The Mac And Cheese At This Unassuming Restaurant In Virginia Is Every Cheese Lover’s Literal Fever Dream

Think you’ve had good mac and cheese? Think again.

Tucked away in Newport News, there’s a spot that’s turning comfort food into an art form, one gooey, melted masterpiece at a time. This isn’t your grandma’s casserole or some sad cafeteria side dish.

This is mac and cheese that makes grown adults stop mid-bite and do the happy food dance. Locals are already in on the secret, driving back for seconds the same week and planning road trips just to grab another bowl.

The magic happens in a humble little building that you might drive past without noticing, but once you taste what’s inside, you’ll never forget it. Creamy, loaded, piping hot, and packed with flavor combinations that’ll make your taste buds throw a party.

Ready to find out what all the buzz is about?

The Unassuming Storefront That Hides a Cheesy Secret

You won’t find fancy fountains or valet parking here. Matt’s Smackin Macs sits quietly along Warwick Boulevard, blending into the neighborhood like it’s been there forever.

The building is small, the setup is simple, and honestly, you might cruise right past it if you’re not paying attention.

But that’s part of the charm. Sometimes the best food hides in the most unassuming places, and this spot proves it every single day.

Step inside and you’ll find a cozy little dining area with just enough seating to feel intimate without being cramped. There’s even a small outdoor space if you prefer fresh air with your cheese.

The vibe is casual and laid-back. No pretense, no fuss, just good food and friendly faces ready to serve you something hot and delicious.

Regulars love the no-frills approach because it keeps the focus exactly where it should be: on the mac and cheese that’s about to blow your mind.

First-timers often walk in curious and leave planning their next visit before they even finish their bowl. The staff greets you with genuine warmth, and if it’s your first rodeo, they’ll happily walk you through the menu and offer suggestions based on what you’re craving.

The Signature Creamy Base That Changes Everything

Forget everything you thought you knew about mac and cheese. The base here isn’t just good, it’s the stuff dreams are made of.

Rich, velvety, and loaded with real cheese that melts into every shell, creating that perfect pull when you scoop up a forkful.

They don’t mess around with fake cheese powder or watery sauces. Every bowl starts with a creamy foundation that’s been perfected to hit that sweet spot between indulgent and absolutely crave-worthy.

The texture is smooth but substantial, clinging to the pasta in all the right ways.

What sets it apart is the seasoning. Not too salty, not bland, just perfectly balanced so the cheese shines without overpowering your palate.

You can taste the quality in every bite, and it’s clear they’re using ingredients that actually matter.

Customers rave about how the mac stays hot long after pickup. One reviewer drove home and still had to blow on every bite because it was piping hot.

That’s the kind of attention to temperature and freshness that keeps people coming back week after week, bowl after bowl.

BBQ Chicken Mac That Brings the Smoke

Sweet, smoky, and downright addictive. The BBQ Chicken Mac takes comfort food to a whole new level by layering tender grilled chicken with a tangy barbecue sauce that dances across the creamy cheese base.

It’s like a backyard cookout met your favorite pasta dish and they became best friends.

The chicken is seasoned beautifully and grilled to perfection, then generously piled on top so you get protein in every forkful. The BBQ sauce adds just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of spice, balancing the richness of the cheese without overwhelming it.

Fans of this bowl say it’s impossible to stop halfway through. The flavors meld together in a way that feels both familiar and exciting, like rediscovering an old favorite with a fun new twist.

Some folks even order it specifically for leftovers because it reheats like a dream and tastes just as good the next day.

One local admitted they drove back from out of town just to grab another serving. That’s not an exaggeration, that’s the power of good BBQ chicken paired with killer mac and cheese.

It’s hearty, satisfying, and hits all the right notes.

Buffalo Chicken Mac with Just the Right Kick

Spice lovers, this one’s for you. The Buffalo Chicken Mac brings the heat without making you reach for a fire extinguisher.

Juicy blackened chicken gets tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce that adds a punchy kick to the creamy, cheesy base, creating a flavor explosion that’s equal parts comforting and thrilling.

Green onions sprinkled on top add a fresh crunch and a pop of color, balancing out the richness and giving each bite a little extra something. The buffalo sauce is tangy and bold, but not so overwhelming that it drowns out the cheese or the perfectly seasoned chicken.

One reviewer said this bowl had them doing the Keith Lee eye roll when the flavor hit. That’s high praise in the food world, and it’s well-deserved.

The combination of creamy, spicy, and savory checks all the boxes for anyone who likes their comfort food with a little attitude.

Even if you’re not a huge spice fan, you can ask for it on the milder side. The beauty of this spot is that everything is made to order, so you can tweak the heat level to match your taste buds perfectly.

By the Bay Shrimp Mac That Tastes Like Coastal Bliss

Seafood fans, meet your new obsession. The By the Bay Shrimp Mac piles perfectly seasoned shrimp on top of that signature creamy base, bringing a taste of the Virginia coast right to your bowl.

The shrimp are plump, flavorful, and cooked just right so they’re tender without being rubbery.

This isn’t a skimpy serving either. Reviewers mention getting a generous heap of shrimp, stacked high and distributed throughout so you’re not hunting for them at the bottom.

