Best of 15 mac and cheese in Philadelphia
"Mac and cheese in Philadelphia" is a popular comfort food dish that can be found in many restaurants across the city. From gourmet versions with truffle oil and lobster to classic homestyle preparations, Philadelphians and visitors alike can't get enough of this cheesy pasta favorite. Come explore the diverse and delicious world of "mac and cheese in Philadelphia."
- 1. Hard Rock Cafe
- 2. Good Dog Bar
- 3. Brooklyn Mac N Cheese
- 4. Bud & Marilyn's
- 5. Marathon Grill
- 6. The Twisted Tail
- 7. Macaroni's
- 8. South Philadelphia Tap Room
- 9. Mac's Tavern
- 10. Craftsman Row Saloon
- 11. Mac Mart
- 12. Mike's BBQ
- 13. 48th Street Grille
- 14. Wishbone - Center City
- 15. Glick's Rib Shack - The Original Rib Stand
1. Hard Rock Cafe
Live music, rock memorabilia, and a lively atmosphere

I tried the mac and cheese during my visit. The dish was overall just average, and I thought it needed more flavor. However, some aspects of the dish were enjoyable.
On a positive note, the mac and cheese had a crispy top that added a nice texture. The cheese was also melted well, making the pasta creamy and satisfying. Despite these positive elements, I believe that the dish could have been improved with additional seasoning.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
2. Good Dog Bar
Dog-friendly bar with a wide selection of craft beers

Good Dog Bar is a cozy establishment with a lively atmosphere, known for its friendly staff and delicious food made in-house. The standout dish is the French fries, served with a tasty mustard dipping sauce, while other popular items include the Grilled Chicken BLT, bahn mi pork belly, and short rib grilled cheese. The restaurant can get a bit loud and dark, but this is to be expected from a bar.
The highlight of any meal at Good Dog Bar is their creamy and delicious mac and cheese. While the food and atmosphere are great, some guests may find the volume and lighting levels to be less than desirable. Overall, Good Dog Bar is an excellent place to enjoy a meal and a drink. To make the experience even better, minor adjustments to the menu could be beneficial.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
Relate link
3. Brooklyn Mac N Cheese

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
4. Bud & Marilyn's
Retro-inspired decor, extensive cocktail menu, and communal seating

The mac and cheese offered at this location is truly exceptional. Its rich and robust flavor is sure to leave a lasting impression, making it one of the standout versions I've tried in quite some time. The dish boasts a creamy and delightful texture, with a carefully crafted blend of cheeses that adds to its overall allure.
This mac and cheese is a must-try for any pasta or cheese lover. Its combination of creamy consistency and well-balanced cheese flavors creates a truly satisfying dining experience. The dish's quality and taste make it a memorable and craveable addition to the menu, highlighting the establishment's commitment to serving delicious and enjoyable meals.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
Relate link
5. Marathon Grill
Features a lively atmosphere with outdoor seating and a full bar.

The BBQ ribs with pomegranate sauce and shrimp tacos were standout dishes at a recent event. The food was highly regarded, with no issues to speak of. It was an excellent experience overall. In a separate instance, the mac and cheese was delivered still hot and perfectly cheesy. This, too, was highly recommended.
The BBQ ribs with pomegranate sauce were a huge success, as were the shrimp tacos. The quality of the food was not disappointing and it was an exceptional experience. In a different occasion, the mac and cheese ordered for delivery arrived still hot and oozing with cheese, receiving high praises.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
Relate link
6. The Twisted Tail
Features a variety of creative cheeses and toppings

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
- Rooftop
7. Macaroni's
Family-owned business since 1994, Customizable mac and cheese options

The mac and cheese served was a popular choice among diners. Its warm, creamy texture and rich flavor provided a satisfying and comforting meal.
Despite the positive comments, some individuals found the mac and cheese to be overly cheesy. While still enjoyable, it may have been a bit too heavy on the cheese for their personal preference.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Suburban
8. South Philadelphia Tap Room
Features a lively atmosphere with a great selection of local craft beers

The first dish that stood out to us was the deviled eggs, which were prepared with a great amount of care and attention to detail. The blistered string beans were also a favorite, providing a nice contrast to the other heavier dishes. The tacos were a delicious and unique addition to the meal, offering a variety of flavors and textures that were incredibly satisfying.
One of the standout dishes of the night was the mac and cheese. It had a perfectly creamy consistency and was bursting with flavor, making it a true highlight of the meal. The dish was so good that we found ourselves going back for seconds, and even thirds, unable to get enough of its rich and satisfying taste. Overall, the mac and cheese was a clear favorite and a testament to the quality of the cooking on display.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
9. Mac's Tavern
Cozy atmosphere with a diverse selection of craft beers

