Twelve local restaurants are preparing for a cheesy face-off at the Newport Winter Festival’s Mac & Cheese Smackdown on Feb. 22.
Set to take place at the Newport Marriott from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the event is shaping up to be a comfort food paradise as chefs vie for the title of Best Mac & Cheese.
David Rosenberg, Festival Director, says, “We’re thrilled to bring together some of Newport’s best restaurants for this tasty competition. Mac & Cheese is a comfort food that connects people, and we’re excited to see how these talented chefs put their own twist on this classic dish.”
The lineup includes local favorites like Becky’s BBQ, La Forge Restaurant, and Stoneacre Brasserie, alongside newcomers such as Rising Tide Barbecue and Wharf Southern Kitchen.
The competing restaurants are:
- Becky’s BBQ
- The Helmway
- La Forge Restaurant
- Marco’s
- Newport Harbor Island Resort
- Portsmouth Publick House
- Pour Judgement’s Market on Broadway
- Rising Tide Barbecue
- Safari Room at Oceancliff
- Skiff Bar at the Marriott
- Stoneacre Brasserie
- Wharf Southern Kitchen
Guests will get to sample all entries and cast their vote for the top mac & cheese, crowning the ultimate champion.
This competition is part of the broader Newport Winter Festival, celebrating the local food scene and community spirit.
Tickets are on sale now and will also be available at the door. Prices range from $18 to $20 for adults and $9 to $11 for children ages 4-9. Kids under 4 get in free.
Rosenberg adds, “This event is all about showcasing our community’s amazing culinary talent. We’re inviting everyone to join us for what’s sure to be an unforgettable day of cheesy goodness!”
For more details or to buy tickets, head to newportwinterfestival.com.
