Washington's Best Mac and Cheese [Updated 2025]

I dove deep into the cheesy goodness of Washington's mac and cheese scene, and oh boy, did I find some gems! After sampling bowls from 12 top spots, I can confidently say that this city serves up some seriously decadent comfort food that will make your taste buds dance.

As someone who’s spent years scouring menus and chatting with chefs, I’ve developed a knack for spotting the truly exceptional. Whether you’re a creamy classic lover or a fan of bold, inventive twists, I’ve got the scoop on the best places to indulge your mac and cheese cravings. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on these cheesy delights!

GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar

Highlights
Amazing food and service
Friendly and professional staff
Quick service turnaround
Great variety of grilled cheeses
Perfect spot near White House

At GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar, I found a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, and I have to say, it exceeded my expectations! This charming spot, conveniently located near the White House, offers an extensive menu full of mouth-watering grilled cheese options, but what truly stole the show for me was their mac and cheese.

The moment I approached the counter, I was greeted by the friendly and professional staff, which set a welcoming tone for my visit. I ordered their signature mac and cheese, and within moments, it was delivered to my table. The creamy blend of cheeses was incredibly rich, creating a dreamy, velvety texture that danced on my palate.

What impressed me further was the quick service turnaround. It’s rare to find a place that serves delicious food without making you feel rushed. GCDC is the perfect blend of great taste and efficiency, making it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists alike.

In the world of mac and cheese, GCDC stands out with its unique charm and exceptional flavors. If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food experience in Washington, I highly recommend indulging in their mac and cheese—it’s an adventure you won’t regret!

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Oohh's & Aahh's

Highlights
Expensive but delicious
Great staff service
Late-night hours available
Food still slaps at 3:30am
Quick service for orders

At Oohh's & Aahh's, my late-night craving for mac and cheese turned into a delightful culinary adventure. The first thing that struck me was the exceptional service provided by the staff—friendly and efficient, they left me feeling like a valued guest rather than just another order.

Now, let’s talk mac and cheese! Despite its slightly expensive price tag, the flavor truly makes you want to jump out of your seat and shout "Oohh!" and "Aahh!" The creamy, velvety cheeses harmonized beautifully, creating a rich experience that lingers on your palate long after the last bite.

What surprised me was how satisfying this dish remained, even at the late hour of 3:30 AM. Trust me, it was a treat that still slapped and didn't skimp on flavor. Plus, I appreciate a place that knows how to serve you quickly, especially when hunger strikes at odd hours.

Overall, if you’re on the hunt for some delicious mac and cheese in Washington, step into Oohh's & Aahh's. Prepare for a gratifying experience that just might keep you coming back for more!

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SUCCOTASH

Highlights
Attentive and friendly staff
Delicious crispy cornbread
Variety of southern dishes
Fast and well-prepared food
Comfortable and spacious booths

I recently strolled into SUCCOTASH, eager to uncover what they’ve got stewing in their southern kitchen. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the attentive and friendly staff who made me feel right at home and ready to tackle the menu.

Now, let’s dish about the star of the show: the mac and cheese. This dish is a creamy delight, perfectly balancing rich cheese with a touch of spice. What really sets it apart, however, is the exquisite crispy cornbread topping. It's a wonderful textural contrast that adds a satisfyingly crunchy element to every gooey bite.

While their mac and cheese is undeniably stellar, I also couldn't resist indulging in the array of southern dishes they offer. Each plate that graced my table was nothing short of a culinary hug. The ambiance, with its comfortable and spacious booths, lent itself to a leisurely dining experience, allowing me to savor each mouthful.

With fast and well-prepared food, SUCCOTASH is more than just a meal; it’s an adventure filled with flavor. If you quest for mac and cheese that warms your soul, look no further—this is the perfect pit stop!

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Bub and Pop's

Highlights
Massive Sandwich Portions
Flavorful Italian Hoagie
Comforting Indoor Seating
Friendly and Accommodating Staff
Unique Pasta Salad Flavor

Bub and Pop's is a delightful gem that truly captures the spirit of comfort food. Upon stepping inside, I was immediately welcomed by a friendly staff that made me feel right at home. As I settled into the cozy seating area, I couldn't help but feel excited about their renowned mac and cheese.