The mac and cheese at this location is a delicious standout, especially when it comes to sports bar food. The dish boasts a rich and creamy cheese sauce that is sure to satisfy. What sets this mac and cheese apart is the unique topping of barbecue corn chip crumble, which adds an unexpected yet delicious flavor.
In summary, the mac and cheese is a must-try for fans of cheesy pasta dishes. Its rich sauce and tasty topping make it a memorable dish, even in a crowded field of sports bar fare. The barbecue corn chip crumble adds a unique twist that is sure to please. Whether you're a mac and cheese connoisseur or just looking for something new to try, this dish is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
10. Craftsman Row Saloon
Uses sharp cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs topping, located in the heart of Philadelphia's historic district

I was thrilled to treat my daughter and her friend to a special lunch at Craftsman Row Saloon, as my little one adores Christmas. I even booked a table for the only available 3 pm time slot, pulling them out of school early for a festive feast. The experience was nothing short of magical, but the extra costs added up quickly.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
11. Mac Mart
Small, family-owned business with a fun and welcoming atmosphere

Mac Mart, a small restaurant and food truck, is known for its delicious homemade mac and cheese. The restaurant is compact, suggesting that it is primarily built for take-out orders. I have personally tried three of their entrees, including the Crabby, The Rittenhouse, and Roasted Red Pesto, and all of them were quite satisfying. I would not hesitate to order from them again when craving a high-quality mac and cheese dish.
Mac Mart Food Truck offers an extensive menu of mac and cheese dishes, with popular options such as Original Mac, Spinach and Artichoke, BBQ Chicken, Cowboy Cup, Heart Attack Mac, BBQ Mac, Jalapeno Pesto Chicken, Bacon Mac, Crabby Mac, Bold Buffalo, Buffalo Chicken, Classic Mart Mac, and Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese Bowl. The food truck has received a 4-star rating from reviewers, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction with their mac and cheese offerings.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
12. Mike's BBQ
Family-owned BBQ spot with a variety of smoked meats and homemade sides.

The dish that should not be missed is the fried mac and cheese balls with pulled pork. This delectable treat boasts a crispy exterior, while revealing a warm and creamy interior that is sure to delight. For the main course, opt for the brisket, some ribs, cornbread, and mac-and-cheese. The mac-and-cheese is a simple yet satisfying side dish that is quick to prepare, even when there is a line of customers waiting.
The fried mac and cheese balls, made with pulled pork, are a standout menu item that combines crispy and creamy textures in one delicious bite. As for the main course, the brisket, ribs, cornbread, and mac-and-cheese make for a satisfying meal. Notably, the mac-and-cheese is prepared swiftly, even during peak times with a line of customers waiting.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
Relate link
13. 48th Street Grille
Featuring live music on weekends and a cozy atmosphere
I purchased an oxtail platter with Mac and cheese for $32 today and was shocked to find only four oxtails in the platter when I got home. The restaurant's response was that they weigh their food to determine portions. I am extremely dissatisfied and will not be returning.
Our appetizers, conch fritters and macaroni and cheese bites, were tasty but filled with excess ingredients. While they were enjoyable, the heavy use of filler was noticeable.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
Relate link
14. Wishbone - Center City
Homestyle cooking with a modern twist in a cozy setting

The mac and cheese is a popular menu item, known for its tantalizing texture and delicious taste. It has a crispy top layer that adds a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the center is warm and gooey, providing a pleasant contrast. Dinner guests consistently rave about the quality of the food, especially the mac and cheese.
The mac and cheese is a standout dish that is always met with enthusiasm. Its crispy top and creamy center make it a satisfying and delightful choice. The food served by this establishment is highly regarded, but the mac and cheese is in a league of its own, prompting consistent praise and satisfaction from diners.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
Relate link
15. Glick's Rib Shack - The Original Rib Stand
Family-owned and operated business, serving authentic southern-style BBQ since 1998.

The mac and cheese served at this establishment is truly delicious. The creamy and cheesy pasta dish is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. Additionally, the potato wedges are excellently seasoned and provide a satisfying crunch with each bite. Overall, the side dishes are top-notch and contribute to a memorable dining experience.
This restaurant left a lasting impression during my first visit. The mac and cheese and potato wedges were both exceptional and proved to be a winning combination. I found myself immediately smitten with the restaurant and its offerings. From the taste to the quality, the side dishes demonstrated a level of care and expertise that is difficult to find in many establishments. My initial experience has left me eager to return and explore more of the menu.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link