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Mac and cheese in Central Harlem

Mac and cheese is a benchmark dish, and you know when it has been made with the right level of care.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
PB Brasserie steak house image 1
PB Brasserie steak house image 2
PB Brasserie steak house image 3
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Modern steak house offers a spacious, elegant design with classy decor and pristine uniforms. Atmosphere blends warmth and sophistication with lively music from a DJ playing afrobeats and R&B. Private event space adds versatility for celebrations.

Fine dining offers consistently top notch service and excellent food quality. The menu suits celebrations, evening meals, and brunch with a strong focus on steak and drinks.

Creamy and rich, the Lobster Mac and Cheese features chunks of fresh lobster and packs a lot of flavor. It pairs well with dishes like rotisserie chicken and stands out as a highly recommended option.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"The ribeye steak and lobster mac and cheese at these dinner spots were amazing."

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

Good to know

1

PB Brasserie is open on Sundays despite Google Maps indicating they are closed.

2

PB Brasserie offers a delightful menu of French cuisine.

3

PB Brasserie is suitable for a romantic dinner or special celebration.

02
Kingston Bakery Harlem image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Caribbean bakery with authentic vibe and warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with gospel and reggae music. Space offers takeout only, creating a down-to-earth, home-like feel. Artwork and a fireplace add to the cozy environment.

Freshness stands out with every dish, delivering authentic Jamaican flavors. Service is consistently polite and attentive, making the food experience smooth and enjoyable.

Stand-up Mac and cheese pairs well with the beef patty, sometimes even stuffed inside it. This Mac and cheese stands out among West Indian options for its flavor and texture.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and hot."

"The Oxtail here is amazingly tender and rich."

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

Good to know

1

This place is only for takeout; there is no space for dine-in.

2

The establishment is closed at 6:29 PM.

3

The menu states 'WEEKDAY Lunch Special', but Friday at 12PM is considered a weekend.

03
Greedy Pot image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Small Southern restaurant offers authentic soul food with dishes like oxtails made from scratch and candied yams. The atmosphere feels homey and cozy, with pumping music creating lively energy. Seating is limited as the spot focuses on takeout, run by a family with a welcoming vibe.

Food features fresh flavors and authentic soul food with dishes like macaroni and cheese, fried shrimp, and rice and peas. Portions come in a fair price range and the food tastes well-seasoned and clean.

Baked mac and cheese comes nicely browned with a flavorful taste. It pairs well with sides like yams and collard greens and is popular with kids.

People are saying

"The oxtail here is fall-off-the-bone tender and perfectly seasoned."

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

"The baked Mac and Cheese was perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7 PM.

2

You must call before coming to the restaurant.

3

Expect to wait at least 15-20 minutes for made-to-order chicken wings and fish.

04
Jerk House Caribbean Restaurant image 1

Takeout-only Jamaican restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with great R&B music and a welcoming vibe that evokes island spirit. The space feels friendly and vibrant, making it a standout spot for authentic Caribbean energy.

Authentic Jamaican food shines here with excellent flavor and satisfying portions. The food consistently pairs with great service for a solid dining experience.

Baked Mac and Cheese offers layered flavors with a rich, creamy texture. It pairs well with jerk pork and fried chicken, making it a solid choice alongside spicy BBQ dishes.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so authentic, it reminds me of being back in Jamaica."

"I loved the jerk wings and their mac and cheese."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Caribbean dishes.

2

Prices for lunch are reasonable and affordable.

3

The establishment is extremely clean and well-maintained.

05
Charles Pan-Fried Chicken image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with open kitchen and limited seating offers a family-like atmosphere energized by live music and interactive moments. Outdoor patio adds comfort for sunny days. Energy feels lively and welcoming despite compact setup.

Soul food stands out with freshly made dishes that deliver amazing flavor and comfort. The food consistently impresses with its deliciousness and quality.

Mac and cheese comes as a hearty, well-prepared side that pairs beautifully with fried chicken and collard greens. It offers a comforting, delicious addition that complements the meal perfectly.

People are saying

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

"I thought the fried chicken was seasoned to perfection."

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

Good to know

1

Chicken and waffles are only available on Sundays.

2

They serve catfish on Tuesday.

3

You canโ€™t dine in; the eatery is for take out only.

06
Red Rooster Harlem image 1

Restaurant offers live jazz performances with a colorful African American decor that creates a soulful atmosphere. The space includes a covered terrace and a bar area, though the bar can feel cramped. The vibe is engaging and lively, especially during music events.

Soul food stands out with delicious flavors and amazing quality. The dining experience combines excellent service with great food and entertainment.

Creamy, cheesy pasta blends with well-seasoned greens like collards, adding an earthy touch. The dish offers a comforting, rich flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the fried chicken, is crispy and delicious."

"The food here was so delicious and amazing."

"The Mac and cheese with collard greens and lobster was a game changer."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation well in advance, especially for Sunday brunch.

2

Gospel brunch is held every Sunday and features live music.

3

Happy hour runs from noon to 10 p.m. with discounted appetizers and cocktails.

