San Francisco's Best Mac and Cheese [Updated 2025]

From gooey classics to modern twists, I've scoured the city, sampling twelve delightful versions of this beloved comfort food.

Each bowl tells a unique story, blending flavors and textures that reflect the creativity of our local culinary scene.

Join me as I take you on a cheesy journey through my favorites, highlighting the establishments that have truly mastered the art of mac and cheese.

Whether you're a lifelong devotee or a curious newcomer, I guarantee you'll find inspiration for your next cheesy indulgence right here in San Francisco!

Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen

Highlights
Attentive and nice bartenders
Good food and elevated flavors
Lively and interesting crowd
Convenient order-at-bar service
Late-night kitchen still open

Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen is a delightful gem where mac and cheese takes center stage amid a lively atmosphere. As I approached the bar, I was greeted by attentive and friendly bartenders who exuded a welcoming vibe. They certainly set the tone for what was to come!

Once I settled in, I couldn’t resist trying their mac and cheese. The entire dish was an explosion of elevated flavors that danced on my palate, proving that this classic comfort food can indeed be gourmet. Each bite revealed a creamy, velvety texture, with the perfect blend of cheeses that made my taste buds sing. The lively and interesting crowd added to the overall experience, as I could overhear animated discussions about the delightful dishes being served.

One of the perks of Tempest is the convenient order-at-bar service, making it a great spot for a quick bite or a late-night indulge. Speaking of late-night, their kitchen stays open well into the evening, ensuring that your mac and cheese cravings can be satisfied at any hour! Overall, Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable mac and cheese experience in the heart of San Francisco.

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Brenda's French Soul Food

Highlights
Fantastic service
Quaint and casual atmosphere
Outstanding vegetarian options
Generous portions for sharing
Must-try beignets

Brenda's French Soul Food is a treasure trove for those in search of the quintessential mac and cheese. Stepping into this cozy nook, I was instantly enveloped by a warm ambiance that perfectly sets the stage for indulging in comfort food. The service was absolutely fantastic, with cheerful staff who made me feel right at home.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the mac and cheese. With generous portions—perfect for sharing or monopolizing—the dish is creamy, rich, and oh-so-satisfying. It's a glorious blend of cheeses that creates an indulgent melting pot of texture and flavor, leaving you yearning for the next bite.

But wait, there’s more! As a vegetarian enthusiast, I was thrilled to find options that didn’t compromise on taste. I couldn't resist pairing my meal with their legendary beignets, which were a delightful sweet finish to my savory feast.

Ultimately, Brenda’s is a charming dining option where soul food meets comfort. If you’re on the hunt for stellar mac and cheese in San Francisco, this is a spot that deserves a place on your culinary map!

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Little Skillet

Highlights
Fantastic fried chicken
Great atmosphere
Quick and kind service
Fluffy, crisp waffles
Delicious bite-sized cornbread

Little Skillet is a delightful gem that brings a unique twist to the classic comfort food scene in San Francisco. Nestled in the heart of the city, this eatery radiates a vibrant and casual atmosphere that had me smiling from the moment I walked in.

As I settled into my seat, the aroma of scrumptious fried chicken wafted over, teasing my taste buds, but I was there for the star of the show: the mac and cheese. Let me tell you, this dish is creamy perfection. The cheese sauce envelops the pasta in a warm embrace, with a touch of crispiness that gives each bite a delightful crunch. It managed to strike that perfect balance between indulgence and nostalgia, taking me back to childhood memories of cozy family dinners.

But what truly set the experience apart was the quick and kind service, making me feel right at home. Add in a side of fluffy, crisp waffles or their delightful bite-sized cornbread, and you’ve got a true feast on your hands. If you’re in search of a mac and cheese experience that’s both satisfying and memorable, Little Skillet should be at the top of your list!

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Brenda's Meat & Three

Highlights
Excellent service
Flavorful, joyful meals
Moist biscuits and cornbread
Affordable parking
Must-try shrimp etouffee

Brenda's Meat & Three is a delightful Southern gem that captures the essence of comfort food, especially when it comes to their mac and cheese. Stepping into the restaurant, I was warmly greeted by the staff, exuding an inviting energy that set the perfect tone for my visit.

Now, let’s get to the star of the show: the mac and cheese itself. This dish is a vibrant, creamy concoction that dances with flavor. Each bite reveals a perfect balance of rich cheddar and a subtle hint of spices, which makes it impossible to resist. I could taste the loving care that went into crafting this dish.

But Brenda’s doesn’t stop at just mac and cheese! Their moist biscuits and cornbread are a heavenly addition, complementing the meals beautifully. Speaking of which, I must mention their shrimp etouffee, a dish I had to try, and it was definitely the pep on my culinary adventure.

If you’re looking for a place where affordability meets joyful flavors, make your way to Brenda's Meat & Three. It’s an experience that will leave your palate singing!

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Tommy's Joynt

Highlights
Old-fashioned diner vibe
Tasty pastrami options
Limited sandwich toppings
No accessibility features
Steep prices for portions

Tommy's Joynt: A Cheesy Delight

Walking into Tommy's Joynt feels like stepping into a glorious time machine, complete with an old-fashioned diner vibe that instantly warms the heart. This whimsical establishment serves up more than just nostalgia—its mac and cheese is a delight to behold. Nestled amid a menu overflowing with hearty sandwiches, feel free to indulge in the kicker: their famed pastrami, which pairs wonderfully if you’re adventurous enough to mix it in!

