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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Downtown Austin

Mac and cheese

Made for those who refuse to settle for an American-style meal that lacks a proper serving of mac and cheese.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01

Bar combines arcade games with a cozy, brick-walled interior and spacious, comfy seating. Atmosphere stays low key and trendy, welcoming groups without loud disruptions. Cocktails and food like mac & cheese and smash burgers complement the chill vibe.

Mac and cheese stands out with a rich, fancy style. Burgers, flatbreads, and loaded fries also feature as solid American food choices.

Rich and creamy fancy mac and cheese stands out as a highlight. It pairs well with other dishes like burgers and flatbreads, making it a must-try option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good and delicious."

"The American food here, especially the mac and cheese, is comforting and flavorful."

"The mac and cheese here is incredible and a must-try."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM every day with great drink specials.

2

Entry is free during holiday pop-up events, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Wing Wednesday offers special pricing on wings, making it a popular choice.

02
Electric Shuffle Austin image 1

Electronic shuffleboard with automatic scoring and innovative game modes anchors a lively bar space with funky decor and vibrant lighting. Semi-private rooms and a great DJ create an energetic, social atmosphere. Cocktails and food offer distinctive flavors that complement the upbeat vibe.

Truffle parmesan fries and cheeseburger sliders stand out as solid choices. The Cobb salad with buffalo chicken and mac and cheese bites also deliver strong flavors.

Fried mac and cheese bites stand out with their crispy exterior and rich, creamy filling. They deliver a bold flavor that complements the other dishes well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the crispy chicken with maple and a spicy kick."

"The American Food here is engaging and fun."

"The mac and cheese bites were really good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating availability.

2

Drag brunch occurs every Sunday, featuring a boozy option for $50 per person.

3

Expect a $15.99 charge per person for events, which includes shuffleboard access.

03
BOA Steakhouse image 1
Restaurant

Elegant, modern space offers a lively, upscale vibe with great lighting and a gorgeous design. Music stays at a comfortable level, enhancing a relaxing atmosphere suited for date nights. Cocktails and steaks stand out as highlights, complementing the luxurious setting.

Filet mignon and lobster Mac and cheese stand out as main dishes. The truffle mac and cheese works well as a side. Cocktails, oysters, Caesar salad, and carrot cake round out the menu.

Lobster and truffle versions stand out with rich, creamy textures and bold flavors. The truffle mac and cheese works well as a side dish with a luxurious aroma.

People are saying

"I thought the desserts were to die for."

"The American Food here, especially the steak, is cooked to perfection."

"Our server was knowledgeable and made us feel special."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 4 pm on weekdays with a special Smash Burger offer.

2

Half-priced bottles of wine are available on Monday nights.

3

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

04
Bull and Bowl image 1
American restaurant

Mechanical bull, mini bowling, and karaoke rooms create a lively, interactive space with small lanes and modern aesthetic on an upper floor. Atmosphere stays fun and clean with music, TVs showing football, and optional outdoor seating. The venue draws groups looking for unique activities and a casual, energetic vibe.

Cornbread stands out as exceptionally delicious and the wings carry a mild spice. Truffle mac and cheese offers a rich, creamy flavor, while French Toast and Eggs Benedict come out delicious and well-prepared.

Truffle Mac & Cheese stands out with rich, creamy flavors. It pairs well with wings, Brussels sprouts, shrimps, and cornbread for a solid meal.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great."

"I loved the $20 bottomless mimosa special with American Food."

"I believed the truffle mac and cheese was extremely good."

Good to know

1

On Sundays, all games are complimentary, including bowling and bull riding.

2

The bull ride costs $10 per attempt, plus tax.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

05
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken image 1

Old school diner with checkered tablecloths and paper plates creates a homey, no-frills vibe. The atmosphere is lively and warm, often crowded and buzzing with positive energy. Tight seating and casual decor keep focus on the famous fried chicken and friendly interactions.

Famous fried chicken stands out with its crispy, flavorful coating and juicy meat. It consistently draws people for its rich taste and is often considered the best fried chicken in the area.

Thick, cheesy, and very flavorful mac and cheese appears alongside fried chicken and sides. Beans and mac and cheese pair well, creating a classic, hearty combo.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken had great flavor and crispy, juicy breading."

"The Mac And Cheese here is phenomenal and cooked to perfection."

"This American food's fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and seasoned just right."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $25 for a couple of hours in nearby lots.

2

Street parking is available but can be difficult during busy times.

3

The restaurant gets very busy during lunch hours.

06
VanHorn's image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse channels classic New York style with luxurious decor and a buzzy, lively atmosphere that fills up and gets noisy. The patio offers a well-designed, fun vibe distinct from the indoor space. Cocktails and steaks stand out as key features enhancing the overall experience.

