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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown Austin

Cool mac and cheese spots

Mac and cheese that feels like a deliberate choice rather than a lazy menu filler.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01
Electric Shuffle Austin image 1
Electric Shuffle Austin image 2
Electric Shuffle Austin image 3
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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.

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.

Energy and ambiance stand out with cool lighting and little rooms off to the side. Access to the bar and a great DJ add to the vibe.

People are saying

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

"The vibe here is so cool, especially with the lighting and DJ."

"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.

02
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.

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.

A cool vibe fills the space with a trendy, fun atmosphere that stays romantic and classy without feeling old-school.

People are saying

"I thought the desserts were to die for."

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

"The food here is amazing, especially the steak tartare."

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.

03
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.

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.

Bartenders are super cool and laidback. The place has a small, focused menu and a very cool aesthetic.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is so good, it's like being in New York or New Orleans."

"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.

04
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.

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.

Juicy chicken with a slow heat seasoning stands out here. The place has a cool atmosphere and a clean interior that adds to the vibe.

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."

"The chicken here is so juicy and delicious."

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.

05
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.

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.

Atmosphere feels like a chic bistro with subdued lighting and a dark, old building vibe. It blends a cool, hangout-friendly mood with a touch of romance and elegance.

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."

"The atmosphere here is cool, romantic, and hangout-friendly."

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.

06
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.

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

A standout feature is the bull ride, which adds a unique twist to the setup. The overall atmosphere feels cool with friendly staff enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great."

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

"Tom Schwartz was an absolute delight."

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.

07
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 rich, creamy dish often paired with ox tails and cabbage. It appears as a favorite alongside other hearty items like jerk chicken and jackfruit.

Music sets a cool vibe throughout the spot. Portions come in generous sizes, adding to the overall cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here was really excellent and delicious."

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

"The music and vibes here are really cool."

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.

08
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.

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.

The atmosphere feels old-timey rancher with lots of vintage decor and neon signs. Giant mister fans keep the space cool and add to the Texas vibe.

People are saying

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

"It's got this cool, old-timey atmosphere with vintage decor."

"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.

09
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.

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.

Elegant and intimate interior sets a social atmosphere with tables close together. The vibe feels hip and cool, appealing to a wide age range.

People are saying

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

"The service is amazing, with attentive and friendly staff."

"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.

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Downtown Austin, Austin

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