Restaurants in Madison
Best Restaurants
Bar • $$$
Bistros • $$$
“We had heard good things about Lallande and we were not disappointed. We ate at the bar which I would highly recommend. Our server was Nina and she made the evening fun. I had the salmon and my husband had the lamb chops. Generous portions and absolutely delicious. We also had the chicken pate which was so good. But the highlight for us was the carrot tarte. A must have, if you go.The owner Ann Marie was working in the kitchen keeping all the balls in the air, but she took time to visit with us and made us feel extra welcome. Do yourself a favor and dine at Lallande on Monroe St. Perhaps we'll see you there because we'll be back! Five stars.”
Fine Dining • $$$$
“Terrific dinner tonight with work colleagues. Delicious dishes and great service.”
Hot Pot • $$
“Fuki is our favorite hot pot! We live in Milwaukee but come out pretty frequently as it’s become our favorite restaurant. Anyone we bring agrees it’s fantastic - the crispy pork is what sets them apart. The broths are all flavorful, we love the spicy and the pork marrow broth. Meat is fresh, veggies are also always fresh, and they now offer kbbq as well which we haven’t tried since we’re always in the mood for soup. We hope this place stays busy for a very long time!”
Restaurants by Cuisine
Sushi • $$$
“I’ve been to RED several times, and it keeps me coming back. I really enjoy the modern atmosphere. The lighting, colors, and background music give it a relaxed lounge vibe without being too loud or distracting.
The service has always been excellent, and the food comes out surprisingly fast. The sashimi is fresh with a great selection of fish, and the presentation is beautiful. The miso soup was outstanding, and I always think that’s a good sign of a quality sushi restaurant.”
Japanese • $$
“If I could give it 6 stars I would. Probably the best sushi i ever had. If I had one wish it would be that they had a liquor license. But I'm willing to skip the booze for sushi this good. Amazing. The number of Japanese customers was a testament that it was legit too.”
New American • $$
“TL;DR: Staff was awesome and so was the food, but the atmosphere was loud, and 1 of the 4 dishes I had was more miss than hit.
From the top:
Making and modifying my reservation online was super easy and straightforward. In fact, I chose this place over another recommendation from a local simply because I could make my reservation online.
The hostess was super friendly and welcoming, so right off the bat I felt at home. I had reserved a table, but since I was alone, I decided to sit at the bar.
The guys behind the bar were some of the most attentive and professional I’ve seen in the industry (I spent the first 8 years of my career working in hospitality). Big shout-out to Foster, Matt, and Chris!! Each was better than the last and made sure I always had anything I needed, which is impressive considering the bar and restaurant were packed for a while—it was a Saturday night.
The drinks felt generous and reasonably priced. I’ll admit I had more than a couple 😋
The food was great overall, with a few BUTS.
At times, it felt a little pretentious. I had 4 different dishes, and 3/4 tasted great, but some still gave me the impression that they were just trying to do too much. Simple things can be delicious too, and not everything needs to reinvent the wheel.
Ironically, my favorite dish happened to be the simplest. I would highly recommend the chef’s special double smash burger, which they serve until late. It was easily the crown jewel of the evening.
I did have the misfortune of trying the pork belly first. While the fat was well rendered, the meat itself was completely dried out. At the time I thought maybe it was just me, but I spent about 3 hours here, and at one point the person next to me ordered the same dish and wasn’t impressed either.
After that first dish, I was ready to dock a star on the food, especially since this isn’t exactly an “affordable” restaurant. But they turned it around with every dish afterward.
I do think it’s important to consider the people who won’t be here for hours trying multiple dishes. If the pork belly had been the only dish I ordered, I can’t imagine I would’ve walked out happy with the experience.
That being said, everything that came out afterward got better and better, with the double smash burger being the crown jewel of the evening. I’m glad I ended up staying and trying more dishes!!
Overall, I had an awesome experience. They have wonderful staff in the front of house, a beautiful venue, great drinks, and—if you stick to the basics—delicious food!
One last note: it was loud. Like, need-to-yell-at-each-other loud. It didn’t bother me personally, but I could see it being an annoyance for anyone trying to have a conversation, especially in a group larger than two.”
Restaurants with Delivery
Bar • $$$
“First time visiting this amazing restaurant definitely not the last. Love the beautiful warm brick, lighting, everything. Perfect atmosphere. We planned to go out to eat for a nice meal before seeing Hamilton, but never imagined that the meal would eclipse the Broadway show! Everything from the bread and French onion soup to the amazing salmon and steak and appetizers was beyond outstanding. The service was wonderful. The other patrons were so kind and Everything was perfect.”
Bistros • $$$
“We had heard good things about Lallande and we were not disappointed. We ate at the bar which I would highly recommend. Our server was Nina and she made the evening fun. I had the salmon and my husband had the lamb chops. Generous portions and absolutely delicious. We also had the chicken pate which was so good. But the highlight for us was the carrot tarte. A must have, if you go.The owner Ann Marie was working in the kitchen keeping all the balls in the air, but she took time to visit with us and made us feel extra welcome. Do yourself a favor and dine at Lallande on Monroe St. Perhaps we'll see you there because we'll be back! Five stars.”
Pizza • $
“I got the 10” Go Go Gochu which was delicious and inventive. Can’t go wrong with any pizza here. Broken cannoli is delicious too. 10” is a good size for one person IMO”
Sushi • $$$
“I’ve been to RED several times, and it keeps me coming back. I really enjoy the modern atmosphere. The lighting, colors, and background music give it a relaxed lounge vibe without being too loud or distracting.
The service has always been excellent, and the food comes out surprisingly fast. The sashimi is fresh with a great selection of fish, and the presentation is beautiful. The miso soup was outstanding, and I always think that’s a good sign of a quality sushi restaurant.”
Ice Cream Shop • $
“🍦✨ Major obsession alert! ✨🍦 Ice Cream Social totally stole my heart 💕 Smelled like waffle heaven + tasted even better 😍 My new go-to for ice cream in Madison!”
New American • $$
“TL;DR: Staff was awesome and so was the food, but the atmosphere was loud, and 1 of the 4 dishes I had was more miss than hit.
From the top:
Making and modifying my reservation online was super easy and straightforward. In fact, I chose this place over another recommendation from a local simply because I could make my reservation online.