Steaks feature a Dry Aged Porterhouse with a fillet on one side and a T-bone on the other. Sides include Mac and Cheese and house salad, with desserts like NY style cheesecake.

Mac and cheese stands out with a rich, creamy texture and excellent flavor. It pairs well with sides like asparagus and creamed spinach, making it a solid choice for a comforting meal.

People are saying

"Jeremy's service made my steak experience perfect."

"Jeremy's recommendations for American food are worth taking."

"I had the best Mac and Cheese I’ve ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

2

Parking is limited; expect to pay around $18 for two hours.

3

Happy Hour offers steak tartare, prime rib sandwiches, and martinis for $10.

07
Péché image 1
French restaurant

Shotgun-style French restaurant with vintage charm and dim lighting creates an intimately festive atmosphere. High noise level fills the space, making it lively but challenging for quiet conversation. Known for an impressive absinthe selection and a cozy, cramped layout suited for small groups.

Dishes like Mac and Cheese, Duck, and Foie Gras Grits stand out for their rich flavors. The menu also features a variety of meats including Steak Tartare, grilled lamb, pork chop, and stuffed quail.

Rich and creamy with a strong truffle oil presence, the mac and cheese stands out for its indulgent flavor. Variations include duck confit and Gruyère, making it a great dish for sharing.

People are saying

"Happy Hour has fantastic cocktails and excellent food like mac and cheese."

"The mac and cheese here is rich and indulgent, perfect for sharing."

"I loved their phenomenal absinthe cocktails and extensive selection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers drinks for $6 and half-off appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during busy hours.

3

The bar area is not ideal for cocktails; consider dining instead.

08
Bill's Oyster image 1
Restaurant

Small oyster bar with an intimate, cozy space featuring an open kitchen and a bar running the length of the restaurant. Atmosphere is warm and charming with quaint patio seating for outdoor dining and friendly service. Known for phenomenal drinks and a classic coastal vibe.

Chicken fried steak comes with hush puppies that stand out. The hamburger ranks as a highlight, noted for its rich flavor and quality.

Crawfish mac and cheese stands out as a key dish, rich and flavorful. The mac and cheese overall is tasty and pairs well with seafood like lobster and oysters.

People are saying

"The oysters here are insanely fresh and taste clean."

"The American food, especially the burger, is packed with flavor."

"The crawfish Mac And Cheese was a must-try dish."

Good to know

1

Parking near the restaurant can be difficult and expensive.

2

Bill's Oyster does not take reservations, allowing for walk-in dining.

3

Happy hour features $3 oysters and $8 beer and shot specials.

09
J-Prime Steakhouse image 1

Restaurant offers a modern aesthetic with romantic atmosphere and beautiful lighting at tables. Ambiance includes loud pop and EDM music, creating a club-like energy that contrasts with the decor. Space feels busy and close, with tables near each other and servers frequently passing by.

Steaks from the Creekstone selection, like filet mignon, NY strip, and porterhouse, melt in your mouth. The New York strip stands out as exceptionally tender and flavorful.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing, tasty, and fresh."

"The American Food here is served with the friendliest, most attentive service."

"The Lobster Mac And Cheese is creamy and loaded with real lobster."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs all day on Mondays and Sundays with $10 specials.

3

The daily social hour from 4-7pm offers great value on drinks.

10
III Forks image 1
Steak house

Steak house offers classy decor with cozy lighting and comfortable seating that suits dress-up occasions. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and elegant in main areas to loud in back rooms when busy. Valet parking and unique touches like choosing knives and on-site photo printing add to the experience.

Steak comes with a thoughtful touch, boxed up for steak and eggs the next morning. Sides like mashed potatoes, lobster mac and cheese, and asparagus are sharable and tasty.

Lobster mac and cheese stands out as a sharable and delicious side. It pairs well with other dishes like steaks and mashed potatoes.

People are saying

"The steak here is the best I've ever had, cooked to perfection."

"The American Wagyu New York strip was the star of the night."

"The lobster mac and cheese here is the best I had."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited and requires reservations.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on spirits.

3

Expect a premium dining experience with high prices.

11
Happy Chicks image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant with a bar-like atmosphere featuring loud music and a disco ball adds a casual, busy energy. Crowd enjoys fresh, well-spiced chicken tenders and affordable snacks while watching multiple TVs. The vibe is laid back and inviting, fitting a lively street scene.

Fried chicken features a crispy crust that stands out. The mac and cheese comes in a white cheddar version and a bacon-topped option, both praised for their rich flavor and presentation.

Mac and cheese features a white cheddar version and comes with a touch of garnish. It pairs well with fries and dipping in Queso sauce adds extra flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the mac and cheese; it was fantastic."

"I thought the chicken tenders were the best I'd ever had."