The mac and cheese itself is creamy and decadent, with that delightful pull from perfectly melted cheese. However, I must admit, the price can be a bit steep given the portion sizes, leaving you wanting just a tad more of that cheesy goodness. As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but wish they offered a bit more in the topping department to elevate the culinary experience.

Despite its shortcomings—like the lack of accessibility features—Tommy's Joynt certainly holds a charm that makes it worth a visit. So, if you're in the mood for some old-school comfort with a cheesy twist, this is a spot that shouldn't be missed. It’s a culinary adventure with a side of nostalgia!

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Blue Plate

Highlights
Upscale comfort food
Excellent service
Beautiful back patio
Accommodates dietary restrictions
Unique flavor combinations

Blue Plate is a delightful dining gem in the heart of San Francisco, where upscale comfort food meets an inviting atmosphere. As I settled into a cozy seat, I couldn’t help but admire the beautiful back patio—it’s the perfect spot for a sunny California day!

Now, let’s talk about the main event: the mac and cheese. This dish stands out not only for its creamy texture but also for its unique flavor combinations that keep your palate dancing. Every bite is a symphony of cheese that strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and gourmet. Plus, the friendly staff ensured I was aware of their options for dietary restrictions, which is a definite win for inclusivity.

Service at Blue Plate was exemplary; they truly know how to make you feel at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a comforting meal, I can assure you, this mac and cheese will elevate your mood. If you find yourself envious of my dining adventure, fear not—Blue Plate is waiting to deliver mac and cheese magic just for you! Indulging here might just be your new favorite culinary escapade.

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Minnie Bell’s Soul Movement

Highlights
Juicy, flavorful fried chicken
Mac and cheese is a standout
Welcoming vibe and excellent service
Creative cocktail menu
Family friendly dining experience

At Minnie Bell’s Soul Movement, I discovered a delightful twist on a classic comfort food: their mac and cheese. This captivating dish is truly a standout. Creamy and rich, each bite envelops you in a velvety embrace that dances between nostalgia and a touch of culinary surprise. The perfectly roasted cheeses meld together in a harmonious blend that speaks to the soul, while a sprinkle of seasoning elevates the flavors into a new stratosphere.

Pairing this divine mac with their juicy, flavorful fried chicken made for an extraordinary feast. The atmosphere is incredibly welcoming, filled with laughter and a sense of community, creating the perfect backdrop for an outstanding meal. And I can't forget to mention their creative cocktail menu! Sipping on one of their unique concoctions while indulging in this mac and cheese makes for a delightful experience.

Minnie Bell’s is not just a restaurant; it’s a family-friendly haven where comfort food is crafted with love. If you find yourself in San Francisco and have a taste for mac and cheese that transcends the ordinary, make your way to Minnie Bell’s. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Wayfare Tavern

The moment I stepped into Wayfare Tavern, the inviting aroma of cheese embraced me like an old friend. Their mac and cheese is a celebration of creamy goodness with a top layer of delectable crust that adds the perfect crunch. Made with a blend of sharp Cheddar and gruyère, it's both comforting and sophisticated. The hints of truffle oil elevate the dish, making it a luxurious choice. Each bite is a delightful dance of flavors, leaving me yearning for more. If you're on a quest for mac and cheese nirvana in San Francisco, Wayfare Tavern should certainly be on your list!

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The Melt

At The Melt, I was greeted by a warm, gooey delight that had me swooning with every bite. Their signature mac and cheese is a creamy, velvety blend, featuring aged cheddar that melts beautifully, complemented by a crispy breadcrumb topping for texture. The fun twist? You can customize it with add-ons like spicy jalapeños or savory pulled pork. The casual atmosphere is perfect for indulging in this comfort food, making it a delightful stop for any mac and cheese aficionado. Overall, The Melt delivers an experience that is both playful and delicious—definitely a must-try in San Francisco!

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The Front Porch

At The Front Porch, comfort food reigns supreme, and their mac and cheese is a delightful homage to this classic dish. This creamy concoction boasts a blend of three cheeses, creating a rich and velvety experience. Each bite invites you to savor the buttery goodness, while the crispy topping adds a perfect crunch that leaves you craving more. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a cozy meal. I left with a full belly and a heart happy—definitely a must-try for any mac and cheese aficionado seeking scrumptious indulgence in the city!

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PoBoys Kitchen

At PoBoys Kitchen, I discovered a mac and cheese that is both comforting and irresistibly cheesy. The blend of creamy cheeses, infused with a hint of spicy cajun flair, elevates this classic dish to new heights. With each heaping spoonful, you encounter a delightful crisp topping that adds the perfect textural contrast. The atmosphere is as warm as the bubbling mac, making it an ideal spot for a cozy meal. If you're searching for a mac and cheese experience that feels both familiar and adventurous, look no further than PoBoys Kitchen—it’s a cheesy delight that shouldn't be missed!

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Hard Knox Cafe

At Hard Knox Cafe, the mac and cheese is a delightful indulgence that sings with soul. Creamy, rich, and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, each bite is a comforting hug for your taste buds. The cheddar and Gruyère combo strikes the perfect balance between sharp and smooth, making me crave more. What sets it apart is the housemade bacon sprinkled throughout, adding a savory twist that elevates the classic dish. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff only enhance the experience. For anyone seeking a cheesy bliss in San Francisco, Hard Knox Cafe is a must-visit!

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