The hostess was super friendly and welcoming, so right off the bat I felt at home. I had reserved a table, but since I was alone, I decided to sit at the bar.
The guys behind the bar were some of the most attentive and professional I’ve seen in the industry (I spent the first 8 years of my career working in hospitality). Big shout-out to Foster, Matt, and Chris!! Each was better than the last and made sure I always had anything I needed, which is impressive considering the bar and restaurant were packed for a while—it was a Saturday night.
The drinks felt generous and reasonably priced. I’ll admit I had more than a couple 😋
The food was great overall, with a few BUTS.
At times, it felt a little pretentious. I had 4 different dishes, and 3/4 tasted great, but some still gave me the impression that they were just trying to do too much. Simple things can be delicious too, and not everything needs to reinvent the wheel.
Ironically, my favorite dish happened to be the simplest. I would highly recommend the chef’s special double smash burger, which they serve until late. It was easily the crown jewel of the evening.
I did have the misfortune of trying the pork belly first. While the fat was well rendered, the meat itself was completely dried out. At the time I thought maybe it was just me, but I spent about 3 hours here, and at one point the person next to me ordered the same dish and wasn’t impressed either.
After that first dish, I was ready to dock a star on the food, especially since this isn’t exactly an “affordable” restaurant. But they turned it around with every dish afterward.
I do think it’s important to consider the people who won’t be here for hours trying multiple dishes. If the pork belly had been the only dish I ordered, I can’t imagine I would’ve walked out happy with the experience.
That being said, everything that came out afterward got better and better, with the double smash burger being the crown jewel of the evening. I’m glad I ended up staying and trying more dishes!!
Overall, I had an awesome experience. They have wonderful staff in the front of house, a beautiful venue, great drinks, and—if you stick to the basics—delicious food!
One last note: it was loud. Like, need-to-yell-at-each-other loud. It didn’t bother me personally, but I could see it being an annoyance for anyone trying to have a conversation, especially in a group larger than two.”
Fine Dining • $$$$
“We ate here last year for Valentine’s Day! Amazing ambiance and food. Highly recommended to all 10 out of 10 stars”
Cocktail Bar
“Fantastic cozy bar. This was our first stop on a round of three different bars recently and was by far our favorite. The decor is somewhat sparse and reminiscent of an art gallery, but the lighting and fun amenities (arts & crafts, coffee table books, Thursday night free snacks) add to the charm. The drinks were unique and fresh and the service was good. I appreciated the offerings of N/A beverages that weren’t just soda on tap. I had a grapefruit Sage fizzy N/A drink and my spouse had a lovely gin mixed drink (gin, passion fruit, tea). Definitely will be back!”
Chicken Wings • $
“It’s hard to make food a sexual experience but the Spicy Shrimp Po’ Boy f***** my face. Fuckin’ F**** a lot of places tone spice down for ‘general pop’ but this place gives it to you raw. If it says spicy it’s spicy but it also delivers a balance of flavor with heat. It was an explosion of awesome in my mouth. So, if you are looking to eat some delicious food while in Madison and need a foodgasm, visit Stadium Take Out you will have your mind blown.”
Breakfast • $
“Been going for years and now take my toddler once a week. I love walking in, everyone knowing us, sometimes getting our regular table (if we're early enough) and chatting with some of the other regulars. Prices are great, you get a ton of food and the staff is always friendly. Extra bonus they open early for my early riser toddler!!”
Italian • $$
“Always amazing here. Food , atmosphere, staff, and great cocktails to boot.”
Japanese • $$
“This restaurant's best offerings are their American style maki sushi exploding with all kinds of fillings and toppings. The appetizers and other offerings are pretty basic. The nigiri was disappointing but as expected for this part of the country. The cocktail menu is interesting, but I haven't sampled much from it yet. The new decor is kitschy and over the top, but it imparts a fun, casual vibe if you just kind of relax and enjoy it. Some of the sushi plates had little orchid / flower sprays on them that were quite visually appealing.”
Indian • $$
“Taj Indian Cuisine & Bar was a "breath of fresh air" in fine dining. The food was just absolutely delicious. The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable. The atmosphere was modern and fun. I highly recommend Taj Indian Cuisine & Bar for a wonderful meal!!!”
Online Reservation Available
Japanese • $$
“If I could give it 6 stars I would. Probably the best sushi i ever had. If I had one wish it would be that they had a liquor license. But I'm willing to skip the booze for sushi this good. Amazing. The number of Japanese customers was a testament that it was legit too.”
Italian • $$
“Great experience…everything from the ambiance to the waitstaff to the drinks, appetizers, entree, desserts and coffee were amazing!”
Italian • $$
“Always amazing here. Food , atmosphere, staff, and great cocktails to boot.”
Japanese • $$
“This restaurant's best offerings are their American style maki sushi exploding with all kinds of fillings and toppings. The appetizers and other offerings are pretty basic. The nigiri was disappointing but as expected for this part of the country. The cocktail menu is interesting, but I haven't sampled much from it yet. The new decor is kitschy and over the top, but it imparts a fun, casual vibe if you just kind of relax and enjoy it. Some of the sushi plates had little orchid / flower sprays on them that were quite visually appealing.”
Dim Sum • $$
“Everything was fantastic, definitely exceeded my expectations. Flavors were well balanced, ingredients were fresh. Will definitely go back.”
Jamaican • $$
“Hands down best Jamaican food I've had. & we have 2 in Milwaukee. Jerk BBQ wings were excellently crisped and the sauce perfection. 1 of the best foods I've ever had period. Will be back to the city just for this food!”
African • $$
“Today was the first time I have had West African food, and it won’t be the last time! This place is a gem in the Atwood neighborhood. It was delicious!!! I had sauteed goat and yuca fries as the appetizer. I don’t like yuca and normally won’t eat it, but it was so good. The aioli it came with complimented it perfect. Excited to try other meals here.”
Steak House
“We had a fantastic experience at One Prime Steakhouse. The food was absolutely delicious, and everything was prepared perfectly. Erika was our waitress and did an outstanding job taking care of us. She was attentive, friendly, and made sure our evening was enjoyable. Bella, who was training with her, was also wonderful and clearly learning from a great example.
