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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Milwaukee

Mac and cheese lunch spots

Mac and cheese that feels like a deliberate choice rather than a desperate comfort-food fix.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
Coaches image 1
Coaches image 2
Soul food restaurant

Soul food spot with casual, clean atmosphere and mall-style seating offers a call-in, pick-up focus. Menu features crispy fried chicken and unique African watermelon margaritas. Air-conditioned space feels comfortable and friendly for quick meals.

A pleasant ordering experience and a not too crowded atmosphere make this a solid choice for lunch. It fits well for a quick, easy midday meal without the usual lunch rush.

Mac and cheese has a homemade taste with a unique flavor that stands out. It pairs well with dishes like catfish and comes alongside other solid sides like fries and mashed potatoes.

People are saying

"The American Food here comes with genuinely good customer service."

"The Mac and Cheese here is delicious and the service is excellent."

"The chicken tenders and mac and cheese make this a great Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect longer wait times during lunch hours on weekends.

3

The venue closes at 8pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

02
Top tier luxe kitchen image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere with awesome music and clean surroundings. The vibe is welcoming and good, attracting those who appreciate well-seasoned dishes and a relaxed setting. It stands out for its top-tier food quality and casual dining experience without servers.

Lunch offers a top tier luxe kitchen experience with options that satisfy throughout the day. Meals come with a focus on quality and variety for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Cheesy and sharp mac and cheese offers an impressive cheese pull. It pairs well with sides like greens and sweet potatoes for a balanced meal.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and hot."

"The Lunch Spot food was hot, good, and seasoned very well."

"The mac and cheese here is so cheesy and sharp."

Good to know

1

Turkey leg Thursdays offer a unique menu item each week.

2

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for food during busy hours.

3

The restaurant operates without servers; customers order at the register.

03
Dave's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Dining room showcases local graffiti art with vibrant colors and a trendy, modern design. Atmosphere feels welcoming and cool, with background music enhancing the vibe. Popular spot for casual hangouts, especially among younger crowds.

Lunch here features consistently spotless dining areas and bathrooms even during busy times. Staff provide great service that makes the lunch experience smooth and enjoyable.

Fresh ingredients create a tasty Mac n cheese that many find amazing. The dish generally satisfies, though some may not be as keen on it.

People are saying

"I thought the food was great and always fresh."

"I found the Mac And Cheese to be amazing and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot is the best Dave Hot Chicken I've had."

Good to know

1

The dining area and bathroom are clean even during busy hours.

2

Expect quick service; food is prepared in under 5 minutes.

3

Pricing is affordable for the quality of chicken offered.

04
O'Lydia's Bar and Grill image 1

Irish pub with spacious indoor and outdoor seating and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that encourages conversation. Donation-based shuttles run to major events, adding convenience. Nearby train tracks cause occasional loud noise, but the well-lit enclosed patio offers a pleasant, secluded space.

Lunch features shepherds pie and chili alongside a strong variety of beers on tap. The spot serves solid meals paired with quality pints during lunch hours.

Bowls feature real bacon and deliver a comfort food vibe. Options cater well to mac and cheese lovers with consistently great taste.

People are saying

"The pub food here is fantastic and reasonably priced."

"I enjoyed the delicious food at this lunch spot."

"The Mac and Cheese here is out of this world."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sundays with special drink prices.

2

Saturday Steak Night features discounted steak options and drink specials.

3

Daily food and drink specials are available throughout the week.

05
Daddy's Soul Food & Grille image 1
Soul food restaurant

Cafeteria-style soul food restaurant with soulful decor featuring African American memorabilia and family history. Atmosphere feels family-oriented with old school music and relaxing vibes. Dining space is clean and visually appealing, creating a pleasant place to sit and eat.

Lunch offers delicious soul food with a welcoming atmosphere. The spot supports community programs like the Senior lunch program and accommodates group gatherings.

Mac and cheese pairs well with yams that add a sweet contrast. The dish is consistently delicious and well-prepared, often served alongside chicken or catfish.

People are saying

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

"I usually don't like restaurant mac and cheese, but this was so good."

"This lunch spot's catfish and greens are perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Expect a long line if you arrive during peak hours; visiting early is advised.

2

Parking can be tricky; there's an additional lot next to the main parking lot.

3

The price for a meat and three sides is under $20.

06
Stella Van Buren image 1
American restaurant

Space features huge windows and high ceilings, creating an inviting atmosphere with great city views. Bar offers an exceptional liquor wall and fantastic bourbon cocktails. Dining room combines a beautiful setup with a romantic vibe.

