vicinityvisitorsguide - Madison Magazine

DINING | SHOPPING | ARTS | ENTERTAINMENT | EVENTS | MAPS 

Madison 

MADISON MAGAZINE’S 

&VICINITYVISITORSGUIDE 

100S 

OF 

RESTAURANTS 

TO CHOOSE FROM 

INSIDE!

From the top, here’s 

A 

look at why we have been named Best Hotel*. 

Because we’re just steps from the Capitol, State Street, Overture Center, 

University of Wisconsin, the Monona Terrace Convention Center, lakes and parks, 

our location puts you right in the heart of the 

COMMUNITY 

we hold so dear. Our 356 guest rooms featuring Comfort Collection bedding, 

award-winning restaurant and new bar, 27,000 square feet of updated 

meeting space, new guest rooms in our exclusive Governor’s Club, 

complimentary airport shuttle, wireless Internet and renowned service all 

help to make us number one. Still, we’re not one to rest on our laurels. 

The key to being on top is knowing there’s always room to improve. 

The bottom line is that whatever keeps making us 

FIRST 

you can expect it to last. 

*Best Hotel, Madison Magazine 2010 Reader Poll 

1 West Dayton Street 

Downtown Madison 

800 356 8293 

concoursehotel.com

• 

Madison 

AND VICINITY VISITORS’GUIDE 

Madison Magazine is a publication of 

Madison Magazine, Inc. 

Elizabeth Murphy Burns, President 

David S. Sanks, Vice President 

Madison Magazine, Inc. is affiliated with 

Television Wisconsin, Inc. (WISC-TV3, Madison) 

Family-owned since 1956 

PUBLISHER | Jenifer Winiger 

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER | Michael D. Kornemann 

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR | Neil Heinen 

EDITOR | Brennan Nardi 

ASSOCIATE/STYLE EDITOR | Shayna Miller 

ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Katie Vaughn 

SENIOR FOOD CONTRIBUTOR | Nancy Christy 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS | Frank Bures, 

Denis Collins, Dan Curd, Judy Dahl, Pat Dillon, 

Mary Erpenbach, Jennifer Garrett, 

Maggie Ginsberg-Schutz, Michael Kwas, 

Nancy Lynch, Melanie McManus, Kay Plantes, 

Jenny Price, John Roach, 

Rebecca Ryan 

ART DIRECTOR | Tim Burton 

SENIOR PRODUCTION DESIGNER | Sarah Andler 

GRAPHIC DESIGNER | Emily Culp 

PHOTOGRAPHERS | Dan Bishop, Martha Busse, 

Peter F. Castro, Joe De Maio, Sara Gomach, Timothy 

Hughes, Jake Naughton, Amy Lynn Schereck, Beth 

Skogen, Eric Tadsen, The Visual Soundtrack, John Urban 

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR | Denise McMullen 

ACCOUNT MANAGERS | Wendy Dederich, 

Sue Fuller, Pamela St. Amant, Gina Zeinemann 

MARKETING DIRECTOR | Tiffany Kenney 

MARKETING & WEBSITE 

COORDINATOR | Desiree Smith 

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR | Tami McFarlane 

BUSINESS MANAGER | Cindy Morris 

INTERNS | 

Advertising: Megan Bjurstrom, Whitney Clark 

Editorial: Jess Campbell, 

Jennifer Phelps, Elizabeth Rooney 

Photography: Larry Chua, David Corso, 

Betsy Delzer, Mary Duke, Lukas Keapproth, 

Bethany Rahn, Sean Stewart 

IN MEMORIAM | Brian Howell, Editor 1997–2003 

WEBSITE: www.madisonmagazine.com 

REPRINT INQUIRIES/PERMISSIONS: 

(608) 270-3622 

or tmcfarlane@madisonmagazine.com 

WELCO 

[ WELCOME ] 

ALTHOUGH MADISON HAS MORE TO OFFER 

its residents and guests than is possible to fit within these pages, the 

Madison and Vicinity Visitors’ Guide offers a wonderful overview of some of 

the most beautiful and exciting spots in this Midwestern city. With an evergrowing 

roster of both cultural and leisure activities, Madison is a place that 

can be experienced in many ways. 

The heart of the city is packed between two sparkling bodies of water that 

concentrate the community’s arts, culture and diversity—but these features 

are not limited to the isthmus. Madison’s essence can be felt throughout the 

city, as well as in the surrounding suburbs and communities, and only 

continues to grow. 

Seven years ago, we welcomed the Cesar Pelli–designed Overture Center 

for the Arts, located on State Street—a magnificent anchor for the downtown 

arts district. We also enjoy the stunning Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired Monona 

Terrace Community and Convention Center along the shore of Lake Monona. 

Just south of the downtown area you’ll find the Kohl Center sports arena, and 

just two miles farther is the Alliant Energy Center and Exhibition Hall. 

Back in the heart of the city, tour the State Capitol, stroll down State Street 

and visit the historic University of Wisconsin campus. Or move away from the 

isthmus and experience the many other cultural venues Madison has to offer. 

The Henry Vilas Zoo is free and located near the UW–Madison Arboretum, a 

nature preserve and recreation area on the south shore of Lake Wingra. The 

beautiful and serene Olbrich Botanical Gardens, just off Lake Monona, are a 

tropical paradise even during Wisconsin’s winter months. 

But you can do more in our city than just sightsee. With a diverse collection 

of restaurants (from ethnic to heritage and everything in between), cocktail 

lounges, brewpubs and nightclubs, Madison has an active social life as well. 

More than 220,000 people have already discovered the beauty that 

Madison holds and have made it their home. Twice as many people in the 

surrounding communities of Dane County have felt the city’s influence, and 

these communities boast thriving economies and industries, such as biotechnology, 

agriculture and manufacturing. But don’t just take our word for it. 

A number of leading publications have recognized Madison for its unique 

qualities, and we’ve twice been named the best place in the country to live. 

We couldn’t agree more with the accolades that have come our way. 

Madison is a great place to visit and live. 

MAGAZINE 

Please Pass Along or Recycle This Magazine 

Madison Magazine is published monthly with offices at 

7025 Raymond Road, Madison, WI 53719 

Telephone (608) 270-3600 

• 

Going Green Wisconsin 

Neil Heinen, Editorial Director 

Madison Magazine 

MADISON VISITORS GUIDE 2011 | 3

MAKE IT A SPECIAL EVENING! 

Blue Velvet 

Lounge 

Featuring: Sizzling Steaks ~ Homemade Soups ~ Seafood 

Generous Cocktails ~ Delightfully Tacky Atmosphere 

A family-run business for over 50 years 

Voted #1 Steak in the Midwest – Midwest Living Magazine 

3005 University Ave Madison, WI 53705 

608-233-2120 • Bar open at 4pm • Dinner served at 5pm 

www.smokysclub.com 

Tangerine Room 

Upstairs 

Specializing in 

Martinis 

Extensive Cocktail Menu 

Nice Wine Selection 

12 Beers on Draft 

Tasty Appetizers 

Hours: M–Sa 4pm–2am • Su 8pm–2am 

Happy Hour: M–F 4–7 • Su All Night! 

250-9900 • 430 W. Gilman St. 

1/2 block off State St. 

2 blocks from Kohl Center 

Book your special meeting or event with us! 

www.thebluevelvetlounge.com 

2535 University 608-233-0441 

Near UW Stadium, UW Hospital 

www.bluemoonbar.com

The New York Times, 

Chicago Tribune and 

Pete Loveland agree... 

“The Dahlmann Campus Inn offers a touch of boutique refinement in the 

heart of the campus, with rich wood furniture and floral tapestries.” 

—The New York Times, July 5, 2009 

"A quiet respite from a busy college town...The elegant touches begin in the 

lobby, with marble, mahogany and original artwork..." 

—Chicago Tribune, October 25, 2009 

“ 

I 

t’s a more personalized 

experience than a lot 

of other places, and it’s in 

the midst of everything – a 

close walk to State Street, 

the Union, Lake Mendota 

and Camp Randall. 

You can be immersed in 

everything, and then come 

back and it always feels like 

you’re right at home. 

Pete Loveland, 

UW Alumnus 

A Modern Day Classic 

601 Langdon Street on the UW Campus • www.thecampusinn.com • (800) 589-6285 (608) 257-4391 


CONTEN 

[ CONTENTS ] 

8 ENJOY 

Tour Madison with our three-day agenda. 

11 DINING 

Ethnic cuisine, steakhouses, comfort food and more. 

PHOTOS: THE VISUAL SOUNDTRACK, TOP COURTESY OF THE MARINER’S INN / BY LISA LATHROP. COVER PHOTO BY TIMBERLAKE BACKCOUNTRY & PHOTO/ISTOCK. 

11 

Madison offers countless 

options for dining out 

(Like this cherry cheesecake 

from Mariner’s Inn) 

32 

Madison Museum of Contemporary Art 

24 DOWNTOWN WALKING MAP 

Take a stroll around our fine city. 

26 SHOPPING 

On your mark. Get set. Shop! 

32 S TATE STREET 

The heart of our city and Madison’s cultural anchor. 

36 GETAWAYS 

Fun escapes within driving distance of Madison. 

38 RELAX 

From manicures to massages, area spas have it all. 

40 LODGING 

Where to stay, from B&Bs to downtown hotels. 

42 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 

Where to go for great theater, arts, music and nightlife. 

48 PLACES AROUND TOWN 

See the places everyone is talking about. 

52 RECREATION 

Neither sleet nor snow keeps Madison from staying active. 

54 EVENTS & FESTIVALS 

Festivals that get the whole city partying. 

58 MAPPING MADISON 

A helpful city map to get around town. 

60 DIRECTIONS 

Directions to just about anywhere you’ll need to go. 


PHOTO BY TRACY TUCHOLSKI 

ENJOY[ ENJOY 

] MADISON IN 3 DAYS 

The Capitol Square 

ARE YOU SPENDING the weekend here Whether 

it’s the middle of winter or the peak of summer, 

there are plenty of things to do. Check out our 

three-day itinerary and get moving! 

Day 1: Downtown 

Start with an energizing breakfast at the Marigold Kitchen downtown 

and then take a stroll around the Capitol Square. Our Capitol 

is the largest state capitol (only the nation’s Capitol building is larger) 

and the only one built on an isthmus. Free tours are offered, so stop 

in and check the tour schedule. After your tour, stop by fine-foods 

boutique Fromagination to sample Wisconsin artisan cheeses that 

are internationally renowned. 

Drive to Budget Bicycle Center to rent a bike (weather allowing) 

for morning sightseeing. Speak with the staff to get the best routes to 

see the UW-Arboretum, Lake Wingra and Vilas Park, home to 

the Henry Vilas Zoo. 

Break for lunch at downtown’s legendary Great Dane Pub and 

Brewery, then head to Frank Lloyd Wright’s controversial edifice 

and pride of Madison, the Monona Terrace, for a tour. 

The stunning views of Lake Monona may be overwhelming, but 

redirect yourself to the main attraction in Madison—State Street. 

The heartbeat of the city, State Street serves as melting pot for all walks 

of people. (See pages 32 for where to go.) 

For dinner dine at a perennial Best of Madison Readers’ Poll winner 

in several categories—The Old Fashioned. They serve favorites 

like fresh Wisconsin beer-battered cheese curds, the Old Fashioned 

house burger (replete with a soft-cooked egg on top!) and the beerbattered 

walleye. Top your dinner off with a local brew. 

After dinner, rest your feet as you take in a show at Overture 

Center, the city’s premier arts venue. In the afterglow, claim a window 

seat at the Icon restaurant and watch the late-night action on State 

Street. 

Day 2: Westside Madison 

Drive to the Hubbard Avenue Diner in Middleton for the platesize 

multigrain pancakes, cup of coffee and slice of famous pie. 

Madison is framed by the Beltline, or Highway 12/14, for ease of 

access from all sides. Try exit 252 for Greenway Station (see page 

8 | MADISON VISITORS GUIDE 2011

27) followed by a tour of Capital Brewery. 

Wrap up your morning with lunch at Babe’s 

American Grill, and make sure to save 

room for dessert since you happen to be in 

the area—Michael’s Frozen Custard is 

next door. 

Madison’s wealth of diversity is your 

greatest quandary today, so choose your afternoon 

activity. A brief drive to the west will 

take you to Cave of the Mounds, a national 

natural landmark, or the University Ridge 

Golf Course, one of the top fifty golf courses 

in the nation and where the Badgers play. Or 

if you want to stay in Madison, Hilldale 

Shopping Center or Monroe Street 

both have many shops to explore. Or if it’s 

warm you could even experience Madison 

from a different viewpoint on one of its 

lakes—try Supreme Water Sports on 

the isthmus. 

Dinner this evening is at Eno Vino, 

winner of Wine Spectator’s Award of 

Excellence in 2010. With an extensive wine 

list you may have difficulty focusing on food, 

but you can rely on the expertise of the staff 

for recommendations. The great atmosphere, 

company, food and drink are hard to leave, 

but if you happen to be in Madison on a 

Thursday, Friday or Saturday night, return 

to State Street for another fun evening. Pop 

into Paul’s Club to mingle with the locals 

and ogle the indoor tree, then to the 

Comedy Club to round off the night. 

Day 3: East Side 

and Downtown 

The Daisy Café and Cupcakery is 

known for its gourmet cupcakes, but for 

breakfast try one of their signature stratas, 

like the crimini mushroom and Gruyère. 

Next drive a little further east to Olbrich 

Botanical Gardens, where Madison’s 

commitment to global conservation and 

Henry Vilas Zoo 

PHOTO COURTESY OF HENRY VILAS ZOO 

FUN FACT: Madison was 

named after our fourth 

U.S. president, James 

Madison, in 1836. 

Memorial Union Terrace 

PHOTO BY MATT GILLIS 


[ ENJOY ] 

JOIN US FOR A NIGHTLY CELEBRATION WHY YOU’RE HERE 

OF FOOD, WINE & MEMORABLE TIMES 

750 N. Midvale Boulevard, Madison 608-233-9550 

FlemingsSteakhouse.com 

Canoeing on Lake Mendota 

sustainability is tangible. After your garden 

tour, take a break for lunch at the Glass 

Nickel Pizza Co. 

Return downtown and spend some time 

on the UW–Madison campus. Tours and 

visitor’s guides are available at the Welcome 

Center or the Campus Information Center. 

Wrap up your afternoon on the historic 

Memorial Union Terrace overlooking Lake 

Mendota with a brat or some Babcock ice 

cream, freshly churned on campus. 

Top off your three days with dinner at 

L’Etoile for fine dining featuring local fare. 

L’Etoile is so well-known in the foodie world 

that no less than Food & Wine Magazine, 

Men’s Journal, The New York Times Style 

Magazine and many more have recognized 

executive chef Tory Miller’s talent. 

Before or after your meal stroll over to the 

Madison Museum of Contemporary 

Art to view the variety of exhibits (MMoCA 

is open until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays). 

Finally, reflect on your time on Madison 

and plan your next trip as you overlook the 

sculpture garden, illuminated Capitol and 

city skyline with cocktails at the rooftop 

restaurant Fresco. n 

10 | MADISON VISITORS GUIDE 2011 

PHOTO BY PETER F. CASTRO

DINING 

[ DINING OUT ] A TASTE OF MADISON 

Ella’s Deli is a 

family favorite 

for its food— 

and carousel 

out front 


Prime Quarter 

FINE DINING 

Eno Vino Wine Bar & Bistro (601 Junction Rd., 664-9565, far west side) boasts 

twenty-plus small plates to share as well as salads and flatbread pizzas paired with 

an extensive wine list. Another reason to try their wine list Eno Vino received 

an Award of Excellence in 2010 from Wine Spectator. 

The Edgewater (666 Wisconsin Ave., 256-9071, isthmus) is one of the city’s 

most-loved hotels. Its Admiralty Room (661-6582) serves the finest of entrées 

with impeccable service; the stunning dining-room view of Lake Mendota is just a 

little something extra that’s thrown in. Enjoy the view and the fresh air from the 

Café on the Pier in spring and summer, and step into the Cove Lounge yearround 

to unwind with a cocktail and appetizer. 

The Melting Pot (6816 Odana Rd., 833-5676, west side) is a fondue restaurant 

that serves up four-course dinners that include a variety of warm dipping sauces, 

like creamy cheese or melted chocolate for dessert. 

The Dayton Street Grille (1 W. Dayton St., 257-6000, isthmus), located 


[ DINING OUT ] 

BEST 

BURGERS 

Most Americans are familiar 

with the sensation: sometimes 

you just need a good burger. 

Fortunately, Madison has several 

unique venues that cater to your 

cravings. The Nitty Gritty (223 

N. Frances St., 251-2521, isthmus; 

1021 N. Gammon Rd., 833-6489, 

Middleton) is the #1 place to 

celebrate your birthday, a 

campus favorite and “Home of 

the World Famous Gritty Burger.” 

Celebrate here on your birthday 

and you’ll receive a free Nitty 

Gritty birthday mug with free 

beer or soda refills until midnight 

on your birthday. Enjoy a burger 

and a game of pool at The Brass 

Ring (701 E. Washington Ave., 

256-9359, isthmus). Try a burger 

from their huge menu, like the 

Bleu Garlic Burger or the Buffalo 

Burger. Or listen to live bands 

and karaoke acts while nibbling 

great burgers and ribs at The Dry 

Bean (5264 Verona Rd., 274-2326, 

Fitchburg). The menu ranges from 

Southwestern favorites like bean 

burritos and chicken fajita rollups 

to casual American fare like 

burgers and steaks. Blue Moon 

Bar & Grill (2535 University Ave., 

233-0441, near west side) offers 

some of the best burgers in 

town in a trendy setting based 

on 1940s Miami Art Deco. 

Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry (317 N. 

Frances St., 259-0000, isthmus) 

has been a favorite for thirty-two 

years. Dotty’s features an eclectic 

mix of patties, plus twenty-four 

beers on tap. 

Capitol ChopHouse 

in the Madison Concourse Hotel, serves 

innovative, contemporary American cuisine 

with global influences. Chef Charles 

Lazzareschi has even been voted Best Local 

Chef in our Best of Madison Reader’s poll! 


STEAKHOUSES 

Smoky’s Club (3005 University Ave., 

233-2120, near west side) has been packing 

in crowds for decades, and the “delightfully 

tacky” atmosphere hasn’t changed much in 

that time. And watch your language— 

Smoky’s forbids vulgarities. 

Or get your friends together, choose 

your favorite cut of USDA choice steak, 

grab some tongs and grill your own dinner 

on a hickory charcoal grill exactly the 

way you want it at The Prime Quarter 

(3520 E. Washington Ave., 244-3520, near 

east side). 

Ruth’s Chris Steak House (2137 

Deming Way, 828-7884, Middleton) has a 

unique Madison twist: the bar lounge is 

decorated with Barry Alvarez memorabilia. 

U.S. Prime steaks sizzle on the way to 

your table and you can share family-style 

side dishes. 

The Capitol ChopHouse (9 E. Wilson St., 

255-0165, isthmus) offers refined dining with 

PHOTO BY ADAM DUNN 

tasty dishes like king crab legs, ancho peppercrusted 

ahi tuna and, of course, steaks. Find 

your perfect steak and wine pairing at 

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine 

Bar (750 N. Midvale Blvd., 233-9550, west 

side). Here you’ll find succulent steaks and an 

extensive wine list to complement the highquality 

steakhouse selections. Try the trademark 

Fleming’s Potatoes for a side dish. 

If you’re looking for fare within walking 

distance of the Capitol or State Street, 

Tornado Steak House (116 S. Hamilton 

St., 256-3570, isthmus) offers juicy steaks 

and a celebrated shrimp cocktail in an elegant 

setting. And Johnny Delmonico’s (130 S. 

Pinckney St., 257-8325, isthmus) is a classy 

establishment with delicious steaks and a 

great atmosphere. 

MEXICAN 

& SOUTHWESTERN 

If you’re in the mood for a great margarita, 

head to the Eldorado Grill (744 Williamson 

St., 280-9378, isthmus). It’s got a variety of 

southwestern dishes and a Wild West 

atmosphere to match. The menu goes beyond 

tacos and burritos and kicks it up a notch with 

a lobster, shrimp and crab enchiladas plate 

and grilled chicken with mango BBQ sauce.

an experience 

If you’re craving Mexican food, Casa del 

Sol (3040 Cahill Main, 663-8818, Fitchburg) 

and La Hacienda (515 S. Park St., 

255-8227, near west side) both provide a 

very fresh and welcome approach to southof-the-border 

cuisine. If you want a cozier, 

more casual feel with a Southwestern twist, 

try Pasqual’s Salsaria (2534 Monroe St., 

238-4419, near west; 670 N. Midvale Blvd., 

663-TACO, west side). 

MICROBREWERIES 

& OTHER GREAT PUBS 

The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. is 

Madison’s original microbrewery. The downtown 

location is the former Fess Hotel 

(123 E. Doty St., 284-0000, isthmus; 557 

Price Place-Hilldale, 661-9400, west side; 

2980 Cahill Main, 442-9000, Fitchburg; 

876 Jupiter Dr., 442-1333, far east side). The 

pub’s handcrafted beers complement its 

delicious menu. The Ale Asylum (3698 

Kinsman Blvd., 663-3926, east side) brews 

twelve beers, like the Amergeddon amber ale 

or the Hopalicious pale ale. Sample delicious 

pizzas and even take a tour—they’re every 

Saturday at 6 and 6:45 p.m. 

Heading west of town, Capital Brewery 

and Beer Garden (7734 Terrace Ave., 

836-7100, Middleton) is a popular place to 

enjoy award-winning, locally brewed beers 

and soft drinks, tour the brewery or just 

relax in the Bier Garten that features an 

outdoor area during the warmer months. 

 

 

 

 

Eldorado Grill 

2840 University Ave. 238-3100 6802 Odana Rd. 828-9565 

“Best Asian Restaurant” 

Madison Magazine 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 

“Best Thai Restaurant” 

Madison Magazine 

2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 

2007, 2008, 2009 

~ Thai Cuisine ~ 

Dine In • Carry Out • Delivery • Catering www.sabaithong.com 



Dessert from Muramoto 

The Definition 

of Delicious 

Just steps from 

Overture Center and 

the Capitol Square 

118 State Street 608-280-9999 

www.zanderscapitolgrill.com 

Sun – Tues 11 to 9, 

Wed – Sat 11 to 11 

Sunday Brunch 


Brasserie V is a casual, European-inspired 

restaurant with 14 beers on tap and 140-plus 

bottled beers—plus a tasty menu (1923 

Monroe St., 255-8500, near west side). 

SEAFOOD 

The Blue Marlin (101 N. Hamilton St., 

255-2255, isthmus), off the Capitol Square, 

is clearly a city favorite; it’s won several 

years in the seafood category in our Best of 

Madison awards. 

There are also three family-owned seafood 

restaurants perched on the shores of Lake 

Mendota that offer dining in a nautical setting: 

The Mariner’s Inn (5339 Lighthouse Bay 

Dr., 246-3120, far north side), Nau-Ti-Gal 

(5360 Westport Rd., 246-3130, far north 

side) and Captain Bill’s (2701 Century 

Harbor Rd., 831-7327, Middleton). 

Betty Lou Cruises (moored at The 

Mariner’s Inn, address above; reservations: 

246-3138) offer incredible views of Madison’s 

skyline and an impressive buffet. Choose 

from the dinner, brunch or lunch buffets and 

dine on tasty seafood like clam chowder, 

smoked salmon and seafood salad. Cruises run 

April through October. 

For seafood in a sleek, modern space, 

Ocean Grill (117 Martin Luther King Jr. 

Blvd., 285-2582, isthmus) has an extensive 

menu, from jumbo lump crab cakes to 

tilapia. Outdoor seating is available. 

PHOTO BY SARA GOMACH 

ASIAN 

Madison may be a mid-sized city when it 

comes to sheer population, but we have a 

big-city love of wonderful Asian restaurants. 

At Sa-Bai Thong (2840 University Ave., 

238-3100, west side; 6802 Odana Rd., 828- 

9565, west side) you can’t go wrong with 

any of their noodle dishes, stir-fries, curries, 

pad thai and tom yum. 

For a taste of Indonesia, visit Bandung 

(600 Williamson St., 255-6910, isthmus) for 

a delicious sampling of the culture’s unique 

cuisine in an atmosphere adorned with 

Indonesian arts and crafts. 

Lao Laan-Xang (1146 Williamson St., 

280-0104, isthmus; 2098 Atwood Ave., 

819-0140, east side), a Laotian restaurant, is 

deliciously spicy and offers a wide range of 

vegetarian fare. 

For Chinese, Imperial Garden West 

(2039 Allen Blvd., 238-6445, Middleton) 

and Imperial Garden East (4214 E. 

Washington Ave., 249-0466, far east side) 

are Madison’s most popular. The Middleton 

location features a contemporary take on 

Chinese design, a nice complement to their 

cuisine. Hong Kong Café (2 S. Mills St., 

259-1668, isthmus; 7475 Mineral Point 

Rd., 829-1168, west side; 1219 W. Main St., 

825-8188, Sun Prairie) has some of the best 

Chinese menu selections around. 

For Japanese, Muramoto and Sushi

Muramoto (225 King St., 259-1040, isthmus; 

546 N. Midvale Blvd., 441-1090, west side) 

both have American and Japanese-style sushi 

rolls and are consistently Best of Madison 

winners for sushi. Wasabi (449 State St., 

255-5020, isthmus) is known for its excellent 

sushi, but it shares State Street with an 

equally tasty competitor, Takara (315 State 

St., 268-0188, isthmus; 696 S. Whitney 

Way, 270-1188, west side). Or, if your taste 

buds can stand the heat, consider New 

Seoul (2503 University Ave., 238-3331, 

near west side) for Korean dining. 

