Mac and Cheese

As seen through the eyes of a proper Bostonian...

There are few culinary creations more satisifying than good old-fashioned comfort food. With the weather getting cooler by the week we turn now to an American classic: mac&cheese.

A long-term favorite has always been the Publick House version made with orrechetti pasta in a five cheese sauce. Numerous additions such as tomatoes, asparagus or bacon only increase the appeal of this dish. When done correctly, the mac&cheese has a crispy broiled top and a creamy, delicious center. The orrechetti arrive perfectly cooked, with the heartiness of the pasta pairing well with the creamy cheesy sauce. And of course, the Publick House has an excellent selection of beers to wash it all down. The only drawback to dining here are the increasingly longer lines and the occasional fluke in mac&cheese preparation (which seems to occur more on nights when the place is overrun with local beer afficionados.)

Another spot for some great mac&cheese is Zon's in Jamaica Plain. The farfalle with farm house cheddar and fontina arrives hot, gooey and very rich. It is a perfect dish for a winter night, but probably a little heavy for the warmer months.

For a quick bite, Soul Fire BBQ in Allston makes some great fried mac&cheese balls. Dip these delicious munchies into any number of BBQ sauces (or just plain ketchup!) If you can make it past the concept, these munches are fabulous and worth every greasy penny!

Possibily the best mac&cheese I have had to date was at
Picco's in the South End. The penne with cheddar, gruyere and taleggio cheese baked to order and topped with Parmigiano Reggiano looks as good as it tastes. Add in the wild mushrooms and this dish is to DIE for.

There are still a few places left try out. I have heard good things about the mac&cheese at the Alchemist and I'd also like to try out some recipes of my own...if I ever get the recipe *just* right, I'll let you know!

~flutterbyblue

Publick House
1648 Beacon St
Brookline, MA 02445
(617) 277-2880

Zon's
2 Perkin's Street
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
(617) 524-9667

Soul Fire BBQ
182 Harvard Avenue
Allston, MA
(617) 787-3003

Picco's
505 Tremont Street
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 927-0066

The Alchemist Lounge
435 S. Huntington Avenue
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
(617) 477-5741