07
Row House image 1
American restaurant

Industrial decor with underground chic style sets a spacious yet lively scene. Live jazz and DJ music create a loud, energetic atmosphere that suits grown folks and party vibes. Seating ranges from comfortable booths to tight tables near the DJ, making conversation challenging during peak times.

Food here is consistently delicious with excellent quality and plentiful portions. The menu pairs well with the lively atmosphere, making meals enjoyable even when seated away from the main action.

Short Rib and Lobster versions stand out with rich, creamy textures. The mac and cheese combo appetizer offers a satisfying mix of flavors and is a popular choice.

People are saying

"The Brunch vibe is energetic with a DJ playing old school songs."

"I found the food here to be good."

"The mac and cheese here is amazing and can be shared."

Good to know

1

Brunch at Row House occurs on the second Saturday of each month.

2

Happy hour prices are unbeatable, running from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Reservations are suggested in advance to secure a table.

08
Empire Restaurant: Soul Food & Salad Bar image 1

Bright, clean space with warm, inviting atmosphere and slow-cooked aromas filling the air. Soul food dishes show care and attention to detail, featuring crispy fried chicken and rich, creamy mac and cheese. The place offers a relaxing spot to enjoy homemade flavors in a neat setting.

Soul food here tastes homemade and fresh. Dishes deliver authentic flavor that feels warm and satisfying.

Rich and creamy texture defines the mac and cheese here. It stands out as a consistently good and flavorful dish among traditional sides.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and flavorful."

"The salmon here was very, very perfect."

"I found the Mac and Cheese to be the best item they sold."

Good to know

1

Only paying customers can use the bathroom facilities.

2

The platter costs $20, so budget accordingly.

09
Make My Fish image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot buzzes with lively energy and a friendly, community vibe. It fills quickly with people enjoying crispy, flavorful catfish and tunes that keep the mood upbeat. The space is compact with limited seating but offers strong air conditioning and a welcoming atmosphere.

Freshly prepared food comes without delays even when the place is busy. The dishes are consistently amazing and well worth the wait.

Mac and cheese here has a rich, creamy texture and a homestyle flavor that reminds of grandma's cooking. It tends to be a bit salty, so some might find the seasoning strong.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the catfish, is savory and seasoned to perfection."

"The food here is so good and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

This restaurant is cash only and take out only.

2

They only make cornbread on Fridays.

3

Chicken is only available on Fridays.

10
Jacob Soul Food Restaurant image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space hosts live soul and jazz music that sometimes gets loud, creating a vibrant but intense atmosphere. Casual setup includes outdoor seating and a pay-by-weight take-out bar. The vibe reflects a Harlem-inspired soul food experience with sociable energy.

Offers Afro-American, African, and Caribbean soul food flavors with consistently delicious dishes like oxtails. Features a salad bar and maintains a clean, inviting atmosphere with friendly, accommodating staff.

Mac and cheese pairs well with jerk chicken and stands out as a favorite alongside collard greens and fried fish. It appears consistently as a solid, flavorful side in hearty, well-rounded meals.

People are saying

"The soul food here is amazing, with great variety."

"The live music here made the place lively and fun."

"The mac and cheese here is great."

Good to know

1

You serve yourself like a buffet and pay by weight at the checkout.

2

The buffet offers the best quality/price in Manhattan, around $15 per person by weight.

3

Five people can eat very generously for less than $80.

11
Renaissance Harlem image 1
New American restaurant

New American restaurant offers indoor and covered outdoor seating with a lively DJ-driven atmosphere. The vibe balances classy and welcoming, suitable for both special nights and casual gatherings. A clean, spacious bar area complements the overall experience.

Food blends traditional American cuisine with an African twist. The Brazino stands out as an understated amazing dish delivering complete contentment.

Lobster mac and cheese stands out with its rich, creamy texture and generous lobster chunks. Kids and adults both find the lobster mac and cheese incredible and satisfying.

People are saying

"The DJ played lively music that made people dance."

"The food here is amazing and super good."

"The Mac And Cheese had a lively atmosphere with a DJ."

Good to know

1

Ladies Night on Wednesdays offers unlimited drinks for 90 minutes with two appetizers for $50.

2

Brunch gets busy on Sundays around 1pm, so arrive early.

3

Happy hour runs all night on Wednesdays, but prices should be clear on the menu.

12
Jacob Restaurant image 1
Soul food restaurant

Buffet-style soul food spot with clean, cafeteria-style seating and a well-lit atmosphere. The vibe is welcoming but somewhat lacking warmth despite tasty dishes like jerk chicken and sweet yams. Seating in the back includes a TV and music, creating a casual, community feel.

Food here is consistently fresh and flavorful, with abundant portions that stay hot when served. The oxtail stands out as a serious dish, and packaging prevents any leakage for takeout.

Mac and cheese varies here, with some finding it tasty and others describing it as bitter or garbage. It appears inconsistent across visits.

People are saying

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

"The oxtail here is serious, with a flavorful sauce."

"I found the mac and cheese to be very tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout only with no dining inside.