ITALIAN 

To sample a campus tradition, try Porta 

Bella (425 N. Frances St., 256-3186, 

isthmus) and its more casual partner, 

Paisan’s (131 W. Wilson St., 257-3832, 

isthmus). Try Paisan’s pizza or a hearty 

Porta salad in both restaurants’ romantic 

atmospheres. Before heading into the Porta 

Bella dining room for great Italian dining, 

check out the famous martini menu in the 

Cellar Bar. 

If you’ve settled in on the west side, try 

Biaggi’s Ristorante (601 Junction Rd., 

664-9288, far west side). Meals at Biaggi’s 

start out with delicious bread and olive oil, 

and diners can move on to tasty pastas, 

pizzas and entreés. 

Step back through time at Lombardino’s 

(2500 University Ave., 238-1922, near 

west side), one of Madison’s oldest 

restaurants. Here you’ll find old-world 

décor—hand-painted decorative tile, a 

replica of the Trevi fountain and a mural of 

an Italian landscape—complementing a 

delicious menu that changes with the 

seasons. 

For more upscale dining, consider 

Tutto Pasta State Street (305 State St., 

294-1000, isthmus). 

ECLECTIC 

Clearly, visitors can see Madison is a worldly 

place when it comes to cuisine. Samba 

Brazilian Grill (240 W. Gilman St., 257- 

1111, isthmus) brings a taste of Brazil 

right here with gauchos serving meat on 

skewers. Like the French Quarter Liliana’s 

(2951 Triverton Pike Dr., 442-4444, 

Fitchburg) serves up New Orleans 

specialties like jambalaya and étoufée, and 

they’ve even got a separate oyster menu. 

Inka Heritage (602 S. Park St., 310- 

4282, near south) celebrates Peruvian 

cuisine with seafood specialties like their 

tangy ceviche. For a menu with many 

cultural influences, try La Brioche True 

Foods (2862 Unversity Ave., 233-3388, 

west side). Made-from-scratch pastries, 

European torte cakes, pizzas, soups and 

sandwiches round out the menu at this 

upscale yet casual spot. 

For a taste of Eastern and Western-style 

BBQ, hit up The Haze (106 King St., 260- 

2680, isthmus). Down-home favorites like 

Japanese-style black vinegar-glazed ribs, 

Kansas City ribs and Chinese Char-Siu 

pork await. 

The Icon (206 State St., 256-3000, 

isthmus) is a sleek eatery with tons of 

tapas to share. Try the baked goat cheese 

spread with house tomato sauce, baked 

garlic shrimp or the chicken empanadas. 

And check out the cocktail menu—many 

drinks are named after 1940s and ’50s 

Hollywood icons. Another fun tapas place 

is Tapas Rias (2518 Allen Blvd., 831- 

0528, Middleton)—try hot and cold tapas, 

paellas, fresh sangrias and Spanish wines. 

HERITAGE 

Combine fine dining with an air of 

nostalgia at some of Madison’s most 

*PUB NOTES: Zander’s Capitol Grill (118 State St., 280-9999, isthmus) 

is an upscale sports bar. They’ve got an extensive burger menu and 

creative appetizers like bacon-wrapped jumbo shrimp, classic sliders 

and cheese curds. The Capital Tap Haus (107 State St., 310-1010, 

isthmus) is a beautiful space with lovely historic accents that serves 

Capital Brewery beers as well as a full lunch and dinner menu. For an 

Irish twist visit Claddagh Irish Pub (1611 Aspen Commons, 833-5070, 

Middleton) for excellent food and an authentic-looking pub atmosphere 



popular restaurants. The traditional 

pancake breakfast is alive and well at the 

Pancake Cafe (6220 Nesbitt Rd., 

204-7040, Fitchburg), where you can 

also partake in a variety of other breakfast 

entrées and a full lunch menu. The 

Old Fashioned (23 N. Pinckney St., 

310-4545, isthmus), offers traditional 

Wisconsin supper-club fare, featuring 

specials cooked on a wood-burning grill. 

This downtown treasure has received 

excellent reviews in local and statewide 

newspapers and Madison Magazine. 

Quivey’s Grove (6261 Nesbitt Rd., 

273-4900, Fitchburg) is housed in a 

Wisconsin farmhouse and stable built in 

1855. Madison Magazine readers voted Quivey’s 

fish fry one of the best in the magazine’s 2010 

Best of Madison Awards. 

LOCAVORE LOVE 

Madison is known to be forward-thinking 

but also forward-eating. Home of the country’s 

largest producer-only farmers’ market, Madison 

has embraced the locavore movement 

wholeheartedly. 

Fresco (227 State St., 663-7374, 

isthmus) is on the rooftop of the Madison 

Museum of Contemporary Art and overlooks 


EAT THE BEST 

OF MADISON 

the city and a sculpture garden. Distinctive 

entrées, such as the seared duck breast in a 

fig-balsamic reduction or the sheep’s milk 

ricotta cheese gnocchi, will complement an 

already one-of-a-kind dining experience. 

Tami Lax of Harvest (21 N. Pinckney St., 

255-6075, isthmus), founded the Slow Food 

Madison chapter, a foodie philosophy with a 

rise in popularity that’s been anything but 

slow. Executive chef Derek Rowe embraces 

this ideal as he creates an evolving menu to 

highlight local produce in their modern 

cuisine that’s got influences of French, 

American, Spanish and Italian cuisines. 

Chef Tory Miller, owner of L’Etoile (1 S. 

Pinckney St., 251-0500, isthmus) and Graze 

(next door, 251-0700), is intimately involved 

with sharing a Slow Food experience. At his 

restaurants you’ll enjoy seasonal food from 

local farmers prepared using traditional 

methods. The restaurant is nationally 

acclaimed, and was founded by owner/chef 

Odessa Piper, who is a leader in New 

American cuisine. 

43 North (108 King St., 255-4343, 

isthmus) focuses on modern American 

cooking. Chef Justin Carlisle works with a 

four-course menu that revolves around the 

seasons using local and global ingredients. n 

As determined by the 2010 Madison Magazine Reader’s Poll 

Best Restaurant Eno Vino 601 Junction Rd., 664-9565 

Upscale Dining L’Etoile 1 South Pinckney St., 251-0500 

Viewpoint Paisan’s 131 W. Wilson St., 257-3832 

Fish Fry Avenue Bar 1128 E. Washington Ave., 257-6877 

Pizza Glass Nickel Pizza Co. 5003 University Ave., 218-9000 / 2916 

Atwood Ave., 245-0880 / 3191 Muir Field Rd., Fitchburg, 848-4877 / 

101 W. Main St., Sun Prairie, 834-9919 

Brew Pub Great Dane 123 E. Doty St., 284-0000 / 257 Price Place, 

661-9400 / 2980 Cahill Main, Fitchburg, 442-9000 

Chocolate Gail Ambrosius 2086 Atwood Ave., 249-3500 

Coffee Ancora 112 King St., 255-0285 / 2871 University Ave., 233-5287 

Bakery Lane’s Bakery 448 S. Park St., 256-6645 

Deli Fraboni’s 822 Regent St., 256-0546 / 108 Owen Rd., Monona, 

222-6632 

Check out more Best of Madison picks at madisonmagazine.com!

A-Z 

RESTAURANT GUIDE 

KEY TO SYMBOLS 

¡ open for less than a year 

√ 

Edit 

Best of Madison readers’ choice 

∫ breakfast ¬ lunch ∂ dinner 

Î 

dinner plus late-night dining (after 11 p.m.) 

• Madison Original 

µ live entertainment 

† outdoor dining 

˙ 

ƒ 

π 

∑ 

children’s portions /meals 

Friday fish fry 

free parking 

wheelchair accessible 

The dining guide is compiled by Madison 

Magazine editorial staff as a service to our 

readers. Best of Madison selections are 

the result of our readers’ poll, published 

annually in the July issue. 

All listings are subject to change. 

We recommend confirming hours and 

other critical information prior to visiting. 

FOR COMPLETE SEARCHABLE 

LISTINGS ONLINE, GO TO 

MADISONMAGAZINE.COM 

ALPHABETICAL LISTING 

PRICE 

SCALE 

› 

< $10 

›› 

$10 – $15 

››› 

$15 – $25 

›››› 

$25 + 

Refers to 

average cost 

of an entrée 

per person 

¡43 NORTH |ßContemporary, upscale American cuisine with 

local and global ingredients. The four-course menu changes 

day to day. For a first course, try the lobster bisque with tarragon 

marshmallow and for an entrée, the beef strip loin with 

horseradish. 108 King St. 255-4343. ∂†∑›››› 

1855 SALOON & GRILL |3]American mixed grill: cheeseburgers, 

pizza, steak and more. Lively environment, kid-friendly and 

a rustic style. 218 Main St., Cottage Grove. 839-3700. 

¬∂µ†˙ƒπ∑›› 

¡8 SEASONS GRILLE |ßMade-from-scratch fare using local 

ingredients. For breakfast the wild mushroom and goat 

cheese frittata is a specialty. Fresh coffee, pastries and a huge 

wine selection. 45 S. Bassett St. 819-1082. ∫¬∂†˙π∑› 

√THE ADMIRALTY ROOM AT THE EDGEWATER |[K16] Seasonal 

cuisine, gourmet tableside entrées and flaming desserts with 

stunning lake views. Also offers a lounge setting at The Cove. 

666 Wisconsin Ave. 661-6582. ¬∂•µ†˙π∑›››› 

ALCHEMY CAFE |[I3] Sandwiches, Friday fish fry and great burgers in 

the old Wonders Pub. Try the Apple Rum burger. 1980 Atwood 

Ave. 204-7644. ¬Î†˙µƒ∑› 

√ALE ASYLUM |[E22] Local brewery with quality deli food and 

flatbread pizzas in an “industrially comfortable” environment. 

3698 Kinsman Blvd. 663-3926. ¬Î†π∑› 

AMY’S CAFÉ |[L16] Southern Mediterranean flavors in a cozy 

atmosphere just off State. 414 W. Gilman St. 255-8172. 

¬Î†˙∑› 

ANGELO’S |[N22] Intimate setting for both couples and families, serving 

traditional and Cajun pastas, pizza and Friday fish fry. 

5801 Monona Dr., Monona. 222-1464. ∂˙ƒπ∑›› 

ANTOJITOS EL TORIL |[K23] Tortas, tacos, gorditas, flautas, quesadillas, 

burritos and more. 515 Cottage Grove Rd. 358-7718. 

∫¬∂˙π› 

ARGUS BAR & GRILL |[S13] Soups, salads, burgers, lots of sandwiches 

and a number of vegetarian offerings. Great atmosphere in a 

remodeled building from 1847. 123 E. Main St. 256-4141. 

¬Î†˙ƒ∑› 

ASIAN KITCHEN |[L15] Authentic Chinese and Malaysian and American 

foods. Favorites include roast duck and crispy chicken. 

449 State St. 255-0571. ¬Î∑› 

√AVENUE BAR |[J18] Casual dining hotspot with thick steaks, 

signature fish fry and fresh seafood: cod, shrimp, crab legs 

and lobster. 1128 E. Washington Ave. 257-6877. 

∫¬∂•µ˙ƒπ∑›› 

√BABE’S AMERICAN GRILL |[P8] Burgers, salads, wraps, fajitas, ribs 

and $6.95 lunch specials. 5614 Schroeder Rd. 274-7300. 

4325 Lien Rd. 249-7563. ¬∂µ†˙ƒπ∑›› 

BADGERLAND BAR & GRILL |[P8] Upscale Badger sports bar inside the 

Doubletree Hotel. Try the Badgerland Burger, a 1/2 lb. of Angus 

beef topped with chipotle mayo, the turkey and spinach wrap 

or other grill favorites. 251-3033. 525 W. Johnson St. 

¬∂˙ƒπ∑›› 

√BAHN THAI |[L11][K18] Thai in an intimate, casual environment. 

944 Williamson St. 256-0202. ¬∂π∑›› 

√BANDUNG |[L17] Indonesian dining in a warm atmosphere. 

Rijsttafel celebrations. 600 Williamson St. 255-6910. 

¬∂†∑π›› 

BANGKOK CUISINE |[L17] Traditional Thai and curry. 600 Williamson 

St. #6. 250-6280. ¬∂•ƒπ∑› 

THE BAYOU |[S8] Authentic New Orleans cuisine served in a Bourbon 

Street tavern atmosphere, complete with murals and a 

large jester statue. Try something from the raw bar, a po’ boy 

sandwich or the gumbo. Nice outdoor patio. 117 S. Butler St. 

294-9404. ¬∂µ†˙ƒ∑›› 

BEANS ’N CREAM |[S8] Community centered café with locally grown, 

organic food and organic fair-trade coffee. 345 Cannery 

Square, Sun Prairie. 837-7737. ∫¬†π∑› 

¡BELLA VITA |ßMade-from-scratch Italian in an inviting 

space. Try the thin crust pizzas—like the shrimp pesto—and 

homemade tiramisu or cannoli for dessert. Happy hour specials 

daily. 420 Gammon Pl. 836-5866. ¬∂†˙ƒπ∑›› 

BELLINI RESTAURANT |[L17] Authentic Italian menu, including pizza, 

in the unique, old-world setting of a restored 1897 church. 

401 E. Washington Ave. 250-0097. ∂†∑››› 

BENVENUTO’S |[E19]ß Wood-fired pizza, shrimp tetrazzini, daily 

specials. 1849 Northport Dr. 241-1144. 2949 Triverton Pike Dr., 

Fitchburg. 278-7800. ¬∂˙π∑(† Fitchburg only)›› 

BIAGGI’S |[L3] Fresh, affordable Italian served in a casual setting. 

601 Junction Rd. 664-9288. ¬∂˙π∑›› 

√BLUE MARLIN |[L16] Fresh menu daily, featuring hearty seafood 

dinners of halibut, lobster, sea bass, swordfish steak and 

more, with a raw bar. 101 N. Hamilton St. 255-2255. 

¬∂•†∑››› 

√BLUE MOON BAR & GRILL |[L12] Burgers, soups, daily lunch specials, 

Friday “seafood extravaganza.” 2535 University Ave. 233-0441. 

¬Îƒπ∑› 

BLUEPHIES |[N12] Contemporary American food and décor. 

2701 Monroe St. 231-3663. ¬∂˙π∑› 

BON APPETIT CAFÉ |[K18] Inventive Mediterranean and international 

cuisine in a small, intimate setting. 805 Williamson St. 

283-4266. ¬∂µπ›› 

BONFYRE AMERICAN GRILLE |ßCasual American grill with 

something for everyone—flatbreads, wraps, rotisserie chicken 

and wood-fired ribs. Steaks (with 3 topping choices), seafood 

and pasta dishes round out the menu. 2601 W. Beltline Hwy. 

273-3973. ¬∂†˙π∑›› 

BOURBON STREET GRILLE |ßTry the ribs, chicken wings or mummy 

shrimp. 6308 Metropolitan Ln., Monona. 835-3435. 

∫¬Îµ†˙ƒπ∑›› 

BRASSERIE V |[K17] A European-inspired, casual neighborhood 

restaurant. Try the steak and frites, the duck, one of the 14 

beers on tap or a glass of European wine. 1923 Monroe St. 

255-8500. ¬∂•µ˙π∑›› 



(608) 238-1922 

www.lombardinos.com 

250 University Ave. Madison 

Open at 5pm Tue. - Sun. 

Dining unitil 9pm – Fri. & Sat. until 10pm 

Full menu served at the bar 

Inspired by the traditions 

of Wisconsin taverns and 

supper clubs, The Old Fashioned 

was created to pay tribute to the 

foods and spirits that make 

Wisconsin famous. 

Serving lunch, dinner, late night 

and weekend brunch. 

On the Capitol Square 

23 N. Pinckney Street 

608.310.4545 

www.theoldfashioned.com 

¡THE BRICKHOUSE BBQ |ßThe Brickhouse BBQ smokes their 

own meats in-house and specializes in savory pulled pork and 

ribs plus homemade sides and Southern-style desserts. 

408 W. Gorham St. 257-7675. ¬Î†˙∑›› 

√BROCACH IRISH PUB |[L17] Fine Irish food, including Guinness Irish 

stew, shepherd’s pie and wild Atlantic salmon. 7 W. Main St. 

255-2015. ¬Îµ˙ƒ∑›› 

BUCK’S PIZZA |[N10] Traditional thin-crust pizza since 1961. 5502 

University Ave. 238-9166. 219 Cottage Grove Rd. 222-8011. 

∂∑›› 

√BUNKY’S CAFÉ |[I20] Warm atmosphere reminiscent of owner’s 

grandmother’s 1930s Italian and Mediterranean cuisine here 

in Madison. 2425 Atwood Ave. 204-7004. 

¬∂•µ˙π∑›› 

BURAKA |[L15] Ethiopian featuring dorowot, tibs and savory 

chicken peanut stew. 543 State St. 255-3646. ¬Î†› 

BURRITO DRIVE |[I20] A new name to Mexican food with a refreshing 

selection of tacos, tortas and original burrito recipes. 

310 S. Brearly St. 260-8586. ¬∂˙π∑› 

THE CABANA ROOM |[G18] The casual counterpart to the Samba 

Brazilian Grill, The Cabana Room offers Latin American 

fare like cubanos, along with soups, salads and wraps. 

240 W. Gilman St. 257-3300. ¬Î†π∑› 

¡CACTUS RANCH |[L16] A little bit of Texas in Madison—try the 

spicy Texas paella with andouille sausage, catfish or the Cajun 

rice; or the Bonanza Burger, made with locally raised beef. 

Hand-squeezed lime margaritas and a festive sports bar 

atmosphere. 2701 University Ave. 231-3473. 

∫(Sat./Sun.)¬Îµ†˙π∑›› 

CAFÉ COSTA RICA |[L17] Central American cuisine with a Jamaican 

twist. Try the Caribbean chicken or a vegetarian taco in 

a happy atmosphere. 141 S. Butler St. 256-9830. ¬∂†˙› 

√CAFÉ LA BELLITALIA |[G18] Italian favorites and house specials in 

a cozy family atmosphere. 1026 N. Sherman Ave. 243-1200. 

¬Î˙π∑›› 

CAFÉ PORTA ALBA |ßNeapolitan pizza with with delicous, simple 

preparations. Try pies like the margherita (tomatoes, Buffalo 

mozzarella, basil) or Alpina (walnut purée, fontina cheese, 

mushrooms). 558 N. Midvale Blvd. 441-0202. 

¬∂†˙π∑›› 

CANCUN |[O8] Traditional Mexican with lots of vegetarian specialties. 

704 S. Whitney Way. 277-0992. ¬∂∑› 

CAPITOL CHOPHOUSE |[L17] Formal dining in a large, refined dining 

room. Featuring steaks, lamb chops, Alaskan king salmon, 

Chilean sea bass and Maine lobster. Start out with one of 

many creative appetizers. 9 E. Wilson St. (the Hilton). 

255-0165. ¬∂†˙π∑(ƒ lunch only)›››› 

√CAPTAIN BILL’S |[H7] Seafood and more since 1993. Outdoor 

dining with a view of Lake Mendota. Warm, cozy fireplace 

for winter. Locally owned and family operated. 2701 Century 

Harbor Rd., Middleton. 831-7327. ∂•†˙ƒπ∑›› 

CASA DE LARA |[L16]ß Authentic Mexican with interesting cactus dishes 

and daily specials. 341 State St. 251-7200. ¬Îµ˙∑› 

CASA DEL SOL |[L16]ß Tilapia salad, shrimp quesadillas or steak fajitas 

plus unexpected appetizers like cheese curds and cheese 

fondue. 3040 Cahill Main, Fitchburg. 663-8818. 

¬∂µ˙†π∑› 

CASBAH |[L15][M3] Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. 

Three floors of exotic dining. 119 E. Main St. 255-2272. 

¬Î†˙∑››› 

√CHANG JIANG |[H25][O5]ß Sweet and sour shrimp, veggie egg rolls 

and crab rangoon. 4929 Commercial Ave. 241-9798. 

646 S. Gammon Rd. 278-1818. 3195 Muir Field Rd. 

848-8989. ¬∂˙π∑› 

CHAUTARA |[L16] Interesting foods and ingredients of Tibet and 

Nepal in a minimalist, urban setting. Try the crispy chickpea 

pancake served with chutney. 334 State St. 251-3626. 

¬∂†∑››› 

¡CILANTRO BAR & GRILL |ßMade-from-scratch Mexican 

cuisine from chefs who have worked with the likes of Rick 

Bayless. A delicious weekend brunch includes huevos divorciados, 

and dinners include superb Oaxacan molé. 7005 Tree 

Ln. 203-8073 ¬∂µ˙π∑››› 

CIRCOLO SUPPER CLUB |[J24] Unique restaurant experience offering 

special catered dinners by reservation only from an extensive 

prix fixe menu. Monthly themed dinners also include drinks, 

appetizers, dinner and dessert. 100 Cross Country Rd., Verona. 

669-5880. ∂†π∑››› 

√CLADDAGH IRISH PUB |[I6] Cozy pub with only imported beers 

on tap. Extensive menu with over 70 meals to choose from, 

including the Jameson drunken steak and fish and chips. 

1611 Aspen Commons. 833-5070. ¬∂†µ˙ƒπ∑›› 

CLUB TAVERN |[I6] Burgers and bar food, smoked prime rib. Breakfast 

served on the weekends. 1915 Branch St., Middleton. 

836-3773. ∫¬∂•µ˙ƒπ∑›› 

COACHMAN’S |[I6] Supper club atmosphere, serving a Friday fish fry, 

prime rib, steaks and sandwiches. All menu items made from 

scratch. 984 Cty. Hwy. A, Edgerton. (608) 884-8484. 

¬∂•˙ƒπ∑››› 

COME BACK IN |[L17] Appetizers, sandwiches, steaks and a delicious 

weekend brunch. 508 E. Wilson St. 258-8619. 

¬Î†˙ƒπ› 

THE CONTINENTAL FITCHBURG |[L17 Italian ] specialties: pasta, pizza, 

fresh fish, steaks and chops, kids’ menu and happy hour. 

2784 S. Fish Hatchery Rd. 661-4161. ∂†˙π∑›› 

COOL BEANS COFFEE CAFÉ |[F23] Unique deli menu in relaxing 

atmosphere. 1748 Eagan Rd. 244-8414. ∫¬∂†˙π∑› 

THE COOPERS TAVERN |ßGastropub serving Belgian frites, salads, 

sandwiches and entrees made with house-cured meats and 

local ingredients. 28 tap and 100 bottled beers. 

20 W. Mifflin St. 256-1600. ¬Î†˙∑›› 

COPPER GABLE CAFÉ |[L16] Cozy, friendly restaurant and bakery offering 

grilled sandwiches, lasagna and more. 317 N. Bassett St. 

819-0036. ∫¬∂†∑› 

COTTAGE CAFÉ |[J24] Americana menu, homemade quiche. 

915 Atlas Ave. 221-4815. ∫¬˙ƒπ∑› 

√CRANBERRY CREEK CASUAL CAFÉ |[O21] Classic café fare, including 

seafood, burgers, panini, soups and salads. 1501 Lake Point Dr. 

222-4803. ∫(weekends)¬∂†˙π∑› 

CRANDALL’S CARRYOUT AND CATERING |[N22][I6] Homestyle cooking 

with daily fish fry. Table service available. 6401 University Ave. 

231-2000. ¬∂†˙ƒπ› 

CREMA CAFÉ |ßBright, airy café serving inventive fare with an 

emphasis on organic and local ingredients. Try the baked 

oatmeal or one of the specialty drinks. 4124 Monona Dr. 

224-1150. ∫¬†˙π∑› 

CREAMERY CAFÉ |ßPastas, soups and sandwiches in an elegant, 

casual atmosphere. Try the beet salad with goat cheese. 

Sunday champagne brunch. Part of Artisan Gallery. 

6858 Paoli Rd., Paoli. 845-3388. ∫¬†˙π∑› 

√THE CURVE |[N15] Fifties-style greasy spoon serving burgers and 

sandwiches as well as homemade soups. 653 S. Park St. 

251-0311. ∫¬π˙ƒ∑› 

¡DAHMEN’S PIZZA PLACE |[M14] Roomy, family-friendly 

pizza place with specials like a Sunday spaghetti dinner and 

Friday fish fry. TVs, games and a daily lunch buffet, too. 

6654 Mineral Point Rd. 829-3005. ¬∂ƒ˙∑π› 

DAISY CAFÉ AND CUPCAKERY |[H20] Fresh, local American food—heavy 

on breakfast, using high-quality ingredients. Chocolate 

mocha, carrot cake and vanilla strawberry cupcakes. 2827 

Atwood Ave. 241-2200. ∫¬˙π∑› 

√DAVID’S JAMAICAN CUISINE |[N22] Jerk chicken, ackee codfish, 

pineapple and orange tofu and key lime pie in a colorful setting. 

5734 Monona Dr., Monona. 222-8109. ¬∂†π∑›› 

DAYTON STREET GRILLE |[L16] Entrees paired with signature sauces 

designed to create sweet, savory and spicy flavor combinations. 

1 W. Dayton St. (in the Madison Concourse Hotel) 

257-6000. ∫¬∂˙π∑›(lunch) ›››(dinner) 

DELANEY’S CHARCOAL STEAKS |[N6] Charcoal steaks, chops and 

seafood. Banquet room available. 449 Grand Canyon Dr. 

833-7337. ∂•†˙ƒπ∑›››› 

DELI DELICIOUS |[B14] Family-friendly place serving sandwiches 

and Friday fish. 5440 Willow Rd., Westport. 242-1940. 

¬∂†˙ƒπ∑› 

DEXTER’S PUB |[H20] Casual sports bar environment featuring nightly 

specials, burgers, Reubens, pizza. 301 North St. 244-3535. 