Great food, excellent service, and a memorable dining experience. We appreciate Erika and Bella for making our visit such a great one. We will definitely be back!”
Mediterranean • $
“Food is delicious- we are never disappointed!”
Italian • $$$
“Y'all.…. this place is out of this world!! Everything from the wine, appetizers, entrée desserts and coffee are just phenomenal!! Do not pass this place up! I love the line of this chef… The way the music goes, that’s the we dance! And that’s exactly what this place is all about. Everyone loves this place! Tony Bennet and famous athletes from all over - including Reggie Bush!”
Bar & Grill • $$
“😍🌮🍔🥪🍟Tried a few things already and brought other people there. Everything has been good and the wait staff are awesome”
American • $$$$
“We had an amazing experience at DelecTable on Friday. All 11 courses were interesting and perfectly executed. A great meal and a lot of fun.”
“Excellent pizza and friendly, fun, helpful staff. Ambiance in this place is top notch”
24 Hour Restaurants
Caribbean • $
“just had the open face chicken taco at the Deforest Fri-Yay eve food truck... with both sauces monte Verde and Mango Man Salsa! it was DELICIOUS!!! In love with Rican food as it is, but this just topped it! fresh veggies, the combination of the heat and sweet was a perfect balance.”
Fast Food • $
“A mcdonalds with a play place inside is nice. It was very clean. I had some non crunchy fries and I give the service a 3 because I ordered a coffee with 6 sugars and they gave me coffee with cream in it. It was disappointing. Details do matter.”
Fast Food • $
“Best drive thru service I have ever had! The food was hot, fresh, and appeared as it did on the actual menu. This Burger King is by far the best one I have been to... I used to work for Burger King in Jefferson County back during college. I think the few Burger Kings that are left in Wisconsin could really learn something from this particular location.”
Fast Food • $
“Counter help was awesome. Food was prepared to my liking, received order in under two minutes.”
Fast Food • $
“I wasn't planning on stopping at McDonald's but I miss my turn and I saw this location it was easy to get into and out of right off the main stretch the service was phenomenal the food is great and I don't think that I was at either window for longer than 30 seconds I would give 10 Stars if available thank you”
Fast Food • $
“They're always lovely. Granted the 4 of 5 for food is cuz it's McDonald's, but, on occasion it's a 5 like no other. The doordasher that brought my food was great.”
Fast Food • $
“I woke nights and every time I come to get food they are always incredibly friendly and accommodating as I like to get hot fries and they always are willing to throw some in fresh for me! Love the work the night crew does.”
Fast Food • $
“Here to commend this facility for playing such an interesting sound track... Seldom-heard songs from the 70s, many of them very funny. It was a treat that went with my breakfast.”
Jamaican • $$
“Hands down best Jamaican food I've had. & we have 2 in Milwaukee. Jerk BBQ wings were excellently crisped and the sauce perfection. 1 of the best foods I've ever had period. Will be back to the city just for this food!”
Fine Dining • $$$$
“We ate here last year for Valentine’s Day! Amazing ambiance and food. Highly recommended to all 10 out of 10 stars”
African • $$
“Today was the first time I have had West African food, and it won’t be the last time! This place is a gem in the Atwood neighborhood. It was delicious!!! I had sauteed goat and yuca fries as the appetizer. I don’t like yuca and normally won’t eat it, but it was so good. The aioli it came with complimented it perfect. Excited to try other meals here.”
Takeout Restaurants
Breakfast • $
“We were in town for a concert and stopped here on our way back home. The food and service were top notch! Very fresh tasting food and amazing coffee!! It was a happy accident we ended here from a random apple map search. So glad we stumbled upon them!”
Breakfast • $
“Our waitress was really friendly and nice. She gave us recommendations and told us about the restaurant history.”
Juice • $
“I have to say this food cart is top notch, tasty fresh summer rolls and cool smoothies. Whenever we are in the Madison area we have to have these rolls. Love it and highly recommend it.”
Pizza • $
“One of my favorite pizza restaurants around. Try the Macho Nacho!”
Vegetarian • $
“I’ve been here about10x and have never been disappointed . Lots of yummy veganized options of classic meaty items”
Chicken • $
“Excellent chicken place! My kid loves their fried tenders.
I used to not like eating chicken tenders, however when I tried their chicken tenders which are awesomely fried (I love the mild to medium heat profile) and their sauce is top notch.
The chickens are halal as well!”
Sushi • $
“I have been a regular patron at Sushi Express for about 4 years now. I describe this place as a place to get “4 star sushi for 1 star prices”. Their menu is extensive, with many creative rolls, and their 2-roll or 3-roll specials are hard to beat price wise. My personal favorite is the Lake City Roll. The wait staff are always friendly, and I can only recall one time where I waited more than 10 minutes for my sushi rolls. I’ve also ordered delivery from here many times. I once waited over an hour for an order, and they gave me a $10 store credit upon realizing my GrubHub order didn’t go through entirely. Like any restaurant, these folks are human and 99% of the time you’re going to get great sushi with great, friendly service at a price that won’t break the bank. More cities need a Sushi Express like this one in Madison, WI. 5/5 stars for their delivery service and 6/5 stars dine in. HIGHLY recommend this place for anyone that wants great sushi but doesn’t want to break the bank.”
Steak House • $$$
“Their sides are so tasty, even the most devoted carnivores might be caught sneaking a forkful.”
Chicken • $
“Picked up online order through the drive thru. I like that, quick and easy. Employees are friendly and the chicken sliders are super good. We get the hot! Gives your mouth a nice tingle and taste delicious.”
Vegetarian • $
“My wife & I are vegan so we’re always looking for new places to try. We decided to order some food for pick up & they DID NOT disappoint! Their loaded fries are now one of my favorites & I can’t wait to go back again!”
Salad • $
“The best sandwiches I’ve found in madison. Chill atmosphere, incredible food. Probably the best meatball sub I’ve ever had. All I wanted today was a sandwich and couldn’t have prepared for the absolute beauty that was placed in front of me, quite quickly I might add. Check this place out or you’re absolutely missing out!”
Bar & Grill • $
“Thank you Lily and Tip Top for hosting some weary travelers with amazing food and a dog friendly patio. We had the best food, and the patio was like an oasis, beautiful!”
