50 Best Bars in Madison

“Where to begin…I truly would give this whole experience more than 5 stars if I could. It was my sister and I’s first time dining here and let’s just say it more than exceeded expectations in every way possible. The customer service was over the top incredible with Kennedy as our server and Jenna too. The manager, Emily, stopped by and was amazing as well. They were all professional, catering to us, and genuinely warm and kind. The food was fantastic and over the top. And the vibes were immaculate. Run, don’t walk to the Harvey House. I can promise you won’t regret it!“

“My ex boyfriend took me here for my birthday once and I fell in love with it. The king salmon and the chocolate babka are amazing! 10/10“

“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.“

“Our new favorite spot in Madison for a good kick of spice from the octopus and Calabrian chiles on the arugula ricotta pizza. The pizza is light and thin. We also enjoyed the beef carpaccio. But for me, the highlight was the ginger cake. Freshly baked (warm on the inside) with whipped cream and pistachios. Flavors are spot on, not too sweet, not too spicy, just right. We also had the risotto which was delicious and comforting - also perfectly cooked al dente.“

“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.“

“Our favorite spot before Badger games. Friendly staff and great atmosphere!“

“The bartenders are very friendly and professional, the drinks are great and the prices good“

“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.“

“I had the lunch enchiladas and they were the best I’ve had in a while! True authentic Mexican flavor and style!“

“This place is a true hidden gem! Doesn't look like much from the outside, but walking in - holy cow! Give your eyes a moment to adjust because it is very dark, which makes it hard to see the tigers, and there are tigers everywhere! I had a few beers and got great friendly service from Alyssa and Teddy - awesome bartenders! I saw them make a few fancy drinks that looked delicious, but I had to head out. If you are looking for a bar that is unique, this is a MUST STOP!“

“Hidden gem for private parties in Madison. Amazing, friendly & helpful staff, clean & visually interesting atmosphere. We had a blast! Thank you!“

“I love the Mason, been going there for years. Love how basically nothing has changed, always great beer on tap, liquor selection and you have the option to order food from Falbos and enjoy it with an amazing beer that has been carefully catered. Everytime I have a chance to go out and enjoy a relaxing and refreshing experience I go to the Mason, shout out to Matt!“

“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“

“I’m perpetually impressed with the quality of food at Dextie’s. The staff is like family. Incredibly professional, personable, and friendly.“

“This European style tavern is a classic throw back.
The bar itself has some of the best local, national and international beers served in town. And served in proper glassware.
The back bar is stocked with a wide and varied selection of high quality whiskies and spirits.
There is something here for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to meet up with folks or are seeking a drink while reading your current book, this place is for you.
Kudos to the team for bringing this to Madison and keeping it alive!“

“how can you go wrong, awesome menu, lovely bartenders & great cooks... I'd be surprised if you have a bad thing to say here“

“the People there were so friendly and easy to talk to service was spot on! summer sausage sandwich was so good. variety of sandwiches and burger to chose from we'll be back“

“What do I recommend? EVERYTHING!“

“I enjoy the overall square footage“

“Great selection and fun location! Love their diverse collection of pinball machines.“

“great space, terrific staff“

“The best burgers! Just a great old bar.“

“We Decided to try today while out on a motorcycle ride. We Arrived and walked in and were immediately greeted by staff. The atmosphere was nice and friendly. The staff was friendly. We ordered our drinks and food. We got the Prime Rib Sandwich with onion rings and the Philly Cheesesteak sandwich with fries. Both of the sandwiches were amazing. Very tasty and juicy upon first bite to the Last bite with the right amount of meat and vegetables/mushrooms with it. The fries were just right...not to crispy. The onion rings were a tad overdone and really crispy. Overall the food and drinks were 10/10. We will be back.“

“Fun suprise. The Diablo corn was fantastic. Also grabbed an order of the brisket nachos. Also really good. Was not able to finish the nachos. All while having a frosty beverage from the tap. Going to stop again really soon. Sat out on the sidewalk at a table. Side Street was not overly busy and was shaded.“

“Came for St. Patrick's Day specials. Did not disappoint. Highly recommend. Delicious corned beef special. Very friendly staff. Great service. Convenient location.“

“Best food around! There isn't a better burger in town! Don't get me started on the shrimp - to die for!“

“Sara was great!
They let you sample as many as you would like.
I love the idea of beer without hops!
The beer was amazing. Great flavor and Great after taste!

Beef sticks and cheese was just enough!
I am a farm and would love, some how,
to be a part of a brewery like this.“

“Best place to watch Packer football! Once they get to know you, u r one of the ‘family’ ! Always willing to accommodate !“

“Great neighborhood bar and atmosphere!“

“This is become the go to Bluegrass bar in Madison, with live music almost every night. Positive atmosphere, affordable drinks, really friendly bartenders, and an incredible vibe. It’s a default go to before high noon saloon or other places, lucky to have it as a gathering spot in Madison.“

“Laid back, comfortable, welcoming.“

“Kelly carried her hospitality above and beyond. I have never been here before and she was sure to engage in detailed conversation while giving exceptional service. Matt was also an amazing man to meet and sociable with our group!! Definitely recommend visiting for a quick drink or a good while! :)“

“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.“

“Hopped by after happy hour margaritas & tacos across the street. This spot was an awesome no-frills bar. They’ve got a private room in the back, two pool tables. Juke box, pull tabs, tv on for football games (the lions were playing so I was tuned in). Beer on draft and also cans. Bartender was easy-going. The only pic I took was in the bathroom stall, haha. There’s a male bathroom and a female bathroom.“

“I'm not much for the downtown thing but this little place was awesome last night. Super rad bartenders with great stories :) Also, I got pretty drunk, which is cool.“

“Always a fun place to go. Love the atmosphere and staff.“

“Was a great time will go back for sure“

“it was great😎 i just love relax on this place“

“! Not a big menu but the burgers were Great!1st time there! We would eat there again“

“Very cool place if you like calm, and not crowded. The bartender was very nice. The people (aka guest) very nice. Small bit enjoyable. A place for awesome communication, worth partying in small groups, or alone. Rather than party scenes that are over crowded, ect“

“It’s an amazing place to celebrate.“

“Plaza burgers are the best! The plaza sauce and the pickles are what make them so tasty! A downtown Madison must stop.“

“Great room, location was unmatched right on the water, and fun events!“

“Best bar in Madison! Drinks are cheap and good, bartenders are so nice and helpful, and bouncers are hilarious. Music is good typically. Bathrooms are comparable to most college bar bathrooms— nothing to write home about but it’ll get the job done. Come in for a good time!“

“Great food! Stopped after a college tour. Friendly staff!“

“Plaza burgers are the best! The plaza sauce and the pickles are what make them so tasty! A downtown Madison must stop.“

“Probably my fave Madison bar. Snap pea gin cocktail was baller, thanks. Also had either a diamondback or jersey lightning, cant remember what was on their menu.

Personaable, fun, classic. Bar manager cares about what they're doing. Refreshing.“

“Who DOESN’T love Paradise- what’s your favorite Paradise over the years! I bet no matter what is that you might choose there was also a favorite island Bar there! OK, maybe this year you can’t go to some far away fabulous paradise Island but that’s OK because look right here in Madison is the next best thing! The Paradise Lounge is an absolute great dive bar. That is just wonderful great bartenders - and inviting atmosphere and great conversation“

“One of my Madison faves!!!“