Mac Shack Is Like a Salad Bar, But With Mac-and-Cheese

1692

Editor’s note: Mac Shack in Green Township has since closed. The Clifton location remains open.

Ever wish you could go back to the simpler days of your childhood? Us, too. But we’ll settle for the next best thing at Keystone’s Mac Shack, where the food is unapologetically over-the-top and decidedly not mom-approved.

Photograph by Marlene Rounds

Head up to the counter to pick one of seven specialty mac and cheeses named after classic rock acts, with a variety of creative protein, veggie, and cheese mix-in combos. Turn your mac up to 11 by adding your choice of toppings, from crushed-up Cool Ranch Doritos or Grippo’s chips to a sprinkling of breadcrumbs or cornbread crumbles.

Photograph by Marlene Rounds

When selecting a size, beware: The small is enough to stuff yourself. Keep it classic with the just-plain-cheesy Lovin’ Spoonful if busyness isn’t your thing. Our hands-down favorite was The B.B. King, with shreds of barbecue chicken, crispy bacon, a cornbread crumb topping, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce. Ask about the mac of the day, the rotating chef’s choice that ventures off the grid, incorporating everything from pizza fixings to Cincinnati chili.

To get the most out of your visit, get the kid’s size and save room for the daily housemade pudding pie: A crushed Oreo base is topped with whipped pudding and (obviously) more crushed Oreos, lending a crunch to the dessert’s otherwise fluffy texture. Act fast, because it frequently sells out. Or you could really live out your childhood dreams and eat dessert first. No judgment.

Mac Shack, 5655 Harrison Ave., Green Township, (513) 351-4622, eatmacshack.com. Lunch, dinner, and late night Mon–Sun.

Facebook Comments