Top 18 mac and cheese in San Diego
"Mac and Cheese" in San Diego is a culinary delight that should not be missed. This classic comfort dish is elevated to new heights through innovative twists and the use of local, high-quality ingredients. From gourmet food trucks to upscale restaurants, there's no shortage of mouth-watering mac and cheese options in San Diego. Join us as we explore the city's best takes on this beloved dish.
- 1. The Melt
- 2. Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
- 3. The Butcher N Cheese
- 4. barleymash
- 5. Grater Grilled Cheese
- 6. Cluck N' Sip
- 7. Grater Grilled Cheese Sorrento Valley
- 8. The Crack Shack - Little Italy
- 9. The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole
- 10. Yard House
- 11. Station Tavern
- 12. Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp
- 13. Louisiana Purchase
- 14. Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar - San Diego, CA
- 15. Graze by Sam
- 16. Superior Soul Food
- 17. Lapper Kitchen + Tap
- 18. American Grilled Cheese Company
1. The Melt
Locally sourced ingredients, homemade bread, delightful ambiance

The Melt is a stylish counter-serve chain known for its grilled cheese, burgers, mac & cheese, and fries. Its menu features a range of delicious offerings such as the mac n cheese casserole and tomato soup, as well as tasty burgers that are sure to satisfy.
With a focus on comfort food, The Melt provides a delightful dining experience for those looking for something hearty and satisfying. From their signature grilled cheese sandwiches to their creamy mac & cheese, every dish is made with high-quality ingredients and a commitment to flavor. The restaurant's cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family and friends. Whether you're in the mood for something classic or something a little more adventurous, The Melt has something for everyone.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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2. Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
Uses a unique blend of cheeses and a signature creamy sauce, served in a skillet keeps it warm and delicious.

The mac and cheese served was satisfactory, but lacked in delivering a strong flavor profile. Some testers found it to be a bit too bland, which could be improved by adding more spices or seasoning to enhance the taste. On the other hand, some testers found the dish to be creamy and delicious, making it a great comfort food option.
Despite differing opinions on the taste, the mac and cheese had a smooth and creamy texture that was appreciated by most testers. However, there was a consensus that the dish could have been improved with more seasoning or a stronger cheese flavor. Nonetheless, the mac and cheese remained a popular comfort food choice due to its creamy consistency.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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3. The Butcher N Cheese
Features a variety of cheeses in their mac and cheese, Comfortable atmosphere, Local favorite

A hidden gem, this restaurant offers a fantastic mac and cheese, which stands out as one of the best I've had from similar establishments. The staff is friendly, and they managed to serve the hot and delicious food quickly. Their burgers were skillfully prepared, avoiding the common issues of dryness or overcooking.
In terms of culinary satisfaction, their mac and cheese truly shines. It boasts a delightful creaminess and a perfectly cheesy flavor that complements the burger wonderfully. This combination of a delicious meal and efficient service makes for a highly enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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4. barleymash
Gourmet, locally-sourced ingredients, innovative combinations

We ordered the mushroom mac and cheese and turkey dish from the restaurant. Our server was exceptionally helpful and offered great recommendations as we considered ordering the duck duck goat mac and cheese.
The duck duck goat mac and cheese was a standout dish with a unique and delicious combination of duck, rabbit, and goat meat mixed with creamy mac and cheese. On the other hand, the mushroom mac and cheese was also flavorful and satisfying, packed with various types of mushrooms. The turkey dish was equally delightful, with juicy and tender meat. We were impressed with the high-quality and taste of each dish.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
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5. Grater Grilled Cheese
Uses local and sustainable ingredients, vegetarian and vegan options available

I tried two dishes at the restaurant: the belly mac and cheese, and a sandwich. The belly mac and cheese stood out with its attractive appearance, but its flavor was only average. Unfortunately, it lacked sufficient protein. On the other hand, the sandwich was enjoyable. However, I found the soup overly complex, which detracted from my dining experience.
The restaurant's prices were excessively high. Despite the appealing presentation of some dishes, their quality did not always live up to expectations. It's particularly disappointing to pay a premium for a dish like the belly mac and cheese, only to find it lacking in protein. While I did find something to like in my sandwich, the overall value for money was not satisfactory.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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6. Cluck N' Sip
Friendly staff, casual atmosphere, offers catering and delivery services

The spicy mac and cheese has become a popular choice among customers, offering a flavorful variation of the traditional dish. Its popularity can be attributed to the combination of gooey cheese and a hint of spice that creates a delicious balance. The restaurant also offers potato wedges as a side option, which is another well-liked choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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7. Grater Grilled Cheese Sorrento Valley

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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8. The Crack Shack - Little Italy
Features a unique, elevated take on classic comfort food

The mac and cheese served was exceptional, boasting a rich and creamy texture that was incredibly satisfying. A generous helping of cheese was melded throughout, providing a delightful flavor that was the standout feature of this dish. Furthermore, the dish was finished off with a crispy topping, adding an appealing contrast in texture.
As a side dish, the mac and cheese perfectly complemented the fried chicken. The creamy and cheesy flavors provided a nice counterpoint to the savory and crispy fried chicken. This combination was an excellent choice, making for a delicious and well-rounded meal. Overall, the mac and cheese was a clear highlight and addition to the dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Lunch
- Downtown Spots
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9. The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole
Local craft beers on tap, dog-friendly patio

