A new, monthly feature! Local food and drink options we recommend trying

Top Five: Mac and Cheese
A quintet of tasty things to try this month

Momma’s Mac and Cheese at Art Smith’s Homecomin’

MOMMA’S MAC AND CHEESE
AT CHEF ART SMITH’S HOMECOMIN’, DISNEY SPRINGS
As far as celebrity chef Art Smith is concerned, this side of mac and cheese is worthy of Momma’s name. It also comes as a side with the Chopped Pork Barbecue Plate in case you need more variety with your Southern fare.

JOHNNIE MAC AND CHEESE
AT GNARLY BARLEY, BELLE ISLE
Looking for something to go with your mac and cheese? How about an entire roast beef sub— with the cheesy goodness inside. Diners can choose between regular mac, Uncle Steve’s mac or even jalapeño mac for some nice spice.

MAC AND CHEESE
AT K RESTAURANT, COLLEGE PARK
Chef Kevin Fonzo can’t make even the simplest dish without turning it into a gourmet masterpiece, as evidenced by this entrée. Roasted tomato, parmesan and herbs are mainstays, with the protein (such as sausage or lobster) changing regularly.

FRIED MAC AND CHEESE
AT THE WHISKEY, DR. PHILLIPS
Many eateries offer fried mac and cheese, but The Whiskey’s happy-hour menu does it right with smoked Gouda, bacon, truffle oil and Srirachi aioli. It’s a spicy take on a classic that goes down nicely with any of their whiskey offerings.

JALAPEÑO MAC AND CHEESE
AT CAFÉ TU TU TANGO, INTERNATIONAL DRIVE
At this tapas restaurant, the plates might be small, but the flavor is big— especially in this dish. It’s made with oven-charred tomatoes, crispy pancetta, caramelized onions and jalapeño-horseradish mornay sauce.

Raise a Glass: Margaritas
Libations you’re sure to love

Kali Ma Garita at Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar

KALI MA GARITA
AT JOCK LINDSEY’S HANGAR BAR, DISNEY SPRINGS
Inspired by Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, this is allegedly a favorite at Pankot Palace. It blends Patron Silver Tequila, Bohl Peach Schnapps and Moni Watermelon Syrup with lemon and lime juice. It’s garnished with a jalapeño slice, but Blood of Kali is not included.

ANTORITA
AT ANTOJITOS AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD, UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food is one of the best reasons to visit Universal CityWalk, and this cocktail gives even more incentive. Starting with 100-percent Corazón Blue Agave tequila, they then add Cointreau, Gran Gala, fresh lime juice and nectar for a refreshing treat.

ANTIOXIDANT MARGARITA
AT ROCCO’S TACOS, DR. PHILLIPS
Revive yourself with this Rocco’s classic. Using Maestro Dobel Diamond tequila as the base, the drink also features Cedilla Acai Liqueur, agave nectar and fresh-squeezed lime juice. But have too many of them, and you might need another to start the next day.

This article originally appeared in Orlando Family Magazine’s May 2017 issue.