And the winner of Time Out New York’s Mac n Cheese Smackdown is…

…Houston Hall!Béchamel, gruyere, bacon, and even Fritos—no ingredient was left behind in the race to win the coveted title of Best Mac N Cheese. At our cheesy smackdown on Saturday, noodle after gooey noodle was washed down by Houston Hall’s refreshing draught beers as guests pondered their decision. With seven top-notch vendors to sample—including the Ainsworth, Atwood Kitchen & Bar Room and Hill Country Barbecue Market—the chefs had their work cut out for them.

In the end, Houston Hall’s Skillet Baked Cheddar Bacon Mac and Cheese—which is a mouthful, literally— took the cake (or, er, the macaroni). Their recipe featured Nueskes smoked bacon and aged New York cheddar, a combo that led to a well-deserved victory.

See photos from the event below.

T.O.N.Y. Mac N Cheese Guest