Say Cheese, Please!
Whether you’re craving comfort food or the perfect barbecue side, these mac and cheese favorites always hit the spot.
Few dishes have earned comfort food status quite like mac and cheese. Creamy, cheesy and endlessly satisfying, it’s one of those rare meals that appeals to just about everyone—from picky toddlers to discerning foodies. Whether it’s the star of a quick weeknight dinner, a decadent brunch side or a nostalgic late-night indulgence, mac and cheese always seems to hit the spot.
Summer is also prime mac and cheese season. (In fact, National Macaroni Day is July 7.) It pairs perfectly with burgers and barbecue, steals the show at backyard cookouts and somehow tastes even better alongside ribs, brisket or grilled chicken. Fortunately, Bergen County has no shortage of restaurants serving up crave-worthy versions, from classic and comforting to gourmet creations loaded with bold flavors. Here are some of our favorite places to dig into this timeless favorite:
The 130 Club. This place may not have as many kid-friendly options as others on the list, but if your little one wants something tasty, the truffle mac and cheese is the way to go. It’s corkscrew-shaped pasta, cheddar cheese, truffle oil and breadcrumbs.
*130 County Rd., Tenafly, 201.431.2427
Biddy O’Malley’s. This longtime Irish pub boasts a tried-and-true chorizo mac and cheese, featuring corkscrew-shaped pasta, peppers, pretzel crumble and shaved Parmigiano Reggiano.
*191 Paris Ave., Northvale, 201.564.7893
Brothers Smokehouse. Sure, you can get a side order of creamy mac and cheese with brisket, pulled pork, ribs or chicken—or go all out with the Brothers Mac Bowl, which combines the cheesy dish with your choice of meat.
*900 Rte. 17 N. Suite 2, Ramsey, 551.264.9073
Fire & Oak. This American grill has everything from burgers and barbecue to swordfish and steaks. Before diving into your main course, be sure to try the F&O Mac N Cheese, which has a delightful herb panko crust.
*100 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201.307.1100
Paula’s Soul Food Café. You can’t have a classic Southern meal without mac and cheese. Here, you can indulge in the fried chicken, ribs or seafood—but save room for the creamy M&C.
*331 Main St., Hackensack, 201.880.6888
ReBAR and Kitchen. Yes, this uber-hip spot is known for burgers and other gastropub offerings, but the mac and cheese is always a crowd pleaser. It’s topped with toasty parmesan breadcrumbs, making it super tasty.
*132 Essex St., Lodi, 201.368.8181
Sweet T’s Southern Eatery. This elevated barbecue eatery has many mouthwatering selections (including vegetarian options), but don’t skip on its famous five cheese mac and cheese entrées. Try it with pulled chicken or shrimp for a memorable meals.
*166 W. Englewood Ave., Teaneck, 201.942.3030
Which restaurant serves your favorite mac and cheese? Let us know on Instagram @bergenmagnj.