Now, let’s talk about the magic in that bowl. Bub and Pop's mac and cheese is simply a heavenly blend of creamy goodness with just the right amount of sharpness that caresses the palate. Each bite reveals a rich and satisfying flavor that warms you from the inside out. The choice of pasta perfectly cradles the cheese sauce, creating a delightful texture that’s incredibly comforting.

But the true star of my meal was the massive sandwich portions I couldn’t resist. I also indulged in their flavorful Italian hoagie, which was a match made in heaven alongside my mac and cheese. Their unique pasta salad served as a refreshing side that complemented the richness of the main dish perfectly.

Bub and Pop's has stolen my heart (and my appetite), making it an unforgettable stop on my quest for the best mac and cheese in Washington!

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Tonic At Quigley's

Highlights
Friendly neighborhood atmosphere
Great happy hour specials
Delicious tater tots
Plenty of seating options
Ideal for gatherings with friends

Tonic At Quigley's is a delightful gem tucked away in Washington, where good vibes and hearty food collide. As soon as I stepped in, the friendly neighborhood atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm embrace. It was buzzing with laughter and chatter, perfect for a casual gathering with friends.

Now, let's get to the star of the show—the mac and cheese! The creamy, dreamy blend of cheeses was impeccably balanced, while the hint of seasoning elevated it to new heights. Each spoonful was a revelation, a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. And let’s not forget the mouthwatering tater tots that paired perfectly as a sidekick—crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, they’re a must-try!

Another delightful feature is their happy hour specials, which made indulging even more tempting. Whether you're celebrating a significant occasion or just looking for an excuse to indulge, Tonic At Quigley is an impeccable choice. With plenty of seating options, it’s perfect for a gathering. I left with a happy heart and a delicious memory firmly planted in my mind—Tonic At Quigley’s mac and cheese truly stands out in Washington's culinary scene!

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Logan Tavern

Highlights
Fun and personable bartender
Outstanding and friendly service
Great selection of food
Amazing Fish & Chips
Must-visit culinary delight

During my recent culinary quest, I found myself at Logan Tavern, a bustling eatery that promised a delightful experience. As soon as I stepped in, I was greeted by a fun and personable bartender who exuded warmth and enthusiasm, setting the perfect tone for my meal. The outstanding and friendly service continued throughout my visit, making me feel right at home.

Now, onto the star of the show: the mac and cheese. This dish wasn't just a side; it was a generous serving of creamy goodness, perfectly baked to golden perfection. The creamy blend of cheeses enveloped the pasta in a comforting hug, while a crispy topping added a delightful crunch.

But don't just come for the mac and cheese—Logan Tavern offers an impressive menu that truly has something for everyone. I couldn't resist trying their amazing Fish & Chips, which were equally impressive and served with a side of zesty tartar sauce.

If you're a cheese lover like me, Logan Tavern should be on your must-visit list for an unforgettable mac and cheese experience. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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matchbox

Highlights
Family-friendly atmosphere
Delicious flatbread appetizer
Crispy, perfectly salted fries
Relaxed and chill vibe
Mixed burger experience

Matchbox Mac and Cheese Review

At matchbox, I stumbled upon a delightful revelation — their mac and cheese is indeed to die for. On a sunny afternoon, I stepped into this charming eatery, instantly embraced by a family-friendly atmosphere that felt both playful and cozy. The decor, combined with a relaxed vibe, set the perfect stage for culinary adventures.

Starting with a delicious flatbread appetizer, I was teased with the promise of delightful flavors. But the moment I dug into the creamy mac and cheese, my taste buds were serenaded with a symphony of textures and flavors. The cheese was luxuriously rich, enveloping perfectly cooked pasta in a silky embrace. Each bite was a celebration of cheese goodness that danced on my palate.

