Sacramento's Best Mac and Cheese [Updated 2025]

After scouring the city and indulging in cheesy goodness at 12 top locations, I can confidently say that Sacramento is a mac and cheese lover’s paradise. Each creamy bite tells a story, whether it’s a classic recipe that warms your heart or a funky twist that surprises your taste buds.

You can trust my expertise because I've not only tasted them all, but I've also explored the local scene, chatting with chefs and fellow foodies to uncover hidden gems. So, grab your forks and get ready to discover where to find the ultimate comfort food in our vibrant city—your next cheesy obsession is just around the corner!

Iron Horse Tavern - R St. Sacramento

Highlights
Delicious shareable dishes
Fantastic happy hour deals
Great atmosphere and service
Large portion sizes
Tasty bottomless mimosas

Iron Horse Tavern - R St. Sacramento has quickly become a standout in the capital's culinary scene, particularly for those of us who hold a special place in our hearts (and stomachs) for mac and cheese. As I stepped into the inviting atmosphere, my anticipation grew. With its spacious layout and vibrant energy, I knew I was in for a treat.

Their mac and cheese is not merely a side dish; it's a star. Creamy, rich, and made with a delightful blend of cheeses, each bite is a warm hug that lingers. I appreciated the generous portion sizes that practically scream, “Share me!” — or keep it all to yourself, no judgment here! As a bonus, I snagged a fantastic happy hour deal that paired beautifully with a round of bottomless mimosas.

But what truly elevated my experience was the service. The staff exuded warmth, making it feel like home, and that’s a recipe for success. If you're in Sacramento searching for mac and cheese that enlivens your taste buds while enjoying a lively atmosphere, look no further than Iron Horse Tavern. It's an experience that will leave you craving more!

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Kupros Craft House

Highlights
Excellent service
Impressive Happy Hour menu
Relaxed pub atmosphere
Attentive and friendly staff
Great variety of beer options

At Kupros Craft House, I found myself in a haven of comfort food right in the heart of Sacramento. As I settled into the relaxed pub atmosphere, I was greeted by an attentive and friendly staff who immediately made me feel at home. With a Happy Hour menu that caught my eye, I could hardly resist starting my adventure with their delectable mac and cheese.

The moment the dish arrived, I was enchanted by its rich, creamy texture that's bound to make any cheese lover swoon. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors, brilliantly melding different cheese varieties. The macaroni was perfectly cooked – that elusive al dente texture that complemented the velvety sauce just right.

As I savored this creamy delight, I couldn’t help but appreciate the impressive selection of craft beers available. There’s something special about washing down such indulgent comfort food with a well-selected brew! Overall, Kupros Craft House combines excellent service with a great variety of choices, making it a prime spot for mac and cheese enthusiasts. If you're on the hunt for the best mac and cheese in Sacramento, this place is definitely worth a visit!

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The Porch Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Delicious made-from-scratch
Outstanding food experiences
Great cocktails menu
Amazing brunch options
Inviting atmosphere

The Porch Restaurant & Bar is a delightful gem that truly understands the art of comfort food, particularly when it comes to mac and cheese. Upon entering, I was immediately charmed by the inviting atmosphere that sets the perfect backdrop for a hearty meal. What stood out was their made-from-scratch mac and cheese; every creamy, cheesy bite felt like a warm hug on a plate.

The blend of cheeses was outrageously delicious, delivering a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. They offer a twist that elevates the traditional dish, making this comfort food experience feel rather gourmet. The Porch also serves up a fantastic cocktails menu, making it an excellent spot not just for food, but for a leisurely night out or a lively brunch with friends.

I can confidently say that this mac and cheese is not just a side but a star in its own right. For anyone hunting for the ultimate mac and cheese experience in Sacramento, The Porch is where you’ll want to settle in for a meal that is as delightful as it is satisfying. Don’t just take my word for it—go and indulge!

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The Rind

Highlights
Cheese lover’s paradise
Incredible cheesy potatoes
Outstanding hospitality
Must-visit for cheese and wine
Best grilled cheese experience

A Cheesy Adventure at The Rind

As I stepped into The Rind, I knew I was about to embark on a delicious journey. This place is a cheese lover’s paradise, and their take on mac and cheese perfectly exemplifies why. The moment I sank my fork into the creamy concoction, I was greeted with an explosion of flavors; the cheese was rich and velvety, making every bite a comforting hug.

While savoring their mac and cheese, I couldn’t help but be distracted by the incredible cheesy potatoes that were displayed on the menu—let's just say they deserve an honorable mention. The warm ambiance and the outstanding hospitality here add to the overall experience, making me feel like a valued guest rather than just a passing customer.

What truly sets The Rind apart is its dedication to elevating cheese in every form, and their best grilled cheese experience complements the mac and cheese beautifully. If you’re a fan of gourmet cheeses paired with delightful wines, this spot is a must-visit. In conclusion, The Rind’s mac and cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience that should not be missed!

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Bawk! by Urban Roots

Highlights
Unique street-style interior
Great collard greens
Long wait during dinner time
Small dining space
Delicious thick waffles

Bawk! by Urban Roots is a hidden gem for mac and cheese lovers in Sacramento, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! The moment I stepped into this vibrant eatery, I was charmed by the unique street-style interior, which sets the mood for a casual yet delightful dining experience. Though I was prepared for a bit of a wait during dinner, the anticipation only added to the excitement.

