Cheesy Does It: Mac & Cheese Crawl

Cheese Louise! When you need a comfort food fix, you know Mac & Cheese will make everything all better. You can savor a traditional bowl of that magical combo of cheddar and elbow macaroni. Or experience a different symphony of flavors and shapes in the mix. Time to taste test the best. When you’re ready to branch out, try Exploring North Shore Restaurants.

 

Rosebud Steakhouse, Wheeling

Rosebud Steakhouse (Wheeling)
This dish is as gourmet as they come. We’re talking hand-selected, imported cheeses gently married with perfectly prepared pasta. When they boast that their signature Baked Mac & Cheese is “not your everyday run of the mill” version, believe it. Get some à la carte as sidekick for an array of prime steaks (sourced from black Angus cattle that are locally raised right here in the Midwest) and chops with “enhancements” such as Velasco, Bordelaise, truffle butter and more.
 

Firehouse Grill, Evanston

Firehouse Grill (Evanston)
It’s a three-alarm delicious warning for the Baked Skillet Mac & Cheese in this decommissioned firehouse turned beloved local eatery. Cavatapi pasta and a three-cheese sauce (Smoked Gouda, American, Cheddar) is topped with breadcrumbs, then baked and served in a personal-sized skillet topped with green onions and bacon. Take it solo or add chicken, smoked pork or chili for a real meal.
 

L. Woods Tap & Pine Lodge, Lincolnwood

L. Woods Tap & Pine Lodge (Lincolnwood)
Take in the nostalgia of a Northwoods Supper Club with a stop for a stellar menu of American classics. Their “Entrée Enhancers” feature a killer Macaroni & Cheese — though you might be tempted by the Wisconsin Cheese Curds with buttermilk ranch dressing, too. Get either to go with weeknight specials like Pot Roast Stroganoff or the Steakhouse Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, mushroom bordelaise and sautéed green beans.
 

The Hampton Social, Westfield Old Orchard, Skokie

The Hampton Social (Westfield Old Orchard, Skokie)
Listen up. The Hampton Mac & Cheese side is all creamy and delicious on its own with wide-open orecchiette — those “ear-shaped” noodles that serve as delightful little scoops for sauce. But guess what? You can amp up and add the luxury lobster to make this dish a super-star for lunch or dinner which fits in nicely with the coastal vibe. Enjoy it in the "Rosé All Day" lounge, a perfect stop along any foodie tour.
 

EvaDean's Bakery and Cafe, Wilmette

EvaDean’s Bakery and Café (Wilmette)
The breakfast/brunch/lunch crowd is in comfort food heaven at this popular café in historic Downtown Wilmette. While you might get distracted by the tempting array of baked goods in the pretty display case, their Mac & Cheese is a gorgeously gooey baked pasta with a combo white cheddar and Fontina topped by herby breadcrumbs. It’s better than sticking a feather in your cap and calling it… you know.
 

Peckish Pig, Evanston

Peckish Pig (Evanston)
Sporting bold flavors across their menu with shareables “For the Table” to start, the “Pig” follows with the “On Bread” or “Big Plates” selections. One of those generous options features the BBQ Pulled Pork and Mac & Cheese that doesn’t skimp on the three cheesy components. If something else tempts you, add the Mac & Cheese as a side or sneak a few bites from one of your littles when they order the Kids Menu size. 
 

Yard House, Glenview

Yard House (Glenview) 
This mac & cheese doesn’t play around. This loaded version piles on white truffle, smoky bacon, juicy chicken, sautéed mushrooms and a golden, cheesy panko-parmesan crust. It’s rich, decadent, and the ultimate cozy comfort. 
 

Morton's The Steakhouse, Northbrook

Morton's the Steakhouse (Northbrook) 
This isn’t side dish energy—it’s main character material. The Lobster Mac & Cheese brings together buttery lobster, melty cheese, and perfectly cradled shell pasta for bite after decadent bite. Pair it with a perfectly crafted steak, or order up a meal of delicious sides and apps.