The Best Mac and Cheese

A staple in American cuisine, macaroni and cheese needs no introduction. Here are five stand-out spots in the area to enjoy its creamy texture and universal appeal, especially with the little ones. Bon appétit!

Caboose Brewing Company | Vienna & Fairfax

Let’s just say this signature mac and cheese isn’t your typical side. It’s made with four gourmet cheeses and topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs. (Kids can order it without the crunchy topping or herbs.)

The first Virginia location opened along the historic W&OD Rail Trail in Vienna, while the Fairfax outpost keeps that same rustic-industrial train station vibe. Find open seating, a giant patio and stroller-friendly walkways. caboosebrewing.com

Founding Farmers | D.C.

This award-winning flagship restaurant owned by American family farmers is three blocks away from the White House and goes above and beyond for its mac and cheese. The pasta is handmade from scratch every day, and the cheese sauce includes seven different types of cheese. You can order it with chopped chicken tenders or crab. It is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially during weekends, to avoid long waits. wearefoundingfarmers.com/location/dc 

Tupelo Honey | Arlington, VA

The baked Macaroni and Gouda Cheese Casserole in this Southern cuisine cafe is gooey, loaded with cheese and topped with crunchy, buttery crumbs. To top your experience, go for the Mac ‘N’ Cheese Soufflé (elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, heavy cream and milk gravy, baked until golden and fluffy). Or the Mac ‘N’ Cheese Waffle (yes, mac and cheese cooked into a waffle), with crispy fried chicken and pickles. tupelohoneycafe.com/restaurant/arlington

Duke’s Grocery | Potomac, MD

It’s not only the famous Proper Burgers, consistently ranked as one of D.C.’s best burgers, that are a hit in this East London -inspired eatery. Its mac and cheese is a must-try, too: It comes out of the kitchen in a cast iron skillet, topped with a golden layer of white cheddar and truffle oil. This is Duke’s first restaurant outside of D.C., where it operates five others, all with a laid back and family-friendly atmosphere. dukesgrocery.com 

The Board & Brew | College Park, MD

This isn’t just a restaurant: It’s also a screen-free game board cafe where families can enjoy good food and play games together — the old-fashioned way. The Board & Brew’s mac and cheese is creamy, sharp cheddar -based and often topped with toasted breadcrumbs. Kids love to eat it while playing Connect Four, Guess Who, Scrabble or Monopoly. (They can actually choose from a library of more than 700 board games!) theboardandbrew.com