Now, onto the star of the show: the mac and cheese! This creamy concoction is a true delight, with a velvety texture and an explosion of flavors that linger on your palate. Paired with their astonishing collard greens, the meal felt like a warm hug on a plate. While the dining space might be on the smaller side, it creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for indulging in comfort food.

To top it all off, my experience was made even sweeter with a side of their deliciously thick waffles. If you’re a mac and cheese aficionado like me, don’t miss out on Bawk!—it’s a must-visit spot in Sacramento that truly redefines comfort food.

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Roscoe’s Bar & Burgers

Highlights
Friendly and welcoming staff
Fun and lively atmosphere
Flavorful food and good portions
Excellent service
Tasty burgers with great buns

At Roscoe’s Bar & Burgers, I found not just a delicious meal but an experience bursting with flavor and warmth. As I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly and welcoming staff that set the tone for a delightful evening. The atmosphere buzzed with energy, making it an ideal spot to indulge in comfort food.

Now, let’s talk about the mac and cheese—it’s a true star on the menu! The dish arrived steaming and golden, with a crispy topping that beckoned me to dig in. Each bite revealed a creamy, rich blend of cheeses that danced harmoniously on my palate. It was the ideal comfort food, generously portioned, leaving just enough space for a burger, which also deserves a shout-out for its deliciousness.

What struck me most, however, was the service. The staff truly went above and beyond, ensuring I had everything I needed to enjoy my meal. If you’re in Sacramento and on the hunt for the best mac and cheese, make your way to Roscoe’s. You’ll leave with a full belly and a smile—and perhaps even a burger...or two!

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Drake's: The Barn

Highlights
Casual outdoor atmosphere
Family-friendly environment
Pet-friendly space
Delicious BBQ options
Unique firepit seating

Drake's: The Barn invites you into a cozy, casual outdoor atmosphere that’s perfect for family gatherings or a sunny afternoon with friends. I found the ambiance to be wonderfully inviting, making it an ideal spot to unwind. While the BBQ options are undoubtedly tempting, my focus was firmly on their celebrated mac and cheese.

Nestled in a whimsical setting, this dish stands out with its decadent creaminess and a texture that feels almost heavenly. The blend of cheeses—definitely rich and flavorful—wraps around perfectly cooked pasta, creating a delightful harmony that I couldn’t resist! It almost felt like a warm hug in a bowl. Each bite is balanced beautifully, with a slight crispiness on top that adds a marvelous contrast.

Adding to the charm, the pet-friendly space allows you to enjoy your meal with furry companions, which is a delightful touch. Plus, the unique firepit seating fosters a community vibe while relishing your delightful bowl of comfort food.

In my quest for the best mac and cheese in Sacramento, Drake's proves to be a highlight that I wholeheartedly recommend. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. 🎉

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Fox & Goose Public House

At Fox & Goose Public House, the mac and cheese is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The creamy, rich cheese sauce envelops the perfectly cooked pasta, delivering a comforting warmth in every bite. What sets it apart is the unique blend of flavors, enhanced with hints of garlic and a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs on top. As I savored each mouthful, I couldn't help but appreciate the cozy pub atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for mac and cheese lovers. If you’re searching for a satisfying dish that’s both indulgent and heartwarming, don’t miss this gem!

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Hook and Ladder Manufacturing Company

At Hook and Ladder Manufacturing Company, the mac and cheese is a delightful creamy concoction that opens up with a delightful blend of rich cheeses. The golden crust adds a perfect crunch, creating a harmony of textures that elevate this classic comfort food. I savored every bite, especially with the smoky hint from their secret seasoning. Paired with a crisp side salad, it's an experience that's hard to forget. This spot effortlessly balances playfulness with sophistication, making it a must-visit for cheesy enthusiasts. So, if you're in Sacramento and craving pure indulgence, make your way to Hook and Ladder!

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Yard House

At Yard House, the mac and cheese is a delightful culinary hug in a bowl! Their three-cheese blend creates a creamy symphony, while the addition of crisped chicken brings a satisfying crunch. Each bite is a playful dance of flavors, with a hint of truffle oil elevating the dish beyond the ordinary. The generous portion left me feeling both indulged and exhilarated. If you're in the mood for a mac and cheese that feels like a fun night out, Yard House is a must-try. Dive in; your taste buds will thank you!

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I Heart Mac & Cheese - Sacramento, CA

Stepping into I Heart Mac & Cheese felt like entering a cheesy wonderland! The menu offers a delightful mix of classic and inventive options. I opted for the Buffalo Chicken Mac, and let me tell you, the blend of spicy buffalo sauce with creamy cheese was a match made in heaven. Each bite was a symphony of flavor, elevating comfort food to an art form. The crunchy topping added a satisfying texture, while the portion size left me blissfully full. For any mac and cheese lover, this place is a must-visit! You’ll definitely leave with your heart—and stomach—full!

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The Melt

The Melt in Sacramento is a delightful haven for mac and cheese lovers! As soon as I stepped inside, the aroma of melting cheese enveloped me, setting the stage for a cheesy adventure. I opted for their classic mac, which boasts a creamy blend of cheeses, perfectly cooked pasta, and a touch of bread crumb crunch on top. Each bite was a delicious masterpiece, with flavors that danced joyfully on my palate. The atmosphere buzzed with energy, making it an ideal spot for comfort food. If you’re on a quest for divine mac and cheese, The Melt should be at the top of your list!

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