Due to the COVID-19 pandemic raging across the country in 2020, nearly every big food festival and food event in Austin was cancelled. While the pandemic continues and social distancing is still necessary, the popular Austin Mac & Cheese Festival has made plans to reignite the food event scene with a new twist.
Beginning this February, the 5th annual Austin Mac & Cheese Festival will launch an all-new pop-up series & takeout experience. The festival kicks off its pop-up series beginning on Feb. 28th, with two similar events scheduled later this Spring. February’s pop-up will highlight the Flavors of Mardi Gras, featuring gourmet mac-n-cheese offerings from some of Austin’s most notable chefs and restaurants.
The event promises to follow all safety protocols due to COVID-19 offering ticket holders contactless pick-up from their vehicles as well as an easy to access outdoor table. Guests will be able to pick up a “take & bake” style kit loaded with large samples to heat in an oven at home following a simple set of instructions.
This year’s festival features a talented line-up of some of Austin’s finest restaurants and chefs, including Swift’s Attic, Parkside and Rosewood just to new a few. Also participating and returning to the competition is the 2019 People’s Champion, Bryan Beneke, who previously offered a black truffle mac n cheese dish that made attendees buckle at the knees. With this year’s talented line-up and Mardi Gras theme, tastings are looking to be more flavorful than ever.
Festival sponsors include Chameleon Cold Brew Coffee and Green Belt Kombucha, both of whom will be offering beverages to VIP ticket holders.
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- Photo Credit: Brittany Ritter
PARTICIPATING CHEFS & RESTAURANTS:
– Sawyer & Co.
– Chef Bryan Beneke
– The Original Black’s BBQ
– TLC
– Parkside
– Rosewood
– Mour Cafe*
TICKETS
GENERAL ($30): Receives a “Take & Bake Kit” with 5 oz. individual mac-n-cheese offerings from each participating chef and restaurant.
*VIP ($50): Receives a “Take & Bake Kit” with 5 oz. mac-n-cheese personal servings from each participant and special dessert from Mour Cafe! Also includes 48 oz cold brew concentrate from Chameleon, canned beverages from Green Belt Kombucha, and additional swag and from the festival.