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Local picks

Mac and cheese in Chicago

A glass of lemonade is the only thing that cuts through the richness of a good mac and cheese.

Based on 505 Opinions
+502
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Updated May 2026
01
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 1
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 2
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 3
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Restaurant combines unique decor with a warm, welcoming vibe and top-tier music including hip-hop, R&B, and afrobeats. Atmosphere feels both like a casual takeout spot and a lively club under the right circumstances. Clean environment supports a positive, chill energy throughout.

Lemonades here stand out for their bold flavors and variety, including a notably good mango lemonade. They pair well with meals like burgers and wings, making them a must try.

Creamy and cheesy defines the mac and cheese here, with a southern-style twist that stands out. It pairs well with dishes like lamb chops and catfish, and tastes better than at other spots.

People are saying

"I experienced unique, great customer service here."

"You have to try the lemonade; it's the best I ever had."

"The Mac And Cheese is creamy and cheesy, just how it should be."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with affordable drinks for dine-in only.

2

Live DJ performs on Taco Tuesdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect a fun vibe on Fridays when the DJ is present.

02
The Soul Food Lounge image 1
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.

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 lemonade here is seasoned to perfection."

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

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.

03
St Rest #2 Country Kitchen image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a cozy southern hospitality vibe with uplifting gospel music and a vintage dining setting. Atmosphere feels like walking into granny's house, warm and welcoming with tasteful, slightly dated decor. The environment is clean, comfortable, and carries a powerful, positive spirit.

Mac and cheese stands out with rich, flavorful taste that leaves a lasting impression. It pairs well with smothered pork chops and cabbage, creating a hearty, satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the mac and cheese, was outstanding."

"The food here is seasoned to perfection."

"I will be thinking about this flavorful Mac and Cheese for a long time."

Good to know

1

The restaurant hosts a free Thanksgiving Family Style Gathering for the community.

2

Events at the restaurant occur frequently, providing community engagement opportunities.

3

Two smothered pork chops with two sides cost $20.

04
Soul Prime image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with modern contemporary design and soulful R&B music creates an intimate, joyful vibe. Music plays continuously, mixing gospel and 90s throwbacks, setting a family block party atmosphere. Spacious bar and warm hospitality add to the welcoming energy.

Spiked Strawberry and peach lemonades stand out with fresh, delicious flavors. Lavender lemonade also impresses with its bold taste. The owner often shares free lemonade with kids, adding a nice touch.

Rich, creamy texture defines the mac and cheese here. It pairs well with perfectly seasoned fried chicken and melt-in-your-mouth ribs.

People are saying

"The fried chicken and mac and cheese are soul-warming American food."

"The lemonade here is so flavorful and perfectly balanced."

"The Mac And Cheese had the perfect cheesy blend."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for parties of three or more on weekends.

2

Happy Hour runs from Tuesday to Friday, 3-6 p.m., with $3-$9 food options.

3

The kitchen closes at 9:30 p.m., so arrive early for dinner.

05
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.

Unlimited refills of fresh-made lemonades come with the grand tasting menu. The lemonade pairs with a choice of three entrees and a glass of wine or dessert.

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."

"The food here is so flavorful and tasty."

"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'.

06
Watta Potato by Yogis Bistro Inc image 1

Small space with about six chairs offers a pick-up only setup and a hot, stuffy waiting area. Atmosphere feels dark and crowded, with occasional loud noise in the back. Known for excellent potato dishes and long wait times, it attracts an older crowd despite limited seating and challenging parking.

Georgia peach lemonade stands out with a sweet, fresh flavor. Other lemonades, including a homemade version, offer a good, refreshing taste.

Mac and cheese appears as a rich topping on the "Soulfood" loaded potato, paired with greens and dressing. It also features as a standalone dish served alongside pot roast on Sundays.

People are saying

"The lamb chops here are so flavorful and delicious."

"The takeout food here is outstanding and cooked to perfection."

"The Soulfood potato was topped with Mac N Cheese, Greens, and Dressing."

Good to know

1

This is a pick-up only location.

2

It's hard to find parking.

3

You should order online to avoid a long wait.

07
Soul Vibez - Chicago image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with only a few booths creates an intimate setting. Stylish decor and a bumping sound system set a great vibe with amazing music. Authentic soul food pairs with exceptional cocktails, making the atmosphere lively and distinctive.

Refreshing blends mix mango, peach, and mixed berries in the lemonade. Options include peach lemonade and a homemade mango lemonade that stand out.

Baked to perfection with real cheese and seasoning, the mac and cheese stands out as savory and well-prepared.

People are saying

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

"The mac and cheese with yams was a hit."

"The mac and cheese was comforting, but the portion size was small."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 pm to 6 pm with $10 drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended as wait times can exceed one hour.

3

Expect a 45-minute wait if arriving shortly after opening.

08
Lexington Betty Smokehouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Open concept space with modern decoration and spacious seating creates a welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor dining adds variety, while fun music enhances the lively vibe. The environment feels comfortable and approachable, suited for casual barbecue meals.

Fresh-made lemonade stands out with its homemade quality and really good taste.

Pulled pork adds a rich, smoky flavor to the mac and cheese. The dish features creamy, cheesy pasta that stands out for its comforting texture.

People are saying

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

"I thought the banana pudding was great."

"The pulled pork mac and cheese was so tasty."

Good to know

1

All their meat is smoked, including chicken, pulled pork, and rib tips.

2

They offer fresh lemonade and bottled Pepsi products, but no fountain drinks.

3

Portion sizes are small compared to the price, which may affect value.

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Chicago, Illinois

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