Seafood • $$
“We just finished eating at the Madison location, and our host/server Shawn was amazing! Probably the best host/server ever! He was friendly, efficient, and had the best personality with impeccable comedic timing. The food was also top notch, but Shawn really made it a fun experience.”
Italian • $$$
“Y'all.…. this place is out of this world!! Everything from the wine, appetizers, entrée desserts and coffee are just phenomenal!! Do not pass this place up! I love the line of this chef… The way the music goes, that’s the we dance! And that’s exactly what this place is all about. Everyone loves this place! Tony Bennet and famous athletes from all over - including Reggie Bush!”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
Hot Pot • $$
“Fuki is our favorite hot pot! We live in Milwaukee but come out pretty frequently as it’s become our favorite restaurant. Anyone we bring agrees it’s fantastic - the crispy pork is what sets them apart. The broths are all flavorful, we love the spicy and the pork marrow broth. Meat is fresh, veggies are also always fresh, and they now offer kbbq as well which we haven’t tried since we’re always in the mood for soup. We hope this place stays busy for a very long time!”
Bar • $
“Top notch atmosphere, great drinks, good food and snacks, dog friendly. Feels like a cabin in the northwoods. I want to decorate my basement to resemble the Muskellounge because it just has the perfect feel. A must stop whenever we are in town. Highly recommend this place.”
Bakery • $
“I eat keto when possible, and Paleo Mama Bakery has amazing keto-friendly goods. They are as beautiful as baked goods from traditional bakeries, and they taste delicious! A lot of the time, I find keto-friendly frosted goods to be really heavy, but these are not as heavy as others I've tried. I've even gone out of my way to get a birthday cake from here (I live almost 150 miles away) because they are perfect for special occasions when people are eating low-carb/keto. I've attached a photo of a slice of the keto carrot cake, which was delicious!”
Seafood • $$
“We just finished eating at the Madison location, and our host/server Shawn was amazing! Probably the best host/server ever! He was friendly, efficient, and had the best personality with impeccable comedic timing. The food was also top notch, but Shawn really made it a fun experience.”
Coffee Shops • $
“So friggin good 😋 that chicken sandwich, sauce and pickles are the best!! Loved the Mac n cheese and got donuts and a latte— Heaven! Classically preserved history of the North side, we appreciate you, thank you!”
Health Food • $
“Absolutely LOVE going here, people working are always so friendly and the teas have me addicted! Plus a little bonus with the kiddos is the 3D printed stuff they love it!😍 would recommend to anyone any day!”
Barbeque • $
“amazing food. awesome experience. they have the national anthem at noon everyday. it was a breath of fresh air”
Bakery • $
“Our Christmas variety cookies just arrived today from Yummee Treats! The dough was so rich and dense, and the fillings, chocolate, smores, oatmeal, and pecan were soooo good! They ship internationally to your doorsteps within a day or two! 😋”
Bakery • $
“This cafe has many delicious options for food. It however does not have celiac safe options. The cross contamination is too high. They do note this if you call them by stating that they can't guarantee there isn't. But I would not eat here if you have celiacs because I did twice and it made me incredibly sick. Again the food in my opinion is delicious, it just isn't celiacs safe.”
Himalayan/Nepalese • $
“Nice restaurant with good food! Restaurant looks small from outside but there is a lot of seating inside. Stopped here for vegetarian thali lunch & it was delicious. Courteous staff & clean restroom.”
Brewpubs • $
“Great friendly staff in an awesome atmosphere to enjoy any games. great food as well.”
Asian Fusion • $$
“Haven promises to live up to it's name and rather more. In the midst of many, many new Asian restaurants on or near State Street, Haven stands out for having a warm, open, well-lit and tasteful atmosphere--including not only a few games but a well-chosen, literate bookshelf that welcomes you to linger. The tea selection finally brings us back to the long-lost day of Dobra tea, finally expanding the State Street area Asian dining experience beyond bag tea. The food is equal to these other successes. I had the braised beef noodle bowl. This was a generous, flavorful no-nonsense bowl with a goodly bone-n joint of beef in the midst of the other hearty chucks of meat. The broth and the noodles were up to the same generous, flavorful standard. I observed in passing that they seem to have the liquor selection they will need to fit in with State Street, though that isn't a reason why I stopped in. I will certainly be back.”
Steak House • $$$
“Their sides are so tasty, even the most devoted carnivores might be caught sneaking a forkful.”
Tea • $$
“Amazing iced matcha tea; quality matcha with the perfect low level sweetness. The individual who helped me was incredibly kind and willing to offer insight on what matcha (latte vs tea, sweetness level, etc) would be what I wanted.
I’d been walking by after a workout class and it was a calm, welcoming, and warm space to grab a little bit of caffeine in a low-stimulating place after a high-stimulation class. The environment and staff make this a spot I’ll return to.”
Cheap Eats
Asian • $
“Absolutely terrific Tibetan Cuisine! In an atmosphere that is gentle and respectful. I live three hours away, was lucky to find it, and I guarantee I will be back! It doesn’t look romantic, but as I can attest from observing the couples enjoy their food, it is, from a culinary point of view, a romantic experience. Heck, I was alone and I felt the vibe!”
Bakery • $
“We were looking for Brownies for our wedding dessert and thank goodness we found The Baled Lab. They were wonderful and so easy to work with! The brownies… to die for!!! It was so hard narrowing down which ones to choose for the wedding. We also got a small Salted Carmel cake which was delicious and exactly what we wanted. We can’t wait to find another reason to work with them and get more delicious desserts.”
Middle Eastern • $
“Absolutely amazing food. I almost cried from the flavor bringing me back to my childhood. Brought our leftovers home and I think they got even better. We will definitely be back.”
Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt • $
“Fantastic ice cream... I loved the one I got!!! Thank you for the delicious snack!!!”
Coffee Shops • $
“Love going to Mercies. The soup, egg salad sandwiches and smoothies are the best! I buy True Coffee Roasters coffee beans for home.”
Bar • $
“I hosted my wife’s 40th birthday here and it was a fantastic experience! The game selection is awesome, the service was friendly, & the atmosphere was enjoyable for the adults and children. We will definitely be back & so will our guests.”
