Best of 13 mac and cheese in Downtown San Jose
Downtown San Jose offers a variety of dining options, but one standout dish that's gaining popularity is mac and cheese. This classic comfort food can be found in several Downtown San Jose restaurants, each putting their own twist on the beloved cheesy dish. From gourmet versions with truffle oil to vegan alternatives, there's something for everyone's taste buds. Come and savor the delightful mac and cheese in Downtown San Jose.
- 1. The Farmers Union
- 2. Firehouse No.1
- 3. Scratch Cookery
- 4. Poor House Bistro
- 5. The Old Wagon Saloon & Grill
- 6. The Old Spaghetti Factory
- 7. The Grill on the Alley
- 8. Good Karma Fine Ales Food & HiFi in Downtown San Jose
- 9. District
- 10. Original Joe's San Jose
- 11. Il Fornaio
- 12. Jack in the Box in Downtown San Jose
- 13. Devine Cheese & Wine
1. The Farmers Union
Uses local and organic ingredients, offers vegetarian and vegan options, dog-friendly patio

The meal of macaroni and cheese, jalapeño cornbread, and Brussels sprouts was tasty and well-prepared, providing a satisfying experience. However, there was a delay in the delivery of the main dishes, which arrived 2 to 3 minutes after all the side dishes were served. The appetizer was served simultaneously with the sides. This indicates a need for improvement in the kitchen's efficiency and timing.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
2. Firehouse No.1
Housed in a historic fire station, Offers outdoor seating, Wide variety of beer and wine

Mac and cheese is a popular choice for a shared appetizer, known for its delicious flavor and satisfying texture. At the Stoplight happy hour, the bone marrow mac & cheese at Brenden is a must-try menu item. A couple recently dined there and found the dish to be more than satisfactory. They also ordered a salad and steak, rounding out their meal with a variety of flavors.
The bone marrow mac and cheese at Brenden's Stoplight happy hour was the highlight of the meal for the couple. The rich and creamy cheese sauce was complemented perfectly by the savory bone marrow. The salad provided a refreshing contrast to the heavy mac and cheese, while the steak added a satisfying main course to the meal. Overall, the dining experience was a success, with the mac and cheese standing out as a particularly delicious choice.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
3. Scratch Cookery
Creative twists on classic comfort food, locally sourced ingredients, family-friendly atmosphere, award-winning chef

Scratch Cookery offers a delicious mac and cheese dish that stands out as one of the best. The pasta is covered in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, with a perfect bake that adds a slightly crispy texture to each bite. The combination of flavors and consistency make it a satisfying and enjoyable choice.
The mac and cheese at Scratch Cookery boasts an excellent blend of cheeses that create a depth of flavor with each mouthful. It is a comforting and indulgent dish, perfect for any occasion. The quality and taste of the mac and cheese highlight the restaurant's commitment to providing delicious and satisfying meals for its customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
Relate link
4. Poor House Bistro
Housed in a historic building with cozy atmosphere

The mac and cheese at this location is a subject of contradictory opinions. Some customers rave about its delicious taste, attributing it to the perfect blend of cheeses that results in a comforting and satisfying dish. However, others find it merely passable, noting a lack of flavor that makes it a bit too bland for their liking.
In summary, while the mac and cheese here has its fans who appreciate its cheesy and comforting qualities, it may not meet everyone's expectations. Some diners have expressed disappointment with its bland taste, suggesting that the recipe might benefit from additional seasoning or a more robust cheese blend. Nonetheless, given the differing views on this dish, it's worth trying for yourself to determine your preference.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
5. The Old Wagon Saloon & Grill
Family-owned restaurant with a cozy atmosphere

The mac and cheese served was exceptional, boasting a rich and satisfying cheese flavor that made it a delight to consume. Its comforting nature made it a standout dish, perfect for anyone seeking a indulgent and enjoyable meal.
The mac and cheese was creamy and delicious, with a must-try quality that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to try it. Its cheesy and indulgent flavor profile makes it a perfect choice for those looking for a satisfying and indulgent meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
6. The Old Spaghetti Factory
Historic trolley car dining, homemade pasta, garlic bread sticks included

