Buffalo, New York, is famous for its wings, but the city's culinary scene extends far beyond fiery poultry. One dish that deserves its own spotlight is mac and cheese, and Buffalo boasts an impressive array of restaurants offering this comfort food classic, each with its own unique twist. This guide explores 21 of the best mac and cheese spots in the city, from classic to gourmet, ensuring a cheesy adventure for every palate.
Finding Your Perfect Buffalo Mac & Cheese: A Guide to the City's Cheesiest Spots
Buffalo's mac and cheese scene is surprisingly diverse. Whether you crave a simple, comforting bowl or a sophisticated, gourmet creation, you'll find it here. This guide organizes the restaurants by style to help you navigate this cheesy landscape:
Classic Comfort: The Tried-and-True Mac & Cheese Joints
These establishments offer the quintessential mac and cheese experience, focusing on quality ingredients and a perfect balance of creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.
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Sophia's: Known for its generous portions and classic preparation, Sophia's is a Buffalo institution. Their mac and cheese is a comforting staple.
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Taqueria Los Mayas: Surprisingly, this taqueria offers a phenomenal mac and cheese that perfectly complements their Mexican fare.
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The Works: A popular burger joint, The Works elevates the mac and cheese experience to match their juicy burgers, with additions like bacon or jalapenos.
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Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: This BBQ joint offers a smoky mac and cheese that perfectly balances the sweetness and savory notes of barbecue.
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Westside Bazaar: This vibrant food hall houses multiple vendors, and several offer unique mac and cheese variations worth exploring. Be sure to ask about daily specials!
Gourmet Mac & Cheese: Elevated Comfort Food
For those seeking a more elevated mac and cheese experience, these restaurants offer gourmet twists and unique additions:
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Laola: This Italian restaurant often features seasonal mac and cheese options with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
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Yalleys: Known for creative and modern twists on classic dishes, their mac and cheese is a testament to their culinary expertise.
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Gabriel's Gate: Known for its gastropub fare, Gabriel's Gate offers a sophisticated mac and cheese that pairs well with their selection of craft beers.
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Marble + Rye: Upscale and stylish, Marble & Rye offers a premium mac and cheese that justifies its price point. Expect top-quality ingredients and a refined taste.
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Swift Current: This seafood restaurant surprises with a delightful mac and cheese that complements their seafood selections and showcases their ability to move beyond the norm.
Unique Mac & Cheese Adventures: Beyond the Expected
These restaurants offer truly unique mac and cheese experiences, pushing the boundaries of this comfort food classic:
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Five Guys: A beloved burger chain, Five Guys offers a classic take on mac and cheese that remains a delicious side.
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Zingerman's Deli (Ann Arbor): While not in Buffalo, this is such a beloved mac and cheese destination that a trip is worth it.
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The Black Sheep: Expect the unexpected at this creative bar and restaurant. Their mac and cheese is as unique as the rest of their menu.
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Thin Man Brewery: This brewery pairs its handcrafted brews with inventive mac and cheese options.
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Allen Street Hardware: This restaurant uses locally-sourced ingredients and elevates their mac and cheese into a work of art.
Spicy Mac & Cheese: For the Heat Seekers
These restaurants offer mac and cheese with a kick, perfect for those who love a little spice:
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Buffalo Wild Wings: While primarily known for wings, their mac and cheese offers a spicy variation.
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Duke's Bohemian: A Buffalo institution, Duke's often features a spicy mac and cheese on its menu.
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Bada Bing: This restaurant adds unique flavor profiles including spicy options to their mac and cheese offerings.
Budget-Friendly Mac & Cheese: Delicious on a Dime
- Chipotle Mexican Grill: Chipotle offers a surprisingly tasty and affordable mac and cheese option that's perfect for those on a budget.
Mac & Cheese Beyond the Restaurant: Home-Style Comfort
Even beyond the fantastic restaurants, many local grocery stores and delis offer excellent pre-made mac and cheese options for a quick and satisfying meal at home.
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Wegmans: Wegmans has a prepared food section that features a selection of high-quality mac and cheeses.
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Tops Friendly Markets: Another popular grocery store chain, Tops also offers prepared food options including mac and cheese.
Choosing Your Mac & Cheese Adventure: A Few Considerations
- Spice Level: Do you prefer a mild, creamy mac and cheese or something with a fiery kick?
- Ambiance: Are you looking for a casual, family-friendly atmosphere or something more upscale?
- Price Point: Mac and cheese prices vary widely. Determine your budget before heading out.
- Dietary Restrictions: Many restaurants offer vegetarian or gluten-free options. Be sure to check the menu beforehand.
This list provides a diverse starting point for your mac and cheese exploration in Buffalo. Remember to check menus and hours before visiting, as offerings can change seasonally. Bon appétit!