¬Î†˙ƒπ∑› 

DOBHAN |[J20] Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheels divide the dining 

room of Dobhan. Serves fusion dishes inspired by Mediterranean 

and Indian cuisines. 2110 Atwood Ave. 242-4448. 

¬∂˙∑›› 

DOBRA TEA ROOM |[J20] Over sixty specialty teas from around the 

world including Asia, Africa, India and Latin America. Lunch 

and dinner buffet as well as light menu items available. 

449 State St. 294-5555. ¬∂∑› 

√DOTTY DUMPLING’S DOWRY |[L15] A local favorite for burgers 

and comfort food. Soups, chili and more. 317 N. Frances St. 

259-0000. ¬Îƒ∑› 

EDO |[N15] Traditional Japanese cuisines in a refined atmosphere. 

532 S. Park St. 268-0247. ¬∂›› 

EDO GARDEN |[O22] Sushi, hibachi and more in a Japanese-inspired 

atmosphere. 6309 Monona Dr., Monona. 226-9828. 

¬∂˙π∑›› 


√ELDORADO GRILL |[L18] A fusion of Tex-Mex, Southwestern and 

Mexican cuisine in a restored candy factory. Sunday brunch. 

744 Williamson St. 280-9378. ∫∂†˙π∑›› 

√ELLA’S DELI |[H20] Kosher-style deli, ice cream parlor; 

mechanical toy décor, carousel. Incredible experience for kids. 

2902 E. Washington Ave. 241-5291. ∫¬∂•˙π∑› 

√ENO VINO WINE BAR & BISTRO |[M3] International, small-plate 

dining in a sophisticated, modern atmosphere. Features 400 

bottles of wine and a tapas menu. 601 Junction Rd. 664- 

9565. Î†π∑››› 

√ERIN’S SNUG IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT |[M3] Shepherd’s pie, lamb 

shank, colcannon, and bangers and mash. Erin’s features six 

rooms with distinct themes. 4601 American Pkwy. 242-7616. 

∫¬∂µ†˙ƒπ∑››› 

ESSEN HAUS |[L17] German and American cuisine, huge beer menu 

with boot specials and polka nights. 514 E. Wilson St. 

255-4674. Îµ˙ƒπ∑›› 

FALBO BROS. PIZZERIA |[L16] Specialty pizzas include bacon cheeseburger, 

buffalo chicken or chicken Parmesan. 406 S. Park St. 

255-9090. 3301 Parmenter St., Middleton. 836-9080. 

101 River Place, Monona. 223-9800. ¬Îπ∑›› 

√FAT JACK’S BARBECUE |[O22] Serves ribs and chicken plus a Friday 

night fish fry. All-you-can-eat specials weekly. 6207 Monona 

Dr., Monona. 221-4220. ¬∂˙ƒπ∑›› 

¡FAOUZI’S RESTAURANT |[M14] A slice of Morocco in Madison: try 

the Mediterranean salmon with fresh Moroccan spices, 

lemon, carrots and jalapeno; or the popular curry, spicy beef 

stew or couscous. 4245 W. Beltline Hwy. 819-8100. 

¬∂˙∑π›› 

FEILER’S SUPPER CLUB |[Q10] Americana menu with a family-friendly 

feel. 4506 Verona Rd. 271-6237. ¬∂ƒπ∑›› 

¡FIESTA 38 |[M14] Delicious, affordable South American 

cuisine. Try the Cuban Chop, with slow-roasted pork, rice 

and plantains, or the Argentinian Choripan sausage. 

604 S. Park St. 310-4287. ¬∂˙∑π› 

¡FIESTA CANCUN |[M14] Fun, family-friendly dining in a festive 

atmosphere. Specialties include a great burrito grande and 

pollo norteno, a chicken and shrimp dish with pineapple. 

7854 Mineral Point Rd. 831-1020. ¬∂˙∑π› 

FIGARO’S PIZZA |ßGreat selection, plus take-and-bake pizzas. 231 

S. Main St., Verona. 848-3111. ¬∂†˙π∑› 

FITZGERALD’S OF MIDDLETON |[H4] Quiet supper-club atmosphere 

serving steak, seafood, prime rib and Sunday brunch. 

3112 Parmenter St., Middleton. 831-7107. ∂˙ƒπ∑››› 

FLAVOR OF INDIA |ßThe only Indian resturant in Madison with 

both a lunch and dinner buffet. Full menu available. 

14 W. Mifflin St. 294-5555. ¬∂˙∑›› 

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR |[L10] Steaks and fresh 

seafood in upscale surroundings. 750 N. Midvale Blvd. 

233-9550. ∂˙†π∑›››› 

¡FRANCESCA’S AL LAGO |[M14] Homemade, rustic, northern 

Italian cuisine. Try the pollo arrosto alla romano, a half chicken 

roasted with potatoes and the banana cream pie for dessert. 

Daily meal and drink specials, too. 111 Martin Luther King, Jr. 

Blvd. 255-6000. ¬∂˙ƒ†∑π›› 

FRESCO |[L16] Located atop MMoCA, its menu changes every two 

weeks based on what’s available at the local farmers’ markets. 

227 State St. 663-7374. ∂µ(summer)†˙∑››› 

FRIDA MEXICAN GRILL |[L16] Authentic Mexican with a coastal, 

seafood flair. 117 State St. 256-4000. ∫¬∂µ†˙∑›› 

FUGU ASIAN FUSION |[M14] Authentic Chinese cuisine like kung pao, 

seafood and chicken dishes. Or try more exotic fare like 

chili-spiced pig ears, spicy pork kidney and ox tongue. 

411 W. Gilman St. 286-7277. ¬∂˙∑›› 

¡FULL OF BULL FAMOUS ROAST BEEF |[M14] Fresh sandwiches 

with homemade, slow-roasted beef, pork and turkey. Try the 

favorite F.O.B.—the original shaved roast beef sandwich 

followed by creamy frozen custard. 605 E. Washington Ave. 

251-2855. ¬∂†∑π› 

GALLUP COFFEE & BAKEHOUSE |[N15] A relaxed spot for fresh-baked 

pastries, fluffy flapjacks, quiches and a full espresso bar. 100 

Cross Country Rd., Verona. 845-6653. . ¡ 1859 Monroe 

St. 285-5704. ∫¬†(Verona)π∑› 

GEORGE’S CHOP HOUSE |[K3] Semi-fine dining serving steaks 

and seafood. Breakfast daily. 1109 Fourier Dr. 826-0555. 

∫∂˙π∑››› 

GINO’S RESTAURANT |[L15] Lasagna, stuffed pizza, sandwiches and 

salads in a great renovated space. 540 State St. 257-9022. 

¬Î†∑› 

GINZA OF TOKYO |[L16][N6][D24] Traditional and contemporary Japanese, 

sushi bar and hibachi chef. 6734 Odana Rd. 833-8282. 

4802 E. Washington Ave. 661-8890. ¬Î˙∑›› 

Come to the Capitol Chophouse and enjoy aged steaks from the finest 

beef distributors in Chicago, and fresh seafood, flown in from the coasts. 

Take your time, and linger over one of our homemade desserts. 

9 East Wilson Street, Madison, Wisconsin 

Reservations are always welcome Call (608) 255-0165 

Lunch: Monday – Friday, 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM 

Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM 



√GLASS NICKEL PIZZA CO. |[I20][L9]ß Fun combos, plus great fish fry and 

sandwiches. 2916 Atwood Ave. 245-0880. 5003 University 

Ave. 218-9000. 3191 Muir Field Rd. 848-4877. 101 W. Main St., 

Sun Prairie. 834-9919. ¬Îƒπ∑› 

GOTHAM NEW YORK BAGELS |[I23] Hand-rolled artisanal bagels, salads, 

gourmet sandwiches, soups, flavored cream cheeses and 

spreads. 112 E. Mifflin St. 467-7642. 702 N. Park St. Ste 104. 

467-7388. ∫¬∂†˙π∑› 

GRAY’S TIED HOUSE |ßBrewpub offering a great selection of home 

brews in a Colorado lodge aesthetic. 950 Kimball Ln., Verona. 

845-2337. ¬∂µ†˙ƒπ∑›› 

¡GRAZE GASTROPUB |ßFreshly made bakery, signature 

sandwiches, burgers, moules frites, local beers and 

wines—all served up with a view of the Capitol. 

1 S. Pinckney St. 251-0500. ∫¬Î†ƒ∑•›› 

GREAT CHINA |[H18] Classic Chinese carryout and delivery serving 

General Tso’s Chicken and Orange Beef. 619 N. Sherman Ave. 

244-9988. ¬∂π∑› 

√GREAT DANE PUB & BREWING CO. |[L17]ß Diverse menu with lots 

of vegetarian. 123 E. Doty St. 284-0000. 2980 Cahill Main, 

Fitchburg. 442-9000. 357 Price Pl. (Hilldale). 661-9400. 876 

Jupiter Dr. 442-1333. ¬Îµ†˙ƒ∑(π Fitchburg and Hilldale 

only)› 

GREENBUSH BAR |[M14] Creative Italian in a warm space in the heart 

of the old Italian Greenbush neighborhood. Try the Sicilian 

pasta with homemade Italian sausage. 914 Regent St. 257- 

2874. Î˙›› 

GREEN FOREST FAMILY RESTAURANT |[R24] Neighborhood café in 

Monona. Regulars love the homemade soups, grilled panini 

and stellar pancakes. 909 E. Broadway, Monona. 223-0886. 

∫¬∂˙ƒπ∑› 

GREEN OWL CAFE |ßModern vegetarian restaurant. Try the savory 

seitan Italian beef sandwich, crunchy kale crisps or the Middle 

Eastern platter with roasted red pepper spread. 

1970 Atwood Ave. 285-5290. ¬∂•†˙∑›› 

GROWLERS |ßLocal, sustainable menu—bacon-wrapped filet 

medallions, cedar-plank salmon and more. Beer growlers 

from local brewers. 4402 E. Washington Ave. (Crowne Plaza 

Hotel). 244-4703. ∂˙π∑››› 

THE GRUMPY TROLL |[Q5] Restaurant and brewery with 12 handcrafted 

beers on tap. 105 S. Second St., Mt. Horeb. 437-2739. 

¬∂µ†˙ƒπ∑› 

HA LONG BAY |ßSome of the most authentic Thai, Laotian and 

Vietnamese dishes in the city. 1353 Williamson St. 255-2868. 

¬∂˙π∑› 

HABANEROS |ßSpecialties include cernitas burritos stuffed with 

pulled pork and barbacoa burritos, which feature a spicy 

habanero sauce. 2229 S. Stoughton Rd. 223-9222. 

¬Îµ˙π∑› 

HALVERSON’S SUPPER CLUB |ß“Stoughton’s landmark restaurant” 

on Lake Kegonsa. 1965 Barber Dr., Stoughton. 873-3001. 

∂˙ƒπ∑››› 

HARMONY BAR & GRILL |[I20] Bar food with a flair, with homemade 

daily specials, delicious pizza and the best veggie burger in 

town. 2201 Atwood Ave. 249-4333. ¬∂µπ∑› 

√HARVEST |[L17] Modern interpretation of French, Italian and 

American cuisines with strong emphasis on locally grown 

produce. 21 N. Pinckney St. (on the Square). 255-6075. 

∂•†˙∑››› 

HAWK’S BAR AND GRILL |[L16] Trendy bar and grill serving homemade 

sandwiches and great appetizers. 425 State St. 256-4295. 

¬∂•†ƒ∑› 

HAWTHORN’S DINING & CELEBRATIONS |[L16] Celebrate in this casual 

yet elegant setting and enjoy a variety of pastas or their 

signature coffee-crusted ribeye. 1150 Park St., Oregon. 

291-2256. ¬∂µ˙†ƒ∑›› 

√THE HAZE |ßEastern and Western-style BBQ like Japanesestyle 

black vinegar-glazed ribs, Kansas City ribs or Chinese 

Char-Siu pork. All meats and ingredients sourced locally. 

106 King St. 260-2680. ¬∂˙†∑›› 

HEARTLAND GRILL |[L16] Midwest cuisine in a Frank Lloyd 

Wright–inspired dining space. 706 John Nolen Dr. 

(inside the Sheraton). ∫¬∂˙π∑››› 

√HIMAL CHULI |[L16] A perennial favorite featuring Nepalese, 

Tibetan dishes. Try the momocha (veggie dumplings) and dal 

(mixed bean soup). 318 State St. 251-9225. ¬∂†∑› 

√HONG KONG CAFÉ |[M14][N4]ß Excellent Chinese in a cozy atmosphere. 

2 S. Mills St. 259-1668. 7475 Mineral Point Rd. 829-1168. 

1219 W. Main St., Sun Prairie. 825-8188. ¬∂˙∑› 

HONG KONG WOK |[M14][N4]ß Traditional and American Chinese. 

702 N. Midvale Blvd. 236-0622. ¬∂π∑› 

HUBBARD AVENUE DINER |[I4] Classic diner with uptown twist, 

serving their famous meatloaf. Check out the extensive 

pastry case. 7445 Hubbard Ave., Middleton. 831-6800. 

∫¬∂˙π∑› 

√HÜSNÜ’S |[L15] Mediterranean menu emphasizing Turkish 

and Italian. 547 State St. 256-0900. ¬∂†∑› 

√IAN’S PIZZA BY THE SLICE |[M15] Creative pizza slices including steak 

and fries, mac and cheese and BBQ chicken. 319 N. Frances. 

257-0597. 100 State St. 442-3535. Delivery available. 

¬Î•∑› 

THE ICON RESTAURANT & TAPAS BAR |[O16] Spanish tapas in a 

modern setting. All food is homemade, including desserts. 

206 State St. 256-3000. Î››› 

√IMPERIAL GARDEN EAST |[E23] Great Chinese with sushi bar, 

chicken, seafood and duck specialties. Banquet room available. 

4214 E. Washington Ave. 249-0466. ¬∂˙π∑› 

√IMPERIAL GARDEN WEST |[J7] Great Chinese served in a casual, 

friendly restaurant. Try steamed pot stickers, and shrimp, 

chicken or tofu lettuce wraps. 2039 Allen Blvd. 238-6445. 

¬∂•˙π∑› 

INDIA DARBAR |[O7] Authentic north and south Indian. Lunch and 

dinner buffet. 6119 Odana Rd. 274-1788. ¬∂˙∑› 

INKA HERITAGE |[O16] Peruvian cuisine including the seafood house 

specialties Jalea Inka Heritage and ceviche. Meat and vegetarian 

entrees served. 602 S. Park St. 310-4282. 

¬∂µ†π∑››› 

IRISH PUB |[L16] Bar food favorites like burgers and chicken 

sandwiches; wash ’em down with a pint of Guinness. 

317 State St. 256-6071. ¬∂†∑› 

IRONWORKS CAFE |[M14] Comfy, industrial restaurant with breakfast 

and lunch options including soups and sandwiches. 149 

Waubesa St. 241-1574. ∫¬∂˙π∑› 

JA’S SOUL FOOD |ßAuthentic Southern cuisine. Ribs and 

porkchops smothered in their homemade spicy-sweet 

barbecue sauce are a must-have. Also try the catfish battered 

in cornbread. 1616 Beld St. 819-8990. ¬∂†˙π› 

JACS |ßEnjoy Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches, flatbreads and 

salads in this family-friendly bistro. Favorites include mussels 

in a saffron-tomato broth, the pan-fried eggplant sandwich 

and flatbreads. 2611 Monroe St. 441-5444. 

∫¬∂†˙µƒπ›› 

JADE GARDEN |[N15] All-you-can-eat buffet. General Tso chicken 

is a specialty. 1109 S. Park St. 260-9890. ¬∂˙π∑› 

√JAMERICA RESTAURANT |[K18] Like stepping into Jamaica. Authentic 

jerk chicken, curry goat and key lime pie. Breakfast on the 

weekends. 1236 Williamson St. 251-6234. ∫¬∂†∑› 

√JOHNNY DELMONICO’S |[L17] Steaks, fresh seafood and creative 

appetizers in 1930s Art Deco atmosphere. Try the signature 

20-oz. ribeye. Validated parking available. 130 S. Pinckney St. 

257-8325. ∂˙π∑›››› 

JOHNNY’S ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE |[J3] Reminiscent of the traditional 

’40s-style supper clubs. Serving charbroiled steaks, fresh 

seafood and Italian specialties. 8390 Market St., Middleton. 

831-3705. ¬∂†˙π∑››› 

√JOLLY BOB’S |[K18] Barbecue, seafood and Caribbean cuisine in 

a festive atmosphere. Fun cocktail menu and outdoor setting. 

1210 Williamson St. 251-3902. Îµ†∑››› 

JORDAN’S BIG TEN PUB |[M14] A sports bar with a warm atmosphere 

and great food. Burgers, chicken, homemade dinner specials. 

1330 Regent St. 251-6375. ¬Î˙ƒπ∑› 

√KABUL |[L15] Afghanistan and Mediterranean, serving lamb, chicken, 

beef and seafood. Known for its house soup and homemade 

salad dressing. 541 State St. 256-6322. ¬∂µ†∑› 

KAVANAUGH’S ESQUIRE CLUB |[G18] Lobster, steak, fried chicken and a 

large sandwich menu, including deep-fried ocean perch, tuna 

melt and deluxe cheese-burgers. 1025 N. Sherman Ave. 

249-0193. ¬∂˙ƒπ∑›› 

KENNEDY MANOR DINING ROOM & BAR |[K16] Regional European 

cuisine offering a changing menu and warm setting. 1 Langdon 

St. 256-5556. ∂˙π∑››› 

¡KING & MANE |[L16] Gastrocantina with a Mexican twist. Try 

the shortrib nachos, sea scallops a la plancha or a daily special. 

Nightly drink specials too and $4 margaritas. 102 King St. 

287-1455. ¬Î†˙∑›› 

K PEPPERS |[L16] Stylish Korean restaurant serving bibimbap, a 

hearty vegetable dish with spicy hot pepper paste and beef or 

tofu and other favorites like Korean-style barbecue. 

1901 Cayuga St. Ste. 110, Middleton. 833-3189. ¬∂π∑›› 

LA BAGUETTE |[N10] French bistro with 15 types of bread baked fresh 

daily, croissants, apple turnovers, tarts, breakfast and dessert 

pastries, sandwiches, soups and quiches. 7424 Mineral Point 

Rd. 827-6775. ∫¬π∑› 

LA BAMBA |[D24][O5][N22] Fresh and authentic Mexican served fast. Burritos 

“as big as your head.” Open ’til 3. 4738 E. Washington. 

268-4670. 710 S. Gammon Rd. 277-9522. 5809 Monona Dr., 

Monona. 221-8772. ¬Îπ∑› 

LA BRIOCHE PRESENTS TRUE FOODS |[N10] Made-from-scratch pastries, 

European torte cakes, morning buns, soup and sandwiches. 

2862 University Ave. 233-3388. ∫¬∂˙†π∑› 

LA HACIENDA |[N15] Pozole, tacos, fajitas, and hearty, delicious 

homemade soups. 515 S. Park St. 255-8227. ¬Î˙π∑› 

LA MESTIZA |[N15] Try authentic house specialties like the Cochinita 

pibil (slow-cooked pork wrapped in banana leaves), the mole 

enchilada with lamb, and tortilla soup. 6644 Odana Rd. 826- 

0178. 121 E. Main St. 661-2793. ¬∂˙π∑›› 

LA ROCCA’S PIZZERIA |[K18] Authentic Italian serving pizza, entrées, 

sandwiches, desserts and daily specials. 940 Williamson St. 

204-9100. ¬∂†∑› 

LA TOLTECA |[N10] $5 lunch specials Monday through Wednesday. 

Two-for-one margaritas on Thursdays. 121 E. Main St., Sun 

Prairie. 834-6142. ¬∂˙∑› 

LAKE HOUSE INN |[N10] Rustic supper club serving classics including 

a Friday night fish fry, Saturday night prime rib, Sunday lunch 

specials and more. 1612 E. Hotel Dr., Edgerton. 

(608) 884-4544. ∂ƒπ∑›› 

√LAO LAAN-XANG |[J19] Fresh and interesting Laotian menu with a 

special emphasis on locally grown produce. Sunday brunch at 

Willy Street location. 1146 Williamson St. 280-0104. 2098 

Atwood Ave. 819-0140. ¬∂˙π(Atwood only)›› 

√LAREDO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT |[O8][F23] Tacos, burritos, enchiladas, 

huevos rancheros, chiles rellenos, and more . ¡ 

4000 University Ave. 204-9670. 694 S. Whitney Way 278- 

0585. 4001 Lien Rd. 240-9701. ¬∂˙π∑› 

LAS CAZUELAS |[N10] Authentic Mexican eatery with lamb 

barbacoa, enchiladas and quesadillas served in a welcoming 

atmosphere. 15 N. Butler St. 327-2828. ¬∂µ†π∑› 

LAUREL TAVERN |[N12] Quaint neighborhood bar serving tasty 

Reubens, patty melts, and more. 2505 Monroe St. 233-1043. 

¬Îƒπ∑› 

LAZ BISTRO & BAR |ßKansas City–style ribs, seafood and 

sandwiches in a comfortable, upscale setting. 419 E. Main St., 

Stoughton. 873-3808. ¬∂˙π∑››› 

LAZY JANE’S CAFÉ & BAKERY |[J19] Creative soups like ginger-carrot 

and sandwiches like grilled Havarti with avocado in an 

eclectic, relaxing setting. Also homemade scones and cookies. 

1358 Williamson St. 257-5263. ∫¬˙π∑› 

LAZY OAF LOUNGE |[J19] Try a woodstone-cooked pizza, grilled 

tenderloin melt or spicy Oaf Burger at this family-friendly 

eatery. Nightly drink specials and live music make this a 

perfect hangout spot on weekends. 1617 N. Stoughton Rd. 

441-0370. ¬∂µ†˙π∑›› 

¡LEE ASIAN BISTRO |[N10] Authentic Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese. 

The pho beef noodle soup with lots of veggies is 

popular; so is the egg foo young with generous helpings of egg 

and pork, beef, shrimp or chicken. Wash it down with bubble 

tea. 4604 Monona Dr. 221-0749. ¬∂˙π∑› 

√L’ÉTOILE |[L17] Elegant new American Midwest seasonal menu 

with a French influence, using local meats and organic 

produce. 1 S. Pinckney St. 251-0500. ∂•›››› 

LICARI’S BAR & GRILL |[N10] Great classic bar food including excellent 

cheeseburgers in a friendly neighborhood spot. Try the house 

martinis during happy hour. ¬Îƒπ∑› 

√LILIANA’S RESTAURANT |[N15] Elegant New Orleans-inspired menu 

changes often to take advantage of local seasonal produce. 

Try the jambalaya, shrimp and crawfish etoufée, cajun 

mussels or sea scallops. 2951 Triverton Pike Dr., Fitchburg. 

442-4444. ¬Î•µ†˙π∑››› 

LOGAN’S MADTOWN |[N10] Upscale, spacious bar and grill decorated 

with Wisconsin sports paraphernalia. Relax in front of one of 

19 TVs and order homemade beer-battered French fries and a 

roasted turkey or pizza hoagie off of their large menu. 322 W. 

Johnson St. 230-6906. ¬Î†π∑›› 

√LOMBARDINO’S |[L12] One of Madison’s oldest restaurants serving 

top-notch, authentic Italian. Try the pizza Lombardino 

(prosciutto on thin and chewy crust). 2500 University Ave. 

238-1922. ∂•˙π∑››› 

√LOUISIANNE’S ETC. |[I4] New Orleans Creole cuisine in a homey 

yet elegant atmosphere. 7464 Hubbard Ave., Middleton. 

831-1929. ∂µπ››› 

WONDER BAR |[L12] Nestled in a cozy house with a full bar downstairs 

and dining area upstairs. Upscale menu has fish dishes like the 

halibut with garlic crust, the Wonder Bar Signature Steak, a 12 

oz. filet of strip loin, and the 20 oz. bone-in Tomahawk Steak. 

232 E. Olin Ave. 256-9430. ∂†˙∑ƒπ››› 


√LULU’S RESTAURANT |[L12] Arabic and Middle Eastern featuring 

grilled beef, lamb and chicken kabobs, couscous and vegetarian 

specialties. 2524 University Ave. 233-2172. ¬∂˙∑›› 

MADISONS DOWNTOWN |[O17] Pasta, steaks and sandwiches in a 

warm, classy setting. 119 King St. 229-0900. ∂µ†∑›› 

√MAHARAJA |[N6][F23] Favorite Indian entrées, with a delicious 

all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. 6713 Odana Rd. 833-1824. 

1707 Thierer Rd. 246-8525. ¬∂˙π∑› 

√MAHARANI INDIAN RESTAURANT |[L16] Family-owned, serving 

traditional Indian cuisine. 380 W. Washington Ave. 251-9999. 

¬∂†˙π∑›› 

MANNA CAFÉ & BAKERY |[H18] Gourmet breakfast and lunch, including 

quiches, sandwiches, soups, salads and sticky buns. 

611 N. Sherman Ave. 663-5500. ∫¬†˙π∑› 

√MARIGOLD KITCHEN |[L17] Unique and varied menu of quiches 

and other fresh breakfast items along with soups, sandwiches, 

and imaginative salads in an upbeat, urban setting. 

118 S. Pinckney St. 661-5559. ∫¬†˙∑› 

THE MARINER’S INN |[B14] Steaks and seafood on the waterfront 

for over forty years. 5339 Lighthouse Bay Dr. 246-3120. 

∂†•˙ƒπ∑››› 

MARKET STREET DINER |ßClassic diner fare with an upscale twist. 

110 Market Street, Sun Prairie. 825-3377. ∫¬∂˙ƒπ∑› 

√MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ |[L15] Authentic Mideastern/North African 

cuisine served fast and friendly. 625 State St. 251-8510. ¬› 

MEDITERRANEAN HOOKAH LOUNGE & CAFÉ |[L15] Relaxed, elegant 

atmosphere with hookahs available and menu items like 

hummus dip, fatayer and a shawarma platter. 77 Sirloin Strip. 