The mac and cheese served at this establishment is known for its creamy texture and delicious taste. It is a popular dish that appeals to both children and adults. Its comforting and familiar flavor makes it a reliable choice for those who may be picky eaters or hesitant to try new things.
The mac and cheese is a standout menu item that is sure to please. My own children are big fans of this dish, and it has become a go-to option for them when we dine out. Its appeal to picky eaters is a testament to its simple yet satisfying flavor profile.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Celebrations
7. The Grill on the Alley
High-end dining experience with a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

The mac and cheese served was delicious, with a rich and satisfying flavor that made it a memorable dish. The lobster mash, while enjoyable, did not stand out as much and seemed a bit overpriced at $25. Overall, the mac and cheese was the star of the meal and left a lasting impression.
The mac and cheese was so good that it was almost overwhelming. With generous pieces of bacon mixed in, it offered a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The dish was even more satisfying because it was baked, giving it a crispy top layer and a gooey, cheesy interior. This mac and cheese was definitely a standout dish, and one that will not be easily forgotten.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
8. Good Karma Fine Ales Food & HiFi in Downtown San Jose
Cozy atmosphere with craft beer and live music

The mac and cheese offered at this location is truly delicious. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it stand out, with the perfect amount of cheese. Whether you're a cheese lover or just looking for a tasty dish, this mac and cheese is highly recommended.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to try their mac and cheese and was thoroughly impressed. The vegan cheese they use is excellent, providing a delicious alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, the portion size is generous, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
9. District
Incorporates interesting and gourmet ingredients in their mac and cheese

The mac and cheese dish excelled in flavor and texture, offering a delightful dining experience. Its great blend of cheeses provided a rich and savory taste, while the crispy topping added a satisfying crunch to each bite. This perfect combination of flavors and textures made it a standout comfort food.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
10. Original Joe's San Jose
Family-owned and operated since 1956, serving classic Italian-American cuisine in a vintage atmosphere.

Original Joe's mac and cheese is a standout dish, known for its rich and creamy texture. The dish is packed with flavor, making it one of the best mac and cheese offerings around.
If you're a fan of mac and cheese, you won't want to miss out on trying the version at Original Joe's. Its creamy consistency and delicious taste make it a must-try for any pasta lover.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
11. Il Fornaio
Authentic Italian cuisine using traditional recipes and techniques

Il Fornaio's mac and cheese is a standout dish, well-known for its generous portion size and delicious flavor. The dish boasts a creamy texture and savory taste that is sure to satisfy.
Mac and cheese lovers should not miss out on trying Il Fornaio's version. With its spot-on flavor and indulgent creaminess, it is a must-try dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
12. Jack in the Box in Downtown San Jose
Open 24/7, drive-thru and delivery services available

The mac and cheese bites, ordered for delivery, arrived in great condition – hot and crispy. This comfort food is a delicious option for anyone seeking a satisfying snack. The outer layer of the bites was crispy and golden brown, while the inside was warm and oozing with cheesy goodness.
These mac and cheese bites are highly recommended for anyone looking for a tasty treat. They have a crispy exterior that provides a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the interior is packed with creamy and cheesy mac and cheese. They make for an excellent snack, whether you're craving something delicious in the afternoon or looking for a tasty appetizer to share with friends and family.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
13. Devine Cheese & Wine
Cozy atmosphere, extensive wine list, knowledgeable staff

Devine Cheese & Wine offers a delicious mac and cheese that cannot be missed. The dish is rich in flavor, making it a standout during meals. In fact, it is arguably the best mac and cheese available, boasting a perfect blend of cheeses that contributes to its delectable taste.
The mac and cheese at Devine Cheese & Wine is a highly recommended dish. Its richness and flavor make it a memorable part of any meal. The establishment's masterful blend of cheeses results in a dining experience that is unparalleled in terms of taste and quality. Diners are sure to enjoy this exceptional dish.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner