The Best Mac and Cheese in Pittsburgh

Today is National Macaroni Day, and next Friday is National Mac & Cheese Day, so the City Cast Pittsburgh podcast team took on a taste test to get you the cheesiest bites in the ‘Burgh.

If You’re Looking For a Classic:

• The Rear End Gastropub & Garage in Etna has a wonderfully gooey side dish with cavatappi pasta and a homemade cheese sauce.
• Kelly’s Bar and Lounge is an East Liberty staple. Their baked mac has a delicious aroma, and they offer two sizes for whatever mood you’re in. But plan ahead; each one takes 20 minutes.
• Our host’s pick is Bigham Tavern in Mt. Washington because it’s consistently tasty at an affordable price. They also have specialty variations for the adventurous eater.

If You’re Looking For an Add-In or Fun Topping:

• Smoke in Lawrenceville was the team’s overall favorite for both their classic and specialty dishes, such as the burnt ends mac or the mac special with blue cheese crumbles, housemade bacon and chorizo, and caramelized onions. (Also: Smoke is actually up for sale at an initial asking price of $385,000. Get those flawless, smoky noodles before they potentially, but hopefully do not, disappear.)
• Go to Double Wide Grill on the South Side for their brisket mac with white cheddar, Memphis BBQ sauce, and crispy fried onions.

🧀 Hungry For More?

From smoked gouda to vegan favorites, get the full list of Pittsburgh’s most delicious dishes from the City Cast Pittsburgh podcast, plus two bonus DIY recipes for how to improve your favorite boxed versions.