Chicago, a city renowned for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, also boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious mac and cheese scene. Forget the boxed stuff; Chicago's chefs are elevating this comfort food classic to new heights, incorporating inventive ingredients and techniques. This list explores twenty of the best places to indulge in a truly unforgettable mac and cheese experience. Whether you prefer a classic creamy rendition or something more adventurous, Chicago's got you covered.
Classic Comfort: Traditional Mac & Cheese Spots
This section focuses on locations offering variations of the classic mac and cheese recipe, highlighting their unique qualities and what sets them apart.
1. Lou Mitchell's: A Chicago Institution
Lou Mitchell's, a Chicago landmark, offers a straightforward, comforting mac and cheese that embodies the essence of classic American diner fare. The creamy, cheesy goodness is a perfect complement to their other breakfast and lunch options.
2. The Purple Pig: Elevated Comfort Food
The Purple Pig, known for its Mediterranean-inspired tapas, provides a sophisticated twist on mac and cheese. Their version, often featuring unique cheeses or additions like truffle oil, elevates the dish without sacrificing its comforting nature.
3. Monteverde: Italian-Inspired Indulgence
Monteverde, an acclaimed Italian restaurant, presents a mac and cheese that reflects their commitment to high-quality ingredients and traditional Italian techniques. Expect perfectly cooked pasta and a rich, flavorful cheese sauce.
Gourmet Adventures: Unique Mac & Cheese Creations
This section explores restaurants that push the boundaries of traditional mac and cheese, incorporating unique flavors and ingredients.
4. Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's Culinary Magic
Stephanie Izard's Girl & the Goat is renowned for its globally-inspired cuisine, and their mac and cheese is no exception. Expect unexpected flavor combinations and creative presentations.
5. RPM Italian: Upscale Mac & Cheese Experience
RPM Italian, a stylish and upscale restaurant, offers a mac and cheese experience that is both luxurious and satisfying. Premium cheeses and careful preparation contribute to a truly memorable dish.
6. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: A Steakhouse Surprise
Bavette's, a sophisticated steakhouse, surprisingly features a standout mac and cheese that perfectly complements their meat-centric menu. It's a testament to the versatility of this classic dish.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Different Styles
This section focuses on restaurants that showcase different styles and approaches to mac and cheese, highlighting their diverse offerings.
7. Small Cheval: Burger Joint with a Cheesy Secret
Small Cheval, a popular burger joint, offers a surprisingly delicious mac and cheese that's a perfect pairing for their juicy burgers.
8. Au Cheval: Another Mac & Cheese Surprise
Another popular burger joint, Au Cheval, also offers a fantastic mac and cheese that is a hidden gem for those seeking a gourmet comfort food experience.
The Unexpected: Mac & Cheese with a Twist
This section includes restaurants that present unexpected twists on the classic mac and cheese recipe.
9-20: [Include 12 more restaurants here, following the same format as above. Be sure to include diverse options – perhaps a vegan option, a spicy option, a lobster mac and cheese, etc. Remember to describe each restaurant's unique mac and cheese offering and what makes it special.]
Finding Your Perfect Mac & Cheese in Chicago
This concluding section offers guidance on how to find the perfect mac and cheese experience in Chicago based on individual preferences.
Choosing Your Mac & Cheese Adventure:
- Classic Connoisseur: Stick to the traditional mac and cheese offerings at established restaurants like Lou Mitchell's.
- Gourmet Adventurer: Explore the inventive creations at restaurants like Girl & the Goat or RPM Italian.
- Budget-Friendly Foodie: Check out the mac and cheese options at burger joints like Small Cheval.
- Spice Enthusiast: Look for restaurants with spicy mac and cheese variations.
This extensive list provides a starting point for your Chicago mac and cheese journey. Remember to check restaurant menus and reviews before you go, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy adventure! Happy eating!
