Where to Get Mac and Cheese Philadelphia

 Philly's Cheesiest Quest: A Guide to the City's 10 Best Mac and Cheese Dishes

Macaroni and cheese is the undisputed champion of comfort food, and in a city that loves hearty, flavorful dishes, Philadelphia's chefs have elevated this classic to an art form. From decadent, gourmet creations at upscale bistros to soulful, homestyle versions at barbecue joints and classic pub fare, the city is brimming with incredible mac and cheese. This expert guide will lead you to ten of the best and most beloved spots to get your cheese pull on in Philadelphia.

The Gourmet & Upscale

1. The Dandelion (Rittenhouse Square)

• The Mac: This cozy British pub serves a sophisticated and incredibly rich three-cheese macaroni that is baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It's the epitome of an elevated classic.
• The Vibe: A charming, multi-level pub with roaring fireplaces and intimate nooks that feel like a slice of the English countryside.

2. The Continental Midtown (Rittenhouse Square)

• The Mac: Home to one of the most legendary and indulgent versions in the city, The Continental's Lobster Mac & Cheese is a must-try. Featuring tender lobster combined with creamy gruyère and fontina cheeses and made with orzo pasta, it's a uniquely rich and flavorful dish.
• The Vibe: A stylish and energetic spot with a retro-modern feel and a popular rooftop patio.

3. Butcher Bar (Rittenhouse Square)

• The Mac: A restaurant dedicated to all things meat also excels at the perfect cheesy side dish. Butcher Bar's mac and cheese is a standout, often featuring a blend of rich cheeses and a perfect, creamy consistency that pairs beautifully with their smoked and grilled entrees.
• The Vibe: A rustic-chic, meat-centric restaurant and bar with a warm, inviting atmosphere.

4. SOUTH Restaurant & Jazz Club (North Philadelphia)

• The Mac: At this premier destination for Southern cuisine, the mac and cheese is a soulful masterpiece. SOUTH's version is often a baked, casserole-style dish, rich with sharp, flavorful cheeses, holding its shape perfectly while remaining incredibly creamy.
• The Vibe: A sophisticated and lively atmosphere that combines an upscale Southern restaurant with a world-class jazz club.

The Pub & Gastropub Classics

5. Good Dog Bar (Center City)

• The Mac: A beloved, dog-themed tavern, Good Dog Bar is known for its excellent comfort food, and its mac and cheese is no exception. It's a classic, satisfying, and perfectly executed pub version of the dish.
• The Vibe: A cozy, three-story bar with a quirky, welcoming atmosphere and a great selection of craft beers.

6. Strangelove's (Washington Square West)

• The Mac: This popular gastropub offers a fantastic beer list and a food menu to match. The mac and cheese at Strangelove's is a consistent crowd-pleaser, featuring a flavorful blend of cheeses and a perfectly crispy topping.
• The Vibe: A lively and comfortable tavern with a focus on craft beer and quality, locally sourced ingredients.

7. Marathon Grill (Rittenhouse Square)

• The Mac: A reliable Center City staple, Marathon Grill serves up a delicious and comforting mac and cheese that has been a favorite on its menu for years. It's a great, classic version in a convenient and casual setting.
• The Vibe: A modern and bustling American bistro, perfect for a quick business lunch or a relaxed dinner.

The BBQ & Comfort Food Staples

8. Beck's Cajun Cafe (Reading Terminal Market)

• The Mac: Located in the bustling Reading Terminal Market, Beck's Cajun Cafe offers a mac and cheese with a unique and flavorful kick. Their Cajun-inspired version is a must-try for those who like a little spice with their cheese.
• The Vibe: A classic, no-frills market lunch counter with a big, bold personality.

9. Wishbone (Midtown Village)

• The Mac: Known for its excellent fried chicken, Wishbone naturally serves a fantastic mac and cheese to go alongside it. Theirs is a classic, creamy, and cheesy version that is the perfect comfort food pairing.
• The Vibe: A casual and modern spot specializing in high-quality, made-to-order fried chicken.

10. Oh Brother Philly (Old City & University City)

• The Mac: While famous for its cheesesteaks and burgers, Oh Brother Philly also offers some seriously delicious and creative mac and cheese. They often feature it as a side or even as a topping for their decadent sandwiches.
• The Vibe: A modern, casual, and energetic spot for indulgent and satisfying comfort food.