Philadelphia's Best Mac and Cheese [Updated 2025]

Each creamy bite transports me back to childhood comfort, where the gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta were like a warm hug on a chilly day. I’ve scoured the city, diving fork-first into bowls of cheesy goodness, and let me tell you, Philadelphia knows how to do mac and cheese right. After tasting my way through twelve of the top spots, I'm ready to share the hidden gems and beloved classics that are absolutely worth your taste buds’ attention.

You might be wondering why you should trust my palate. Well, after years of seeking out the ultimate mac and cheese, I've become somewhat of a connoisseur (or a self-proclaimed cheese detective, if you will). So grab a fork, and let’s dig into the cheesiest adventure Philadelphia has to offer!

Mac Mart

Highlights
Unique topping combinations
Quick and friendly service
Great outdoor seating
Perfect for take-out
Rich and flavorful mac and cheese

Mac Mart, nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, is a delightful haven for mac and cheese lovers—speaking from experience, it's a must-visit! The first thing you notice is the quick and friendly service; the staff greets you with genuine smiles and enthusiasm that sets the tone for an enjoyable meal. And let’s talk about the unique topping combinations! They take classic comfort food to new heights, infusing each dish with rich flavors that make you savor every bite.

I opted for their signature mac paired with crispy bacon and a drizzle of truffle oil—a decision I do not regret! The creamy cheese sauce envelops the pasta in a warm embrace, making it the ultimate bowl of indulgence. Plus, the outdoor seating makes it a perfect spot for a sunny day; I felt like I had discovered a small slice of paradise in the city.

For those on the go, Mac Mart excels at take-out, ensuring you don’t miss the chance to enjoy their delicious offerings wherever you are. If you're wandering through Philadelphia and craving the perfect mac and cheese, don't miss out on this gem!

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The Twisted Tail

Highlights
Cozy and moody ambiance
Outstanding food and whiskey selection
Friendly and attentive service
Great portion sizes
Fantastic brunch experience

The Twisted Tail in Philadelphia is a hidden gem, intricately woven into the fabric of the city's culinary scene. As I stepped inside, the cozy and moody ambiance wrapped around me like a warm hug, setting the stage for what I hoped would be a delightful mac and cheese experience.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the mac and cheese. I was overjoyed to find that their version shines with unattainable richness, boasting a perfect balance of creaminess and distinct, savory notes that dance on your palate. The portion sizes are more than generous, making it a satisfying choice whether you're indulging solo or sharing with a friend.

What truly elevates the dining experience at The Twisted Tail is not just the outstanding food but also the superb whiskey selection, ideal for complementing your meal. And let’s not forget the service—friendly and attentive, the staff made me feel right at home, ensuring every need was met.

Overall, my visit to The Twisted Tail was a delightful culinary adventure, proving that this establishment deserves a high spot in the ranks of Philadelphia's best mac and cheese.

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Good Dog Bar

Highlights
Dog-friendly atmosphere
Excellent craft beer selection
Creative elevated pub fare
Friendly and attentive service
Lively and cozy ambiance

Good Dog Bar, nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, is a delightful spot where you can indulge in delectable pub fare while enjoying a dog-friendly atmosphere. As soon as I entered, the inviting lively ambiance wrapped around me like a warm hug, enhancing my hunger for their famed mac and cheese.

With an imaginative twist on this classic dish, their creamy concoction elevates traditional comfort food to a new level. Each bite is a delightful combination of rich cheeses that cling together beautifully, making it a gooey cheesescape. What truly impressed me was how effortlessly it paired with their excellent craft beer selection, providing the perfect accompaniment to counterbalance the creamy richness.

The service was undeniably friendly and attentive, making it easy to relax and savor my meal. I couldn’t help but grin as I watched other patrons enjoy their food alongside their furry companions, amplifying the charming vibe of the place. If you're seeking a memorable mac experience in a cozy, enjoyable setting, Good Dog Bar is a must-visit. They’ve certainly earned their place among Philadelphia’s mac and cheese elite!

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Prohibition Taproom

Highlights
Attentive and welcoming staff
Great food and atmosphere
Friendly neighborhood vibe
Affordable drink options
Repeat visit worthy

Visiting Prohibition Taproom was like stumbling upon a treasure chest of comfort food in the heart of Philadelphia. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by an attentive and welcoming staff who made me feel right at home. The atmosphere was lively, infused with a friendly neighborhood vibe that beckoned me to sit back and indulge.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—their mac and cheese. Each bite was a delightful symphony of creamy cheese enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, striking a superb balance between indulgence and flavor. The rich, gooey texture had me questioning my previous mac and cheese loyalties, while a subtle crunch on top provided just the right contrast. It was comfort food at its finest, making me want to return for seconds (and thirds).