251-7733. ∂µƒπ∑› 

THE MELTING POT |[N6] A unique dining experience—enjoy three 

courses of fondue, including chocolate for dessert. Perfect 

for a date or large group. 6816 Odana Rd. 833-5676. 

∂˙π∑››› 

MERCURY CAFÉ |[L16] An intimate, upscale restaurant/bar serving 

steaks and seafood as well as Greek specialties like moussaka 

and pastitsio. 117 E. Mifflin St. 255-8624. ¬∂µ†›› 

MERMAID CAFÉ |[J19] This classic café with an Art Deco edge serves 

assorted espressos, soups, and sandwiches—try the panini 

with fresh focaccia. Sunday brunch. 1929 Winnebago St. 

249-9719. ∫¬†˙∑› 

MI COCINA |[J7] Chalupas, tamales, parrilla, chilaquiles and more. 

6230 University Ave., Middleton. 238-7261. ¬∂†˙π∑› 

√MICHAEL’S FROZEN CUSTARD |[K22][N12][P8]ß Burgers and fountain treats. 

3826 Atwood Ave. 222-4110. 2531 Monroe St. 231-3500. 5602 

Schroeder Rd. 276-8100. 6117 Hwy 51, McFarland. 838-1233. 

407 W. Verona Ave., Verona. 845-8887. ¬Î†˙∑› 

MICKEY’S TAVERN |[M14] A neighborhood tavern for over 100 years 

that now serves food: burgers, sandwiches, roasted half-chicken, 

make-your-own pizza. 1524 Williamson St. 251-9964. 

∂µ†π› 

√MICKIE’S DAIRY BAR |[M14] A Madison breakfast tradition, 

serving enormous pancakes, classic milkshakes and malts. 

1511 Monroe St. 256-9476. ∫¬˙∑› 

MILDRED’S SANDWICH SHOP |[K17] An east-side institution serving 

sandwiches made to order, homemade soups, salads and 

Wisconsin-brewed beer. 827 E. Johnson St. 255-2460. 

¬∂†∑› 

√MONTY’S BLUE PLATE DINER |[J19] Creative American diner fare in 

fun, retro atmosphere. Save room for Chocolate Shoppe ice 

cream. Breakfast served all day. 2089 Atwood Ave. 244- 

8505. ∫¬∂†˙ƒπ∑› 

√RESTAURANT MURAMOTO |[L17] Contemporary yet simple and 

seasonal Asian fusion. Try the crab croquettes, sushi and 

strawberry spring rolls. 225 King St. 259-1040. 

¬∂•†π∑› 

NADIA’S RESTAURANT AND GRAPEVINE LOUNGE |[L15] Southern French 

cuisine in a romantic, second-floor setting above a favorite 

bustling city street. 508 State St. 257-1740. ∂˙››› 

NAM’S NOODLE |[M14] Try Nam’s famous fried rice or share the 

“Family Style Dinner” with over 50 items. 1336 Regent St. 

287-0475. ¬∂π∑› 

NATT SPIL |[L17] The eclectic restaurant features dim sum, pulled 

pork sandwiches, seafood and Roman-style wood-fired oven 

pizzas. 211 King St. No phone. Îµ†∑› 

√NAU-TI-GAL |[B14] Outdoor waterfront dining on the north shore of 

Lake Mendota. Famous for Friday fish fry and Sunday brunch. 

5360 Westport Rd. 246-3130. ¬∂µ•†˙ƒπ∑›› 

√NEW ORLEANS TAKE OUT |[M14][I18] Madison favorite serving jambalaya, 

shrimp creole, and other Cajun dishes. 1920 Fordem Ave. 

241-6655. 1517 Monroe St. 280-8000. ¬∂˙π∑› 

NEW SEOUL |[L12] Korean cuisine, barbecue and stir-fry. 

2503 University Ave. 238-3331. ¬∂˙∑› 

NICK’S RESTAURANT |[L16] Casual, old-world American and Greek 

across from Overture Center. Nice vegetarian selection, 

including gyros and homemade spinach pie. 226 State St. 

255-5450. ∫¬†∂ƒ› 

√THE NITTY GRITTY |[L15][K5] Friday Fish Fry and bar food at the area’s 

birthday bar. “Home of the World Famous Gritty Burger.” 

223 N. Frances St. 251-2521. 1021 N. Gammon Rd. 833-6489. 

¬∂•†˙π∑ƒ› 

¡NOSTRANO |[L16] Located in a 1913 building. Enjoy traditional 

Italian with a contemporary, local twist. Try the charcuterie 

plate or the grilled sturgeon with chickpea roll. 111 S. Hamilton 

St. 395-3295. ∂˙››› 

OAKCREST TAVERN |[L8] Burgers and bar food in an old-fashioned 

tavern. 5371 Old Middleton Rd. 233-1243. ¬∂˙ƒπ∑› 

√OCEAN GRILL |[L18] Fresh haddock, shrimp, Alaskan king crab, 

salmon and more prepared traditionally or creatively. 117 

Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 285-2582. ∂†π(Block 89 at 

10 E. Doty St.) ∑››› 

√O’GRADY’S IRISH PUB |[N4] Irish-American menu, including corned 

beef and cabbage. Irishfest Wednesday nights. 7436 Mineral 

Point Rd. 833-4262. ¬Îµ˙ƒπ∑›› 

√THE OLD FASHIONED |[L17] Creative, classy and delicious ode to 

supper-club food and spirits featuring specials cooked on 

a wood-burning grill. Try the grilled trout. 23 N. Pinckney St. 

310-4545. ¬Î•µ†˙ƒ∑› 

OLIVA |[L17] Turkish and Italian in a cozy, authentic atmosphere. 

Baked pastas, chicken and beef shish kebabs, and Turkish 

specialties like kisir with roasted vegetables. 751 N. High Point 

Rd. 831-7776. ¬∂†˙π∑›› 

¡OMG SANDWICH & PIZZA CO. |[L16] Stop by for a meal or takeout 

in a 1980s-inspired eatery. Try the Reuben pizza (corned 

beef, kraut and rye crumbs) or the East Philly cheesesteak 

hoagie. 6628 Odana Rd. 833-1337. ¬∂˙π∑› 

OPA |[M14] Sleek, upscale eatery serving seasonal Greek/European 

dishes like braised lamb shank, root vegetable-stuffed quail, 

endive and frisée salad, and sandwiches. 558 State St. 255- 

2111. ¬Îµ˙∑›› 

√ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE |[K8][N21] Delicious breakfast including 

Dutch baby and apple pancakes, 49er flapjacks and corned 

beef hash. 5518 University Ave. 231-3666. 518 River Place Dr., 

Monona. 222-1137. ∫¬˙π∑› 

ORPHEUM LOBBY RESTAURANT |[L17] Classic Americana menu with 

Friday night all-you-can-eat Canadian bluegill. Weekend 

brunch. 216 State St. (inside the Orpheum). 255-2594. 

¬∂•µ†∑›› 

OSTERIA PAPAVERO |[L17] Authentic Italian eatery serves up unique 

dishes like wild boar gnocchi and a seafood trio dish that 

changes daily. 128 E. Wilson St. 255-8376. ¬∂†∑›› 

OTTO’S RESTAURANT & BAR |[N7] Mediterranean-inspired 

menu served in a historic and renovated stone farmhouse. 

6405 Mineral Point Rd. 274-4044. ∂µ†˙π››› 

√PAISAN’S |[L17] Madison favorite with a fabulous new view. New 

location is larger, but boasts the same inexpensive prices for 

their Italian-American pizza and pasta dishes. 131 W. Wilson 

St. 257-3832. ¬∂†˙π∑› 

PALIS |[H6] Savory stuffed gyros, 1/2-pound Angus beef burgers and 

enormous burritos for budget friendly prices. 1234 Regent St. 

255-7254. ¬Îπ∑› 

√PANCAKE CAFÉ |ßSpecialty pancakes, omelets, crepes and 

more. 6220 Nesbitt Rd., Fitchburg. 204-7040. 

∫¬∂˙π∑› 

PAOLI SCHOOLHOUSE CAFE |[N22] Soups, salads, sandwiches, pastas 

and desserts in the historic Paoli Schoolhouse. 6857 Paoli Rd., 

Paoli. 848-6261. ¬∂(Thurs, Fri, Sat) †π∑›› 

PARTHENON GYROS |[L16] Greek food fast and tasty. 316 State St. 

251-6311. ¬Î†∑› 

SMALL DISHES 

Selections from Dan Curd’s dining 

blog at madisonmagazine.com 

Cult 

Classics 

What makes a restaurant a cult classic 

Obviously, it must have a loyal, hardcore group 

of customers—important in the food service 

industry where repeat business is key to 

success. But for no apparent reason some 

make it against all odds while others fail. 

Cult classics possess a mystique that’s 

indefinable. The kind of restaurant I refer to is 

local, oozes personality and is a bit quirky. 

Most are inexpensive and the food is served 

without pomp or circumstance. They all have 

a history and rarely advertise. 

Nick’s: I actually remember when this place opened 

in 1959. At that time the Formica and vinyl décor 

was the latest thing. Nick is no longer with us but the 

business is still family owned. The menu is an odd 

mix of Greek specialties and diner favorites. It’s one 

of the few places in town where you can still get a 

slice of homemade pie. 

Natt Spil: This den of hipsters (run by the cool Berge 

brothers) keeps a low profile to say the least. There is 

neither a sign nor a listed phone number—and they 

don’t take plastic, only cash! They have a wood-fired 

oven but I doubt that’s the primary draw. Invisible as 

it is, it’s a place to see and be seen. 

Cleveland’s Lunch: I never was sure where the 

“lunch” came from since the people I knew only 

went there for breakfast. Technically, it doesn’t exist 

anymore since the building is now occupied by Plaka, 

a Greek taverna run by Telly Fatsis. But just like 

Brigadoon, every morning except Monday the old 

Cleveland’s breakfast menu reappears. 

Mickey’s Tavern: The food in this dive bar is quite 

good (in spite of the sign in the window that touts 

“Good Food”—usually a dead giveaway that it’s not). 

The clientele is a mix of neighborhood types and the 

young and the restless. Gentrification is clearly not in 

its future. 

Harmony Bar & Grill: Most come here for the 

entertainment, which is as eclectic as the clientele. 

The bar menu is extensive and extraordinary. The 

burgers (including a walnut burger that’s the best 

veggie rendition in town) and pizza are actually worth 

the trip, but also try the grilled yellowfin tuna with 

pineapple chutney and sesame noodles. 

Esquire Club: The Kavanaugh family has run this 

supper club since 1947. Little changes on the menu 

but the prices. It’s all about steaks, lobster and the 

Friday fish fry. At the bar, heiresses from Maple Bluff 

rub elbows with blue-collar workers from Oscar 

Mayer; together, they curse the smoking ban. 

For complete searchable listings online, 

go to MADISONMAGAZINE.COM 

Mickie’s Dairy Bar: This lunch counter serves only 

breakfast and lunch and there’s always a wait on 

the weekend. Students and near west-siders alike 

flock here for the humongous egg scramblers and 

oversized pancakes. There’s no printed menu, but 

Mickie’s is about satisfying appetites rather than 

providing amenities. 

// DAN CURD 



SMALL DISHES 




Side 

Notes 

√PEDRO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANTE |[N4][G22] Fajitas, burritos, salads, 

When we dine out it’s all about the entrée. 

and a fun cocktail-hour appetizer bar. 499 D’Onofrio Dr. 

833-9229. 3555 E. Washington Ave. 241-8110. 

That’s why we go to restaurants that specialize 

¬Î†(D’Onofrio Dr. only)˙π∑› 

¡PEPE’S CASA |[L16] Satisfy any craving at Pepe’s: try the Early 

in steak, seafood, burgers and pizza. But a real 

Bird breakfast all day (pancakes, eggs, bacon), Mexican specials 

meal is nothing without fine side dishes. For 

or American cuisine. Open until 3 a.m. weekends. 449 

too long, sides were relegated to a choice of 

State St. 250-2750. ∫¬Î†ƒ˙∑› 

potato, soup or salad (the soup du jour offering 

the only hope of not being totally predictable). 

The mark of a successful side dish is that it not 

only enhances the main course but would be 

satisfying all by itself. 

Here are my choices for best dishes in a 

supporting role. 

CLASSICS 

French Fries: Coopers Tavern. They make them like 

PLAKA TAVERNA OUZERIA |[L16] Authentic Greek in a cozy taverna. 

Traditional Hellenic fare (spanakopita, baklava) for lunch and 

they do in Belgium—potatoes are hand-cut, twice 

dinner; American-style breakfast. 410 E. Wilson St. 251-4455. 

fried and served with malt vinegar aioli that puts 

∫¬Î†∑› 

ketchup to shame. 

PLAZA TAVERN & GRILL |[L16] Just-off-State favorite serving sandwiches, 

famous Plaza Burgers, and more. 319 N. Henry St. 

Hash Browns: Tornado Steakhouse. Every steakhouse 

in Wisconsin has hash browns, but it’s getting 

255-6592. ¬∂∑› 

POLLO INKA |[H6] Peppy Peruvian restaurant brings exotic flavors 

difficult to find the real thing. At Tornado, the crispy 

with exquisite dishes like Peruvian rotisserie chicken or a 

pancake of shredded potatoes is brown on the outside 

shredded chicken casserole with mirasol peppers, potatoes, 

with the texture of a baked potato on the inside. 

cheese, hard boiled egg, black olives and ground walnuts. 

745 N. High Point Rd. 833-4287. ¬∂π∑›› 

Mashed Potatoes: Glarner Stube. Worth the drive 

PORTA BELLA |[L16] Homemade pasta, classic Italian dinners in a 

to New Glarus alone, these are the most sinfully rich, 

romantic setting just off State. Unusual and fun wine bar in 

soul-satisfying spuds around. (I can guess what’s in 

the basement. 425 N. Frances St. 256-3186. ∂˙∑›› 

them but I’d rather not know.) 

PRAIRIE CAFÉ & BAKERY |[H6] Scones, cookies, muffins and other 

bakery items, plus full breakfast and lunch menu in a neighborhood 

Potato Chips: Harmony Bar. There are scores of 

setting. 6720 Frank Lloyd Wright Ave., Middleton. 

flavors at the grocery store, but none can rival these 

827-2437. ∫¬˙µ†π∑› 

warm, homemade and ethereally crisp spuds. At the 

PRIME QUARTER |[G22] Grill your hand-picked steak or fish on large 

Harmony they come with blue cheese dip to boot. 

open flames. Top it off with a custom-baked potato and salad 

bar. 3520 E. Washington Ave. 244-3520. ∂˙π∑››› 

Onion Rings: The Old Fashioned. Technically these ¡QQ ASIAN BUFFET |[H6] Traditional Chinese with a sushi bar. 

aren’t rings at all but rather onion strings. Lightly 

1291 Sherman Ave. 819-8448. ¬∂˙π∑› (lunch) ›› 

buttermilk-battered, crispy and crunchy, they 

√QUEEN ANNE’S AT THE WEST SIDE CLUB |[N3] Sunday brunch 

humiliate those big clunker donut-like things—the 

and traditional Friday fish. Catering available. 437 Hwy. M. 

833-0404. ∫∂µ˙ƒπ∑›› 

kind where the onion sucks out on the first bite. 

√QUIVEY’S GROVE STONE HOUSE AND STABLE GRILL |ß 

Cole Slaw and Potato Salad: The Haze. These are 

Sophisticated comfort food in a restored historic house and 

standard sides at all BBQ joints, and too often they’re 

stable. 6261 Nesbitt Rd. 273-4900. ¬∂•µ˙ƒπ∑›› 

afterthoughts and taste like they came from the 

R.P. ADLER’S PUB & GRILL |[N3] Steak, seafood, chicken, pasta 

and freshly made soups in a neighborhood atmosphere. 

supermarket. Not so at The Haze, where both are 

8202 Watts Rd. 828-1250. ¬∂†˙ƒπ∑›› 

homemade and shine with personality. 

√ROMAN CANDLE PIZZA |[K18] Modern take on neo-Tuscan cuisine 

serving simple, delicious pizzas, pizza by the slice, gelato and 

EXTRAORDINARY 

more. Family-friendly. 1054 Williamson St. 258-2000. 

Lobster Mac ’n Cheese: Capitol Chophouse. This 

2685 Research Park Dr., Fitchburg. 278-1111. 1920 Parmenter 

combination takes comfort food out of the nursery 

St., Middleton. 831-7777. ¬∂†˙π∑› 

and kicks it upscale. It just might be the best duo since 

ROSATI’S AUTHENTIC CHICAGO PIZZA |[N6][H25] Authentic Chicago Italian 

chocolate and peanut butter. 

beef sandwiches, hot dogs and pizza (thin crust wins fans). 

6644 Mineral Point Rd. 833-9300. 4933 Commercial Ave. 

Sautéed Green Beans: Sala Thai. Forget the green 

245-1111. ¬∂˙π∑› 

bean casserole—here they cook green beans in olive 

ROSSARIO’S |[O24] Italian pastas, steaks and a fish fry in a casual 

oil with onion, garlic and tomatoes, which is much 

atmosphere. 6001 Monona Dr., Monona. 221-3940. 

more appealing, if not downright titillating. 

¬∂˙ƒπ∑› 

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE |[M5] Serves high-quality prime beef 

Asparagus Frites: Bluphies. It’s hard not to like 

and family-style side dishes. 2137 Deming Way, Middleton. 

anything fried, especially asparagus served with a 

828-7884. ∂†˙π∑›››› 

honey-mustard dipping sauce. 

Cauliflower Gratin: Sardine. Cauliflower rarely 

appears on menus, but Sardine’s version baked with 

aged cheese makes me wonder why not. 

√SAIGON NOODLES |[L12][N6] Family friendly, authentic and affordable 

Vietnamese dining. Specialties include the pho beef noodle 

// DAN CURD 

soup and a variety of vermicelli bowls. 6754 Odana Rd. 

827-9120. ¬∂π∑› 

PASQUAL’S |[N12]ß Santa Fe-style with fresh salsa and guacamole and 

generous servings. 2534 Monroe St. 238-4419. 670 N. Midvale 

Blvd. 663-TACO. ∫(Sat./Sun. only)¬∂˙π∑› 

PAT O’MALLEY’S JET ROOM |[J3] Aviation-themed restuarant with a 

great view of planes taking off at the airport. Omelets, seven 

varieties of eggs Benedict, burgers and more. 3606 Corben Ct. 

268-5010. ∫¬˙π∑› 

¡PHO NAM NOODLE HOUSE |[L16] Noodle bowls, spring rolls and 

other affordable Vietnamese favorites like pho noodle soup, 

wontons and grilled pork with vermicelli noodles. 610 Junction 

Rd. 836-7040. ¬∂˙π∑› 

PICASSO’S |[R8] Everything made from scratch, with a large selection 

of pasta, pizzas, sandwiches and burgers. 5266 Williamsburg 

Way. 271-8440. ¬∂†˙π∑›› 

PIZZA BRUTTA |[N22] Neopolitan-style pizza cooked in a wood-burning 

oven. Fast-casual restaurant with booth and bench seating. 

805 Monroe St. 257-2120. ¬∂˙π∑›› 

PIZZA OVEN |[N22] Specialty pizzas and all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. 

5417 Monona Dr., Monona. 222-8722. ¬∂µ˙π∑› 

√SA-BAI THONG |[L12][N6] Authentic Thai, including fried rice specialties 

with interesting ingredient and flavor combinations. 2840 

University Ave. 238-3100. 6802 Odana Rd. 828-9565. 

¬∂∑›› 

SALA THAI |[L12][N6] Enjoy Thai curry, suntee and pad thai in a brightly 

colored, Asian-themed setting. 36 S. Fair Oaks Ave. 246-1889. 

¬∂†›› 

SAMBA BRAZILIAN GRILL |[M5] Gauchos bring roasted meat to your 

table to be carved tableside. The restaurant has a delectable 

dessert menu and an extensive wine list. 240 W. Gilman St. 

257-1111. ∂µπ∑›››› 

√SARDINE |[L17] French-influenced bistro serving fresh fish and 

braised meats in a chic urban setting. Newly renovated space 

captures one of the only Lake Monona dining views. 

517 Williamson St. 441-1600. Î†π∑››› 

SEGREDO |[H6] Tapas-style menu to accompany their selection of 

beer, wine and specialty cocktails. Try the house fish and 

chips, chilled shrimp and veggie lettuce wraps, or Kobe beef 

sliders. 624 University Ave. 257-1122. Îµ∑› 

THE SHAMROCK |[K16] Local neighborhood tavern serving specialties 

like the Shamrock burger and Reuben sandwich as well as 

Saturday and Sunday brunch. 117 W. Main St. 255-5029. 

¬∂µƒ∑› 

SHISH CAFÉ |[K16] This authentic Syrian restaurant offers an extensive 

menu of lamb, vegetarian and seafood entrées. Belly dancing 

the first Saturday of the month. 5510 University Ave. 

236-9006. ¬∂µπ∑›› 

√SMOKY JON’S NO. 1 B-B-Q |[E19] Barbecue items like ribs and chicken 

along with grill items and ten side dishes. Near the airport and 

Warner Park. 2310 Packers Ave. 249-7427. ¬∂˙π∑› 

√SMOKY’S CLUB |[L10] New York strips, filet mignon, broiled African 

lobster tail and more in a family-friendly atmosphere. Try the 

famous homemade, buttery hash browns. 3005 University 

Ave. 233-2120. ∂•˙ƒ∑››› 

SOFRA |[I5] Formerly Bavaria Café, Sofra serves fresh French, Italian 

and Mediterranean with an American flair in a European-style 

café setting. 7457 Elmwood Ave., Middleton. 836-6614. 

∫¬∂†˙ƒ∑›› 

SOPHIA’S BAKERY AND CAFÉ |[K17] Quaint and casual diner serving 

pastries, waffles, sandwiches and soups. 831 E. Johnson St. 

259-1506. ∫¬∑› 

SPICE ’N’ CURRY |[M14] Spicy, authentic Indian cuisine. Huge menu 

with various biryani dishes, tandoori, rice dishes and many 

vegetarian options. 6119 Odana Rd. 622-0240. 

¬∂˙π∑›› 

SPRINGER’S OF LAKE KEGONSA |ßFish specialties and more on 

Lake Kegonsa. 3097 Sunnyside St., Stoughton. 205-9300. 

∫¬∂µ†˙ƒπ∑›› 

STADIUM SPORTS BAR AND EATERY |[M14] Appetizers, burgers, sandwiches 

and bar food. 1419 Monroe St. 256-2544. 

¬Îµ†˙ƒπ∑› 

THE STAMM HOUSE |[H7] Traditional American cuisine and Wed and 

Fri fish fry in a casual setting and local landmark. 6625 Century 

Ave., Middleton. 831-5835. ∂µ˙ƒπ∑›› 

STATE STREET BRATS |[L15] Alumni and student favorite serving the 

infamous red brat. 603 State St. 255-5544. ¬Î†ƒ∑› 

SUB HERO |[M14] Tasty, affordable subs with comic book themes “The 

Luther” is loaded with meat, while “Veggie Hero” is a hummus 

lover’s delight. 6771 University Ave., Middleton. 828-4500. 

¬∂˙π› 

SUNDANCE BAR BISTRO 608 |ßBistro-style fare in a white-tablecloth 

setting, including a variety of appetizers, meat, seafood 

entrées and delicious desserts. ¬Îπ∑››› 

SUN DOWN SALOON |[I23] Signature sandwiches and daily specials. 

57 S. Stoughton Rd. 242-9646. ¬∂µƒπ∑› 

SUNPRINT CAFÉ |[L17][I24] Art Deco American café with scrumptious pastries 

and low-carb menu. 1 S. Pinckney St. (US Bank building). 

268-0114. ∫¬ 

SUNROOM CAFÉ AND GALLERY |[L15] Beautiful upper-level dining room 

with rotating art exhibits. Extensive vegetarian menu. 638 

State St. 255-1555. ∫¬∂› 

SUPREME PIZZA |[K17] Sandwiches, calzones, cannoli, pizza and 

pasta. Open ’til midnight Fri & Sat. 912 E. Johnson St. 

255-2200. ¬Î› 

SUSHI BOX |[L12] Casual dining and carryout serving great sushi, 

teriyaki, fried rice and tempura. 2433 University Ave. 232-1432. 

¬∂˙π∑› 

SUSHI HUT |[M14] Classic sushi delights and exotic items. The chef’s 

roll features fresh eel, cream cheese and crab meat fried in 

tempura and topped with avocado, fish egg and spicy sauce. 

505 State St. 467-7770. ¬∂∑››› 

√SUSHI MURAMOTO |[L4] Extensive selection of Japanese- and 

American-style sushi rolls in addition to other small- and 

large-plate entrées. 546 N. Midvale Blvd. 441-1090. 

¬∂†π∑›››

SMALL DISHES 



SWAGAT INDIA |[L4] Traditional northern and southern Indian dishes, 

IndoChine lunch buffet. 707 N. High Point Rd. 836-9399. 