Peruvian • $
“We recently had the pleasure of dining at AmarPeru today, marking my first experience with Peruvian cuisine, and it did not disappoint! From the moment we walked in, the ambiance struck us as both elegant and inviting. The decor was sophisticated, setting the perfect tone for a delightful meal. Upon our arrival, the executive chef greeted us with a warm smile, which immediately made us feel welcomed. With our excitement, we dove into the menu and decided to sample a variety of dishes: lomo saltado, paella, ceviche mixto, truffle yuca fries, and anticucho. Each dish was a masterpiece, showcasing just the right balance of flavors. We savored every bite, feeling completely satisfied yet still we left a room for dessert. We chose to indulge in alfajores, arroz con leche, and pisco tres leches. She even has us try the passion fruit juice and one of their specialty dessert. Desserts were the perfect ending to our meal, the ideal balance of sweetness and texture that we wanted. Overall, our experience at AmarPeru was fantastic! We left feeling full and happy, already planning our return to explore more of their culinary offerings. It was a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in a different culture's cuisine, and I can't wait to go back! Highly recommended for anyone looking to try something new and delicious. Thank you to the chef and the entire team for crafting such a delicious meal. 🫶”
American • $
“I wish I had taken this photos of the food before I dug in. Delicious chilequiles, and even better ranchos huervos. The food is extremely fresh and flavorful. It's a unique take on something I've seen in every form, but they get it right with little surprises in every bite. Do yourself a favor and get the orange juice. The fresh sweetness really helps stabilize the slight spice and heaviness of the food.”
Vegan • $
“Food was great. They were so friendly. We are looking forward to the next time we are in town so we can try some more of the menu”
Laotian • $
“This place is such a hidden little gem. The food is always fantastic, the folks working there are always amazing. There is usually a wait so expect it, it will be worth it. You nuke me every single time with the medium spice level and I love it.”
Bakery • $
“Finally stopped in after watching people rave about them online for almost a year. I ordered a chocolate orange croissant thing and let me tell you when I say that thing blew my mind like wow. I knew it was good from people raving about it but I was so impressed dropped the last bite on the floor and about died I was so sad 😅 the lovely lady also gave me a free shortie I was eyein up 10/10 recommend so good I will be back”
Italian • $$
“Great experience…everything from the ambiance to the waitstaff to the drinks, appetizers, entree, desserts and coffee were amazing!”
Bar & Grill • $$
“😍🌮🍔🥪🍟Tried a few things already and brought other people there. Everything has been good and the wait staff are awesome”
Indian • $$
“This is our new favorite Indian restaurant in Madison. The food here is so delicious, and everyone is so friendly. Don't be deterred by the fact that it's in what used to be a fast-food building.”
Halal • $$
“Delicious Halal food in an unpretentious space. We had the grilled peach salad, beet salad, beef kebab and baklava. Also got the hot tea with ginger, mint and honey. The hummus is great, the service is kind and competent and the food is aromatic, fresh and healthy. Will return soon.”
Cocktail Bar • $$
“Thank you Michael and Brandon! First time at the Union Corners . We will definitely be back !”
American • $$$$
“We had an amazing experience at DelecTable on Friday. All 11 courses were interesting and perfectly executed. A great meal and a lot of fun.”
American • $$
“Love the charming European Grand Cafe vibes. An abundance of outdoor seating is available. Our server was very attentive and had great recommendations for drinks and food. One of the smoothest bloodys I have had. Food was absolutely delicious! What a great spot for brunch and enjoying a view of Madison.”
Dim Sum • $$
“Everything was fantastic, definitely exceeded my expectations. Flavors were well balanced, ingredients were fresh. Will definitely go back.”
Cocktail Bar • $$$
“We thought this place was a gem! The bartender Jon was able to make a Ramos gin fizz and hit it out of the park!”
Mexican • $$
“This place has consistently great food and attentive service! The outdoor patio is a nice place for people watching as well. Stop in and try a "machete!"”
Turkish • $$
“Very good tasty food with a nice variety and presentation and atmosphere”
Wine Bar • $$
“My granddaughter and I was touring downtown Madison about two weeks ago, we came across D’Vino as we walked. The special for the day was crab cake and green fried tomatoes, of course we went in to order. The food was amazing. My granddaughter love the atmosphere of the restaurant and so did I .She order a pizza that was the best she ever had. The food was so good, even the water was great. We will be back!”
Colombian • $$
“El Pollo Rumbero is a fantastic spot for enjoying authentic Colombian cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere makes it perfect for gatherings with friends. Their menu boasts a delightful array of dishes that capture the rich flavors of Colombia. Don't miss out on their expertly crafted cocktails, which pair wonderfully with the food. Whether you're a fan of traditional Colombian dishes or looking to try something new, El Pollo Rumbero won't disappoint. Highly recommended for a memorable dining experience!”
Brewpubs • $$
“Great food, great service, nice patio, and some really good beers. Dog friendly on the patio. Highly recommend.”
Bar • $$$
“Amazingly fresh seafood and beautifully done steaks with equally great side dishes, large enough to share! Go early and take advantage of their fabulous happy hour drinks and apps. Always a good time and a local favorite. Top notch service as well. Recommend for a night out, date night or special occasion.”
Japanese • $$
“I doubted an app could pick a restaurant. An app I use found this place and counts calories from a photo of my plate. The avocado sushi fit my remaining calories and tasted good. The dining area was quiet and clean.”
Bar • $$
“College visit with the daughter and we dined here with friends on Saturday 28th Sept and being originally from the UK, and seeing the fish and chips were haddock (not cod) I immediately had to have them and they were the best fish and chips this side of the “pond” having put up with 12 years of “just ok” fish and chips, these were amazing. Not only were the fish and chips good, but every dish was a winner. I am now praying my daughter gets into the college as I will be a regular here.”
Italian • $$
“After 29 years of living near Madison, we finally went for dinner last night. Everything was delicious- mocktail, bruschetta, both pasta dishes (mushroom truffle & sausage rigatoni), as well as the light, fluffy desserts (butterscotch pudding & cheesecake with rhubarb/strawberry compote). Super happy our waiter, James, sent us home with an extra baguette & recommended making French toast - which we did today! We’ll be back with friends and recommending to others!”
