable but not overpowering. The cheese sauce is well balanced, creating a unique and flavorful dish.

People are saying

"The American Food here is phenomenal, especially the perfectly seasoned yams."

"The Mac and Cheese was amazing; the food did not disappoint."

"The food here is exquisite, with elegant flavors and beautiful plating."

Good to know

1

Restaurant Week 2024 offers a $59 deal for three entrees of your choice.

2

The lounge does not serve liquor, but customers can BYOB with a corkage fee.

3

Reservations are recommended, but tables are often available without one.

02
The SoulFood Lounge 2 image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small soul food restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere with an all-black aesthetic and live music featuring jazz and saxophone. The vibe stays laid back and refreshing, suited for quiet dinners or date nights. Space is limited, creating a cozy but sometimes cramped setting.

Small size creates a perfectly intimate setting with a laid back vibe. Live music from a saxophonist adds to the atmosphere while allowing easy conversation and attentive service.

Mac and cheese comes with surf and turf options like catfish and lobster, adding rich flavors. The Tuscany Crรจme Surf & Turf offers a creamy twist, and the dish pairs well with jerk shrimp or orange chicken for variety.

People are saying

"The American Food here, like the turkey leg, is off the bone and delicious."

"It's a really intimate spot with soulful, jazzy music."

"The Tuscany Mac and cheese is full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to secure a spot inside the restaurant.

2

Parking can be difficult, often requiring a walk from 1-3 blocks away.

3

The restaurant has a 'No Share Policy' for events like 'The Grand Tasting'.

03
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.

Dark lighting creates an intimate atmosphere throughout the dining room. The space feels romantic and cozy, perfect for close conversations.

People are saying

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

"The atmosphere here is so intimate and cozy."

"The Mac and Cheese was cooked to perfection."

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.

04
Reggies Chicago image 1
Bar & grill

Multilevel bar and grill with live bands and a rooftop deck featuring a basketball hoop creates a punk rock vibe. Atmosphere is lively and energetic, often very loud with dark, moody lighting. Seating includes comfy balcony spots and ample bars throughout the venue.

Small size creates a tight, intimate space with great sound. Shows feel close and personal, making it easy to connect with performers.

Pulled pork adds a rich, smoky twist to the mac n cheese. Baked versions come with a crispy top and pair well with wings for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the pulled pork, is some of the best I've had."

"It's a nice, small, and intimate spot for a show."

"I found the pulled pork Mac and Cheese to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider using public transport or rideshares.

2

The venue hosts live music events almost every weekend.

3

Food service ends at 10pm, so plan accordingly.

05
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.

Warm, intimate lighting and a nostalgic interior create a cozy vibe. Service strikes a balance, checking in enough to care without intruding.

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."

"It's a warm, intimate vibe perfect for cozy dinners."

Good to know

1

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

2

Valentineโ€™s Day celebrations offer special menu items.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays.

06
TNT Rooftop Restaurant image 1

Rooftop setting offers beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere with top-tier music from DJs playing 90s and 2000s hits. The vibe suits date nights and small parties, featuring a semi-private room. Food and drinks include flavorful seafood and cocktails, with standout items like lamb chops and lemon drop cocktails.

Small size and a rooftop on the west side create an intimate atmosphere. The setting feels relaxing and beautiful with a cozy vibe.

Creamy and rich textures define the mac and cheese here. It delivers a perfectly balanced and unforgettable flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was good."

"The atmosphere here is so relaxing and intimate."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night on Thursdays for ladies with special pricing.

2

Wine Wednesday offers three tastings and a full glass for $20.

3

An 18% gratuity is added for all parties, regardless of size.

07
The L Station image 1
Restaurant

Small, beautifully decorated restaurant offers a cozy yet elegant atmosphere with an intimate feel. Live DJ spins strictly R&B music, creating an upbeat and fun vibe that keeps energy lively. Known for spectacular lamb chops, perfect margarita flights, and a warm, welcoming ambiance.

Cozy and small space creates an intimate vibe. More room opens up toward the back, but the overall feel stays close-knit.

Mac and cheese comes as a side dish with fried chicken and greens. It tastes good and complements the perfectly seasoned fried chicken well.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was amazing."

"The setting feels intimate and cozy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for parties of 10 or more.

2

Expect a two-hour wait without a reservation.

3

The kitchen closes at 7pm, so arrive early.

08
Tortoise Supper Club image 1
American restaurant

Elegant supper club blends live jazz music with a cozy, lively atmosphere featuring dark wood and colorful jazz-inspired wallpaper. Dining spaces include a private room with a bar, creating intimate vibes amid a bustling crowd. The setting combines elements of a jazz club and restaurant for a unique experience.

Stunning atmosphere creates an intimate and sophisticated setting. The space feels elegant and unforgettable, perfect for close gatherings.

Creamy and rich, the five-cheese mac & cheese stands out as a popular side. It pairs well with other dishes like creamed spinach, both offering delicious flavors.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and delicious."

"The service here is intimate, with a warm, attentive, and detail-oriented staff."

"The Mac And Cheese here is buttery soft."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for private events and should be made well in advance.

2

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

3

Valet parking costs $16 for three hours, making it convenient for guests.

09
Soule To Soule image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with green velvet decor and 1990s Harlem vibe feels more like a bar or lounge than a traditional restaurant. Cozy, intimate atmosphere pairs with top-tier R&B music and lively energy. Tables are low and tiny, emphasizing a focus on cocktails and socializing over formal dining.

Cozy seating creates an intimate atmosphere that suits small groups well. The setup encourages close conversation and a personal dining experience.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and amazing."

"The mac and cheese had a fine flavor but felt like an attempt at upscale."

"It's so cozy and intimate here."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended due to limited seating.

2

It's BYOB with a $10 fee for bringing your own bottle.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

10
Truffle Restaurant & Bar image 1

Space feels very small and intimate, with dim lighting and black walls creating a cozy but sometimes crowded atmosphere. Music plays a smooth 90s R&B playlist, adding to the vibe. The setting suits small groups but can feel tight during busy times.

Space feels small and tight, creating a cozy atmosphere. Limited seating adds to the intimate vibe.

Creamy and cheesy textures define the mac and cheese here, making it comforting and rich. It pairs well with dishes like lamb chops and red snapper, complementing the meal perfectly.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The Mac And Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and comforting."

"It felt super intimate and small, like a cozy space."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant is BYOB for a small fee.

3

A $12 service fee is applied for carry-out orders.

11
MiMi's Craft Kitchen image 1
American restaurant

Small space with about 15 seats creates a cozy vibe that fills quickly, making it lively and sometimes loud. Live jazz and DJ sets provide on point music, enhancing the laid-back atmosphere. Outdoor patio and creative American dishes like jerk chicken birria tacos add unique touches.

R&B vibes create a chill, intimate ambiance with a laid-back feel. The atmosphere feels quaint and family-type, clean and cozy.

White cheddar Mac & Cheese stands out with its rich, creamy texture. Mac & Cheese Balls come large, with crispy breading and a perfectly creamy interior packed with flavor.

People are saying

"The jerk birria tacos here are out of this world."

"The intimate food here is amazing, especially the hot honey catfish."

"I loved the fried Mac and Cheese balls."

Good to know

1

Be prepared for a wait on weekend nights.

2

Expect a 60-minute wait during peak hours.

3

They do not accept reservations; it's first-come, first-served.

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Chicago, Illinois

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