¬∂π∑›› 

THE TACO SHOP |[M14] Tex-Mex menu. Try the specialty smothered 

burrito with your choice of filling or a deep-fried chimichanga 

topped with house ranchero sauce. 604 University Ave. 250- 

8226. ¬Î∑› 

TAJ INDIAN RESTAURANT |[O15] Authentic Indian with bountiful lunch 

buffet and full-service dinner in a quiet, modern setting. Try 

the lamb korma in a silky-smooth cream sauce or shrimp and 

zesty biryani. 1256 S. Park St. 268-0772. ¬∂π∑›› 

√TAKARA |[L16][O8] Sushi and hibachi ordered fresh daily; unique café 

with tatami tables. 315 State St. 268-0188. 696 S. Whitney 

Way. 270-1188 ¬∂˙∑› 

TAKUMI JAPANESE RESTAURANT |[L4] A variety of authentic dishes, 

including sushi specialties and rolls and world-famous Kobe 

beef. 4222 East Towne Blvd. 663-3899. ¬∂˙π∑›››› 

TALULA |[L4] This bright pink building is home to a wide variety of 

cuisines, nightly dinner specials and casual-funky decor. 802 

Atlas Ave. 441-1977. ¬∂†µ˙ƒπ∑›› 

TAPAS RIAS |[P16] Spanish contemporary casual dining—hot and cold 

tapas, paellas, fresh sangrias and Spanish wines. 2518 Allen 

Blvd. 831-0528. ∂†µπ∑› (tapas)››› (entrées) 

TAQUERIA EL PASTOR |[P16] Authentic Mexican—try the taco el pastor, 

with marinated pork, cilantro and onion, or the pozole, pork 

stew with hot chiles. 2010 S. Park St. 280-8898. 

¬Î˙π∑› 

TAQUERIA GUADALAJARA |[L4] Authentic Mexican made fresh. 

Specialties include tamales and gorditas. 1033 S. Park St. 

250-1824. ¬∂†˙π∑› 

TASTE OF ASIA |[H20] Extensive buffet, serving Hmong, Lao, Vietnamese, 

Thai and Chinese cuisines with authentic spices and 

fresh, quality ingredients. 2817 E. Washington Ave. 240-0762. 

¬∂˙π∑› 

TASTE OF INDIA |[N12] Authentic Indian cuisine like chicken tikka 

masala and chicken tandoori. Great lunch buffet. 2623 

Monroe St. 218-9200. ¬∂˙π∑›› 

TASTE OF TIBET |[M14] Authentic Tibetan cuisine. Try their specialty, 

steamed momo, a homemade dough stuffed with ground 

beef or chicken and mixed with spring onion. 430 State St. 

250-2363. ¬∂π∑› 

TEX TUBB’S TACO PALACE |[J19] Fun and friendly restaurant has 

Mexican classics such as burritos, chimichangas, enchiladas 

and of course, tacos (including fish tacos). 2009 Atwood Ave. 

242-1800. ¬∂†˙π∑› 

THAI BASIL |[L4] Thai favorites, including pad thai and yellow curry 

chicken. Daily lunch specials. Carryout and delivery. 6714 Raymond 

Rd. 273-8890. ¬∂˙π∑› 

THAI NOODLES |[M14] Comfy mom-and-pop restaurant with Thai 

noodle dishes and create your own curry from veggies, meats 

and sauces on hand. 5957 McKee Rd. 270-9527. ¬∂π∑› 

THREE SISTERS INN |[J3] Chicken and dumplings, pot roast and 

banana cream pie plus stellar breakfast at this self-described 

“mom and pop” diner. 2227 Parmenter St., Middleton. 831- 

3773. ∫¬ƒπ∑› 

THE TIKI SHACK |[M14] Enjoy fresh fish, seafood and all types of crab in 

this fun and casual tropical-themed restaurant. 122 State St. 

310-6933. ¬∂ƒ˙†∑›› 

TOBY’S SUPPER CLUB |[P24] Known for their lake perch and bluegill, 

pan-fried chicken, homemade hash browns and other Wisconsin 

supper-club fare. 3717 S. Dutch Mill Rd. 222-6913. 

∂˙ƒπ›› 

√TORNADO STEAK HOUSE |[L16] A downtown supper-club atmosphere 

with a contemporary twist. Serving steaks, rack of lamb, 

venison, duck breast, braised rabbit, crab legs and more. 116 S. 

Hamilton St. 256-3570. Î•†ƒ›››› 

TREES |[N6] A varied menu including Beef Wellington, schnitzel and 

Hawaiian Ahi tuna. Located in a 1930s building and decorated 

to match the trees theme. 142 Market St., DeForest. 846- 

8009. Îπ∑››› 

TUSCANY MEDITERRANEAN GRILL |ßAccessible Mediterranean and 

American cuisine. Try the pork tenderloin Godiva with sautéed 

apples glazed with Godiva liqueur, the tenderloin lasagna and 

pizza and pasta. 2969 Cahill Main, Fitchburg. 270-1684. 

∂˙π∑›› 

√TUTTO PASTA STATE STREET |[L16][I4] Longtime Madison favorite 

serving savory pastas, pizzas, salads and sandwiches. Nice 

outdoor seating right in the heart of bustling downtown. 

305 State St. 294-1000. ¬∂†˙∑›› 

√TUTTO PASTA TRATTORIA BAR & CAFFE |[L16][I4] Traditional Italian 

with a huge menu and a busy but friendly, cosmopolitan feel. 

305 State St. 294-1000. 1900 Cayuga St., Middleton. 

821-4700. ¬∂†˙π∑›› 

√TUTTO PASTA CUCINA ITALIANA |[L17] Traditional Italian with 40 

different pastas. Try the Tutto Pasta, any of the bruschettas, 

salads or seafood pastas. 107 King St. 250-9000. 

¬Î†˙∑›› 

¡UNDERGROUND KITCHEN |[M14] A new addition to the Madison 

Underground Food Collective. No phone numbers, no reservations 

and no menu—chefs work from an ever-changing list of 

seasonal ingredients, and find out each night what guests are 

in the mood for. 127 E. Mifflin St. Î∑›› 

UNO CHICAGO GRILL |[L16][N4][D25] 1960s Chicago-style décor with famous 

pizza. 7601 Mineral Point Rd. 833-7200. 3010 Crossroads Dr. 

244-3266. ¬Îµ˙π∑›› 

√VIENTIANE PALACE |[L16] Laotian and Thai specialties with lots of 

vegetarian. 151 Gorham St. 255-2848. ¬∂π∑› VIEN- 

TIANE PALACE ON REGENT |[L16] 1441 Regent St., 255-2248. 

¬∂π∑› 

VILLA DOLCE CAFÉ |[L4] A modern twist to historic Middleton, featuring 

Italian-style thin-crust pizza, sandwiches, plated desserts 

and gelato. 1828 Parmenter St., Middleton. 833-0033. 

¬∂†∑››› 

VILLAGE GREEN |[I5] Tavern fare including burgers, sandwiches, 

chicken and a Friday fish fry in downtown Middleton. 7508 

Hubbard Ave., Middleton. 831-9962. ¬∂†ƒπ∑› 

VIN SANTO |[I5] Authentic northern-Italian trattoria. Fresh pasta and 

seafood, with delicious desserts including Italian bread 

pudding with grappa sauce. 7462 Hubbard Ave., Middleton. 

836-1880. ∂˙π∑››› 

VINTAGE BREWING COMPANY |[H6] Eclectic menu of hand-crafted 

beers (like the Scaredy Cat Oatmeal Stout) and sodas. Try the 

pork baked mac ’n cheese, creole ravioli or a selection from 

their late-night menu, like a flatbread. 674 S. Whitney Way. 

204-2739. ¬Îƒ˙π∑›› 

WAH KEE CHINESE NOODLE RESTAURANT |[L17] Mandarin and spicy 

South Asian stir-fry, gyazo, Shanghai chicken-fried noodle, 

seafood kwai tieu, and Cantonese wonton noodle. 

600 Williamson St. 255-5580. ¬∂π∑› 

√WASABI |[L16] Japanese cuisine in a sleek and modern sushi bar. 

449 State St. 255-5020. ¬∂†∑›› 

WASHINGTON HOTEL COFFEE ROOM |[N16] Bright, cheerful atmosphere 

with muffins and sandwiches. Try the Pecatonica Farms 

chicken sandwich with cranberry chutney and cheddar 

cheese. 402 W. Lakeside St. 441-7599. ∫¬∂†π∑› 

WEARY TRAVELER FREE HOUSE |[K19] International comfort food in 

cozy, old-world pub atmosphere. Try the West of the Andes 

sandwich or Bob’s Bad Breath Burger. 1201 Williamson St. 

442-6207. ∫¬Î˙∑› 

WILLABY’S CAFÉ |[K18] Stellar breakfasts—huge pancakes, omelets 

and more. Try the Fair Oaks skillet with potatoes, sausage, 

Swiss cheese and eggs. Late-night dining on weekends. 

1351 Williamson St. 256-6088. ∫Î∑› 

WILSON’S|[L15][L14] Neighborhood sports bar serves the popular Wilson’s 

Burger (topped with fried onions/green peppers and Italian 

sauce) and prime rib and crab legs on weekends. 2144 

Atwood Ave. 241-2226. ¬∂ƒπ∑› 

YEN CHING RESTAURANT |[Q10] Authentic Mandarin and Chinese, 

featuring traditional Chinese dim sum every Sunday for lunch. 

1300 S. Midvale Blvd. 273-2237. ¬∂π∑› 

YOLA’S CAFÉ |ßWaffle Wednesdays featuring golden malted 

Belgian waffles with berries and homemade whipped cream. 

For lunch try the California turkey sandwich. 494 Commerce 

Dr. 827-5800. ∫¬µ†˙π∑› 

ZANDER’S CAPITOL GRILL |ßUpscale bar serving lots of gourmet 

burgers made with fresh beef from Knoche’s. Extensive menu 

and $3 off all burgers at lunch. 118 State St. 280-9999. 

¬µ†ƒ˙∑› (lunch) ›› (dinner) 

ZUZU CAFÉ |[N14] Fresh entrées, sandwiches and salads, extensive 

beer and wine list in a cozy atmosphere. 1336 Drake St. 260- 

9898. ∫¬∂µ†˙π∑› n 

For complete searchable listings online, 

go to MADISONMAGAZINE.COM 

The Word 

on Curd 

This is not a dissertation on my family tree, 

though I think it would be a reasonable 

assumption that I had ancestors who were 

cheese makers. Cheese curds are produced 

when milk is curdled with rennet, the first step 

in cheese making. After being separated from 

the liquid portion—whey—curds are then used 

to make cheese. How they are handled and 

salted determines the type and shape of cheese 

they ultimately become. 

Cheese curds have to be the only food whose 

squeakiness is considered an attribute—a sign 

of their freshness. The best place to buy curds 

is at a cheese factory or outlet store or at a 

farmers’ market. Most are cheddar cheese, but 

you can also find Monterey Jack and mozzarella 

as well. You can find them in the grocery store, 

but they can be several weeks old, and dry, 

salty and inedible. 

In Wisconsin, almost any tavern, bowling 

alley or supper club is sure to have fried cheese 

curds on its menu. Originally, ketchup was the 

condiment of choice for this treat, but in recent 

years it’s been supplanted by ranch dressing. 

Increasingly, fresh cheese curds appear in their 

natural state at upscale restaurants specializing 

in locally produced food. 

Since Wisconsin still produces more cheese 

than any other state, it can proudly claim the title 

of cheese curd capital of the nation. 

Here are some of my favorite curds around 

town. 

The Blue Moon. This little bar serves up extrabig 

helpings of beer-battered cheese curds. 

The Coopers Tavern. A French Canadian 

specialty, poutine is fries topped with melted 

cheese curds and slathered in brown gravy. 

Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry. The fried cheese 

curds at Dotty’s are breaded instead of battered. 

Sauce options include ranch, marinara, honey 

mustard or—the most popular—English garlic. 

Graze. A fit-for-a-foodie rendition made 

with Sassy Cow cheese curds that are 

vodka battered, deep fried and served with 

homemade ranch dressing. 

The Nitty Gritty. These curds are special 

because they’re served with Gritty sauce. 

The Old Fashioned. The classic fried Wisconsin 

cheese curd: It’s beer battered and comes with 

a choice of smoked paprika, roasted garlic, 

buttermilk ranch or tiger blue. 

// DAN CURD 


15 

26 

14 

27 

18 


16

9 

4 

5 

13 

3 

Downtown Dining & Retail 

2. 

1. Admiralty 

Blue Velvet 

Room 

Lounge 

- Edgewater 

4. 

3. 

Icon 

Capitol ChopHouse - Hilton Hotel 

6. 

5. 

Nitty 

Muramoto 

7. The Old 

Gritty 

8. Ovations 

Fashioned 

9. Zanders Capitol 

- Concourse 

Grill 

Hotel 

14. 

13. 

Chazen 

Capitol Kids 

15. Dahlmann 

Museum 

16. DoubleTree 

Campus 

Hotel 

Inn 

18. 

17. 

Henry 

Fluno Center 

19. Hilton Monona 

Vilas Zoo 

21. Madison Museum 

Terrace 

of 

Hotel 

22. 

Contemporary 

Mansion Hill Inn 

Art Gift Shop 

24. 

23. 

Re-Threads 

Overture Center 

26. 

25. 

University 

Hotel Ruby 

Inn 

Marie 

27. Wisconsin Union Hotel 


SHOPPING[ SHOPPING 

] FINDING THE DEAL 

Pop Deluxe 

MADISON MIGHT BE A MIDSIZED 

Midwestern city, but residents (and 

storeowners) have big-city tastes when it 

comes to shopping. Some local boutiques 

have even garnered national attention, 

like Bop off of State Street and Context 

on King Street. Thankfully, many of the 

downtown shops are privately owned, 

one-of-a-kind places that offer a taste of 

our city. Of course, we have our share of 

shopping malls and discount stores, too! 

But whatever you’re in the mood for, 

whether it’s a Wisconsin souvenir, 

premium denim or a sparkly bracelet, 

Madison is bound to have it—somewhere. 

East Towne Mall 

4200 E. Washington Ave. 

244-1501; shopeasttowne-mall.com 

West Towne Mall 

Gammon & Mineral Point Rd. 

833-6330; shopwesttowne-mall.com 

Dominating Madison’s retail landscape by their sheer size are 

two bustling malls, one at either end of the city. Like large malls 


everywhere, they cater to traditional tastes. Each mall is 

anchored by three classic department stores (Boston 

Store, JC Penney’s and Sears), and more than 

one hundred smaller stores offer a variety of traditional 

and not-so-traditional goods. Many retailers at East 

Towne and West Towne are chains that serve 

both malls. 

The strip malls and other shopping areas around 

both malls are as popular as the malls themselves. 

Each mall has a Dick’s Sporting Goods store. On 

the west side, Barnes & Noble Booksellers 

(complete with a music department and coffee shop) 

is located just behind West Towne Mall. Farther 

down Mineral Point Road you’ll find Prairie Towne 

Center, complete with Target, Trek Bicycle 

Store, Old Navy, Fontana and Lands’ End 

Inlet, an outlet store for the popular Wisconsin-based 

mail-order company. 

East Towne Mall, too, has many exciting shopping 

options surrounding it. Just around the corner from the 

mall are Home Depot, Kohl’s, Old Navy, Barnes 

& Noble, Borders Books & Music and Target. 

Both malls and their surroundings offer a 

variety of dining choices for hungry shoppers and 

both are on Madison Metro bus lines (call 266-4466 

or go to ci.madison.wi.us/metro/ for route and 

schedule information). 


State Street 

State Street (visitdowntownmadison.org) 

is synonymous with great shopping in 

Madison. Scenic and inviting, this eclectic 

thoroughfare between the Capitol and campus 

reflects urban professional life on one end, 

student culture on the other and the essence 

of Madison’s character in between. Here’s a 

sampling of shops to peruse. 

Music 

The Exclusive Co. offers CDs at some 

of the lowest prices in town, while B-Side 

has an eclectic mix of pop, alternative and 

everything in between. 

Gift Shops 

Pop Deluxe offers trendy and retro 

home goods and accessories. The Soap 

Opera offers luxury soaps, lotions and potions 

for the body. Driftless Studio is an art 

gallery and gift shop in one—find trinkets for 

kids, photography and unique treasures for 

yourself and others. Fanny Garver Gallery 

is a State Street mainstay and has a stunning 

array of art including art glass, sculpture, 

paintings and jewelry. Nearing the Capitol, 

you’ll find Little Luxuries, a store that truly 

lives up to its name with one of the city’s best 

selection of gifts: handmade French jewelry, 

cute handbags and shopping totes, baby goods 

and designer reading glasses. 

Men’s Clothing 

Urban Outfitters has eclectic and 

affordable clothing, quirky gift items and 

home accessories for men (and women, too). 

Find basics at American Apparel—tees, 

tanks plus other wardrobe staples like edgy 

leggings, scarves and socks. Jazzman’s 

motto is “never out of style” and it’s true— 

they carry classic styles (Calvin Klein suits, 

7 For All Mankind denim, Penguin polos) as 

well as screen-print T-shirts and covetable 

wallets, watches and sunglasses. 

Women’s Clothing 

A lot of women’s clothing stores dot this 

six-block stretch. Right off of State Street is 

the women’s denim mecca bop, which has 

a national presence in women’s fashion 

magazines. In fact, Madison is bop’s only 

storefront in the entire nation and their 

Maxwell Street Days sale draws people in 

from surrounding cities and states! 

ReThreads offers wallet-friendly vintage 

and gently used clothing and accessories for 

a one-of-a-kind look. Mango and Tigerlily 

GREEN 

WITH 

ENVY 

Greenway Station bills itself 

as a sophisticated lifestyle 

shopping center. Great 

shops, places to eat and 

open spaces to walk all 

make this a place to visit 

for the serious shopper. 

Greenway features a 

number of exciting stores 

that run the gamut. Popular 

home stores include World 

Market and Ashley 

Furniture HomeStore. 

Scrapbookers will appreciate 

Archiver’s and crafters will 

like Michael’s. There’s a bounty of women’s stores including White House 

| Black Market, LOFT, Francesca’s Collections, Chico’s, J. Jill, Marshall’s 

and Coldwater Creek. Girls can get in on the fun at Justice Just For Girls, 

where girls ages 7–14 can find reasonably priced and trendy duds. DSW is 

a fun discount shoe store. Endurance House is a runner’s and triathlete’s 

paradise. Woldenberg’s, a 100-plus-year-old family-owned boutique, sells 

high-end brands for men and women like Burberry, Joseph Abboud and St. 

John. Bath and Body Works has yummy body and beauty products. 

Greenway is a great place to take the whole family for a meal, too. 

There’s Cheeseburger in Paradise, Claddagh Irish Pub, TGI Friday’s, Cosi 

and Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse. Plus find tasty treats at Cold Stone 

Creamery, Chocolaterie Stam and Starbucks. 

* 

Capitol Kids 

Context 

HOT PICKS 

8 S. Carroll 

State Street and the Offers high-quality 

Capitol Square make for children’s toys by American 

a shopper’s delight. We and European brands, 

picked a few of our science and learning kits, 

favorites. 

heirloom toys, “green” 

playthings and clothing. 

Anthology 

218 State 

Atticus 

18 N. Carroll 

Context 

Greenway Station Greenway Blvd., Middleton, just off the West Beltline Highway. 

824-9111; greenwayshopping.com 

Anyone who appreciates 

one-of-a-kind gifts and 

crafty items will adore this 

paper-goods shop. Pick 

up a button bracelet, an 

elegant sheet of wrapping 

paper, a bottle-cap magnet, 

or Italian stationery. 

Check out cutting-edge 

brands rag & bone/JEAN, 

Monrow and Acne Jeans 

plus jewelry and apothecary 

products for men and 

women. 

113 King 

The latest and hottest 

brands in premium denim 

for men, plus jackets, 

sunglasses, tees, sweaters 

and more for the überfashionable 

male. 


[ SHOPPING ] FINDING THE DEAL 

are cool boutiques that boast unique clothing 

and accessories. Citrine has fanciful eveningwear 

in every price point. 

Shoe Stores 

Madison Sole, Jack’s Shoes and The 

Perfect Pair all have vastly different kicks— 

from Hunter wellies to black-tie event shoes. 

(shoo), the newest shop on the scene, has 

high-quality men’s and women’s shoes that 

are the latest in chic, fashionable footwear. 

Jeweler 

For a business that’s seventy-five-plus 

years old, Goodman’s Jewelers still 

sparkles like its merchandise. This 

quintessential State Street jeweler has been 

selling special-occasion centerpieces for as 

long as anyone can remember. Check out 

their dazzling collection of Rolexes, statement 

jewels, pearls, diamonds and colored gemstones. 

HILLDALE IS HOT 

Hilldale Shopping Center 

Hilldale Shopping Center is an exciting shopping/restaurant hybrid with 

many locally owned businesses. Restaurant tenants include the Flat Top 

Grill, The Great Dane Pub and Brewing Co., Café Porta Alba, Sundance 

Bar Bistro 608, Sushi Muramoto, Pasqual’s and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse 

and Wine Bar. 

National retailers include Macy’s, title nine, L’Occitane, Bath and 

Body Works, The North Face, Hot Mama and Anthropologie. 

Locally owned shops include Rupert Cornelius and Fair Indigo for 

women’s wear, Jan Byce and Terese Zache Designs for high fashion, and 

Morgan’s and Cornbloom’s for high-quality shoes. Wehrmann’s has 

quality leather goods, luggage and travel needs. DB Infusion sells 

heavenly chocolates and House of Oils has exotic oils and sauces. 

Playthings is a superb toy store and Pattycakes is a sweet and charming 

childrenswear boutique. The University Book Store is a shop for 

finding books on just about every subject imaginable. 

PHOTOS BY MARTHA BUSSE 

Monroe Street 

Monroe Street is a highly walkable 

shopping district set in a residential area— 

it’s perfect for anyone looking for a dining and 

shopping experience in one! 

Home Accessories 

Orange Tree Imports is for the 

gourmand, with fanciful kitchenware, highend 

and affordable cookware and helpful 

staff. Or check out Trader Joe’s grocery 

store, famous for its Two-Buck Chuck wine. 

Borokhim’s Oriental Rugs offers a taste 

of the exotic and has offered beautiful Bijar 

and other quality Oriental rugs for thirty-five 

years. Speaking of the home, find a motley 

assortment of home accessories, décor, 

bedding, lighting and more at Spirals 

Antiques and Interiors, a classy and 

inviting shop. J. Kinney is a breath of fresh 

air with its lovely cottage-like charm. Find 

Caldrea cleaning products, fresh floral, bath and 

body products and even a shop cat that saunters 

through this charming shop. SERRV is a 

wonderful shop that peddles fair-trade goods 

from all over the world, and Milward 

Farrell Fine Art has an eclectic mix of 

paintings, prints and fine American craft 

including jewelry, glass, lamps, metal and 

ceramic art. 


Even if you’re not getting married, stop by 

Premiere Couture to check out their 

fabulous selection of wedding dresses and 

evening wear. A boutique that’s made a 

name for itself in the designer accessories 

market is Twigs. Find designer items from 

Tory Burch, Tibi, Marc Jacobs, Nanette 

Lepore and Anna Sui. J. LaMore is a 

perennial Best of Madison winner and has 

clothing that women in their twenties and 

up will appreciate. 

Eclectic 

Mallatt’s Pharmacy seems like a 

general store from a bygone era. It’s got an 

eccentric mix of drugstore goods, wine, 


and amazingly, one of the best selections 

of theater makeup and costumes in town. 

Katy’s American Indian Art features 

authentic fine jewelry, art, pottery and 

collectibles from the American Southwest. 

Zip-Dang sells revamped vintage items 

like jewelry, skirts made from reclaimed 

fabric, screenprinted T-shirts, photography 

and other little treasures. 

Williamson and 

Johnson Streets 

Williamson Street is a colorful neighborhood 

known affectionately as Willy 

Street. This “forever ’60s” district features 

funky and offbeat stores. Johnson Street 

is a short amble from Willy Street across 

Madison’s isthmus. 

Eclectic 

Hempen Goods offers every imaginable 

hemp product and Rick’s Olde 

Gold sells furniture and stereo equipment 

as well as colorful imports and 

secondhand gold jewelry. If you love 

fine fabric, treat yourself to a trip to 

Gayfeather Fabrics, a Willy Street 

original featuring ethnic, silk and organic 

fabrics you won’t find in chain stores. On 

Johnson Street, Burnie’s Rock Shop 

sells precious gems and stones and jewelry. 

Stop by Spruce Tree Music & Repair 

to see new, used and vintage fretted and 

stringed instruments. La Lingerie is 

open by appointment only but carries a 

high-end selection of women’s undergarments 

by Japanese, French and Filipino 

manufacturers. 

Home Accessories 

The Kitchen Gallery’s got Mario 

Batali cookware and all of the kitchen 

gadgets and accessories you could ever 

need. Fontaine is an impeccably designed 

home accessories boutique that celebrates 

good taste. If you visit during the holidays, be 

sure to stop in to check out the sparkling 

wonderland of aluminum Christmas trees 

that dot the sales floor. 

Pick up Madison Magazine to read our 

monthly “Window Shopping” column 

that highlights cool shops—all of which 

are truly Madison originals. Or, go 

to madisonmagazine.com/Blogs/ 

Window-Shopping/ to read our weekly 

shopping blog. 


[ SHOPPING ] FINDING THE DEAL 

Want to explore Madison’s surrounding areas Check out these 

quaint little towns that offer one-of-a-kind shops, dining and 

that all-important Main Street America feel. 

Wusthof-Trident. Look around and you’ll 

be sure to find a bounty of other unique 

kitchen-y gifts. 

Cheesers (183 E. Main, 873-1777) 

stocks over one hundred twenty different 

varieties of cheese, and three-quarters of 

those are Wisconsin cheeses. Cheesers 

also offers cheese trays, gift baskets, mail 

orders and wine/cheese pairing advice— 

plus, a sweet treat: Babcock Hall ice cream! 

Midwest Books (111 E. Main, 873- 

4986) carries new books, used books— 

even old comics, like Archie. Find titles 

that’ll inspire childhood nostalgia, like 

first-edition Tarzan books, The Hardy 

Boys, Nancy Drew and Dr. Who. Or, check 

out the entire area dedicated to military 

history books. 

Rowe Pottery Works 

Cambridge 

Rowe Pottery Works Inc. (214 W. 