Beer Bar • $$
“We had an amazing meal here and the atmosphere for catching the game was perfect! Highly recommend Prost!”
American • $$
“Took my daughter to this 60’s inspired cocktail style restaurant, to celebrate her birthday. We both agree that the overall vibe was sensational. The staff was amazing with our waitress being kind and courteous, as well as prompt with service. The menu is rather eclectic with various options, so there is something for everyone. The design of the place is thoughtful with the music matching the vibe. I am excited to see what the future holds for Lola's!”
Bar • $$
“I’m perpetually impressed with the quality of food at Dextie’s. The staff is like family. Incredibly professional, personable, and friendly.”
Bar • $$
“Great selection and fun location! Love their diverse collection of pinball machines.”
Asian Fusion • $$
“not only amazing food, but amazing kind and attentive staff who went above and beyond. they were super friendly and sweet the entire time. i had a health issue occur in the middle of dinner (nothing to do with the food!!!) and all the staff came to check in on me, see if i was okay, and even gave me extra water, honey, and milk without me asking to help with what i was going through. they were so kind and caring without being invasive in any way and this made the biggest difference. it seemed like a close knit environment and i loved the energy. the food tasted really good as well. i highly recommend!!!”
American • $$
“My favorite go to when I’m in town! Drinks and eats are the best!”
Pubs • $$
“We attended a family birthday gathering of about 28 people. Check this place out! Friendly great service with awesome food menu & bar. I highly recommend!”
American • $$
“Delicious food, good drinks, and a great service. One of my favorite places for Sunday brunch. Highly recommend!”
Steak House • $$$$
“Had an simply amazing family dinner experience celebrating my mother's 90th birthday. The service was outstanding, the food was impeccable....from start to finish, 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩”
Fine Dining • $$$
“The venue itself is incredible, but the staff set it apart! Specifically, I worked with Jillian on a recent, relatively last-minute event and she absolutely pulled things together and made it happen. The Madison Club is lucky to have Jillian there!”
American • $$
“Ive been going to the Bonfyre for years and I really love the place. For the past year it has been infested with gnats or fruit flies or whatever they are. . You cant take a sip or a bite without waving them away. Its annoying as hell and gross. Its not a one time thing, I go there often and its not getting better. This afternoon I stopped in for a couple of beers and some calamari appetizer. I love their calamari! I used to, today I got a massive plate of breaded bread. And swatted flies away the entire time. I'm not giving up on Bonfyre but if they cant fix the bug problem soon I'm done. I stopped by Badger Tavern before going to Bonfyre, the parking lot was packed as was the entire street so went to Bonfyre. Bonfyre was pretty empty. The atmosphere at Bonfyre should and could be a 5 star...get rid of your bug problem!”
Barbecue • $$
“Small town feel in the big city. Super friendly atmosphere. The owner was so nice. The owner said he makes the andouille with his son, which also won us over! This place is a Gem!!! We will stop everytime we are in that area for sure!!!”
Ramen • $$
“Great food—we got the seaweed salad, pork buns, minced pork rice bowl, and lychee cocktail. Good service. We plan to come again :)”
Cocktail Bar • $$
“Really neat environment. It was welcoming and intimate despite being fairly large. There was plenty of seating and although noise carried moderately (it is a bar after all), it was easy enough to have a conversation. I appreciated the large amount of unique drinks and specialty mocktails. It’s always such a bummer to see only soda for N/A options, so this was a treat. It’s also cool that you can order sushi from Jacknife. We tried Dew My Honey (N/A) and Bonsoir Subaru. Definitely will try again!”
New American • $$
“Good drinks menu but the food was so-so. Flavors unremarkable. No information on the menu for those who are lactose or gluten intolerant which is easy to flag on menus these days. And the random delivery of small plates, which was to be expected, could have been a little bit more even for our table of four. And worth letting us know, when we order, which dishes might take quite a bit longer to prepare and deliver. Nice ambiance and good lighting. 3/5.”
Irish Pub • $$
“stopped in for the first time today for lunch. my husband had the fish special and I had the BLT wrap. Fantastic food and atmosphere. I would highly recommend and will be back again.”
Indian • $$
“An app found this place and checked the calories from my photo. The chicken curry had good protein and fit my daily goal perfectly. The dining room was quiet and simple.”
American • $$$$
“Incredible experience. The best version of Madison Fine Dining if there was one. Relaxed and non pretentious but the food is as good as you get. But be warned, come hungry. I eat a lot, and trust me, come hungry.”
Pizza • $$
“Hanging out with friends. We shared many things on the menu. Loved all of it!”
Chinese • $$
“The best food and vibes in Madison, no contest. Regulars here, and treated like family. Erin & Rita create the perfect at ease vibe in the dining area to compliment the mastery that goes on in the kitchen. (Erin went out of her way to return my forgotten wallet!) I really can't praise this place enough. If you're a recovering Midwestern pallet like me, Dan Dan & Ryans Chicken are the gateways to paradise. I can't have Dan Dan anywhere else now - if it's not Hutong, its not Dan Dan XD”
Italian • $$
“We have been to Nonno's at least 4 times in the past few years! This restaurant is the absolute best Italian food our family has ever had. The service is top notch! Our son Sean loves going here and always orders the Chicken Alfredo with lots and lots of cheese. I always order Spaghetti Bolognese which never disappoints!! Thank you to our waiter and the staff for your wonderful hospitality and service.”
French • $$$
“What an incredible experience! Everything from the drinks, food, service and atmosphere was amazing. We cannot wait to come back again. Gabe was an incredible server - personable, knowledgeable, funny, and had the best timing (he just knew when we needed another cocktail). I cannot recommend this place enough!”
Bar • $$
“Been to cask and ale multiple times over the past few years. Great atmosphere, great bartender with knowledge, and good vibes! Would reccomendation to have your unicorn pour”
Thai • $$
“Phil Rosenthal said he had Kao Soi when he was here in Madison last week. The daughter and I had some today at Monsoon Siam2 and it was everything delicious he promised it would be! Kao Soi—Egg noodles in Northern style yellow curry sauce, topped with crispy noodles, red onions, cilantro, scallions and napa pickled cabbage. Friendly, welcoming service. Love it - Try the Thai Table for 2!”
