Mac 'n' Cheese Throwdown judges named

A trio of independent foodies will judge the 10th annual competition in Cleveland's Flats

Jan. 31, 2026 at 6:31am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 10th annual Mac 'n' Cheese Throwdown, a benefit for W.A.G.S. 4 Kids, will take place on March 7 in Cleveland's Flats. A panel of three judges - food writer Paris Wolfe, TV personality Monica Robins, and cheese shop owner Michael Januska - will conduct blind tastings to determine the winners in the Classic Mac and Modern Mac categories. The event will also feature a people's choice vote, a mac and cheese eating challenge, a local makers market, and live music.

Why it matters

The Mac 'n' Cheese Throwdown has become a beloved annual tradition in Cleveland, showcasing the city's vibrant food scene and raising funds for the important work of W.A.G.S. 4 Kids, which provides service dogs to children with disabilities. The event's judging panel features respected voices in the local food community who will help identify the most creative and delicious mac and cheese dishes.

The details

The Mac 'n' Cheese Throwdown will feature 15-20 restaurants serving up their takes on the classic comfort food dish. Attendees will be able to vote for their favorites via text for the people's choice awards. In addition to the mac and cheese competition, the event will include a mac and cheese eating challenge, a local makers market, and live music.

  • The Mac 'n' Cheese Throwdown will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026 from noon to 3:30 p.m.

The players

Paris Wolfe

A seasoned food writer who has spent three decades chronicling the flavors and personalities of Northeast Ohio's dining scene for Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer.

Monica Robins

The senior health correspondent at WKYC Studios, who also leads two local bands, Monica Robins and the Whiskey Kings and The Ninja Cowboys.

Michael Januska

The owner of Old Brooklyn Cheese Co. and a veteran of the restaurant world with 27 years of experience, who infuses respect for old-world craftsmanship into his evaluations.

W.A.G.S. 4 Kids

A nonprofit organization that trains and provides service dogs to children with disabilities.

Ed Keating Center

A local organization that supports individuals in recovery, which will receive any remaining food from the event.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judges will conduct blind tastings between noon and 2 p.m. on the day of the event to determine the winners in the Classic Mac and Modern Mac categories.

The takeaway

The Mac 'n' Cheese Throwdown has become a beloved annual tradition in Cleveland, showcasing the city's vibrant food scene and raising funds for the important work of W.A.G.S. 4 Kids. The event's respected judging panel will help identify the most creative and delicious mac and cheese dishes, while also providing an opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy this comfort food classic.