Macaroni and cheese is a staple in children’s meals: it’s convenient, familiar and undeniably delicious. For parents hoping for happy kids and clean plates, Detroit has no shortage of standout options.
“Stirring the pot” of Detroit’s mac and cheese scene, we’ve compiled a list of some of the city’s best spots for a kid-approved classic.
Slows Bar BQ
Slows Bar BQ is a community favorite known for its gourmet spin on barbecue in a laid-back, family-friendly setting. Served as a side dish, the mac and cheese is creamy, rich and just the right portion for kids. Parents can enjoy the barbecue platters while kids dig into their familiar favorite.
- Price: Side Portion: $5
- Location: 2138 Michigan Ave., Detroit
- Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday
- Menu: View here
Mr. Rigatoni
Located in Redford Township, just west of Detroit, Mr. Rigatoni is a fast, fresh takeout-only spot that specializes in build-your-own pasta bowls. Perfect for picky eaters, the mac and cheese can be kept plain or topped with a protein. Families love the quick service and generous portions and in the summer, kids under 12 eat free with the purchase of any pasta bowl.
- Price: $8
- Location: 25907 Five Mile Road, Redford Township
- Hours: 3-10 p.m. Monday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
- Menu: View here
Union Assembly
Union Assembly is a lively, two-story dining spot in the heart of downtown Detroit. Their mac and cheese — made with Vermont sharp cheddar, Pinconning, penne rigate and a crispy crust — is gourmet but approachable. Available as a starter, families can appreciate the kid-friendly portion and centralized location, perfect for a quick downtown stop.
- Price: $12
- Location: 2131 Woodward Ave., Detroit
- Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
- Menu: View here
Buddy’s Detroit Style Pizza
Buddy’s Detroit Style Pizza is a beloved local chain, known for its national recognition and designation as the US’s first square pizza. Their oven-baked mac and cheese, topped with panko crumbs and extra cheddar, is a warm and familiar option for younger diners. Available in both a kid-sized Lil’ Buddy Mac & Cheese and a full entrée portion, it’s an easy pick for a casual family meal and a can’t-miss for anyone visiting Detroit.
- Price: Kids’ Portion: $9 | Entree Portion: $16
- Location: 17125 Conant St., Detroit
- Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily
- Menu: View here
Hockeytown Cafe
Conveniently located across from Comerica Park, Hockeytown Cafe doubles as a restaurant and Detroit sports museum, with motorcycles and memorabilia on display throughout. The kids’ mac and cheese is simple and filling, and the menu offers four different mac and cheese entrées for parents. It’s a great stop for sports fans before or after a game or show downtown.
- Price: Kids’ Portion: $10 | Entree Portion: $17-$26
- Location: 2301 Woodward Ave., Detroit
- Hours: Hours vary weekly; check their website for the latest schedule before visiting.
- Menu: View here