Chinese • $$
“Excellent food and hospitality! Been a favorite since I had my first taste in Middleton…”
Tex-Mex • $$
“We ordered take out from the Cottage Grove Rd location. Our food was hot and delicious! My phone call was answered by the owner himself and handled with courtesy. He accommodated by vegetarian diet with no issues.”
Chinese • $$
“We loved our meal at hot pot!!! Everything is explained so well and we all loved our meals. The portions were huge just fyi!!! We will definitely be back.”
Korean • $$
“This was seriously soo good! Very classic Korean place with fantastic flavor, good portions, and delicious banchan. I got the soondubu jjigae w kimchi and beef. Will definitely be back I’m glad I found it!”
Mediterranean • $$
“Food was amazing and service was excellent!! Fresh and authentic homemade food.”
American • $$
“We were visiting Madison for a business trip. Kelly at Morgan's shoes suggested we go here for oysters. We had the most amazing dinner, oysters on the half shell and wrapped it up with an unbelievably good coffee and date ice cream 😋 Our experience was so good we decided to go back a second night! Oysters and dinner were fantastic! Too full for dessert Such a beautiful location, great service and delicious food. Highly recommend 👌”
Steak House • $$$
“God was absolutely amazing! We will definitely be back!”
Pizza • $$
“Aweome vibe! Went to celebrate my friend's bday. Wine selection is pretty good. Never thought brussels sprouts would taste that good on pizza but guess what it slapped.
Wished they gave us a small bday dessert for my friend ☺”
Indonesian • $$
“All three dinners we ordered were phenomenal- best Thai fried rice I have ever tasted. Definitely worth a try when jn Madison! We ate it up too fast for pictures :)”
Fine Dining • $$$
“We had heard some mixed reviews but dinner last night was perfect! The food was all done exceptionally well and service was fantastic. First time and had a great time. Looking forward to coming back and trying some new things! Salmon and broccolini tasted perfect and my dining partner enjoyed their steak and mashed potatoes. Thank you for the wonderful meal and the servers for being so lovely.”
Peruvian • $$
“Ate at both the Downtown and the Middleton locations within the same week. Delicious food! The chicken was moist and the Chaufa rice was super delicious and filling! My wife loves getting the Purple Corn drink too. With such a huge menu, I think I’ll be trying something new next time for awhile!”
Wine Bar • $$
“This is a very cute wine bar with a great dog-friendly patio in back. Went on a quiet Saturday evening recently and was pleasantly surprised with the outdoor space and the attentive bartender. They will let you sample anything before buying, which is nice. I do wish they had snacks of some kind - potato chips or olives or crackers. Just something to nosh on with your wine. Yes, they do have a food truck on certain days and times but it's usually Thai or Mexican and just not the type of thing I would want with wine. I think you can bring in your own snacks, so maybe I will next time but I think they are missing an opportunity there. Be aware that it is almost entirely self service- you order at the bar and bring your own drinks to your table. You also bus your own table.”
Brewery • $$
“Great spot—friendly vibes and good beer! Zak hosts the best trivia night in town by a mile. 50+ original, well-crafted questions every time, it blows the typical league trivia out of the water.”
Bar & Grill • $$
“Great place for lunch or dinner. Always new specials & the staff is amazing.”
Pakistani • $$
“Some of the best food in town! We love the garlic naan, and always have at least one dish that blows us away. Friendly staff and great flavors. Would recommend to anyone in town!”
Japanese • $$
“Service was wonderful and food came out super fast! Plenty of options and food was very good!”
African • $$
“They just opened a new eatery at the world market in Madison, and it is wonderful! The owners were working when I went, and they are amazing at what they do! The jollof rice is so fluffy and comforting! When your eating it its like a warm hug! Highly recommend!! Also absolutely appreciate the owners thank you for all you do!!”
Bar & Grill • $$
“Food was yummy!! I got the tipsy burger. Really like the tipsy sauce! Cheese curds were good. Kids also liked their meals. Food comes quick!”
Laotian • $$
“My honey cashew chicken was phenomenal. I wish I could duplicate the sauce. The staff was excellent. My first time here and I would highly recommend.”
Cocktail Bar • $$
“One of the best meals I’ve had in a long time! My husband and I had a great date night. Fabulous meal, service and atmosphere.”
Mexican • $$
“I had the fajitas for lunch and it was a large serving and delicious. they even set them on fire at the table! Great service with a smile as well.”
Latest Reviews
Diner • $
“The Pumpkin Pancakes are THE BEST. Please keep them on the menu during the entire fall season. (September thru December)”
Steak House • $$
“This was the best most enjoyable experience I've ever had. There were no long waits, no bad food at all! I had the best steak ever. And the sweet potato...heaven. Going back for sure.”
Restaurant • $
“We had a very special time at Jason's Deli today. We invited some new friends to lunch. The food was delicious and the service, especially by Corneil, was exceptional. We had a very relaxing time and were able to have a good visit. We also ran into four other friends while there. You have two new fans of Jason's Deli”
Mexican • $
“Ordered my usual dine-in as a to-go tonight. There was a minor confusion on the staff's part...not sure why, the guy was fluent in English and Spanish. Anyway, it was quickly sorted out. The food was excellent, as always! Never hesitate to eat here, or get a to-go from here!!!”
Chinese • $
“December 3, 2024, I ate at World Buffet and was greeted when I came in, was taken to my table and brought me my beverage. The food was hot, delicious and well displayed. I very much enjoy the staff and will be going back.”
Bar & Grill • $
“My group of about 14 people came for the fish fryI I had the walleye deep fried with sweet potato fries. they were great the brandy old fashion which was all great. Service excellent. It was somewhat loud but bars a always loud”
Mexican • $
“Favorite local Mexican restaurant. Haven’t been disappointed since new owners took over.”
American • $$
“Ive been going to the Bonfyre for years and I really love the place. For the past year it has been infested with gnats or fruit flies or whatever they are. . You cant take a sip or a bite without waving them away. Its annoying as hell and gross. Its not a one time thing, I go there often and its not getting better. This afternoon I stopped in for a couple of beers and some calamari appetizer. I love their calamari! I used to, today I got a massive plate of breaded bread. And swatted flies away the entire time. I'm not giving up on Bonfyre but if they cant fix the bug problem soon I'm done. I stopped by Badger Tavern before going to Bonfyre, the parking lot was packed as was the entire street so went to Bonfyre. Bonfyre was pretty empty. The atmosphere at Bonfyre should and could be a 5 star...get rid of your bug problem!”