"The American food, especially the chicken tenders, is so juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The menu offers only chicken nuggets or chicken tenders.

2

Grilled chicken is available for those on a keto diet.

3

Expect a total cost of around $15 for a meal with sides.

12
Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls image 1

Small, clean space with order-at-counter service and limited seating creates a casual, welcoming vibe. Bright interior pairs with great music to enhance the atmosphere. Quiet energy suits those seeking a simple, straightforward seafood experience.

Lobster rolls stand out with Classic and Connecticut styles both tasting fantastic. Mac and cheese and clam chowder also deliver solid, delicious flavors alongside very friendly service.

Lobster Mac and Cheese features rich lobster pieces and creamy cheese. The Classic and Connecticut versions offer smooth, comforting textures with a balanced flavor.

People are saying

"The lobster rolls here are fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

"The American Food, especially the lobster rolls, tasted very good."

"The Mac and Cheese was perfect."

Good to know

1

Parking is only available through paid options in a downtown area.

2

Seating is limited, mostly at window counters.

3

Prices for lobster rolls are around $20 each.

13
Traphouse Caribbean image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Neon lights and Kingston-inspired decor set a vibrant tone with Caribbean music and a DJ playing loud tunes. Energy shifts from a chill vibe during dining to a lively club scene on weekend nights. Space suits both intimate gatherings and larger groups, creating a dynamic atmosphere.

Mac and cheese stands out as a key dish, often paired with oxtails and cabbage. Plantains and greens also appear as notable sides.

Mac and cheese stands out as a rich, creamy dish often paired with ox tails and cabbage. It appears as a favorite alongside other hearty items like jerk chicken and jackfruit.

People are saying

"The food here was really excellent and delicious."

"I'll be returning, especially for the Mac and Cheese."

"The American Food here, especially the mac and cheese, is so good."

Good to know

1

Parking downtown costs $12 for 2 hours.

2

Happy hour offers half-price tacos and phattys on weekdays before 4:20 PM.

3

A DJ plays from Thursday to Saturday nights.

14
Bob's Steak & Chop House - Downtown Austin image 1

Classic steakhouse setting with old school vibe and American flag decor creates a lively, pub-like atmosphere. Rooftop patio offers beautiful greenery and a relaxed space for gatherings. Cocktails and wine selections stand out alongside solid steak offerings.

Lobster Mac and Cheese stands out with a rich, creamy texture and a $39 price tag. Other dishes like fried lobster tail, filet steak, and crab cakes also deliver strong flavors.

Lobster Mac and Cheese varies here, sometimes rich with lobster, other times sparse. The truffle Mac and Cheese stands out as a solid choice, while the plain Mac and Cheese and naked potato dishes are reliable options.

People are saying

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

"The American Food steaks here are cooked perfectly and melt in your mouth."

"I enjoyed the lobster Mac and Cheese."

Good to know

1

Dining at Bob's costs around $100 per person.

2

Parking can take 20-30 minutes, especially during busy times.

3

Reservations are recommended for weekends to avoid long wait times.

15
The Guest House Austin image 1

Steak house offers an elegant setting with chandelier sparkle and private seating areas for intimacy. Music ranges from a live DJ to carefully curated playlists, creating a dynamic atmosphere. Signature cocktails feature theatrical presentations that complement the upscale vibe.

Cajun fried red fish stands out with its bold flavor and crispy texture. Brunch offers wagyu steak and eggs, banana bread, and creative desserts like a faux cheese board made of key lime pie and lemon cake.

Mac and cheese comes as a complementary side with lobster and stands out as delicious on its own. It pairs well with dishes like truffle pizza and rigatoni, adding a creamy, rich touch.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, thanks to the super nice and proactive staff."

"Amanda's recommendations for American Food were spot-on and her service was top-notch."

"The Mac and Cheese here is amazing, thanks to the sweet and welcoming service."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are required for private events and must be confirmed in advance.

3

A $25 cutting fee applies if you bring your own cake.

16
Iron Works Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Historic iron works building creates a rustic ambiance with vintage decor and outdoor creek views. Atmosphere feels authentic and old-timey, with moderate music and a hot, muggy environment. Seating is limited to picnic benches, blending casual comfort with a sense of history.

Beef brisket stands out with a rich rub and unique flavor. Sides like coleslaw and baked beans complement the meats well. Mac and cheese balances creamy without being overpowering.

Mac and cheese offers a balanced flavor, not too cheesy or overpowering. It comes as a solid side often paired with coleslaw and sometimes served for free.

People are saying

"You have to try the beef ribs; they're huge and a perfect 10."

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

"The Mac and Cheese here is outstanding and delicious."

Good to know

1

Iron Works Barbecue closes at 9 pm.

2

Parking is difficult; consider finding a lot nearby.

3

Get there early to avoid long lines.

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