The seasoning on the shrimp complements the cheese without clashing, creating a surf-and-turf vibe that feels indulgent but totally approachable.

One customer said they got about a third of the shrimp in the photo and still had plenty left in the bowl. That’s the kind of portion control that makes you feel like you’re getting serious value for your money, especially when every bite is this good.

The combination of creamy cheese and savory shrimp hits differently. It’s rich without being heavy, flavorful without being overpowering, and satisfying in a way that makes you want to savor every last shell.

Perfect for a casual dinner or when you’re treating yourself to something special.

Cajun Mac That Brings Louisiana Flair to Virginia

Take a trip down south without leaving Virginia. The Cajun Mac delivers bold, zesty flavors with a kick that wakes up your taste buds and keeps them dancing.

Creole seasoning blends into the cheese, adding layers of spice, smokiness, and a little bit of soul to every forkful.

One reviewer loved this bowl so much they stopped halfway through just to save some for breakfast. Yes, breakfast.

That’s how good it is. The seasoning is on point, not too overpowering but definitely present, giving you that authentic Cajun experience without needing a plane ticket to New Orleans.

The texture stays creamy and smooth, even with the added spices. The cheese pulls beautifully, and the seasoning doesn’t dry it out or make it gritty.

It’s comfort food with personality, the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug with a little extra sass thrown in.

Locals and visitors alike have made this a go-to order, and it’s easy to see why. It’s different enough to feel adventurous but familiar enough to feel comforting.

Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just curious, this bowl delivers big time.

White Cheddar Trio for the Cheese Purists

Sometimes simple is best. The White Cheddar Trio strips things down to the essentials and lets the cheese do all the talking.

Multiple white cheddar varieties blend together to create a flavor profile that’s rich, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying without any extra bells and whistles.

Topped with a layer of toasted breadcrumbs and extra cheese, this bowl has a little crunch on top and pure creamy goodness underneath. The breadcrumbs add texture without taking over, and there’s enough to spread across multiple helpings if you’re sharing or saving some for later.

One visitor ordered the double size and said it was more than enough for two people. That’s serious value, especially when every bite tastes this good.

The cheese flavors shine through beautifully, and you can taste the quality in every mouthful.

Cheese lovers who don’t need a lot of extras will fall head over heels for this one. It’s straightforward, comforting, and proof that when you start with great ingredients, you don’t need to do much else.

Just good cheese, good pasta, and good vibes all around.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Mac for the Flavor Fanatics

Garlic and parmesan are a match made in heaven, and this bowl proves it. The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Mac combines tender grilled chicken with a garlicky, cheesy sauce that’s bold without being overwhelming.

Fresh parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth that elevates the whole dish.

The garlic flavor is present but not overpowering. You get that aromatic punch without feeling like you need a breath mint afterward.

The chicken is seasoned perfectly and stays moist and flavorful, making every bite feel like a mini celebration.

One couple ordered this bowl on their first visit and raved about how the flavors were perfectly balanced. Not too salty, not too garlicky, just right.

The cheese stayed hot even after a long drive home, which is a testament to how fresh and well-prepared everything is.

This is the kind of mac and cheese you order when you want something familiar but with a little extra oomph. It’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying in all the ways that matter.

Whether you’re a garlic lover or just appreciate good seasoning, this bowl won’t disappoint.

Build Your Own Mac for the Creative Eaters

Can’t decide? Build your own masterpiece.

Matt’s Smackin Macs lets you mix and match toppings, proteins, and sauces to create a bowl that’s perfectly tailored to your cravings. Start with that signature creamy base, then pile on whatever your heart desires.

Want bacon and jalapeños? Go for it.

Craving shrimp with a drizzle of buffalo sauce? Absolutely.

The possibilities are endless, and the staff is happy to help you dream up the perfect combination if you’re feeling adventurous or indecisive.

Customers love the freedom to customize, especially picky eaters or folks with dietary preferences. You can keep it simple or go wild with multiple toppings and sauces.

Either way, you’re getting a fresh, hot bowl made exactly the way you want it.

One reviewer mentioned ordering a build-your-own and being thrilled with how generous the portions were. They didn’t skimp on any of the add-ons, which made the whole experience feel even more satisfying.

It’s comfort food on your terms, and that’s a beautiful thing.

The Friendly Service and Lightning-Fast Prep

Great food is only part of the equation. At Matt’s Smackin Macs, the service is just as impressive as the mac and cheese.

The team greets you with genuine smiles and enthusiasm, making you feel welcome from the moment you walk in the door.

First-time visitors often mention how helpful the staff is, offering menu suggestions and walking them through the ordering process without rushing or pressuring. They’re knowledgeable about every bowl and happy to answer questions or customize orders to fit your preferences.

Speed is another major win. Most orders are ready in under fifteen minutes, even during busy times.

One customer said their food was quoted at ten minutes and delivered right on time, piping hot and perfectly prepared. That kind of efficiency keeps the line moving and ensures you’re not waiting around forever.

Of course, no place is perfect, and there have been a few hiccups with service here and there. But the owners take feedback seriously and respond to reviews, showing they care about making things right.

The overall experience is warm, welcoming, and exactly what you want from a local spot. You can find them at 13650 Warwick Boulevard in Newport News, Virginia, ready to serve up cheesy goodness with a smile.