To pair with this culinary delight, the affordable drink options complemented the meal beautifully. I couldn’t help but appreciate how Prohibition Taproom effortlessly combined quality with a laid-back vibe. It’s clear that this place deserves a spot on anyone's mac and cheese must-try list. I’m already counting down the days until my next visit!

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Bake'n Bacon Philadelphia

At Bake'n Bacon Philadelphia, I discovered a mac and cheese that balances creamy decadence with a delightful crunch. The cheese blend is rich and flavorful, while the addition of crisp bacon takes it to another level of indulgence. Each bite is a heavenly journey, celebrating the harmony of textures. The generous portion sizes left me both satisfied and happy! If you're on the hunt for comfort food that feels like a warm hug, don’t miss out on this gem. Bake'n Bacon is where mac and cheese dreams come true!

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Macaroni's

Macaroni’s in Philadelphia is a delightful haven for cheese lovers! The moment I took my first bite of their classic mac and cheese, I was met with a decadent, creamy texture that clung lovingly to each elbow pasta—a perfect embrace. Their blend of cheeses is a luscious triumph, balancing sharpness with a mellow richness that dances on the palate. Not to mention the satisfying crunch of baked breadcrumbs on top adds an irresistible contrast. With a whimsical atmosphere and friendly service, it’s a spot that turns an ordinary meal into a joyous culinary adventure. Seriously, don’t miss this cheesy gem!

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Butcher Bar

At Butcher Bar, the mac and cheese is truly a decadent delight! The creamy, cheddar-infused goodness clings lovingly to every pasta shape, while a hint of smoky bacon elevates this dish to comfort food royalty. Each bite is a warm hug, perfectly seasoned and generously portioned. The golden, crunchy topping adds a satisfying contrast, ensuring that every forkful is a joyous adventure. The ambiance is casual yet inviting, making it an ideal spot to relish this delightful dish. If you're on a quest for the best mac and cheese in Philadelphia, Butcher Bar is a must-visit destination!

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Sweet Lucy's Smokehouse

At Sweet Lucy's Smokehouse, the mac and cheese is a delightful twist on a classic. The creamy, rich cheese sauce envelops perfectly al dente pasta, offering a comfort that warms the soul. What sets this dish apart is the subtle hint of smoke, a nod to their BBQ roots, that adds a unique depth of flavor. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, each bite delivers a satisfying contrast between creamy and crunchy. For anyone seeking a delicious indulgence, this mac and cheese is a standout choice that deserves a spot on your plate!

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Silk City

At Silk City, the mac and cheese is a delightful journey for the taste buds! This creamy concoction strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and comfort, with a generous blend of cheeses that create a luscious, velvety texture. The addition of crispy breadcrumbs on top provides just the right amount of crunch to elevate each bite. It's not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors! The vibrant atmosphere adds to the experience, making it a perfect spot for mac and cheese lovers. If you’re in the mood for some playful comfort food, Silk City is definitely worth the visit!

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Craftsman Row Saloon

At Craftsman Row Saloon, the mac and cheese is a playful symphony of flavors. Creamy and rich, the cheese blend envelops al dente pasta in a cozy embrace. What sets it apart? The playful addition of crispy bacon bits and a dash of truffle oil elevates the dish from classic comfort to culinary delight. Each bite is a savory hug, leaving you craving more. The atmosphere is warm, making it the perfect spot for a casual indulgence. If you’re on the hunt for mac and cheese that dances on your palate, this gem should definitely be on your list!

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Oh Brother Philly

Tucked away in the bustling heart of Philadelphia, Oh Brother Philly serves a mac and cheese that is nothing short of heavenly. The moment I took a bite, the creamy four-cheese blend enveloped my palate, creating a symphony of flavors. The crunchy breadcrumb topping added a delightful contrast, elevating each forkful to pure bliss. I was especially charmed by their unique twists, such as the truffle oil infusion that transformed this comfort food into a gourmet experience. Every visit feels like a warm hug—perfect for indulging your cravings. Trust me, this place is a mac and cheese lover's paradise!

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Fette Sau

Fette Sau is a delightfully unexpected find that elevates mac and cheese to new heights! Their creamy concoction showcases perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a layer of gooey cheese, delivering a comforting hug with every bite. The subtle hint of smokiness from their barbecue background adds a unique twist that truly sets it apart. Topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, it’s a textural delight you won’t want to miss. The lively atmosphere also enhances the experience, making it a perfect spot to indulge in this creamy dream. If you're in Philly, do treat your taste buds to this mac and cheese masterpiece!

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