Most students have found themselves in 1851, one of FSU’s many on-campus dining locations, regardless of whether they have a meal plan or not. Even though I haven’t had a meal plan since my freshman year, I still remember the excitement of walking into 1851 and seeing all my options. One such option, Tally Mac Shack, may not look the same now as it used to.
Over the past two years, Tally Mac Shack (TMS or, affectionately, Mac Shack) has seen quite a few menu changes, but none quite as drastic as the ones we’ve seen these last few months. Gone are the delicious pretzel bites (a favorite snack of mine) and in are the slices of freshly toasted garlic bread.
Though the pretzel bites are sorely missed, the garlic bread accompanies the new pasta dishes at a different level. Those familiar with the old menu might remember some of Mac Shack’s discontinued dishes, like the Garlic Knot, Florida Boil, and Truffle Shuffle. In place of these iconic dishes, Mac Shack has implemented penne meals with three different sauce options.
You can now get the Alfredo, Vodka Blush, and Classic Red Sauce ladled onto the penne and topped with dried thyme and parmesan cheese. The combo guarantees a fresh piece of garlic bread and a drink for a pretty solid price.
With these additions, some new toppings were added, and sadly, some are gone for good. The andouille sausage, for example, has been replaced by ground Italian sausage, which seems to pair very well with the classic red sauce. Mac Shack has also added rosemary grilled chicken to their menu, which has taken its spot as my new favorite topping, especially on the Vodka Blush.
Similarly, Mac Shack no longer has the chip toppings that were so popular. Found under the “Dust the Wets” section on the menu, the Takis, Cool Ranch Doritos, and Hot Cheetos were crowd favorites, replaced by the seemingly less popular minced garlic and red pepper flakes found under “Toppings.”
Though it’s not a new addition, an honorable mention has to go to the Tally Mac Shack’s implementation of “Wing Wednesday,” a once-a-week event (occurring on Wednesdays), where students, faculty, and locals alike can come to 1851 and get a special meal. Wing Wednesday includes five wings, tossed in buffalo, barbecue, or guava habanero sauce, a cheddar “mini mac,” sauce drizzle depending on the choice of toss sauce (ranch for buffalo, Carolina gold for barbecue), and a drink.
All in all, the changes at the Tally Mac Shack are worth checking out, especially now that they have more options for cheese haters (AKA, me). The gelato has also seen some changes but has overall had a much less consistent menu than the mac and cheese. As always, make sure to ask questions when you’re unsure.
Tally Mac Shack will be participating in a local Tallahassee event, Cleaver and Cork, on March 2, though tickets are required for entry. However, Mac Shack and its many flavors will continue to be available in 1851 for all your mac and cheese needs.
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