The second annual Mac & Cheese Fest Chicago took place in late October at the UIC Forum. The event featured plush characters dressed as a macaroni noodle and a hunk of cheese; a step-and-repeat bore the slogan "Say Cheese."
This year's event drew some 4,000 guests and had more than 100 participating vendors.
The event had two sessions; in each, 50 restaurants competed for the "Golden Noodle" award. The award was given to the macaroni and cheese dishes that were deemed to have the best taste, texture, and creativity. Judges included chefs, food critics, and bloggers.
The first Mac 'n Cheese Festival Toronto took place June 5 to 7 outside Liberty Market. More than 20 chefs dished out variations of the comfort food, and toppings varied from lobster to wine-braised steak; there were also fusion dishes such as mac 'n' cheese sushi.
Big E's, a Hawaiian restaurant, served cold mac 'n' cheese salad.
Organizers were surprised at the crowd size at the first-time event. Though the target attendance was 20,000, some 52,000 guests showed up.