Main St., 423-3935) is worth the trip to 

Cambridge. For more than thirty years, the 

company has been producing several styles 

of high-quality pottery, including saltglazed 

pottery and lovely reproductions of 

antique pottery. Speaking of pottery, stop 

by Cambridge Stoneware Company 

(217 W. Main St., 423-9700) and check out 

owner Jim Rowe’s environmentally friendly 

kiln, a first for salt glazing pottery. While 

there, pick up stoneware, linens, candles, 

kitchen goods and pictures. 

Sienna River Gallery (117 W. Main 

St., 423-4520) has a charming and rustic 

“Up North” look. Check out the spectacular 

chandeliers made from whitetail and elk 

antlers, gorgeous rustic furniture like barnboard 

tables, and handcrafted jewelry. 

Stoughton 

Those seeking the crème de la crème in 

dinnerware will find solace at All 

Through The House (160 E. Main, 

877-9403). This shop serves up cookware 

by All-Clad and Le Creuset, crystal 

stemware by Schott Zweisel and cutlery by 

All Through The House 

Shop the Best of Madison As determined by the 2010 Madison Magazine Readers’ Poll 

Bookstore (local) University Book Store 711 State St., 257-3784 / 702 N. Midvale Blvd. 238-8455 Bicycle Shop Budget 

Bicycle Center 1201 Regent St., 286-9111 / 930 Regent St., 251-1663 / 1230 Regent St., 251-8413 Music Store Strictly Discs 

1900 Monroe St., 259-1991 Women’s Clothing (local) bop 222 W. Gorham St., 255-2570 Men’s Clothing (local) Jazzman 

340 State St., 256-2062 Jeweler TQ Diamonds 7058 Mineral Point Rd., 833-4500 Upscale Furniture & Home Accessories 

Rubin’s 317 E. Wilson St., 255-8998 Shoe Store Morgan’s 702 N. Midvale Blvd., 238-359 


Paoli 

Paoli is a scenic little town nine miles 

south of Madison along the Sugar River, 

and most of the shops and galleries are in 

historic buildings. Artisan Gallery is 

located in a former creamery and focuses 

on pottery. Eat a pleasant lunch in their 

Creamery Café. 

Across the street are the Paoli 

Schoolhouse Shops and Café. Look 

for home décor and accessories, as well 

as a little corner called Chauette that’s 

devoted to women’s clothing and accessories. 

The café serves lunch and dinner— 

and diners can eat outside on the banks 

of the Sugar River! 

Down the road is Paoli House 

Gallery, a former-home-turned-gallery 

with contemporary art. Their exhibitions 

feature local and national artists. 

TotAlly wirEd, B’Trios, The Cottage 

Goddess and Zazen Gallery are other 

don’t-miss destinations here. Another 

don’t-miss The Paoli Cheese Shop— 

this tiny shop sells the tastiest cheese 

curds around! 

Fine 18th, 19th, and 

early 20th century 

furnishings & decorative arts 

Mon-Thur, Sat 11-7 and Fri 11-8 

3800 University Avenue 

(608) 238-3300 

Middleton 

At Gary’s Art & Frame Shop (2029 

Parmenter, 831-2231), lavishly framed 

fine paintings and prints are just the 

beginning in this two-story gift gallery. 

Look also for beautiful 3-D art, like 

sculptures, lamps and blown glass. 

Bloom Bake Shop (1834 Parmenter, 

831-5797) is a small-batch local, organic, 

and fair-trade bakery offering cupcakes, 

brownies, whoopie pies, coffee and tea. 

Chauette has a second location here 

(7466 Hubbard Ave., 836-5366) and 

celebrates women’s style in their clothing, 

accessories and handbags—complete 

with incredible prices! n 

LOVELY AND LOCAL: It’s a global 

economy these days, but it’s still 

important to buy local. Check 

out Dane Buy Local’s website, 

danebuylocal.com. Dane Buy 

Local is a group made up of over 

four hundred local retailers selling 

everything from books to baby 

stuff to bikes. 


STATE ST. 

[ STATE STREET ] HEART OF THE CITY 

Outdoor diners 

lounge at the 

Orpheum 

restaurant on 

State Street 

WHERE IT’S AT The best in dining and shopping can be found here. If one 

street can embody the soul of a city, State Street does it for Madison. 

Looking for a place that has wireless Internet How about what to do 

on a night out Or if you want to know the places Madison Magazine 

readers voted as the best in our annual readers’ poll so you too can 

experience the boutiques, restaurants and arts venues that we love on 

State Street, read on! 

PHOTOS BY TRACY TUCHOLSKI 

284 

STATE STREET BY THE NUMBERS: 1 Mile from Park Street to the Capitol Square. 

6 Coffee shops. 9 Art galleries, including four in Overture Center. 12 Parking ramps and 

lots within two blocks of State Street. 22 Bars and pubs. 30 Saturday-morning farmers’ 

markets on the Capitol Square, from mid–April to early November. 25–45 Number of 

performances you can see in a month at Overture Center. 284 Height in feet of the State 

Capitol, including its dome. 


SOME OF STATE STREET’S 

current buildings date to the 

1850s, but by the late 1960s, 

about a century after the 

Wisconsin legislature gave the 

street its name—formerly it was 

named King Street, which 

continues on the other side of 

the Square—all but one of the 

mansions had been razed. 

State Street is no longer the main shopping 

area for the entire city, as it was post–World 

War II. It is also not the student ghetto that 

it was after businesses fled to shopping malls 

and anti-war riots trashed the storefronts of 

businesses during the 1960s. A student leader, 

Paul Soglin, who later became Madison’s 

mayor (from 1973 to 1979 and again from 

1989 to 1997) was a key player in revitalizing 

State Street 

State Street. 

The decision to close the street off to vehicles 

was a turning point post-Vietnam. The return 

of businesses, shoppers and residents restored 

the area’s vibrancy without wiping out its 

uniquely urban character. Improvements 

continue today, with the city passing extra 

funds to maintain and revitalize with projects 

including everything from new benches to 

replacing century-old water and sewer lines. 

Today, the street mall, which links the 

Capitol Square to the UW–Madison, boasts 

almost two hundred shops, galleries and 

restaurants. The area swarms with college 

students and state workers and is spiced with 

food carts, hippies, musicians and artists. 

State Street has grown into one of Madison’s 

primary shopping districts, appealing to 

shoppers and adventure-seeking visitors who 

want to put their fingers on the pulse of the 

city’s unique urban beat. 

BRIGHT 

LIGHTS, 

BIG CITY 

Step out at night and check out 

these hotspots 

MMoCA First Fridays at the 

Madison Museum of Contemporary 

Art , are the first Friday of the month 

from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and coincide with 

gallery openings. Enjoy a discussion 

of the artwork, live music and 

refreshments. 227 State St., 257-0158, 

mmoca.org. 

The Comedy Club on State 

features performances from local and 

national comedians. Shows, two 

hours long, are Thursdays at 8:30 

p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays at 8 

and 10:30 p.m. Cover charge is $10 

plus a two-drink minimum. 202 State 

St., 256-0099, madisoncomedy.com. 

Overture Center is the home of 

Madison’s cultural scene. On any 

given night, you can catch a live 

performance from opera to children’s 

theater or view one of the four 

galleries. 211 State St., 258-4177, 

overturecenter.com 

Go where the locals go for cocktails: 

Frida Mexican Grill is known for the 

best margarita on State. Paul’s Club 

is renowned for the giant elephant in 

the room—or rather, the giant tree 

wrapped in white Christmas lights 

year-round. 117 State St., 256-4000, 

fridamexicangrill.com; 212 State St., 

257-5250. 

The Icon Restaurant and Tapas Bar 

and Fresco are prime people-watching 

spots. Fresco’s got a bird’s-eye 

view from their rooftop, while Icon’s 

street-level windows right on State 

Street are more down to earth. 206 

State St., 268-0126, theiconmadison.com; 

227 State St., 663-7374, 

frescomadison.com 


[ STATE STREET ] HEART OF THE CITY 

A State Street artist 

In 1974 a proposal was passed by the city to turn State 

Street into a pedestrian mall. Today you can find shops, 

restaurants and even street artists dotting the blocks. 

PHOTOS (LEFT AND BELOW) BY PETER F. CASTRO 

EAT, SHOP, 

AND EXPLORE 

THE BEST OF 

STATE STREET 

As determined by the 2010 

Madison Magazine Readers’ Poll 

Arts Venue 

Overture Center 201 State 

St., 258-4177 

Bookstore 

University Book Store 711 

State St., 257-3784 

Coffeehouse 

Michelangelo’s Coffee 

House 114 State St., 251-5299 

Indian/Nepalese 

Himal Chuli 318 State St., 

251-9225 

Jeweler 

Goodman’s Jeweler’s 220 

State St. #5, 257-3644 

Mediterranean 

Mediterranean Cafe 

625 State St., 251-8510 

Men’s Clothing 

Jazzman 340 State St., 

256-2062 

Middle Eastern 

Husnu’s 547 State St., 

256-0900 

Music Store 

B-Side Records 436 State 

St., 255-1977 


bop 222 W. Gorham St. #2, 

255-2570 

Where to WiFi 

Need to connect online Here’s where to go. 

Michelangelo’s Coffee House 114 State St., 251-5299 Espresso Royale 208 State St., 259-0800 and 650 

State St., 259-0300 Cosi 250 State St. 257-2140 Casa de Lara Mexican Restaurant 341 State St. 251-7200 

Fair Trade Coffee House 418 State St., 268-0477 Hawk’s Bar & Grill 425 State St., 256-4295 Steep & 

Brew 544 State St., 256-2902 Starbucks 661 State St., 294-8345 


visitdowntownmadison.com 

Sock Monkeys! 

Playful, fun and cute! Adults & kids of all ages will enjoy the mischievous 

nature of these delightful characters. Pick out your 

Sock Monkey today at Driftless Studio: Nature Gallery & Gifts 

214 State Street • Madison • www.DriftlessStudio.com 

Pastel Drawing by Holly Hebel 

Exclusively at The Fanny Garver Gallery. Fine Art, Exquisite Jewelry, 

Hand bags, Art Glass, Home Accesories and much more! 230 State St. 

608.256.6755 Across from Overture Center www.fannygarvergallery.com 

Playful Peacock Puppet 

This splendid peacock puppet is just one of 

the terrific toys found at Madison’s favorite 

store for kids and other playful people! 

Surprises abound – clothing, toys, books, 

and weird and wacky gifts! On the Capitol 

Square. Capitol Kids 8 S. Carroll St. 

Madison, 608.280.0744 

capitolkids.com 

Artisanal Cheeses 

& Perfect Companions 

Your favorite Artisanal Cheese destination and source for perfect 

pairings. We will select, hand cut and wrap our best Wisconsin 

artisan cheeses and an assortment of perfect companions. And 

we’ll package and ship anywhere in the U.S. Twelve South Caroll 

Street, 608.255.2430, www.fromagination.com 


ETAWAYS 

[ GETAWAYS ] QUICK ESCAPES 

FUN PLACES TO 

VISIT OUTSIDE 

MADISON 

Chula Vista Resort 

in Wisconsin Dells 

Wisconsin Dells 

Just fifty-five miles north of Madison, 

the Dells may be the most legendary vacation 

spot in the Midwest. It’s also the water park 

capital of the world. The Dells area offers a 

mix of great natural splendor, with boat 

trips through the upper and lower Dells, and 

a variety of commercial entertainment, 

including big-time casino gambling at the 

Ho-Chunk Casino & Hotel, huge water-slide 

parks, Wild West shows, comedy shows 

and a famed water-ski show. 

For year-round fun, scoot over to Mount 

Olympus. With eight go-cart tracks, thirtyseven 

water slides and six roller coasters, the 

four-park complex is sure to please. 

dells.com. 

CHULA VISTA RESORT 

Spring Green 

Less than an hour west of Madison, scenic 

Spring Green is home to the nationally 

recognized American Players Theatre, an 

outdoor/indoor theater specializing in 

Shakespeare. Just down the road from APT 

is The Springs Golf Course, designed by 

Robert Trent Jones, and Taliesin, which 

served as Frank Lloyd Wright’s studio and 

school. Downtown, the Jura Silverman and 

Gallery presents the Wisconsin Artists Showcase, 

a fine arts exhibition, from June to 

August. 

A few miles away is one of the region’s 

most unusual tourist attractions—the House 

on the Rock. Designed by the late Alex 

Jordan and located 450 feet above Wyoming 

BREW CREW: Sip some frosty suds at these breweries in Madison’s surrounding communities. 

Some even offer food, so sit down for a meal and, of course, a brew. Or, take a tour. Cheers! 

Mineral Point: Brewery Creek Brewpub 23 Commerce St. 608-987-3298. brewerycreek.com 

Mt. Horeb: The Grumpy Troll 105 S. Second St. 608-437-2739. thegrumpytroll.com New Glarus: 

New Glarus Brewery 2400 Hwy. 69. 608-527-5850. newglarusbrewing.com. 


Valley, the House is an architectural 

wonder—but that’s not even a tenth of the 

show at the House on the Rock. The rest is 

perhaps the most eclectic collection of dolls, 

cars, calliopes—and, well, you name it—in 

the world. springgreen.com. 

New Glarus 

New Glarus, a pleasant half-hour drive 

south of Madison on Highway 69/39, so 

distinctly reflects its Swiss heritage it’s called 

“Little Switzerland.” Look at chalets, museums 

(including the Swiss Historical Village 

Museum and the Chalet of the Golden Fleece 

Museum) and shops. Annual festivals include 

the Heidi Festival in June, the Volksfest 

celebrating Swiss independence the first 

Sunday in August and the Wilhelm Tell Festival 

on Labor Day weekend. Local stores 

specialize in cheese, sausage and chocolate, 

but the town’s pride and joy is the New Glarus 

Brewery, a popular microbrewery renowned 

for its excellent beer. swisstown.com. 

Mount Horeb 

Mount Horeb is a whimsical little town of 

Norwegian heritage about twenty minutes 

southwest of Madison. Lining the main street 

downtown is a curious collection of carved 

wooden trolls, known as the “Trollway.” Tyrol 

Basin, a forty-acre ski area, boasts sixteen 

tree-lined slopes situated on a threehundred-foot 

vertical hill, and a half-pipe, 

considered the best in the Midwest. 

Browse through any of the specialty shops, 

Wisconsin Dells 

and antique stores. Three miles west you’ll 

find the “Little Norway” museum, open May 

through October. This open-air complex 

features historic buildings built by Norwegian 

immigrants during the 1860s and the 

largest privately owned collection of Norwegian 

antiques in the country. trollway.com. 

Mineral Point 

About fifty miles west of Madison is the 

former mining town of Mineral Point. 

Founded in 1827, Mineral Point thrived on 

lead mining until the gold rush in California 

lured miners away some twenty years later. 

Nowadays the town is known as an artist and 

artisan community, with limestone architecture 

reflecting the fine handiwork of the miners 

and stonemasons from Cornwall, England, 

who once lived there. They left their mark, 

too, on the town’s specialty: the Cornish 

pasty, a meat-filled pastry pocket. Visit 

Pendarvis, a cluster of restored Cornish 

homes. Mineral Point is also known for fine 

antique shops and an art tour every October, 

when local artists open their studios to the 

public. mineralpoint.com. 

Cambridge 

A short twenty-mile drive east of Madison 

will bring you to Cambridge, which boasts 

a quaint turn-of-the-century Main Street 

with antique and retail stores, gift shops 

and galleries. An annual pottery festival, 

as well as such studio/shops as Rowe 

Pottery Works and Cambridge Stoneware 

Company make Cambridge a stoneware haven. 

cambridge-wi.com n 

Rock On: The Baraboo Hills were once a chain of islands dappled along an ocean floor. Made of 

ancient quartzite rock and home to the largest upland forest in Wisconsin, the Baraboo Hills are 

among the most ancient rock formations in the world. If you head west from Madison on Highway 

12, you can hike these unique geological structures while convening with song and migrating birds 

and wildlife. Walk into Baxter’s Hollow, a deep forest protecting a mountain-like creek, to experience 

the Nature Conservancy’s largest preserve in the state. 

The Nature Conservancy’s Baraboo Hills, off Hwy. 12, Baraboo., 608-356-5300, 

nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/wisconsin/preserves/ 


RELAX 

[ RELAX ] PAMPER YOURSELF 

ANiU Salon Spa’s 

manicure and 

pedicure stations 

SO YOU WANT TO FEEL PAMPERED 

Madison is the perfect place to relax— 

with a fabulous spa treatment. Area 

spas and salons are on the cutting edge 

and boast the latest in what customers 

want, whether it’s a chocolate mousse 

body wrap or a hot stone massage. Sit 

back and enjoy! 

ANiU Salon Spa 

2275 Deming Way, 833-2898, 

Middleton 

aniusalonandspa.com 

A full-service salon offering hair, nails, 

waxing and basic massage and facial services. 

Highly trained stylists specialize in the 

latest hair color and cutting techniques. 


Sundara Spa 

Anaala Salon & Spa 

562 N. Midvale Blvd., 244-2161, west 

side; 2929 Atwood Ave., 244-2161, east 

side. anaala.com 

Anaala’s highly skilled professionals take 

the utmost care in creating your ideal 

salon/spa experience. Founded in 2003, 

Anaala has quickly become Madison’s 

choice for an upscale salon with a 

laid-back, attentive attitude. With two 

full-service locations, an escape from the 

everyday grind is just a short drive away. 

Oasis Day Spa 

8016 Watts Rd., 828-9470, west side 

oasisdayspa-madison.com 

Escape to the Oasis Day Spa, located in 

Madison’s multiplex at the Princeton Club 

West just off the West Beltline. Now you can 

do it all: hit the gym, then finish at the spa and 

salon. The club even offers child care for a 

nominal charge so you can totally relax. The 

Oasis also offers airbrush tanning, waxing, 

mud wraps, salt rubs, manicures, pedicures, 

slimming treatments, facials and more. From a 

quick wax to a full-day package, the Oasis Day 

Spa has a variety of services to fit your needs. 

Sundara Spa 

920 Canyon Rd., Wisconsin Dells 

888-735-8181. sundaraspa.com 

Ranked among the top spas in the U.S., 

Sundara is one temple of relaxation you 

don’t want to miss. In addition to a range of 

spa services, spa-goers can prolong their 

time at Sundara and book an overnight 

package in a suite or villa. Sundara’s 

amenities, “spa cuisine,” and beautiful 

grounds are top-notch and not to be missed. 

Other Salons And Spas: 

Cameo Spa Salon (ISTHMUS) 10 W. Mifflin St. 284-1956 Hair Excellence (NORTHEAST) 2402 Montana Ave., 

Sun Prairie. 837-4300 Kneaded Relief (FITCHBURG) 5500 E. Cheryl Pkwy. 255-0070 Rejuvenation Spa 

(WEST SIDE) 7420 Mineral Point Rd. 831-7546 R.Z. & Company (WEST SIDE) 6602 Odana Rd. 827-7979 

Serenity Salon & Day Spa (NORTH SIDE) 1857 Northport Dr. 246-2002 Ultimate Spa Salon (MONONA) 

5713 Monona Dr. 222-4174 


ODGING 

[ LODGING ] EXTENDING YOUR STAY 

We’ve said it all along: Madison 

is a hard place to leave behind. 

Some people find it impossible 

to say good-bye, and we can’t 

really blame them. If you find 

yourself in this crowd, here are 

a few suggestions on places 

to stay a little longer. 

The Madison Concourse Hotel 

The Madison 

Concourse Hotel 

The Madison Concourse Hotel and 

Governor’s Club, Madison’s premier hotel, 

features 360 beautifully appointed guest 

rooms, over twenty-five thousand square 

feet of meeting and banquet space, Madison’s 

largest ballroom, award-winning restaurants, 

pool, fitness center, whirlpool, business 

center, the luxurious Governor’s Club 

executive level and more. Located in the 

heart of downtown, it’s just steps from the 

state Capitol, UW campus, State Street 

and the Monona Terrace Convention 

Center. 1 W. Dayton St., 257-6000. 

The Dahlmann Campus Inn 

The Dahlmann Campus Inn 

Madison’s only full-service boutique hotel is highly acclaimed by The New York Times and 

Chicago Tribune as luxurious and extraordinary in every way. The cozy atmosphere starts 

in the expansive marble lobby where rich European décor is accented with original art 

and a mahogany fireplace. From unsurpassed service to elegant guest rooms and suites, 

the endless amenities and luxuries will make this your home away from home in Madison. 

Relax and enjoy complimentary evening receptions in the exclusive Chancellor’s Club. 

Complimentary private airport transportation via taxi. 601 Langdon St., (800) 589-6285 

or 257-4391. thecampusinn.com. 

TOP: PROVIDED BY SIMON BUILDERS BOTTOM: BY JOHN WAY 


The Hilton Madison 

Monona Terrace 

Set on the beautiful shores of Lake 

Monona, the Hilton Madison Monona 

Terrace features 240 elegant rooms with 

stunning views of the Capitol and lakes. 

Amenities include concierge club, indoor 

pool and fitness center, and it’s only steps 

from Monona Terrace via a skywalk. Start 

your day with breakfast in the Olive 

Lounge or at the buffet. For lunch or 

dinner, the Capitol ChopHouse features 

dishes made with locally grown foods. 

And don’t forget room service is available 

around the clock! 9 E. Wilson St., 

255-5100. hiltonmadison.com. 


Madison’s premier bed and breakfast offers 

luxury, elegance and Victorian charm. The 

area’s only “four-diamond” inn was built in 

1857 in a German Romanesque Revival 

style. Its ten guest rooms combine historic 

character with clean-lined furniture, highend 

electronics and upscale amenities. 

Staff brew Ancora coffee and set out breakfast 

brought in from a local restaurant— 

perhaps nearby Marigold or Gotham 

Bagels—each morning. At night guests 

can enjoy a glass of wine, local beer or 

nightcap and soak up the hotel’s atmosphere. 

424 N. Pinckney St., (800) 798- 

9070 or 255-3999. mansion-hillinn.com. 

Sheraton Madison Hotel 

Located across from the Alliant Energy 

Center, this newly remodeled hotel 

anchors the southern gateway to the city. 

Just off the South Beltline, the Sheraton is 

just minutes from Camp Randall Stadium, 

the Kohl Center, campus and the Monona 

Terrace. It features all the amenities, 

including the full-service Heartland 

Grill. 706 John Nolen Dr., 251-2300. 

sheraton.com/madison. n 


The Hilton Madison Monona Terrace 

Memories are invited. At the Sheraton Madison Hotel. Our 

guestrooms have the celebrated “ahhh” of the Sweet Sleeper Bed. 

Offering free transportation to make getting around just a little 

easier. For relaxing at last, enjoy the indoor pool and whirlpool. 

Conveniently located with complimentary surface parking. You 

don’t just stay here. You belong. 

Book today at Sheraton.com/Madison or call 608-251-2300 for more information. 

MEMBER OF STARWOOD PREFERRED GUEST 

2008 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All rights reserved. 

Sheraton is the registered trade mark of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates. 


RTS 

[ ARTS ] SWEET SOPHISTICATION 

Overture Hall 

MADISON IS BURSTING WITH AN ARTS 

scene far greater than you’d expect to find in a 

city of its size. Overture Center for the Arts, which 

was fully completed in 2006, is a gift from Jerry 

Frautschi, a member of one of the city’s leading 

philanthropic families. Overture Center is just 

one component of downtown Madison’s cultural 

arts district. The numerous theater and dance 

companies in the city offer much to enthrall 

and entertain you during your stay. To say 

Madison has a thriving music scene is an understatement; 

Rolling Stone named us one of the 

top five cities in the country when it comes to 

live music. And we have interesting and diverse 

community theater and scores of galleries, 

museums and exhibits. 

Overture Center for the Arts 

201 State St., 258-4177; box office: 258-4141 overturecenter.com 

Just two blocks from the Capitol Square in thriving downtown Madison, Overture Center is a 

multi-level complex that presents world-renowned classical and jazz performers, Broadway 

musicals, exciting family shows and a plethora of local arts. 

Madison has a burgeoning arts scene, including the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and 

the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts and Letters. Overture is also home to several first-rate 

professional arts groups: Madison Opera, the Children’s Theater of Madison, Kanopy Dance, 

Madison Ballet, Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society, Li-Chiao Ping Dance, Wisconsin Chamber 

Orchestra and Madison Symphony Orchestra. 

COURTESY OF OVERTURE CENTER 

Bach Dancing and Dynamite 

Society 

255-9866 

bachdancinganddynamite.org 

This inviting and innovating group 

performs “chamber music with a bang” 

to enthusiastic audiences. 

Children’s Theater of Madison 

Box office: 258-4141 

ctmtheater.org 

CTM, a resident company of Overture 

Center, was founded in 1965. Visit CTM's 

website for updated details on performances, 

season, and acting classes. 

Kanopy Dance Company 

341 State St., 255-2211 

kanopydance.org 

Noted for inventive choreography and 

imaginative collaborations, Kanopy Dance 

has emerged as one of Madison’s cultural 

treasures. Kanopy showcases repertory 

and new works by local, regional, national 

and international choreographers and has 

a season of four shows in fall, early 

winter, late winter and spring. 

Madison Ballet 

160 Westgate Mall, 278-7990 

madisonballet.org 

Best known for its dazzling production 

of the timeless holiday tradition The 

Nutcracker, the company’s season is filled 

with breathtaking performances featuring 

the vibrant choreography of artistic 

director W. Earle Smith. 

Li Chiao-Ping Dance 

835-6390 

lichiaopingdance.org 

Founded in 1990 by Li Chiao-Ping, a 

choreographer whose works have been 

performed internationally, this moderndance 

company offers programs of 

emotionally charged and athletic works, 

with striking visual design and the 

music of contemporary composers. 

