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Best of St. Louis

Mac and cheese spots

Made for those who view a midday meal as the appropriate time to indulge in a serving of mac and cheese.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Adina's Vegan Cuisine image 1
Adina's Vegan Cuisine image 2
Adina's Vegan Cuisine image 3
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Small food hall setting offers a clean, bright atmosphere with an upbeat, welcoming vibe. Seating feels casual, leaning toward grab-and-go style dining. The space combines professional touches with neighborhood charm.

Hearty sandwiches come with a seafood Mac & kale salad that fills you up for both lunch and dinner. Service slows during lunch rush because of a single sandwich press.

Mac and cheese stands out with its exceptional flavor and a unique vegan twist. It pairs well with dishes like fried oyster mushrooms and tatter tots with chili sauce.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The vegan food here is incredible and flavorful."

"The vegan ruben and smothered potatoes make for a delicious Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and well lit near the restaurant.

2

Customers order at the counter and find their own seating.

3

The menu features different items daily, so check ahead.

02
Hogtown Smokehouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small indoor space feels cozy but loud, with dark lighting and a homey vibe. Large outdoor patio offers a spacious, relaxed atmosphere with games and live sports on many TVs. Crowd enjoys smoked meats aroma and lively energy, often accompanied by cold beer and live music setups.

Seating for groups up to eight happens with no wait on Sunday. Lunch options include smokehouse dishes enjoyed after visits to nearby attractions like the zoo and museums.

Brisket stuffed mac and cheese offers a rich, hearty flavor. The dish combines creamy pasta with smoky meat, making it a standout choice.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the tasty pulled pork."

"The brisket at this Lunch Spot is so good."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street near the restaurant.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

3

The restaurant offers both inside and outside seating options.

03
Dalie's Smokehouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small, cozy barbecue spot with outdoor patio seating and a drive-through window that welcomes pets. Atmosphere feels warm and laid back, with a friendly, intimate vibe and well-done decor inside. Busy and casual, it offers a unique menu with standout dishes not found elsewhere.

Hearty meals define the lunch offerings here. Plates come with generous portions and satisfying flavors that make lunch a solid choice.

Fresh taste with a spicy kick defines the mac and cheese here. The version with baked beans adds a unique twist to the classic dish.

People are saying

"I found Dalie's Smokehouse to have some of the best BBQ around."

"These ribs are so tender, they just melt in your mouth."

"This barbecue Lunch Spot is the best I've had in a long time."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid long wait times.

2

They often run out of popular items like smoked turkey and ribs.

3

Online ordering is unavailable for sold-out items, but phone orders can be placed.

04
Gourmet Soul Restaurant and Catering image 1

Soul food restaurant offers a chic, elegant atmosphere with smooth R/B music and gorgeous, trendy decor. The space feels calm and upscale, attracting a lively crowd especially on busy days. Plates and bowls feature stylish designs, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Cozy spot offers great lunch with food so good it invites a second round before heading out. The experience feels satisfying and worth a dedicated lunch visit.

Mac & cheese stands out as a favorite with a very good, creamy texture. It pairs well with dishes like chicken alfredo and greens.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, truly amazing soul food."

"The Mac And Cheese here is so good, it will change your life."

"This Lunch Spot's food is simple but amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on busy days to avoid long wait times.

2

Catering services are available for events, but advance booking is necessary.

3

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

05
Smoke N Bones BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small, intimate barbecue restaurant with open dining area and plenty of space between tables. Atmosphere is laid-back and quiet, with no music and a mix of hickory smoke and incense scents. Offers indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating with simple, clean decor and multiple TVs.

Lunch offers generous portions like 1/3 or half racks of ribs. Prices stay reasonable, and sides include corn and fried okra. The BBQ holds up well for leftovers the next day.

Creamy texture and smoky flavor stand out in the mac and cheese. It tastes freshly made, lighter than baked soul food styles but still well flavored.

People are saying

"These ribs are spicy, flavorful, and absolutely perfect."

"The mac and cheese is creamy and flavorful."

"The ribs here are juicy with a flavorful, sweet-leaning rub."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a BYOB policy, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

Expect a $20 charge for a half slab plate.

3

Cash payments receive a discount, making it more affordable.

06
The Stellar Hog image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Spacious patio with live music creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Indoor space feels hot and can get crowded, while outdoor seating offers room for groups and kids to play. Known for top-tier barbecue and a fantastic bar, it blends great food with a fun vibe.

Lunch features delicious food served in a lovely backyard space. The spot works well for a quick stop or a relaxed meal.