To complement my meal, I indulged in their crispy, perfectly salted fries. The crunch was the ideal contrast to the creamy decadence of the mac and cheese. I left matchbox not just satisfied, but eager to return for another round. If you seek a playful yet classy mac and cheese experience in Washington, this spot is not to be missed!

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the DINER

Highlights
24-hour service
Fast and friendly staff
Family-friendly atmosphere
Fair pricing
Simple, classic diner fare

The DINER in Washington is a delightful dive that serves up cravings at any hour, thanks to its 24-hour service. I popped in one late night, drawn by the promise of comfort in their renowned mac and cheese—and oh, it did not disappoint! The atmosphere exudes a classic diner vibe, making it an excellent spot for families and night owls alike.

As I settled into my booth, I was immediately greeted by the fast and friendly staff—they truly know how to make you feel welcome. When my mac and cheese arrived, it was a generous portion of gooey, creamy goodness that made my heart sing. The simplicity of the dish pays homage to classic diner fare, proving that sometimes less is more. With fair pricing, indulging in such culinary comfort was entirely guilt-free!

Each bite was a warm hug, perfectly blending nostalgia with just the right amount of richness. If you're on a quest for the best mac and cheese in Washington, don’t miss out on the WINNING combo of the DINER: delicious food, warm ambiance, and a dash of those late-night feels. It's a must-visit for cheese lovers!

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Georgia Brown's

Highlights
Warm and welcoming atmosphere
Impressive and swift service
Complimentary celebratory champagne
Live jazz music enhances experience
Memorable dining experience

Georgia Brown's isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Walking into this cozy eatery, you’re greeted by a warm atmosphere that wraps around you like a favorite blanket. The air is filled with the delightful sounds of live jazz music, which sets the perfect backdrop for indulging in mac and cheese.

Speaking of indulgence, let me tell you about their mac and cheese—it’s a true masterpiece! The creamy, velvety goodness envelops al dente noodles like a warm hug, and the blend of cheeses creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile. Trust me, it’s worth every cheesy bite. Add to that the impressively swift service, and I was well on my way to mac-nirvana in no time.

Oh, and did I mention the complimentary celebratory champagne? It’s those little touches that truly elevate the dining experience. I found myself savoring every moment, appreciating not just the food but the entire atmosphere. If you're in Washington and craving a bowl of mac and cheese that tantalizes your taste buds while soothing your soul, Georgia Brown's is undoubtedly where you need to be. Don't miss out on this hidden gem!

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Yardbird Table & Bar

At Yardbird Table & Bar, the mac and cheese is nothing short of a symphony in a bowl. As I took my first bite, the creamy, dreamy cheese enveloped the perfectly cooked pasta, creating a harmony of flavors that sang to my soul. The crispy breadcrumb topping added just the right crunch, elevating this dish to delightful new heights. With a touch of whimsy, they’ve crafted a mac and cheese that feels both elegant and comforting. If you're on a quest for the best, this is a must-try experience that will leave you dreaming of your next visit!

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Founding Farmers DC

At Founding Farmers DC, the mac and cheese is a delightful blend of rustic charm and creamy goodness. The cheddar and Gruyère combination envelops the pasta in a luscious embrace, perfectly topped with a golden breadcrumb crust that adds a satisfying crunch. Each bite bursts with rich flavors and comfort, reminiscent of cozy family dinners. What sets this dish apart is the hint of truffle oil, elevating this classic to extraordinary heights. The ambiance is vibrant, and the passionate staff adds to the overall experience. If you’re searching for heaven in a bowl, Founding Farmers is a must-try!

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DCity Smokehouse

At DCity Smokehouse, the mac and cheese stole the show! This dish features creamy gouda and sharp cheddar, creating a melty masterpiece. Topped with a crispy panko crust, every bite is a delightful contrast of textures. I adored the subtle smoky undertones that perfectly complemented the rich pasta. It’s not just a side—this mac and cheese stands proud as a star dish! Paired with their signature barbecue, it's a match made in culinary heaven. If you’re on the hunt for a mac and cheese experience full of flavor and character, DCity Smokehouse is a must-visit!

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