This Arby’s Side Might Be One Of The Best Fast Food Items Out There

A couple of months ago, we published an article asking whether Arby’s deserves its terrible reputation, and fellow writer Peter Akpejeluh concluded that it’s not entirely founded. Arby’s may not be the trendy hotshot of the fast food industry, but it’s got more going for it than it might seem at first glance – and in the last couple of months, it’s been working hard to keep things fresh by bringing a regional classic to its menu and testing a quartet of new loaded sandwiches. 

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While these new items may take the spotlight, though, it’s also worth remembering the absolute hits that it’s already got on its menu. One of its customers recently took to Reddit to discuss one of its sides, and it generated a conversation that was nothing short of worship. 

Arby’s Mac And Cheese

Over on Reddit, the Arby’s customer in question opened the conversation by asking what everyone thought of its mac and cheese. The subsequent comments they received confirmed that people felt it was very, very, very good. “One of, if not the best, mac and cheese in fast food,” said one customer, one of many who repeated the same claim – that Arby’s mac beats the rest. “It’s shockingly good,” stated another. I love the idea that a bowl of mac and cheese can create shock due to its quality. 

Even Arby’s employees chimed in in the comment section to say how delicious this side was, and given that they’re surrounded by its food all day, that’s pretty vindicating. As ever, there were criticisms: Several people said that its portions are simply too small for the price. But hey. You can’t win ‘em all, I guess.

Stiff Competition

While plenty – and I mean plenty – of people came out to bat for Arby’s mac and cheese, other people were quick to put it in its place. Panera, Dave’s Hot Chicken, and Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese options were all highlighted as potential competitors for Arby’s crown here. Regardless, though, Arby’s is clearly continuing to nail it with this side – and maybe it’s down to its simplicity. Arby’s mac and cheese feels like an exercise in restraint. A simple combo of white cheddar, pasta, cream, and (of course) a few other ingredients thrown in there, it does what all good mac and cheeses do best: Deliver comfort, straightforward flavor, and joy.