Finding the perfect mac and cheese can be a culinary quest. In Chicago's vibrant South Loop, this cheesy comfort food takes on many delicious forms. This guide explores thirteen standout mac and cheese variations, highlighting unique ingredients, textures, and overall dining experiences. Whether you crave classic creamy goodness or adventurous gourmet twists, the South Loop has something to satisfy your cheesy cravings.
Classic Comfort: The Top 5
These spots offer exceptional takes on the beloved mac and cheese recipe, mastering the balance of creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.
1. RPM Italian's Truffle Mac and Cheese
RPM Italian elevates the classic dish with the luxurious aroma and flavor of truffle oil. Their creamy, four-cheese sauce is enriched with Parmesan, Asiago, and Fontina, creating a rich and decadent experience. The addition of truffle oil adds a sophisticated touch that sets it apart.
- Price Point: $$
- Ambiance: Upscale Italian
- Unique Element: Truffle oil
2. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf's Lobster Mac & Cheese
Bavette's offers a truly decadent experience with their Lobster Mac & Cheese. Imagine tender chunks of lobster swimming in a creamy three-cheese sauce, perfectly complementing the perfectly cooked pasta. The generous portion is perfect for sharing (or not!).
- Price Point: $$
- Ambiance: Classic steakhouse
- Unique Element: Chunks of fresh lobster
3. Siena Tavern's Four Cheese Mac and Cheese
Siena Tavern's mac and cheese is a testament to simplicity done right. Their four-cheese blend (the exact cheeses remain a closely guarded secret!) creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. It's the perfect balance of cheesy indulgence and comforting familiarity.
- Price Point: $
- Ambiance: Lively Italian-American
- Unique Element: Perfectly balanced four-cheese sauce
4. Beatrix's Three Cheese Mac & Cheese
Beatrix offers a consistently delicious three-cheese mac and cheese. This is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and well-balanced cheese flavors. It is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and satisfying mac and cheese experience.
- Price Point: $
- Ambiance: Casual, trendy
- Unique Element: Reliable comfort food
5. The Dearborn's Classic Mac and Cheese
The Dearborn delivers a classic mac and cheese execution. It’s simple, straightforward, and expertly done. If you’re looking for a dependable, comforting version of this cheesy classic, this is an excellent choice.
- Price Point: $
- Ambiance: Upscale American
- Unique Element: Simplicity and execution
Gourmet Adventures: 5 Unique Takes
These restaurants showcase creative twists on the mac and cheese theme, incorporating unexpected ingredients and flavors.
6. Monteverde's Spicy Sausage Mac and Cheese
Monteverde adds a kick of spice to their mac and cheese with the addition of Italian sausage. The creamy cheese sauce is infused with the savory flavors of the sausage, creating a delicious and unexpected combination.
- Price Point: $$
- Ambiance: Rustic Italian
- Unique Element: Spicy Italian Sausage
7. Formento's Lobster Mac and Cheese (Different from Bavette's!)
Formento's offers a distinct Lobster Mac and Cheese, differentiated from Bavette's by its sauce and lobster preparation. Their version emphasizes a lighter, brighter sauce that allows the flavor of the lobster to shine through.
- Price Point: $$
- Ambiance: Refined Italian
- Unique Element: Lighter, brighter lobster sauce
8. Girl & the Goat's Unexpected Mac and Cheese Creations
Stephanie Izard's Girl & the Goat is known for its innovative and ever-changing menu. Their mac and cheese offerings are always surprising and delicious, incorporating seasonal ingredients and global flavors. Check their menu for the current iteration!
- Price Point: $$
- Ambiance: Vibrant, modern
- Unique Element: Constantly evolving menu
9. Aba's Mediterranean-Inspired Mac & Cheese
Aba brings a Mediterranean twist to the classic dish, incorporating flavors often found in their larger menu. Expect a creamy sauce with hints of herbs and spices that complement the pasta perfectly.
- Price Point: $$
- Ambiance: Modern Mediterranean
- Unique Element: Mediterranean flavors
10. Little Goat Diner's Creative Mac and Cheese
Little Goat Diner, another Stephanie Izard creation, is known for its playful approach to food. Expect unexpected flavor combinations and creative presentations in their mac and cheese offerings.
- Price Point: $
- Ambiance: Casual, playful
- Unique Element: Playful creativity
Beyond the Basics: 3 More Options
These establishments offer mac and cheese as a side dish or a less-discussed but still delicious option.
11. Public House's Comfort Food Mac & Cheese
Public House provides a solid, reliable mac and cheese that perfectly complements their pub fare. It's a classic rendition, perfect for a casual meal.
- Price Point: $-$$ (depending on whether it’s a side or a main dish)
- Ambiance: Lively pub
- Unique Element: Pub-style comfort food
12. Andros Taverna's Unexpected Mac and Cheese Option
Andros Taverna might surprise you with a mac and cheese option, potentially incorporating Greek flavors and ingredients. Check their menu for their current offering.
- Price Point: Varies
- Ambiance: Greek tavern
- Unique Element: Potential Greek influences
13. Rosebud on Rush's Classic Italian Mac
Rosebud on Rush, while known for its Italian-American classics, may offer a traditional mac and cheese. It's a solid option within a well-established restaurant setting.
- Price Point: $
- Ambiance: Classic Italian-American
- Unique Element: Traditional Italian-American comfort
This guide offers a starting point for your mac and cheese journey in Chicago's South Loop. Remember to check restaurant menus for the most up-to-date offerings and pricing. Enjoy your cheesy exploration!