Mac and cheese features an amazing cheese pull and pairs well with pork ribs. It stands out alongside brussel sprouts as a recommended side.

People are saying

"I found the brisket here to be outstanding."

"I loved the tender brisket with my Mac and Cheese."

"This Lunch Spot's BBQ, especially the ribs and brisket, is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 9 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Sundays are beef rib days, offering a special menu item.

3

Music bingo happens on Wednesdays, providing a fun activity.

07
Five Ace's Smokestaq Lightning image 1

Old late 1800s building with wooden beams and hardwood floors creates a blues stage vibe. Smoker on the sidewalk fills the air with rich barbecue aroma. Covered patio offers riverfront views and a family-friendly atmosphere with tasteful music.

Pulled pork sandwich and ribs come with a side of Mac n cheese. The mac and cheese uses mostaccioli pasta and has a powdery taste.

People are saying

"I had the best BBQ I've ever experienced here."

"This lunch spot's smoked meats, like the ribs and brisket, are tender and flavorful."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese tasted great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-run and veteran-owned, providing a personal touch.

2

The menu is small but offers a variety of BBQ options.

3

The location is easily accessible from the metro station.

08
Chuck's Hot Chicken® image 1
Chicken restaurant

Modern, hip interior with a dim, clean design sets a casual tone. Loud music creates a club-like energy, contrasting with the mostly carryout setup and limited seating. Known for custom heat levels and excellent fried chicken sandwiches, the place draws those seeking flavorful, spicy chicken.

Chuck's Hot Chicken® offers a wonderful spot to pick up lunch with options for above board meals. It suits quick stops for lunch or snacks.

Mac and cheese features white cheddar with perfectly cooked noodles. It pairs well with chicken strips and fries, making it a favorite for kids and adults alike.

People are saying

"The chicken sandwich here is so tender and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken sandwich is thick, juicy, and perfectly fried."

"The Mac and Cheese noodles were cooked just right."

Good to know

1

The menu is a la carte, with no combo meals available.

2

Expect to pay around $17 for five chicken tenders.

3

Only one sauce is included with each order of chicken tenders.

09
Nubby’s Telegraph image 1

Small, cozy restaurant with intimate setting and loud, lively atmosphere featuring live music and crowd singing. Regulars enjoy exceptional barbecue and pizza alongside a dog-friendly patio and multiple TVs for sports. Space fills quickly with a neighborly vibe and limited seating.

Lunch features smoked pastrami with clear flavor, not just reheated meat. Seating happens quickly and service is prompt around midday. This spot works well for a solid, straightforward lunch.

Very cheesy without a plastic taste, the mac and cheese stands out. It pairs well with brisket and burnt ends for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"You have to try the American Food, the Philly Cheesesteak is stuffed with cheese."

"You have to try the cheesesteak; it's a massive, juicy brisket sandwich."

"The mac and cheese here is excellent and to die for."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for peak hours like weekends.

2

Limited seating is available during busy times, so arrive early.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted appetizers and drinks.

10
The Over/Under Bar & Grill image 1

Bar and grill combines live music with an adult arcade and multiple TVs for sports viewing. Atmosphere is loud and chilly, with patrons often bundled up indoors. Seating includes a patio and private lounge areas, though some spots have obstructed views due to pillars.

Lunch options include dine-in, outdoor seating, and catering services. Staff provide attentive service and the spot suits both casual and business lunches.

Creamy texture and cheesy sauce stand out in the mac and cheese. It delivers a rich, smooth flavor that many find exceptional.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great."

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

"The servers at this Lunch Spot are super friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Brunch on weekends features buy one get one free mimosas.

3

The kitchen stays open until 1am on Friday nights.

11
Peacemaker Lobster & Crab image 1
Seafood restaurant

Rustic New England motif with seaside decor and portrait photos of fishermen creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Lantern-lit dining and dog-friendly patio add to the welcoming vibe. Noise level rises, making conversation challenging during busy times.

Few outdoor tables offer a quiet spot for lunch with fast service. The crab roll stands out as a popular lunch choice.

Lobster mac and cheese stands out with a good balance of flavors and portion size. The dish is consistently tasty and well-liked.

People are saying

"I thought the lobster roll was the best I ever tasted."

"This lunch spot's lobster rolls are rich, delicious, and filling."

"The lobster mac and cheese was excellent and tasty."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

3

Expect a 30-minute wait for tables on weekends.

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St. Louis, Missouri

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