The best part of this event, in my opinion, is undoubtedly the opportunity to enjoy unlimited mac & grilled cheese offerings from talented Austin-based chefs as they prepare tastings for all attendees to enjoy! Once I tried every truck, I definitely had to take a breather before deciding where I would like to have second samples later on. Everyone also got the chance to make their opinions heard by voting for their favorite business, with announcements of the winner at the end of the festival. Some notable participants were Chef Danny Kievit, GKCookin & Catering, Swift's Attic, Cover 3, and The Bearded Baking Company.
If you have followed me on social media for a while, you know I have been meatless for nearly a decade now. There were quite a few food trucks with samples that had wagyu, lobster, brisket, and more but I was pleasantly surprised and truly grateful they were all happy to accommodate my dietary preferences. Overall, each one had a distinct flavor profile even without the meat, which I loved! Before going to this festival, I was really wondering how different one mac & cheese or grilled cheese can truly be from another. By the time the event was over, it was clear that there are countless ways to alter the final taste of the dishes in the best way.
Food is not all that you get to experience at this festival. There are a great variety of drinks to try out as you meander through the fest that absolutely add to the experience. If you aren't a fan of alcohol, there were some tasty samples of Celzo CBD soda too! My personal favorite drinks were from Dulce Vida Tequila, Casa Azul Sprits, Dorda Liqeuers, and Chopin Vodka. General admission tickets are able to try out three different drinks, while VIP ticket holders are able to try unlimited drinks!
There's no better way to end a fun day full of savory tastings than with a sweet bite. At the festival's Austin location, I loved seeing that Cranky Granny's Cinnamon Rolls had a stand as well as the Cookie Rich food truck. There were samples of Cranky Granny's original, strawberry, and cookies & cream flavors- each was absolutely delicious! If you're more of a cookie lover, then you should definitely stop by the Cookie Rich truck whenever you have the chance as their mini cookie bites filled with frosting in the middle are unforgettable.
If you have an opportunity to go to this awesome event, do not pass it up! The Mac N' Cheese Festival National Tour is the best way to experience America's cheesiest dish in a multitude of ways, made by some of the top chefs in each culinary destination the festival is held at.
FTC: All opinions are my own. I am grateful to have been hosted by the festival to share my experience with you!
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