The South Loop, a vibrant neighborhood in Chicago, boasts a diverse culinary scene. But beyond the deep-dish pizza and gourmet burgers, lies a cheesy, comforting treasure: mac and cheese. This isn't your average boxed dinner; we're talking gourmet, inventive, and downright delicious mac and cheese. This guide explores 13 of the best mac and cheese options the South Loop offers, catering to every palate and preference. Get ready for a cheesy adventure!
Finding Your Perfect Mac and Cheese Match in the South Loop
Choosing the perfect mac and cheese can feel overwhelming, especially with so many fantastic options. This guide breaks down the South Loop's best, categorized for easier decision-making. We've considered factors like cheese type, pasta shape, additions, and overall culinary experience. So, whether you crave a classic comfort food or an adventurous gourmet twist, this guide has you covered.
Classic Comfort: The Traditional Mac & Cheese Experience
These spots deliver on the promise of a perfectly executed, nostalgic mac and cheese experience. Expect creamy, well-seasoned cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.
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Lou Mitchell's: This South Loop institution isn't just known for its legendary breakfasts. Their mac and cheese is a comforting side dish that's a perfect complement to their diner fare. Expect a simple, yet satisfying, rendition of the classic dish.
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The Purple Pig: While known for its tapas, The Purple Pig's mac and cheese is a surprisingly excellent side. It's creamy and rich, with a hint of sophistication, perfectly showcasing the quality of the ingredients used.
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RPM Italian: A more upscale setting, RPM Italian delivers a luxurious mac and cheese experience. Their version utilizes high-quality cheeses and precise cooking techniques, resulting in a smooth and flavorful dish.
Gourmet Adventures: Mac & Cheese Reimagined
These restaurants elevate mac and cheese to an art form, incorporating unexpected ingredients and creative techniques.
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Monteverde: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined take on mac and cheese. Expect unique cheese combinations and perhaps even seasonal additions, creating a memorable dining experience.
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Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's acclaimed restaurant showcases global influences, and this extends to their mac and cheese. Prepare for unexpected flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.
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Aba: Mediterranean flavors take center stage in Aba's mac and cheese. Expect creamy, rich, and flavorful sauce infused with the restaurant's signature Mediterranean spices and herbs.
Unique Twists: Beyond the Basics
These spots offer mac and cheese with a unique spin, adding exciting ingredients and flavors to the classic comfort food.
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Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: This steakhouse offers a decadent mac and cheese that perfectly complements their prime cuts of meat. Expect a rich and indulgent dish.
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Beatrix: Beatrix's upscale atmosphere is matched by their sophisticated mac and cheese. Expect carefully sourced cheeses and potentially unique add-ins, elevating the dish beyond the ordinary.
Budget-Friendly Bites: Delicious Mac & Cheese Without Breaking the Bank
These South Loop locations offer delicious mac and cheese at more accessible price points.
- Portillo's: While famous for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Portillo's mac and cheese is a surprisingly tasty and affordable option. It's a solid, classic version that hits the spot.
Sweet and Savory: Unexpected Combinations
These locations challenge the traditional mac and cheese formula, incorporating sweet or spicy elements.
- DMK Burger Bar: Though known for its burgers, DMK offers a mac and cheese with a creative twist – possibly adding bacon or other savory ingredients to elevate the flavor profile.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Cheesy Goodness for Everyone
The South Loop has options for those following vegetarian or vegan diets.
- Public House: Check their menu for vegetarian or vegan mac and cheese options, often using plant-based cheeses and alternative ingredients.
Hidden Gems: Discover the South Loop's Best-Kept Secrets
These locations may be less well-known but offer exceptional mac and cheese. Exploration is key!
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Zero Degrees: This spot may offer unexpected mac and cheese choices, so exploring their menu is recommended.
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Local South Loop Eateries: Look for local restaurants and cafes in the South Loop, as they often feature daily specials or unique mac and cheese creations.
Choosing Your South Loop Mac & Cheese Adventure: A Quick Guide
| Category | Description | Example Restaurant(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Comfort | Simple, perfectly executed mac and cheese. | Lou Mitchell's, The Purple Pig |
| Gourmet Adventures | Elevated mac and cheese with unique ingredients and techniques. | Monteverde, Girl & the Goat |
| Unique Twists | Mac and cheese with unexpected additions or flavor profiles. | Bavette's, Beatrix |
| Budget-Friendly | Delicious mac and cheese at an accessible price point. | Portillo's |
| Sweet & Savory | Mac and cheese with sweet or spicy elements. | DMK Burger Bar |
| Vegetarian/Vegan | Plant-based mac and cheese options. | Public House (check menu for availability) |
| Hidden Gems | Undiscovered South Loop locations with exceptional mac and cheese. | Zero Degrees, Local South Loop Eateries |
This comprehensive guide helps you navigate the delicious world of mac and cheese in Chicago's South Loop. Remember to check restaurant menus and availability before your visit, as offerings may change. Enjoy your cheesy South Loop adventure!