2

Food is sold by weight at a buffet style layout.

3

A1 Soul Food weighs your plate, so be mindful of portion sizes.

13
Sylvia's Restaurant image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant with a classic Harlem vibe and live gospel and jazz music creates a genuine, buzzing atmosphere. Photographs on the walls give it a museum-like feel alongside cozy seating. The place offers a homemade rum punch that complements the rich cultural experience.

Offers excellent comfort food with a focus on home-cooked soul food. The dishes are consistently delicious and satisfying.

Baked mac and cheese stands out with its rich flavor and creamy texture. It pairs well with chicken and greens for a classic meal.

People are saying

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

"The complimentary cornbread was warm, soft, and perfect."

"The Mac And Cheese is creamy and comforting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential to avoid a long wait, especially on weekends.

2

The gospel brunch starts at 1 p.m. on Sundays with live music.

3

Expect a wait time of up to 2.5 hours during peak hours.

14
Melba's Restaurant image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Lively space blends live music with a street party vibe and authentic Harlem energy. Crowded seating and narrow entrance contrast with family-like warmth and vibrant atmosphere. Walls showcase notable art, enhancing the unique dining experience.

Comfort food stands out with rich, soulful flavors. The menu offers consistently delicious dishes that pair well with a lively atmosphere.

Offers a rich and creamy mac and cheese with a generous portion. Pairs well with collard greens and yams for a classic Southern combo.

People are saying

"You've got to try the American Food, especially the mac and cheese."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I loved the mac and cheese, it had a pleasant texture."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary on weekends to ensure seating.

2

Every Sunday, Melba's has live music outside.

3

On Sundays during the summer, there is a block party from 4pm to 8pm.

15
The Nephew Supper Club image 1
Creole restaurant

Outdoor patio with heated tent and neon lighted quote wall offers a warm, comfortable setting. Indoor space feels small and cramped, requiring loud voices to communicate. Live DJ plays lively R&B music, creating an energetic atmosphere with beautiful people socializing.

Food features shrimp and grits, catfish, chicken, and mashed potatoes with a 1920s Harlem Renaissance decor and jazz music setting. The dishes and drinks are consistently delicious and phenomenal.

Hefty portions of creamy, golden baked mac and cheese stand out, delivering a soulful taste. Some servings meet high standards, while others fall short.

People are saying

"The chargrilled oysters at Brunch were smoky, cheesy, and unforgettable."

"The food here was great, especially the red snapper filet."

"The Mac and Cheese is creamy, golden, and right out of the oven."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy times like Sunday.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added for parties of 3.

3

The 'Dinner and a Show' deal is available.

16
Chocolat Restaurant & Bar image 1

Restaurant offers a homey, quaint vibe with amazing music from an in-house DJ that energizes the space. Seating varies from spacious indoors to a packed outdoor patio, creating lively social settings. Decor blends lovely and diner-like elements, giving a unique, approachable atmosphere.

Food comes with amazing presentation and excellent service. Dishes taste delicious and consistently impress.

Offers lobster mac and cheese that stands out for its richness and flavor. The beef short ribs mac and cheese is also highly flavorful and pairs well with other hearty dishes.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the fried chicken, is so crispy and delicious."

"The food here is great and mouthwatering."

"The Mac And Cheese was delicious and fried well."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour menu is available, but ask for it specifically.

2

Brunch menu is available all day, including weekdays.

3

Unlimited drinks for one hour are offered on select drinks.

17
Amy Ruth's image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a family atmosphere with phenomenal murals and live R&B music at a low volume. Seating feels comfortable despite a small, somewhat cramped layout. The vibe suits celebrations and large groups, creating a welcoming, lively energy.

Delicious soul food stands out with generous portions and great value. The menu includes steamed soul food and catfish dinners that satisfy regularly.

Rich and flavorful, the mac and cheese stands out with its warm, soft texture and distinct taste. It pairs well with dishes like chicken wings and pork chops, making it a comforting side.

People are saying

"The home-cooked food, like the meatloaf, was really good."

"This American food's fried chicken is the best I've ever had."

"The Mac And Cheese used to be amazing soulful comfort food."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on Sundays due to gospel mass attendance.

2

Wednesday is Grape Kool Aid day, a special event at the restaurant.

3

Get there early if you want to dine in, especially on weekends.

18
BLVD Bistro NY image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small, cramped space with tables close together creates an intimate setting. Lively music from a DJ and live band fills the air, driving a vibrant atmosphere where singing along is common. Strong, well-crafted cocktails and standout dishes like biscuits and catfish add to the energetic vibe.

Food here stands out for its great taste and consistently very good quality. The combination of excellent service enhances the overall dining experience.

Rich, creamy texture defines the mac and cheese here. It pairs well with chicken and collard greens for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"The brunch food here is excellent and very flavorful."

"The food here is great, with excellent flavors and seasoning."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was just okay."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour is only available at the bar, not at tables.

3

Be prepared for a 2-hour wait for brunch on weekends.

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Central Harlem, New York

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