Coffee Shops • $
“Love going to Mercies. The soup, egg salad sandwiches and smoothies are the best! I buy True Coffee Roasters coffee beans for home.”
Restaurant
“Walking taco was worth it/ Almost enough for 2 folks to share. Nice you don't have to pay for a non alcoholic beverage, however not sure they have Milk if you want with meal. Some other items, such as Walleye dinners are Pricey $$$.”
Restaurant • $
“Food was great. They were so friendly. We are looking forward to the next time we are in town so we can try some more of the menu”
Restaurant • $
“Very, very impressed with our meals. Had the Pork belly which we had never had before any where and it was outstanding. Will see you again soon.”
Brewery • $
“Great place for good beer and good conversations!”
Most Popular Restaurants
Mediterranean • $
“Food is delicious- we are never disappointed!”
American • $$
“We always enjoy going to Dave and Busters. Our favorite games are there. The manager is very nice. It's a bit pricey but worth for a good date night!! The food is good!!! The drinks are good too!!”
American • $$$
“Great room, location was unmatched right on the water, and fun events!”
American • $$
“Absolutely loved the food choices. Everything was fantastic. The location was awesome and atmosphere was very fun.”
Barbeque • $$
“I was in there yesterday evening (7/29/2022) with my husband and father around 7 pm. Our waitress made a few mistakes in our service. But what meant something to me is that she apologized. She could easily have avoided us. Management had already stepped in. But she didn’t. It took courage to come back to us and say she was sorry. I probably didn’t show it at the time, but I really appreciated that. It showed a great deal of poise and courage.”
Steak House • $$
“Had a lady serve us,(Frankie) ,outstanding bubbly character who couldn't do enough to help, even offer a potential employment to our son who was there as a student looking for work. Good work Frankie (sorry, lost the contact details)”
Diner • $
“We were there for breakfast. It was absolutely delicious. Everything was done perfectly. As breakfast is our jam, this was one of the best. The staff was great also. Five stars plus!!”
Barbeque • $
“amazing food. awesome experience. they have the national anthem at noon everyday. it was a breath of fresh air”
Fast Food • $
“Staff were so welcoming, especially with my little girls! It was our first visit and the food and service were great! My daughter especially liked the lady with the red hair. Can definitely tell she enjoys her job.❤️”
Seafood • $$
“Muy rica la comida me gusto todo la verdad y la persona que nos atendió fue muy amable y muy atenta”
American • $
“Thee food was wonderful, service (Frankie) was second to none. very enjoyable lunch.”
New Restaurants
Laotian • $
“fine dining on Williamson St close to the bike path and all the vibrant nature of Williamson St”
Indian • $$
“Taj Indian Cuisine & Bar was a "breath of fresh air" in fine dining. The food was just absolutely delicious. The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable. The atmosphere was modern and fun. I highly recommend Taj Indian Cuisine & Bar for a wonderful meal!!!”
“Excellent pizza and friendly, fun, helpful staff. Ambiance in this place is top notch”
Asian Fusion • $$
“Haven promises to live up to it's name and rather more. In the midst of many, many new Asian restaurants on or near State Street, Haven stands out for having a warm, open, well-lit and tasteful atmosphere--including not only a few games but a well-chosen, literate bookshelf that welcomes you to linger. The tea selection finally brings us back to the long-lost day of Dobra tea, finally expanding the State Street area Asian dining experience beyond bag tea. The food is equal to these other successes. I had the braised beef noodle bowl. This was a generous, flavorful no-nonsense bowl with a goodly bone-n joint of beef in the midst of the other hearty chucks of meat. The broth and the noodles were up to the same generous, flavorful standard. I observed in passing that they seem to have the liquor selection they will need to fit in with State Street, though that isn't a reason why I stopped in. I will certainly be back.”
Chinese • $
“Fantastic food, some of the best asian I have had in a while, especially for the price. Greeted and served by the sweetest man, great service, you cant help but smile.”
Indian • $$
“This is our new favorite Indian restaurant in Madison. The food here is so delicious, and everyone is so friendly. Don't be deterred by the fact that it's in what used to be a fast-food building.”
Cocktail Bar • $$
“Thank you Michael and Brandon! First time at the Union Corners . We will definitely be back !”
Coffee Shops • $
“Been here 2 times and the owner is super nice and accommodating. The food is very unique and delicious!!! Will definitely come again. Pictured: Dubai chocolate cheesecake, Dubai chocolate cup, and biscoff cheesecake”
Colombian • $$
“El Pollo Rumbero is a fantastic spot for enjoying authentic Colombian cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere makes it perfect for gatherings with friends. Their menu boasts a delightful array of dishes that capture the rich flavors of Colombia. Don't miss out on their expertly crafted cocktails, which pair wonderfully with the food. Whether you're a fan of traditional Colombian dishes or looking to try something new, El Pollo Rumbero won't disappoint. Highly recommended for a memorable dining experience!”
Coffee Shops • $
“Staff was friendly and helpful in helping me decide what to order. I ended up getting the coconut cold brew with oat milk and it was incredible! I will be back!”
Asian Fusion • $$
“not only amazing food, but amazing kind and attentive staff who went above and beyond. they were super friendly and sweet the entire time. i had a health issue occur in the middle of dinner (nothing to do with the food!!!) and all the staff came to check in on me, see if i was okay, and even gave me extra water, honey, and milk without me asking to help with what i was going through. they were so kind and caring without being invasive in any way and this made the biggest difference. it seemed like a close knit environment and i loved the energy. the food tasted really good as well. i highly recommend!!!”
“First time visiting this amazing restaurant definitely not the last. Love the beautiful warm brick, lighting, everything. Perfect atmosphere. We planned to go out to eat for a nice meal before seeing Hamilton, but never imagined that the meal would eclipse the Broadway show! Everything from the bread and French onion soup to the amazing salmon and steak and appetizers was beyond outstanding. The service was wonderful. The other patrons were so kind and Everything was perfect.”