Lunch features quick service and attentive servers who know meal and wine pairings well. Food offers healthy options and includes solid choices like Caesar salad, with a focus on quality and detail.

Baked Mac and cheese stands out with its rich, creamy texture. The truffled bucatini version offers a creamy and well-cooked twist on the classic.

People are saying

"The breakfast staff here are so friendly and attentive."

"The lunch here is delicious, especially the salmon."

"The baked Mac and Cheese was so gooey and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for special occasions to ensure seating.

3

The bar closes at 12 am, so plan your visit accordingly.

07
MOTOR Bar and Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant with live blues music and Harley-Davidson-themed design offers beautiful river and harbor views. Atmosphere is lively and energetic, especially during live band nights, which can be loud. Outdoor seating enhances the experience with pleasant music and scenic surroundings.

A pleasant terrace with a river view offers a nice spot for lunch. The menu has well-priced variety suitable for a hearty meal after a museum visit.

Buffalo Mac and cheese stands out with its bold flavor and creamy texture. Variations like BBQ brisket and cheese curds add rich, savory layers to the classic dish.

People are saying

"I found the food to be really good and delicious."

"The brisket at this lunch spot is absolutely perfect."

"The Mac and Cheese with Brisket was all carbs and protein."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted cocktails and appetizers on weekdays.

2

All-you-can-eat fish and chips is available on Fridays.

3

Wing Wednesday specials are offered every Wednesday.

08
East Town Kitchen + Bar image 1
American restaurant

Cream city brick and modern decor create a warm and inviting atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of a busy boulevard. The space divides into a lively bar area with multiple TVs and a more sophisticated dining section with low tables. The vibe balances upscale comfort and chill energy, welcoming a diverse crowd throughout the day.

Lunch here features great service and a varied menu including a notable french onion soup. The spot suits both quick meals between meetings and larger work lunches.

Baked mac and cheese features smoky bacon and a rich, creamy texture. The dish balances deliciously baked cheese with a satisfying smoky flavor.

People are saying

"Taylor's beer recommendations were fantastic and friendly."

"Our waitress Sabrina was phenomenal and provided excellent service."

"The Mac and Cheese was just okay, not very exciting."

Good to know

1

A 20% service charge is added to the bill for parties of six or more.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

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

09
1700 PULL UP image 1
Soul food restaurant

Vintage 20's interior with gorgeous tiled floors and wood paneling creates a space full of character. Hip hop and R&B music, along with live choir performances, set an immaculate vibe that feels both lively and welcoming. A vibrant patio and comfy booths offer varied seating for relaxed dining and small celebrations.

Lunch here happens on Fridays with a casual vibe. Friends often bring each other along for a quick midday meal at this spot.

Mac and cheese comes with a creamy texture but serves at a cooler temperature than other sides. It pairs well with chicken dressing and candied yams.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, reminding me of home."

"I found the Mac And Cheese to be uniquely delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's soul food, like the amazing catfish, feels like home."

Good to know

1

They offer an all-day happy hour with discounted drinks.

2

Turkey Leg Thursday features both Traditional and Cajun preparations.

3

A $15 gratuity is automatically added to bills for two people.

10
Crafty Cow - Burgers & Fried Chicken image 1

Vintage building with old-school barn vibe and nostalgic decor creates a lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating adds to the historic yet updated layout. Music and energetic crowd contribute to a homey, comfortable feel.

Lunch offers reasonably priced specials and a varied menu featuring burgers and fried chicken. The spot handles large groups well, suitable for gatherings like graduations.

Mac and cheese comes with caramelized onions or a smokey flavor option. It pairs well with burgers and waffle fries. Delivery and takeout options allow adding extra sauce or seasonings at home.

People are saying

"I thought the burger was tender, juicy, and well-balanced."

"This lunch spot's burgers and brisket tacos are phenomenal."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2-5 pm with $3 drafts.

2

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 8 pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during Saturday events; arrive early.

11
Firebird Pizza & Chicken image 1
Pizza restaurant

Bright, clean space with a fresh, modern look creates an inviting atmosphere. Energy stays upbeat and friendly, with quick service and ample parking. Menu features all-natural, free-range chicken and homemade ranch sauce, offering affordable prices and spicy, flavorful BBQ options.

Takeout orders come in small lunch portions. Food suits quick meals during work hours.

Mac and cheese here lacks Velveeta and flavor. The taste is widely described as gross and even like throw up.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the chicken is so juicy."

"The Mac and Cheese here is so juicy and tender."

"This lunch spot's chicken is juicy, tender, and perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of parking available.

2

The restaurant is very clean inside and out.

3

Eddie's sauces are homemade and made by himself.

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Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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