Detroit gets the spotlight, but the creamiest, most talked-about mac and cheese in Michigan bubbles away inside a converted church in Clarkston.
At Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen, pews become booths, stained wood warms the room, and a cult-classic pasta steals the show. Locals drive 45 minutes for a skillet and leave plotting their return. If you think you know comfort food, this place asks you to raise your fork and reconsider.
The Skillet That Started the Pilgrimage
Brimming with cavatappi under a bubbling cap of golden cheddar, the Union’s mac arrives in a hot skillet like a small revelation. Steam rises, the edges crisp, and the center stays dangerously creamy. It’s a texture play—stretchy, velvety, and just a little toasty.
Order it solo or pair with a crisp side salad to cut the richness. Locals swear by a dash of hot sauce to brighten the cheddar. Add bacon or chicken if you crave heft. But the classic? That’s the reason people pass a dozen exits to get here.
A Church Turned Comfort-Food Chapel
Housed in a quaint former church at 54 S Main St, the restaurant keeps history tangible with antique pews for booths and a marquee-style bingo board. Wood tones and soft lighting make the room feel intimate without being precious. It’s the kind of place where folks linger after plates are cleared.
Art, local photos, and a lively bar add modern energy to the reverent bones. Families, date nights, and Lions fans share space comfortably. The vibe says neighborhood favorite, but the line at peak hours says destination. Plan accordingly and enjoy the show.
How to Order Like a Regular
Timing matters here. Aim for early lunch on weekdays or slide in around opening on weekends to avoid the rush. Start with the mac and cheese, then split a Cubano or veggie burger for variety. Ask your server about weekly specials; the board changes and the kitchen has range.
If you like contrast, request hot sauce or a side of pickles to cut richness. Drinks can lag during peak times, so settle on your order quickly. Keep it simple, share generously, and leave room for dessert if crème brûlée makes a cameo.
Service, Pace, and What to Expect
On a busy night, the team hustles, but short staffing can stretch response times. Most visits bring friendly, frequent check-ins and solid menu guidance; occasionally you’ll repeat a drink order. Patience pays off, especially when the kitchen is jamming.
Use the lull to soak in the quirky decor or scan the tap list. If you’re particular, confirm modifications clearly and politely. Staff genuinely want you happy, and it shows in the small gestures—extra napkins, refills, and birthday surprises. The energy feels neighborhood-first, with just enough polish to keep things smooth.
Pairing the Famous Mac With Drinks
Cheddar richness loves contrast. A crisp pilsner or light lager scrubs the palate clean between cheesy bites. If you prefer hops, keep it moderate—something citrusy rather than resinous. Wine drinkers can reach for a dry Riesling or unoaked Chardonnay to keep things lively.
Non-alcoholic options like seltzer with lemon or a tart house-made lemonade also work. Ask for the current tap list; they curate well. One smart move: order your drink alongside the mac to time the first pour with that dramatic skillet arrival.
Plan Your Visit: Hours, Cost, and Parking
Expect a comfortable $20–30 per person before drinks, perfect for a casual night out. Hours run 11 AM–9 PM most days, with Sunday opening at 9 AM for added flexibility. Check the website or call +1 248-620-6100 for updates before driving in.
Parking in downtown Clarkston can tighten up at prime times, so arrive a few minutes early. If you’re road-tripping from metro Detroit, budget the extra time; traffic can surprise you. The payoff is a well-run room where comfort food meets small-town charm.