Mac and cheese isn’t just a side dish in Georgia—it’s the star of the show. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked, it steals the spotlight at local favorites across the state. One bite, and you’ll understand why Georgians guard their recipes like treasure. Locals know the power of a perfect forkful. It can turn a simple meal into a memory and make a routine lunch feel like a celebration. Get ready to follow your nose and your appetite.
Here are nine Georgia restaurants where the mac and cheese isn’t just a side—it’s the main event.
Busy Bee Cafe
Since 1947, Busy Bee Cafe has been a beloved Atlanta staple, serving comforting Southern classics. Its mac and cheese is a standout, with a baked finish that pairs perfectly with their famous fried chicken.
The atmosphere in this iconic spot is warm and nostalgic, inviting diners to enjoy generous portions and friendly service.
Located on Martin Luther King Jr Dr SW, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of home. Whether you’re reminiscing or trying it for the first time, Busy Bee’s mac and cheese is unforgettable.
Mary Mac’s Tea Room
Mary Mac’s Tea Room is an Atlanta institution where Old-South hospitality is always on the menu. Known for its warm ambiance and classic sides, the creamy macaroni and cheese is a cherished favorite.
Longtime recipes keep patrons coming back, serving as the perfect side to fried chicken or pot roast.
Nestled on Ponce De Leon Ave NE, this spot is ideal for gathering with friends over timeless Southern comfort food. It’s not just a meal; it’s a tradition.
The Colonnade
The Colonnade is a cherished neighborhood spot blending Southern comfort with a touch of nostalgia. Located on Cheshire Bridge Road, its macaroni and cheese is a staple side that keeps diners coming back.
Pair it with their fried chicken or daily specials for a satisfying meal.
With its inviting atmosphere and welcoming hospitality, The Colonnade offers comfort-food continuity that feels like a warm embrace, making every visit feel like coming home.
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q
At Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, Texas-style barbecue meets Southern sides in a delightful culinary fusion. The creamy baked mac and cheese is a perfect companion to their smoky brisket and ribs.
Situated on DeKalb Ave NE, this BBQ haven is a must-visit for those seeking bold flavors and dependable, cheesy sides.
The fusion of robust barbecue with rich mac and cheese ensures that each visit satisfies even the heartiest appetites.
Heirloom Market BBQ
Heirloom Market BBQ is where creativity thrives alongside smoky perfection. Known for a roux-based mac and cheese using large shells, it’s a favorite among locals.
With Korean-inspired smoked meats, the flavor pairings are inventive and bold.
Whether at a pop-up or stall location, Heirloom Market delivers a casual, picnic-style experience that’s both fun and delicious. It’s an indulgence that barbecue lovers can’t resist.
Poor Calvin’s
Poor Calvin’s offers a unique blend of Asian influences and Southern comfort, with a lobster mac and cheese that dazzles the palate. This eclectic fusion creates bold flavors and creative twists on classic comfort dishes.
Located on Piedmont Ave NE, it’s perfect for those looking to explore inventive culinary creations.
The downtown vibe and inventive dishes invite adventurous mac lovers to discover something truly special, making it a standout choice.
Community Q BBQ
Community Q is a barbecue institution in Decatur, celebrated for its rigatoni-style three-cheese mac and cheese. With generous portions and a baked top that crisps beautifully, this dish earns high marks from chefs and patrons alike.
The old-school barbecue techniques and inviting environment make it a local favorite.
Situated on Clairmont Rd, Community Q offers a classic barbecue experience with a must-try mac side that keeps diners coming back for more.
Roc South Cuisine
Roc South Cuisine blends Southern comfort with polished plating, offering a popular mac and cheese on both lunch and brunch menus. Cast-iron baked variations add a creative touch.
Located on Buford Hwy NE, the lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for brunch gatherings.
Whether you’re there for a cozy dinner or a spirited brunch, Roc South delivers well-executed dishes that comfort and excite.
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is a Savannah treasure, offering a communal dining experience with classic family-style Southern sides. The beloved baked mac and cheese is a daily treat.
With decades-old recipes and rotating vegetable platters, this historic spot invites diners to enjoy a warm, timeless meal.
Located on W Jones St, Mrs. Wilkes’ is an essential stop for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Southern hospitality and iconic comfort food.