The mac and cheese dish was a popular choice, with its rich and creamy texture. However, some found it to be overly indulgent for their palate. The dish was skillfully prepared, with a taste that was both luxurious and comforting. Its delicious flavor made it a must-try for anyone who enjoys pasta dishes.
Despite being a crowd-pleaser, the mac and cheese was not to everyone's liking. Some tasters found it to be too decadent and heavy, with a flavor that was slightly overwhelming. However, overall it was a well-prepared dish with a taste that was sure to satisfy those who appreciate a indulgent pasta dish.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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10. Yard House
Extensive beer selection, modern sports bar atmosphere, late-night happy hour.

The mac and cheese served was absolutely delightful. Its creamy texture and rich flavor made it the perfect comfort food. It was a standout dish that should not be missed by anyone looking for a delicious meal.
The mac and cheese was a clear favorite, with its creamy and delicious taste. Its comforting quality made it a satisfying choice for anyone looking for a satisfying and enjoyable dish. The dish was a definite highlight, and its indulgent flavor was sure to leave a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
11. Station Tavern
Local favorite hangout spot, Cozy patio seating, Happy hour specials

The mac and cheese stood out in the meal, although opinions on its richness varied. One individual found it to be overly indulgent, while another thoroughly enjoyed its flavor. This dish, known for its comforting qualities, was a significant part of the meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
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12. Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp
Cozy atmosphere in the heart of Gaslamp Quarter

The Union Burger and Bacon Mac & Cheese were the two dishes ordered, both proving to be delightful choices. The burger featured a fried egg, which unfortunately resulted in a runny yolk that required the use of a fork to finish the meal. Despite this minor inconvenience, the burger's taste was not compromised.
Meanwhile, the Bacon Mac & Cheese dish was an absolute standout, boasting a perfect balance of flavors. Its deliciousness is worthy of recommendation, making it a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a satisfying and savory meal.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
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13. Louisiana Purchase
Uses a blend of gouda, parmesan, and cheddar cheeses with a crispy breadcrumb topping

The Spicy Chicken skillet is a dish that comes with a generous portion of spicy fried chicken, placed on a bed of Mac and cheese, and accompanied by a piece of corn bread. All the elements on this plate were delightful and satisfying.
Visiting this establishment is an excellent choice for those who appreciate fine food, delicious cocktails, and impeccable service. The ambiance is warm and inviting, and every item on the menu is highly recommended, particularly the Smoke Gouda skillet.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
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14. Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar - San Diego, CA
Spacious and family-friendly atmosphere with a lively bar scene

After a tiring journey from the East Coast, the convenience of having a restaurant in the hotel was a welcome respite. It was late, and all I desired was a simple meal. I opted for a Caesar Salad and a side of Mac & Cheese.
The service was prompt, and I was pleased to receive a basket of bread with my meal. The brown bread was a tad dry, but the other variety was enjoyable. I chose the Lobster Mac & Cheese, which was quite heavy.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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15. Graze by Sam
Uses local and sustainable ingredients, artisanal cheeses, and unique flavor combinations

The mac and cheese served in this establishment is truly exceptional. It stands out as a comfort food dish with a sophisticated, gourmet twist that sets it apart. This is not your average mac and cheese; it's a creamy and delightful take on the classic, with each bite filled with rich and satisfying flavor.
From the moment you taste it, you'll understand why this mac and cheese is a must-try. The creamy texture and full-bodied flavor make it a standout dish that's sure to please even the most discerning palate. Whether you're a mac and cheese aficionado or simply looking to try something new, this dish is sure to exceed your expectations.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Celebrations
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
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16. Superior Soul Food
Family-owned business serving authentic Southern cuisine in San Diego for over 10 years.

This restaurant is known for its expertly prepared pepper chicken, mac-n-cheese, and bean rice. The dessert options, such as the tasty banana pudding, muffins, and sweet potato pie, are equally impressive. The mac-n-cheese is a standout dish, and the cornbread is particularly noteworthy. The owner, Derek, is known for being friendly and engaging with customers, as he did with us during our first visit. The genuine and kind staff, along with the delicious food, make for an unforgettable dining experience.
The restaurant's mac-n-cheese and cornbread are exceptional and highly recommended. The owner, Derek, made a point to speak with us and ensure our visit was enjoyable. His hospitality and the restaurant's welcoming atmosphere were impressive. The combination of the excellent food and friendly service makes this restaurant an outstanding choice for dining. It is highly recommended for anyone seeking a positive and satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
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17. Lapper Kitchen + Tap
Craft beer, artisanal spirits, and locally sourced ingredients

The mac and cheese provided a satisfying and delicious comfort food experience. Its creamy texture and rich cheesy flavor made it a standout dish.
This mac and cheese dish was particularly noteworthy for its perfect comfort food qualities. Its creamy consistency and robust cheesy taste left a lasting impression, making it a highly satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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18. American Grilled Cheese Company

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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