GO TO:Chat ’n’ Chew

If your kid is a mac and cheese snob, she’s in the distinct minority. Most happily partake of those wan, rubbery noodles and the accompanying “sauce” consisting largely of liquefied bright-orange powder. But hey, they’re supposed to be learning something, aren’t they? Teach your little ones well what truly tasty macaroni is like at Chat ’n’ Chew. The vibe is homey and relaxed, with retro decorations on the walls and a giant ice-cream cone at the front door, and the Quintessential Mac ’n’ Cheese ($9.95) just might put Grandma’s to shame. Assorted cheeses, including Parmesan and Pecorino, are combined with a creamy béchamel sauce, then topped with a healthy sprinkling of crunchy bread crumbs. The result is a mac that’s multilayered enough for parents who long ago left Kraft behind, but plain enough so that the most particular kids will be satisfied. A Teenie-Weenie portion ($5.50) is also available for those with like appetites. 10 E 16th St between Fifth Ave and Union Sq West (212-243-1616, chatnchew.citysearch.com).

NEXT BEST THING:S’MAC

Want variety? Look no further than the new, wildly popular all-mac outpost S’MAC. In addition to the “All-American”—a rich, gooey blend of American and cheddar cheeses that’s perfect for kids five and under—S’MAC offers nine versions that feature combos of highbrow ingredients like goat cheese, kalamata olives and spinach, or Brie, roasted figs and shiitake mushrooms. Hard-to-please types also have the option to build their own mac, with two cheesy sauces and 14 add-ins to choose from, including garden veggies and bacon. 345 E 12th St between First and Second Aves (212-358-7912, smacnyc.com).

Patty time! | Table talk | Eat with your hands | Dinner theater