MMoCA 

Madison Museum of 

Contemporary Art 

227 State St., 257-0158 

mmoca.org 

For more than a century, the Madison 

Museum of Contemporary Art has provided 

free exhibitions and education programs for 

city residents and visitors. In 2006, the 

museum moved into a new facility 

designed by Cesar Pelli. The space provides 

an exhilarating setting for the presentation 

and conservation of modern and contemporary 

art. Programs like First Fridays at 

MMoCA and Rooftop Cinema, special events 

like Design MMoCA and Hair Affair, and 

exhibitions featuring esteemed modern 

and contemporary artists have made 

MMoCA a favorite downtown destination. 

The award-winning Museum Store offers 

contemporary American craft and fine 

jewelry, while Fresco, the museum’s rooftop 

restaurant, features local, seasonal 

ingredients and fine American cuisine. 

Tues–Thurs noon–5 p.m., Fri noon–8 p.m., 

Sat 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun noon–5 p.m. 

Madison Opera 

238-8085; box office: 258-4141 

madisonopera.org 

Madison Opera presents world-class guest 

artists in spectacular productions of 

diverse operatic repertoire. This season is 

the opera’s fiftieth anniversary. Along 

with this April’s exciting offering of Verdi’s 

La Traviata, Madison Opera also presents 

the annual Opera in the Park Concert—a 

free Madison summer tradition. Be sure to 

also check out the popular Opera Up Close 

Series, events designed to expand and 

enhance the opera experience. 


PHOTO BY PARKER-LAAS FOTOGRAFIX 

Madison Symphony Orchestra 

257-3734; box office: 258-4141; 

madisonsymphony.org 

Madison’s maestro John DeMain welcomes 

you to Overture Hall for critically 

acclaimed concerts featuring the works of 

the great composers and guest artists 

chosen from the highest echelon of the 

world’s classical artists. The MSO has 

grown under DeMain’s leadership to be 

one of the nation's leading regional 

orchestras. Madison Magazine remarked, 

“World-class cities would kill to have John 

DeMain. Too bad. He’s ours.” MSO concert 

weekends run from September through 

May and tickets start at just $15. 

James Watrous Gallery of 

the Wisconsin Academy of 

Sciences, Arts and Letters 

201 State St. (third floor of 

Overture Center) 265-2500; 

wisconsinacademy.org 

The James Watrous Gallery is the premier 

gallery for Wisconsin visual art. A program 

of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, 

Arts and Letters, the James Watrous 

Gallery presents works by Wisconsin 

artists, Wisconsin art and craft history, 

works owned by Wisconsin collectors and 

exhibitions that bridge the sciences, arts 

and humanities. Their mission is to 

promote the visual arts in Wisconsin 

through quality exhibitions and related 

educational programs. For gallery hours 

and exhibitions, visit the website. 

Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra 

257-0638; wcoconcerts.org 

Led by Maestro Andrew Sewell, the WCO is 

a vibrant and thriving professional orchestra 

dedicated to connecting its audiences to 

the power of music. The WCO performs 

approximately twenty-five concerts per 

year, including Concerts on the Square, 

Masterworks, Halloween, Holiday Pops, 

youth concerts, and other performances 

across the state. With a core orchestra of 

thirty-four musicians, a newly established 

$10 million endowment, and a new home in 

Overture Center’s magnificent Capitol 

Theater, WCO is poised to become one of the 

finest chamber orchestras in the country. 

OTHER 

EXCITING 

VENUES 

MOVIE 

THEATERS 

IMAX—Star Cinema 

6091 McKee Rd. (Hwy. PD), 

270-1414 starcinema.com 

Eighteen-screen movie theatre including 

Madison’s only IMAX screen. 

Sundance 608 Cinema 

430 N. Midvale Blvd. (Hilldale 

Shopping Center), 316-6900; 

sundancecinemas.com 

Robert Redford expanded the reach of 

his Sundance enterprises in 2007 to 

include state-of-the-art theaters for 

independent film. The Madison location 

was the first in the nation and features six 

screens with reserved stadium seating, a 

coffee shop, the Bar Bistro 608 restaurant, 

and two cocktail bars, including the 

outdoor Rooftop Bar. 

THEATER 

American Players Theatre 

5950 Golf Course Rd., 

Spring Green, (608) 588-2361 

playinthewoods.org 

Outdoor Shakespeare during the summer 

and fall in picturesque Spring Green, home 

of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin and other 

worthy sights. The new indoor Touchstone 

Theater offers an additional venue for 

theater-goers to enjoy. 

The Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra 

The Bartell 

113 E. Mifflin St., 661-9696 

bartelltheatre.org 

One of the city’s other large theater 

venues is home to four community theater 

groups, each with a distinct character. 

Bricks Theatre 

332-4119 

thebrickstheatre.com 

One of Madison’s newer theater groups, 

The Bricks presents interesting works like 

An Adult Evening Of Shel Silverstein and 

The Santaland Diaries. 

Broom Street Theater 

1119 Williamson St., 244-8338 

broomstreet.org 

A theater company that promises hardhitting, 

thought-provoking and original 

works for adult audiences. 

Edgewood College— 

Regina Theatre 

1000 Edgewood College Dr., 

663-6710 

http://theatre.edgewood.edu 

The theater department presents several 

performances throughout the year. 

Encore Studio for the 

Performing Arts 

1480 Martin St., 255-0331 

encorestudio.org 

A professional theater company for people 

with disabilities. 

Forward Theatre Co. 

433-9243 

forwardtheater.com 

Small professional theater company 

committed to offering top-quality entertainment 

options. 

Four Seasons Theatre 

251-6607 

fourseasonstheatre.com 

A theater company specializing in professional-quality 

musical theater productions 

staged in a variety of Madison venues. 

LIVE 

MUSIC 

VENUES 

FOLK/ETHNIC 

The Casbah 119 E. Main St., 255-2272 Essen Haus 

514 E. Wilson St., 255-4674 Mother Fool’s Coffee 

House 1101 Williamson St., 259-1301 Samba 

Brazilian Grill 240 W. Gilman St. 257-1111 

COUNTRY 

Country Corners 3737 Hwy. AB, McFarland, 

222-2077 

JAZZ 

The Brink Lounge 701 E. Washington Ave., 

661-8599 Louisianne’s Etc. 7464 Hubbard Ave, 

Middleton, 831-1929 Nadia’s 508 State St., 

257-1740 

ROCK/BLUES/R&B/ 

ETC. 

Barrymore Theatre 2090 Atwood Ave., 

241-2345 The Dry Bean 5264 Verona Rd., 

274-2326 Club Tavern & Grille 1915 Branch St., 

Middleton, 836-3773 The Crystal Corner Bar 

1302 Williamson St., 256-2953 The Great Dane 

123 E. Doty St., 284-0000 Harmony Bar & Grill 

2201 Atwood Ave., 249-4333 High Noon Saloon 

701 E. Washington Ave., 268-1122 Memorial 

Union Terrace 800 Langdon St., 265-3000 

Orpheum Theatre 216 State St., 255-6005 

Regent St. Retreat – The Annex 1206 Regent 

St., 256-7750 Segredo 624 University Ave. 257- 

1122 Whiskey River Saloon 552 State St. 819-8881 

DANCE 

Cardinal Bar 418 E. Wilson St., 257-2473 Club 5 

5 Applegate Ct., 277-9700 The Inferno 1718 

Commercial Ave., 245-9583 Madisons 

Downtown 119 N. King St., 229-0900 



Laboratory Theatre 

805 Spaight St., 721-0284 

madstage.com/Companies/laboratorytheatre.html 

The theater’s mission is to create unique theater of merit 

without standing scripts. Their ideals include social justice, 

tolerance, empathy, individuality and idealism. 

Madison Creative Arts Program (MadCAP) 

214 N. Henry St. 251-1879 

madcap.org 

Young people in grades K–12 work with professional artists and 

educators to put on creatively challenging programs. 

Madison Savoyards 

505 N. Franklin Ave., 231-9005 

madisonsavoyards.org 

Specializing in Gilbert and Sullivan and musical theater. 

Madison Theatre Guild 

2410 Monroe St., 238-9322 

madisontheatreguild.org 

Madison’s oldest troupe, founded in 1946, performs musicals, 

mysteries and comedies as well as serious drama. 

Mercury Players Theatre 

661-9696 ext. 5 

mercuryplayerstheatre.com 

Dedicated to presenting innovative and socially conscious 

works, Mercury scored a local sensation with their original 

production Walmartopia! The Musical, a futuristic musical 

mockery of the big-box retailer. 

StageQ 

669-9696 ext. 3 

stageq.com 

Offers diverse productions that range from classics to new 

works, particularly gay-themed plays and works by gay and 

lesbian playwrights. 

Strollers Theatre, Ltd. 

669-9696 ext. 2 

Engaging, intimate theater productions, specializing in both 

traditional and little-known plays, such as Coyote Ugly and In 

a Northern Landscape. 

Mitby Theater 

3550 Anderson St., 243-4000 

http://matcmadison.edu/mitbytheater 

The theater of Madison Area Technical College features 

student plays as well as traveling acts and various Madison 

performing arts groups. 

University Theatre 

821 University Ave., 262-1500 

utmadison.com 

University of Wisconsin–Madison faculty, students and 

visiting artists deliver top-notch performances. 

Wisconsin Union Theater 

800 Langdon St., 262-2201 

uniontheater.wisc.edu 

Known for celebrated world music festivals, internationally 

recognized traveling acts, great local artists and one of the 

longest-running classical chamber music series in the country. 

DANCE 

Cycropia Aerial Dance, Inc. 

1829 Kropf Ave., 249-4200 

cycropia.org 

The area’s only low-flying trapeze troupe, founded in 1989. 

Dance Wisconsin 

6332 Monona Dr., Monona, 221-4535 

dancewisconsin.com 

Performances throughout the year feature dancers from 

southern Wisconsin and a variety of guest artists. 

UW-Madison Dance Program 


dance.wisc.edu 

Performances by students, faculty and acclaimed guest artists. 

MUSEUMS 

Chazen Museum of Art 


chazen.wisc.edu 

A leading university art museum with a reputation for exceptional 

exhibitions, insightful programs and arts activities for 

all ages. The museum’s eleven galleries display highlights from 

the permanent holdings of 19,000 works, as well as ten to 

twelve temporary exhibitions a year. The permanent collection, 

with works ranging from ancient Egyptian times to the present, 

focuses on western European and American painting, 

sculpture, and graphics. Notable collections include European 

and Chinese export porcelain, Russian and Soviet paintings, 

Lalique glass, Indian sculpture, Indian miniature paintings, and 

Japanese prints. Tue.–Fri. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m.–5 

p.m. Closed Mondays and major holidays. Free. 

Madison Children’s Museum 

100 N. Hamilton St., 256-6445 

madisonchildrensmuseum.org 

The exciting new location of the MCM opened in August 2010, 

The Chazen Museum of Art 

and offers lots of educational exhibits, a healthy café, a treehouse, 

learning huts, art studio, plus a rooftop terrace 

complete with a chicken coop! 

Madison Museum of Contemporary Art 

227 State St., 257-0158 

mmoca.org (see p. 42) 

National Mustard Museum 

7477 Hubbard Ave., Middleton, 1-800-438-6878 

mustardmuseum.com 

Feeling quirky Head to the world’s largest collection of 

prepared mustards and a wonderful collection of mustard 

memorabilia and antique mustard pots. 10–5 daily. 

State Historical Museum 

30 N. Carroll St., 264-6555 

wisconsinhistory.org/museum 

Wisconsin history comes to life in this museum’s displays, 

which include everything from a look at the early Woodland 

people and the role of immigrants in our cultural history 

to a walk-in lead mine. Tues.–Sat. 9–4. Admission free, 

donations appreciated. 

UW Geology Museum 

1215 W. Dayton St., 262-2399 

geology.wisc.edu/~museum 

Think dinosaur bones. A Wisconsin mastodon skeleton found 

by farm children is on display, along with several fossils and 

rocks native to Wisconsin. The walk-through cave and colorful 

minerals make it great for kids (and grown-ups, too). Mon.–Fri. 

8:30–4:30, Sat. 9–1, closed Sundays. Admission free. 

Wisconsin Veterans Museum 

30 W. Mifflin St., 267-1799 

http://museum.dva.state.wi.us 

The mission of the museum is to acknowledge, commemorate 

and affirm the historical role of state veterans. The ten- 


BEST OF: Madison Magazine readers’ 2010 

picks for the best of local arts and entertainment: 

Arts Group: Madison Symphony Orchestra, 201 State St., 

258-4141. Arts Venue: Overture Center for the Performing 

Arts, 201 State St., 258-4141. Movie Theater: Star Cinema, 

6091 McKee Rd., 270-1414. 

thousand-square-foot museum contains two main galleries, 

a gift shop and an exhibit space for temporary exhibits. The 

museum features dioramas depicting important historical 

events. Each diorama consists of lifelike figures performing 

missions with genuine military equipment in remarkably 

realistic environments—from steamy jungles to snow-covered 

forests. Prominently displayed are two dioramas of World War 

II events: The Battle of the Bulge in Europe and jungle warfare 

in Papua, New Guinea. 

The museum also includes the Wisconsin National Guard 

Gallery and Wisconsin Veterans Museum Research Center. 

The research center holds archival records of the Wisconsin 

National Guard and letters, diaries, photographs and other 

memorabilia of state veterans. Mon.–Sat. 9–4:30 p.m. 

year-round, plus Sundays noon–4 p.m. April to September. 

Admission free. 

ART GALLERIES 

Absolutely Art 

2322 Atwood Ave. 249-9100 

absolutelyartllc.com 

Madison’s “community-based art gallery” showcases over 

two hundred local artists. Pick up a one-of-a-kind painting, 

piece of jewelry or card from this unconventional gallery, 

complete with yellow- and gray-painted walls, friendly staffers 

and a laid-back atmosphere. 

Artisan Gallery 

6858 Paoli Rd., Paoli, 845-6600 

artisangal.com 

Fine art and fine crafts gallery featuring ceramics, paintings, 

wood, jewelry and glass. The Creamery Cafe adjoins and is a 

pleasant place to catch lunch on the shores of the Sugar River. 

Across from the Kohl Center 

Comfort. Confidence. 

Welcome to Madison’s award-winning DoubleTree Hotel, 

where every accommodation has been designed with the 

help of business travelers like you. Comfort and Confidence... 

that’s the DoubleTree promise! 

Confidence: 

 

 

 

 

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Featuring the Badgerland Bar & Grill! 

DeRicci Gallery 

1000 Edgewood College Dr., 663-2800 

Come see the inspiring works of student, faculty and local 

artists displayed at this Edgewood College gallery. Each month 

the gallery offers new exhibits and artists encompassing 

many different styles and art media. 

 

www.DoubleTreeMadison.com 



Driftless Studio Nature Gallery & Gift Shop 

214 State St., 230-5153 

Award–winning nature photography by the owner as well as 

an array of nature-themed gifts. Located two blocks from the 

Capitol. 

Fanny Garver Gallery 

230 State St., 256-6755 

fannygarvergallery.com 

Explore this spacious gallery in the heart of downtown Madison. 

Discover caches of original paintings and elegant blown glass. 

A touchstone of Madison’s art scene offering work of twohundred-plus 

contemporary American artists. 

Grace Chosy Gallery 

1825 Monroe St., 255-1211 

Artists from the upper Midwest exhibit original work at this top 

commercial venue. Paintings and prints, with some sculpture, 

ceramics and jewelry. 

Janus Galleries 

2701 Monroe St., 233-2222 

janusgalleries.com 

Wall space in this gallery explodes with pieces from the nineteenth 

and twentieth centuries by American, European and 

Russian artists. Check out the inventory that includes over one 

thousand works featuring different artistic styles from 

the period. 

Ma-cha Teahouse+Art Gallery 

1934 Monroe St., 442-0500 

machateahouse.com 

Ma-cha displays local artists’ paintings, photography, jewelry and 

sculpture on the first floor; the second floor is outfitted with 

individually themed tea rooms for customers to sip their tea 

and munch on light snacks. 

Milward Farrell Fine Art 

2701 Monroe St., 238-6501 

milwardfarrellfineart.com 

Extensive collection of original work from leading American 

and international contemporary painters and printmakers. 

Also has hand-blown glass, lamps, sculpture and ceramics. 

Overture Galleries 

201 State St., 258-4177 

overturecenter.com/galleries.htm 

Located in Overture Center for the Arts, these galleries 

encompass the art scene here in Madison. The three galleries 

arrange eclectic art exhibits to include many different media. 

Fanny Garver Gallery 

Pucci’s Gallery & Custom Framing 

555 S. Midvale Blvd., 233-1335 

puccis.com 

Find works of art that capture the essence of downtown Madison. 

Pucci’s also features ceramics, sculptures and jewelry. Here you can 

also custom-frame prints, with over one thousand framing options. 

Reneé Glass Factory 

100 Baldwin St., 255-1000 


http://reneeglass.com 

Offers decorative glass designs with many styles and colors to 

complement interior designs or exterior architecture for 

homes or commercial spaces. Open by appointment. 

Steenbock Gallery of the Wisconsin Academy 

of Sciences, Arts and Letters 


wisconsinacademy.org 

This venue focuses on emerging artists in Wisconsin in order 

Artisan Gallery 


to promote and emphasize Wisconsin arts and culture. This 

year the Center for Photography at Madison will organize 

exhibitions in the gallery. 

Studio Paran 

2051 Winnebago St., 242-1111 

studioparan.com 

Internationally known Studio Paran specializes in creating 

and showcasing the hand-blown art glass designs of Richard 

Jones and artwork of other selected artists. On-site studio and 

showroom. 

Tandem Press 

201 S. Dickinson St., 263-3437 

tandempress.wisc.edu 

Spectacularly innovative printmaking studio acclaimed for 

presenting original work of visiting artists—David Lynch, 

Suzanne Caporael and Judy Pfaff—in museum-quality limitededition 

prints. 

UW-Madison Arboretum 

Steinhauer Trust Gallery 

1207 Seminole Hwy., 263-7888 

Focuses on themes highlighting the goals set forth by the 

Arboretum. Showcases art focusing on landscapes, nature, 

plants and animals as well as humans’ interaction with the 

environment. Mon.–Fri. 9:30–4, Sat.–Sun. 12:30–4. 

Wisconsin Union Galleries 

Porter Butts Gallery, Class of 1925 Gallery, Theater 

Gallery and Lakefront on Langdon Gallery 

800 Langdon St., 262-7592 

union.wisc.edu/art 

These UW–Madison galleries feature the creative talents of 

student artists as well as regional and national artists. Exhibits 

range in style from traditional to postmodern works, using 

many unique design techniques. Installations and exhibits last 

anywhere from two to six weeks. 

MUSICAL ARTS 

In addition to Overture Center and the Wisconsin Union 

Theater, listed below are great places that regularly feature live 

classical music performances. Check the current issue of 

Madison Magazine or the daily newspapers, or call the venue 

to see who is playing what, and where. 

Edgewood College 

1000 Edgewood College Dr., 663-2259 

http://music.edgewood.edu 


(regular Sunday performances Sept.–May) 

800 University Ave., 263-2246; chazen.wisc.edu 

Oakwood Chamber Players 

6201 Mineral Point Rd., 230-4316 

oakwoodchamberplayers.com 

Performances, recitals, special programs. 

UW School of Music 

455 N. Park St., 263-9485; music.wisc.edu 

Performances by students and visiting performers. n 

Flamingo Photo Courtesy of Moses Shrock 

Want to know what’s 

happening right now in 

the Madison arts scene, or 

what to do while you’re here 

Check out our weekly 

arts and entertainment 

blog Liberal Arts on 

madisonmagazine.com! 


LACES 

[ PLACES ] AROUND TOWN 

PHOTO BY PETER F. CASTRO 

Allen Centennial Gardens 

TAKE IT IN: When visitors to 

Madison eventually depart, they 

often leave with a mental picture 

of a city with scenic lakes anchored 

by the majestic Capitol building. 

However, there are many other 

landmarks worth seeing and 

sights that will help you define 

the Madison spirit. So while you’re 

here, don’t be afraid to explore! 

Allen Centennial Gardens 

Created on the 2.5-acre site of a historic Victorian Gothic house that 

once served as a residence for university deans, Allen Centennial 

Gardens have been called UW–Madison’s largest outdoor classroom. The 

twenty-nine magnificent gardens are maintained by UW faculty, staff and 

students and represent gardening styles from around the world. Primarily 

used as a teaching tool in horticulture, botany, entomology and plant 

pathology, the gardens also are popular among visitors who stroll the 

grounds and master gardeners who come to ooh and ahh. 620 Babcock 

Dr. 262-8406; horticulture.wisc.edu 


HENRY VILAS ZOO Home to more than seven hundred 

animals, this wonderful zoo is free of charge. Attractions include 

a tropical rainforest aviary, primate center, big-cat exhibit and 

herpetarium. Kids will enjoy the children’s zoo and the fanciful 

Conservation Carousel packed with vibrantly painted carousel 

animals. 702 S. Randall Ave., 266-4732. vilaszoo.org. 

Alliant Energy Center 

The Alliant Energy Center is a full-service, 

multi-building complex situated on a 164- 

acre campus. The ten-thousand-seat Veterans 

Memorial Coliseum hosts concerts, family 

shows and sporting events while the 250,000- 

square-foot exhibition hall is used for large 

trade and consumer shows and includes 

flexible and functional meeting and banquet 

space for a variety of groups. Willow Island 

is perfect for outdoor concerts, festivals, 

company picnics and sporting events. 1919 

Alliant Energy Center Way, 267-3976. 

Henry Vilas Zoo 

State Historical 

Society of Wisconsin 

Located at the foot of State Street in the heart 

of the UW campus, the Historical Society 

building (816 State St., 264-6400), 

constructed in 1900, houses the historical 

library and state archives. Among its noteworthy 

holdings is a newspaper collection second in size 

only to that of the Library of Congress. And don’t 

forget to visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum 

on the Square (30 N. Carroll St., 264-6555), 

which offers exhibits and a gift shop. 

wisconsinhistory.org. 

PHOTOs BY TRACY TUCHOLSKI 

Olbrich Botanical Gardens 

A sixteen-acre park on Madison’s east 

side that attracts more than a quarter of a 

million visitors each year, this beautiful 

natural garden has a variety of horticultural 

displays, including annuals, perennials, 

shrubs, hybrid roses, daylilies and spring 

bulbs. A two-acre rose garden with a twostory 

stone tower overlook also allows 

visitors to view the lovely garden. A glasscovered 

conservatory offers a lush tropical 

rainforest display and a warm refuge in winter. 

The Thai Pavilion is also a cultural 

experience. It was a gift to UW–Madison 

from the Thai chapter of the Wisconsin 

Alumni Association and the government of 

Thailand, and crafted by artisans who 

traveled from Thailand to assemble the 

structure. It was built in Thailand, then 

carefully taken apart and shipped across the 

ocean. The thirty-foot-high gold structure 

bears the royal seal of the Thai crown. 

In 2007 Olbrich won the People’s Choice 

“Wonders of Wisconsin” Contest. 3330 

Atwood Ave., 246-4550; olbrich.org. 


Part of the UW–Madison, the Chazen 

museum’s eleven galleries display highlights 

from the permanent collection of 19,000 

works, including pieces from ancient Egyptian 

times to the present, with focus on western 

European and American painting, sculpture 

and graphics, as well as a notable collection 

of European and Chinese export porcelain, 

Lalique glass, Indian miniature paintings and 

Japanese prints. The museum also shows ten 

to twelve temporary exhibits each year. The 

Chazen is currently undergoing renovations for 

an expansion that will include 62,000 feet of 

additional gallery space, a new lobby and 160- 

seat auditorim. Open Tues.–Fri. 9–5, Sat.–Sun. 

11–5. Closed Mondays. Free. 800 University 

Ave. 263-2246. chazen.wisc.edu. 

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >> 


[ PLACES ] AROUND TOWN 

PHOTO BY TODD KLASSY 

Many concerts and events 

are held at the Kohl Center 

The Governor’s 

Executive Residence 

Located on the shore of Lake Mendota in 

the village of Maple Bluff (99 Cambridge 

Rd., 246-5501), the Governor’s Mansion, 

as it is popularly called, was completed in 

1928 and is an example of Classical 

Revival architecture. It boasts eight major 

garden areas spanning four acres. Public 

tours are given April through August and 

on selected dates in December. 

Monona Terrace 

The Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired 

Monona Terrace Community & 

Convention Center is located on the shore 

of Lake Monona in the heart of Madison’s 

vibrant downtown. This spectacular 

multi-level structure features public 

promenades and meeting rooms with 

striking lake views. Gracing the rooftop 

are sixty-eight thousand square feet of 

gardens that offer a panoramic vista of the 

area. Meeting space includes a fourteenthousand-square-foot 

ballroom, a 320- 

seat lecture hall and twenty-one additional 

meeting rooms. Monona Terrace is open 

seven days a week, 8–5, and offers daily 

public tours at 1 p.m. and a museumquality 

gift shop. 1 John Nolen Dr. 

261-4000. mononaterrace.com. 

Unitarian Meeting House 

One of the few Frank Lloyd Wright 

buildings open to the public, this church 

was renovated and an addition was 

completed in September 2008. Tours of the 

meeting house are Monday through Friday 

at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tours also 

offered Sundays. 900 University Bay Dr., 

233-9774. fusmadison.org. 

Babcock Hall Dairy 

Plant and Store 

No matter the weather, visitors of all 

ages will enjoy a stop at the Babcock Hall 

Dairy Plant, where daily operations are 

visible from an observation deck. The 

most tantalizing attraction is the dairy store, 

which sells the university’s cheese and famous 

Babcock Hall ice cream in a variety of flavors. 

Babcock hours are Mon.–Fri. 7:30–5:30, 

Sat. 11–4. 1605 Linden Dr., 262-3045. 

babcockhalldairystore.wisc.edu. 

Bascom Hill 

Stand atop Bascom Hill, in front of 

Bascom Hall, one of the oldest and most 

famous UW buildings, and you can look 

all the way up State Street to the Capitol 

building. The Bascom Hill lawn is a 

favorite sunning spot, and the bottom of 

the hill is only a block from the Memorial 

Union and Terrace on Lake Mendota, a 

popular gathering place for students. A 

dignified Abe Lincoln statue is seated near 

the Hall’s front entrance (enjoying the 

scenic view). 

The Red Gym Campus 

Information Center 

This turreted red brick building next to 

the Memorial Union is a National Historic 

Landmark and easy to spot. Campus tours, 

maps and a wealth of information about 

things to see and do on campus are 

available. It’s the place to start if you’ve 

never been to the UW. Also check out the 

brand-new Welcome Center at 21 N. Park 

St., which offers expanded information 

on the city. Mon.–Fri. 8–5, Sat–Sun, 

11–2:30. Red Gym: 716 Langdon St., 

263-2400; visit.wisc.edu. 


Geology Museum 

With its reconstructed dinosaurs, huge 

mastodon skeleton, colorful mineral samples, 

six-foot-diameter rotating globe and walkthrough 

model of a Wisconsin limestone 

cave, the Geology Museum is a favorite of 

both kids and adults. Enjoy a self-guided tour 

(Mon.–Fri. 8:30–4:30, Sat. 9–1) and many 

fascinating exhibits. 1215 W. Dayton St., 

262-2399; geology.wisc.edu/~museum. 

Kohl Center 

The $76 million state-of-the-art Kohl 

Center sports arena seats up to 17,230 fans. 

The facility boasts two “stacked” upper 

balconies. The front entry showcases The 

Mendota Wall, a colorful 140-foot blownglass 

wall sculpture named after Madison’s 

Lake Mendota and created by famed artist 

Dale Chihuly, a UW-Madison alumnus. 

While the Kohl Center’s main focus is sports, 

other events are held there, including 

graduations and concerts. Tours are 

available. 601 W. Dayton St., 263-5645. 

uwbadgers.com 

Camp Randall Stadium 

Built in 1917, Camp Randall is the fourtholdest 

football stadium in the country and is 

home to the UW Badger football team. In 

2005, $109.7 million in additions and 

renovations were added, including luxury 

boxes, more seating and restrooms. The 

stadium boasts an impressive double-decker 

structure with a horseshoe design and is 

widely known to have one of the loudest, most 

electric atmospheres in college football (it 

can hold eighty thousand fans!) It’s hosted over 

four hundred football games and counting, 

and has attracted over nineteen million fans. 

1440 Monroe St. For tickets, call 262- 

1866. uwbadgers.com 

PHOTO BY JEFF MILLER, UW COMMUNICATIONS 

Camp Randall Stadium during a Badger game 

boasts four art galleries, an information 

booth and gift shop, a movie theater, a 

crafts shop and a games room. The newest 

addition is the Lakefront on Langdon, a café 

that serves pizza, sandwiches, Chinese food 

and home-style dishes. Located at the corner 

of Langdon and Park streets, 800 Langdon 

St., 265-3000; union.wisc.edu. n 

Memorial Union 

Located on the shore of Lake Mendota, 

this neoclassical building has been 

considered the heart of campus since it was 

built in 1928. The Union hosts live music 

several nights a week in the Rathskeller or 

outside on the Terrace. Internationally 

renowned artists routinely perform at the 

Wisconsin Union Theater, and outdoor 

enthusiasts flock to the six clubs run by 

Hoofers, the nation’s largest campus outdoor 

recreation organization. The Union also 


ECREATIO 

[ RECREATION ] MAD-CITY FUN 

Lake Mendota 



N 

HEAD FOR THE WATER 

KAYAK/CANOE RENTAL: 

Rutabaga, 220 W. Broadway, 

223-9300, Monona. 

WATERSKIING: 

Mad-City Ski Team shows, Sunday 

evenings, Memorial Day through Labor 

Day, 6 p.m. at Law Park, 663-TEAM. 

BIKING 

BIKE RENTALS: 

Budget Bicycle Center, 

1230 Regent St., 251-8413, isthmus. 

Machinery Row Bicycles, 

601 Williamson St., 442-5974, isthmus. 

Yellow Jersey, 419 State St., 

257-4737, isthmus. 

BY FOOT OR GOLF CART 

Glenway Golf Course (nine holes), 

3747 Speedway Rd., 266-4737, west side. 

Odana Hills, 4635 Odana Rd., 

266-4724, west side. 

Yahara Hills, 6701 E. Broadway, 

838-3126, far east side. 

Monona Golf Course (nine holes), 

111 E. Dean Ave., 266-4736, Monona. 

George Vitense Golfland, 

5501 W. Beltline, 271-1411, west side. 

Do a quick round on their nine-hole par 

three or take in one of three miniature 

golf courses. 

BLEACHER POTATOES 

Madison Mallards (summer collegiate 

baseball team), 2920 N. Sherman Ave., 

246-4277, north side. Tickets: $6–$35. 

UW Badgers, UW Athletic Ticket 

Office, located in Kellner Hall, 1440 

Monroe St., 262-1440, isthmus. 

CLIMBING 

Boulders Climbing Gym, 3964 

Commercial Ave., 244-8100, far east side. 

Devil’s Lake State Park, Hwy. 123 

near Baraboo, (608) 356-8301. 

STATE PARKS 

Devil’s Lake 

Devil’s Lake State Park, Hwy. 123 

near Baraboo, (608) 356-8301. 

Blue Mounds State Park, located off 

County Highway ID, (608) 437-5711. 

PHOTO BY CORY PETERSON 

Governor Nelson State Park, 

5140 County Hwy. M, 831-3005. 

SKIING/SKATING 

ICE SKATING: 

Tenney Park, 1338 Sherman Ave., 

near east side. Hourly skate rentals 

available. 

Vilas Park, 702 S. Randall Ave., near 

west side. Skate rentals available. 

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING: 

TRAILS: Elver Park, 1250 McKenna 

Blvd., far west side. Six kilometers of 

lighted trails of varying difficulty. $6. 

UW Arboretum, 1207 Seminole 

Hwy., 263-7888, near west side. Free. 

Odana Hills Golf Course, 4635 

Odana Rd., 266-4724, far west side. $6. 

RENTALS: REI, 7483 West Towne 

Way, 833-6680, far west side. 

Fontana Sports Specialties, 

216 N. Henry St., 257-5043, isthmus. 

DOWNHILL SKIING: 

Tyrol Basin, 3487 Bohn Rd., Mt. 

Horeb. (608) 437-4135. For a ski 

report, call (608) 437-4FUN, or visit 

tyrolbasin.com. 

SNOWSHOEING 

UW Arboretum, 1207 Seminole Hwy., 

263-7888, near west side. 

Fontana Sports Specialties, 216 N. 

Henry St., 257-5043, isthmus. 

REI, 7483 West Towne Way, 833-6680, 

far west side. n 


EVENTS 

[ EVENTS ] AND FESTIVALS 

Madison loves a good festival, as evidenced by the dozens of celebrations 

held throughout the year. From arts-and-craftsy to athletic, from elegant to 

downright silly, each season brings a whole new list of excuses to get out and 

see what the community has to offer. 

The Farmers’ Market 

SUMMER 

Festa Italia 

Festa Italia is a tribute to Madison’s rich 

Italian heritage in the form of a full-blown, two-day 

Italian bash. Enjoy entertainment, music and— 

above all—food! June 3–5. iwcmadison.com. 

Concerts on the Square 

Rhythm and Booms is an exciting spectacle 

held this year on July 2. Laser lights and music 

accompany the fireworks, which cap off a day of 

family fun. The show draws about three hundred 

thousand people from all over the region! Prime 

viewing spots include UW’s Memorial Union 

Terrace, Governor Nelson State Park and the 

Department of Human Services on Northport 

Drive. rhythmandbooms.com. 

Wednesday evening performances by the 

Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra are a summer favorite 

in Madison. Picnickers and music lovers gather 

after work to chat and enjoy beautiful music. 

Get there early because the lawn gets crowded 

in good weather. Concerts begin at 7 p.m. 

June 29–August 3. wcoconcerts.org. 

Art Fair on the Square 

Some 450 artists from around the country 

participate in this event. The fair is one of the 

Midwest’s finest, drawing crowds of around 

two hundred thousand to the Capitol Square. 

Art in virtually any medium you could possibly 

want is available for purchase, and food, drink 

and entertainment are abundantly supplied. 

The art fair is put on by the Madison Museum 

of Contemporary Art, and proceeds from 

T-shirt sales and concessions go toward 

the support of educational programs and 

exhibitions. July 9–10. mmoca.org. 

PHOTOs BY TRACY TUCHOLSKI 


Art Fair off the Square 

If your loyalty lies with Wisconsin 

artists, make your way to Martin Luther 

King Jr. Blvd. Held concurrently with the 

Art Fair on the Square, this event features 

135 Wisconsin artists and craftspeople 

both exhibiting and selling their work. 

Live music and lots of food available. 

July 9–10. artcraftwis.org. 

Paddle and Portage 

It’s not every day you see six hundred 

people from more than eleven states 

paddling and portaging in a mad dash to be 

number one. Each team paddles a canoe 

around a 1.5-mile-long course on Lake 

Mendota, disembarks to portage the canoe 1.5 

miles over Madison’s isthmus, then paddles a 

final 1.5-mile leg on Lake Monona. July 16. 

paddleandportage.org. 

Dane County Fair 

Experience the culture and traditions of 

our great state. One thousand area youths 

exhibit ten thousand entries during this 

“celebration of family fun.” See shows 

featuring everything from horses and llamas 

to cakes and cookies to photographs and 

drawings by Wisconsin’s talented youngsters. 

July 20–24. danecountyfair.com. 

Blooming Butterflies 

Olbrich Botanical Gardens presents a 

sparkling world of bright butterflies as they 

emerge from their chrysalises daily from 

July 13 to August 7. Open daily from 10 

a.m. to 4 p.m. Adults $5, kids 12 and under 

$3; ages two and under free. 3330 Atwood 

Ave., 246-4550. olbrich.org. 

Jazz at Five 

After a long day at work, hearing a little 

live music is a fantastic way to unwind 

before dinner. The 100 block of State Street 

comes alive on Wednesday evenings in 

August and September as people gather to 

enjoy free outdoor concerts and yummy 

concessions. In the past, the event has 

brought in big names like the Mighty Blues 

Kings, Kurt Elling, and Madison’s own Ben 

Sidran. August 10–September 7. jazzat5.org. 

Taste of Madison 

Madison has well over four hundred 

restaurants. And the easiest way to sample 

the most at one shot is to visit Taste of 

Madison, a grazing fest held on State Street 

and the Capitol Square over Labor Day 

weekend. More than sixty area restaurants 

dish up samples of their best, accompanied 

by live music and local entertainment on 

four stages. Earn your appetite by participating 

in the 5K Family Fun Run & Walk 

held just prior to the event. September 

3–4. madisonfestivals.com. 

FALL 

FOOD FANCY In a city known for its food, come and sample the 

best of its offerings. The Madison Food & Wine Show, brought to you by 

Madison Magazine, offers a unique tasting opportunity to sample the fine fare 

of local restaurants and food, beer and wine vendors. Also popular are the 

“Dueling Chefs” competitions. October 21–23 at the Alliant Energy Center. 

madisonfoodandwineshow.com 

Dane Buy Local 

Venetian Night 

Check out this nighttime parade of festively 

decorated boats that sail along the shoreline 

of Lake Mendota. The parade route starts 

in Maple Bluff and continues along the 

shoreline to the UW Memorial Union. A 

fun fireworks show happens afterward! 

September 5. danebuylocal.com. 

Ironman Triathlon 

The Ironman is a testament to the active 

nature of our city’s residents and the quality 

of its running and biking paths. People 


[ EVENTS ] AND FESTIVALS 

from all across the nation (and world!) travel 

here to compete in this super-marathon 

event, one of only five Ironman races in the 

U.S., which consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 

112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run. 

Despite the race’s grueling nature, the event 

is perenially popular; in fact, the 2011 race 

is already full. Visitors should take a few 

minutes to watch the race—it begins at 7 

a.m. and goes until midnight. September 

11. ironmanwisconsin.com. 

PHOTOs BY WES MARTIN 

FALL 

Wisconsin Book Festival 

An annual celebration of reading, writing 

and literacy for people of all ages, 

presented by the Wisconsin Humanities 

Council. Enjoy readings, book signings, 

workshops, discussions and other literary 

events featuring nearly two hundred of the 

nation’s top authors. Free. October 19–23 

throughout Madison. Visit wisconsinbookfestival.org 

or call 262-0706 for details. 

The Madison 

Food & Wine Show 

Madison’s premier gourmet culinary tasting 

event offers the opportunity to sample and 

taste the finest in food and beverages. The 

show features area chefs in the popular 

Dueling Chefs competition. October 21–23 

at the Alliant Energy Center. 

madisonfoodandwineshow.com. 

Madison Holiday Market 

The Madison Holiday Market is the ultimate 

shopping extravaganza. Over a hundred 

unique merchants offer the gifts you like to 

give. Live music, gift wrapping, and an 

exclusive preview party make this something 

you won’t want to miss. Ten percent of 

sales support the Madison Ballet’s education 

and outreach programming. November 

4–6. madisonballet.org/market. 

Holiday Art Fair 

It’s not too early to start your holiday 

shopping. This weekend event turns 

shopping into an art form. Functional 

art including handmade clothing and 

jewelry in addition to traditional decorative 

art created by almost one hundred 

artists and artisans from all over the state 

Willy Street Fair 

WILLY STREET FAIR 

There are many wonderful neighborhood street festivals in Madison, 

but this thirty-year-old tradition is a standout. As offbeat and hip as 

the Williamson Street neighborhood itself, the fair includes several 

stages with live entertainment, arts and crafts stands, food and lots 

of family fun. Look for the fair on the 800–1000 blocks of Willy 

Street. September 17–18. cwd.org. 

are for sale. The gourmet gallery offers a 

variety of homemade soaps, gourmet 

sauces and other little luxuries. 

November 18–20. mmoca.org. 

WINTER 

Winter Farmers’ Market 

The summer market tradition continues 

indoors, first at the Frank Lloyd Wright– 

inspired Monona Terrace (Nov.–Dec.) and 

then at the Madison Senior Center, 330 W. 

Mifflin St., 266-6581, downtown (Jan.–April). 

Cheese, vegetables and lots of other fresh 

Wisconsin produce year-round—it doesn’t get 

much better than that. dcfm.org. 

Frostiball 

The end of the holiday season doesn’t 

mean the end of the festivities in Madison. 

The Frostiball is a good excuse to don your 

fancy duds and spend an evening wining, 

dining and dancing your way at this elegant 

gala. It’s great for people-watching and lends 

a historic vibe to this classic winter event. 

February 7, 2012. 

SPRING 

Spring Flower Show 

Olbrich Botanical Gardens brings an early 

spring in their sunny atrium, blossoming 

with brilliant annuals, perennials and spring 


ulbs in full bloom. Enjoy the color and 

smell of the spring to come. March 5–20. 

Open daily 10–4. olbrich.org. 

Wisconsin Film Festival 

This thirteen-year-old celebration has 

become a signature event. The festival, held 

March 30–April 3, features independent 

films, world cinema and Wisconsin filmmakers. 

Movies, seminars and panels are 

held at several performance venues on State 

Street and campus, including the Orpheum 

on State Street and the UW’s Memorial 

Union. Festival hotline is 262-9009, or go 

to wifilmfest.org. 

Dane County 

Farmers’ Market 

When the early-morning smell of warm 

pastries wafts around the Capitol Square, 

you know spring is here—along with the 

Farmers’ Market. Vendors offer their freshly 

picked fruits and vegetables, home-baked 

goodies and flowers. Visit the market 

Saturday mornings from April 16 through 

November 5. Save your sleeping in for 

Sunday and get to the Farmers’ Market 

early—stands open by 6 a.m.—because 

the good stuff goes fast. dcfm.org. 

HIP TO BE SQUARE 

A calendar of events on and around the Capitol Square: 

Saturday Farmers’ Market April 16–November 5 Crazylegs Classic 

April 30 Wednesday Farmers’ Market April 20–November 2 Mad City 

Marathon May 29 Concerts on the Square (Wed. evenings; rain date is 

Thursday) June 29–August 3 Art Fair on and off the Square July 9–10 

Maxwell Street Days July 15–17 Paddle and Portage July 16 Capitol 

Mile Race July 24 Jazz at Five (Wed. evenings) August 10–September 

7 Taste of Madison September 3–4 Ironman Triathlon September 11 

Food for Thought Festival September 17 US Bank Eve (New Year’s 

Eve party) December 31 

COOKING 

DEMONSTRATIONS 

Brat Fest 

Brat Fest attracts large numbers to 

Willow Island at the Alliant Energy 

Center every Memorial Day with Wisconsin’s 

icon-in-a-bun. Dubbed “The World’s Largest 

Brat Fest,” they set a record of 209,376 brats 

consumed on Memorial Day weekend in 

2010. May 28–30. bratfest.com. n 

GREAT GIFTS 

FOR PURCHASE 

OCT. 21-23, 2011 

alliant energy center 

YUMMY IN YOUR TUMMY: Have you 

noticed how many food fests and 

gatherings are in Madison Taste of 

Madison is a sampling of our local and 

ethnic eateries; Bratfest celebrates 

savory sausages; and the Madison 

Food and Wine Show showcases the 

best in specialty food products (like 

cheese!), beer and wine. 

EXCITING HOLIDAY 

ENTERTAINING 

IDEAS 

PURCHASE YOUR 

FAVORITES IN THE 

WINE CELLAR 

Tickets available August 1. 

www.madisonfoodandwineshow.com 

W 

DAY PASSES 

$35 advance/$42 d.o.s. 

WEEKEND PASSES 

$55 in advance/$65 d.o.s. 

atch your favorite area chefs 

compete in a culinary battle royale 

with mystery ingredients for the 

title of CULINARY CONQUEROR. 

For exhibitor & sponsor information, call 608.270.3634 


Madison Dining & Retail 

1. Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano 

2. Blue Moon 

3. Blue Velvet Lounge 

4. Icon 

5. Muramoto 

6. Capitol ChopHouse 

7. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse 

8. La Brioche True Food 

9. Lombardino’s Italian Restaurant 

10. Nitty Gritty (2 locations) 

11. The Old Fashioned 

12. Ovations - Concourse Hotel 

13. Prime Quarter Steak House 

14. Quivey’s Grove 

15. Ruth’s Chris 

16. Sa-Bai Tong (2 locations) 

17. Smoky’s Club 

18. Tapas Rias 

19. Zanders Capitol Grill 

51. Alliant Energy Center 

52. Capitol Kids 

54. Chazen Museum 

56. Dahlmann Campus Inn 

58. DoubleTree Hotel 

59. Greenway Station 

60. Henry Vilas Zoo 

61. Ho-Chunk Gaming 

62. Madison Museum of 

Contemporary Art Gift Shop 

62. Overture Center 

63. Mansion Hill Inn 

64. Re-Threads 

65. Sheraton Hotel & 

Conference Center 

66. Wisconsin Union Hotel 

18 

15 

59 

10 

4 

56 

1 

7 

8 

16 

17 54 

2 9 

66 

16 

10 

16 

60 

14 


13 

4 

66 

56 

54 

12 

64 

16 3 

58 

10 

63 

11 

19 5 

62 

52 6 

15 

60 

65 

61 


IRECTION 

[ DIRECTIONS ] FROM POINT A TO POINT B 

West Towne Mall to: 

East Towne Mall to: 

Greenway Station to: 

GREENWAY STATION 

L (W) onto Mineral Point Road 

Merge onto West Beltline Highway (US-12 W) 

Take the Greenway Boulevard exit #252 

L onto Greenway Boulevard 

R onto Deming Way 

Total Distance: 3.5 miles 

DOWNTOWN/STATE STREET/ 

UW CAMPUS 

L (W) onto Mineral Point Road 

Merge onto East Beltline Highway (US-12 W) 

Take the Park Street exit #261B 

Straight on Park Street 

(campus/State Street area) 

R onto Langdon Street 

R onto Wisconsin Avenue to Capitol 

Total Distance: 9 miles 

MONROE STREET/EDGEWOOD 

COLLEGE 

R (E) onto Mineral Point Road 

R onto Glenway Street 

L on Monroe Street 


HILLDALE MALL 

R (E) onto Mineral Point Road 

L onto Midvale Boulevard 


EAST TOWNE MALL 

R onto South Gammon Road 

Merge onto East Beltline Highway (US-12 W) 

Take US-51 N exit #266 

L onto Stoughton Road 

R onto East Washington Avenue 




Merge onto I-39 S/I-90 E exit #97A 

Merge onto US-12 West exit #142A 


R onto Greenway Boulevard 




UW CAMPUS 

L onto East Washington Avenue 

R onto North Butler Street 

L onto East Gorham Street 



COLLEGE 


L onto Blair Street 

R onto John Nolen Drive 

Slight R onto North Shore Drive 

Stay straight to go onto Regent Street 

L onto Monroe Street 


HILLDALE MALL 


R onto North Butler Street 

L onto East Gorham Street 

East Gorham becomes 

University Avenue, stay right 

Slight R onto Campus Drive 



TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS: Taxi Services Union Cab (608) 242-2000 

Badger Cab (608) 256-5566 Madison Taxi (608) 258-7458 Bus: Madison 

Metro (608) 266-4466 Airport: Dane County Regional Airport (608) 

246-3380 Tourism Information Centers: Greater Madison Chamber of 

Commerce (608) 256-8348 Greater Madison Convention and Visitors 

Bureau (608) 255-2537 or (800) 373-6376 

WEST TOWNE MALL 

S on Deming Way toward Greenway 

Boulevard 


Merge onto East Beltline Highway (US-12 E) 

Take the Mineral Point Road exit #254 

L onto Mineral Point Road 



S on Deming Way toward 

Greenway Boulevard 


Merge onto East Beltline Highway (US-12 E) 

Take the US-51 N exit #266 





UW CAMPUS 

NE on Deming Way toward Market Street 

R onto University Avenue 

Follow University Avenue to Park Street 

L onto Park Street (campus/State Street area) 

R onto Langdon 




COLLEGE 



R onto North Allen St., becomes 

Edgewood Ave. 

R onto Monroe Street 


HILLDALE MALL 



R onto Midvale Boulevard 



Downtown/State 

Street/UW Campus to: 

Monroe Street/ 

Edgewood College to: 

Downtown/State 

Street/UW Campus to: 

PHOTOS: YANA PASKOVA / PHOTOS.COM 


S on Park Street to East Beltline 

Highway (US-12 E) 

Take the US-51 N exit #266 





S on Park Street to 

West Beltline Highway (US-12 W) 

Take the Gammon Road exit #255 

R onto Gammon Road 



S on Park Street to West 

Beltline Highway (UW-12 W) 






COLLEGE 

S on Park Street 


L onto North Randall Avenue 

Slight R onto Monroe Street 


HILLDALE MALL 

S on Park Street 


Slight R onto Campus Drive 




Go NE on Monroe Street 

R onto Regent Street 

Turn L onto John Nolen Drive 

Turn R onto East Washington Avenue 



Go SW on Monroe Street 

Slight L onto Nakoma Road 

L onto South Midvale Boulevard 

Merge onto West Beltline Highway 

(US-12 W) 

Take the Gammon Road exit #255 

R onto Gammon Road 



Go SW on Monroe Street 

Slight L onto Nakoma Road 

L onto South Midvale Boulevard 

Merge onto West Beltline Highway 

(US-12 W) 


L on Greenway Boulevard 

R on Deming Way 



UW CAMPUS 


Slight R onto Regent Street 

L onto Park Street, follow north 

(campus/State Street area) 

R onto Langdon Street 



THE WISCONSIN DELLS 

E on Langdon Street 

R onto North Carroll Street 

L onto West Johnson Street 

R onto North Blair Street 


L onto North Stoughton Road 

Merge onto I-90 W/I-94 W 

toward Wisconsin Dells 

Merge onto WI-13 N via exit #87 

toward Wisconsin Dells 

MILWAUKEE 






Merge onto WI-30 E (I-90 E/I-94 E) 

toward Milwaukee 

CHICAGO 

W on Langdon Street 

toward Park Street 

North Park Street becomes US-14 E 

Merge onto US-18 E/US-12 E 

toward I-90/I-94 

Merge onto I-90 E via exit #267A 

toward Janesville/Chicago 

GREEN BAY 






Merge onto WI-26 N via exit #128 

toward Rosendale/Oshkosh 

L left 

R right 

N north 

S south 

W west 

NE northeast 

NW northwest 

SE southeast 

HILLDALE MALL 


L onto Regent Street 

Regent Street turns into 

Mineral Point Road 

Merge onto US-41 N via 

the ramp on the left toward 

Oshkosh/Appleton/Green Bay 

E east 

SW southwest 

R onto Midvale Boulevard 



Rendezvous 

all over again. 

How great is 

Winter or summer, Madison is a special place. 

To make it even more special, experience it 

from the Hilton. Every room offers you one of 

two great views: the Wisconsin State Capitol or 

Lake Monona. Here, you can venture out into a 

city packed with arts and entertainment. Soak 

in our heated indoor pool. Or wine and dine in 

the comfort of our ChopHouse. Picture yourself 

somewhere special: the Hilton Madison. 

run A Hilton 

February 

2011 is 

our 10th 

anniversary. 

When’s yours 

run B Concourse 

9 East Wilson Street Madison, Wisconsin 608.255.5100 www.hiltonmadison.com 

A service of the Marcus Corporation A NYSE Company

vicinityvisitorsguide - Madison Magazine

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