50 Best Bars in Madison

The Harvey House Bar • $$$
644 W Washington Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Superior Walleye with Horseradish Sabayon
Chicken Liver Mousse Dine in: Yes
Smoked Kielbasa in a Blanket
Oreo Dark Chocolate Pudding
Baked Potato with the Works
Peaches and Cream Pavlova
Cider Brined Pork Chop
Double Chocolate Tart
Chicken Liver Mousse
True Eye of the Rib

“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!“

4.8 Superb293 Reviews
L'Etoile Restaurant Fine Dining
1 S Pinckney St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Wine Pairing
Duck Confit
Duck Breast
Doughnuts
Ravioli
Sorbet
Halibut

“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“

4.8 Superb53 Reviews
Mint Mark New American • $$
1874 E Washington Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Brandy Old Fashioned Sweet
Egg Benedict and Fries
Biscuits and Gravy
Preserved Mushrooms
Mint Mark Burger
Brussels Sprouts
Cauliflower Salad
Friday Fish Fry
Skillet Cookie
Bread Pudding

“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.“

4.3 Superb175 Reviews
Grampa's Pizzeria Pizza • $$
1374 Williamson St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Tomato Sauce Pork Confit Gorgonzola Dolcina
Barberini Pizza with Arugula and Honey
Goomba with Pork Confit
Sticky Ginger Cake
Roasted Vegetables
Fresh Mozzarella
Pepperoni Pizza
Finocchio Pizza
Brassacre Pizza
Jabroni Pizza

“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.“

4.2 Good95 Reviews
Aftershock Classic Arcade Bar • $
1444 E Washington Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Soft Pretzel

“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.“

4.8 Superb88 Reviews
Tempest Oyster Bar Bar • $$$
120 E Wilson St Suite 3, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Fried Oysters not Available Friday Saturday
All Oysters on the Half Shell
Flourless Chocolate Cake
Shrimp Scallops & Grits
Shrimp or Oyster PO'Boy
Oysters Rockefeller
Whole Red Snapper
Broiled Asparagus
Shrimp Cocktail
Lobster Bisque

“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.“

4.6 Superb214 Reviews
Cordial Bar • $
516 S Park St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Maple Pecans 4

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

4.9 Superb42 Reviews
Garth's Brew Bar Bar • $
1726 Monroe St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Sausage Pizza
Jumbo Pretzel

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

4.9 Superb41 Reviews
Camp Cantina Bar • $
1503 Monroe St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Camarones A la Mexicana
Guajillo Braised Pork
Enchiladas Verdes
Quesabirria Tacos
Chips and Salsa
Tres Leches
Guacamole
Al Pastor
Carnitas
Burrito

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

4.6 Superb84 Reviews
Le Tigre Lounge Bar • $
1328 S Midvale Blvd, Madison

“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!“

4.7 Superb46 Reviews
I/O Arcade Bar Bar • $
924 Williamson St, Madison

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

4.5 Superb128 Reviews
Tiny's Tap House Bar • $
308 S Paterson St, Madison

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

5 Superb21 Reviews
Mason Lounge Bar • $
416 S Park St, Madison

“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!“

4.8 Superb29 Reviews
Cask & Ale Bar • $
212 State St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Woodford Reserve Double Oak

“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“

4.7 Superb35 Reviews
Eagle Crest Bar Bar • $
3710 Co Rd T, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Mushroom Swiss Burger with Bacon
Biscuits and Gravy
Bacon Cheeseburger
Eggs Benedict
1 lb Burger
Taco's

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

4.7 Superb32 Reviews
Village Bar Bar • $
3801 Mineral Point Rd, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Brickburger and French Fries
Cheeseburger and Fries
Muenster Burger
Summer Sausage
Brick Burger
Liver Sausage
Hamburger
Hot Dog
Chips
Brat

“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“

4.5 Superb79 Reviews
Pitcher's Pub Bar • $
323 W Beltline Hwy, Madison

Customers` Favorites

1 3 lb Fresh Ground Chuck Steak Burger
Seasoned Potato Wedges
Breaded Fish Fillet
The Classic Burger
Breaded Mushrooms
Cheddar Rounds
Cowboy Bites
French Fries
Mini Tacos
French Dip

“Just want to start by saying the service at Pitcher Pub is phenomenal! From the drinks to the food and everything in between. Some of the best bar food and drinks in the Madison area! The prices are amazing compared to a lot of bars in the area. The thing that puts this bar at the top of the list for me wasn’t just the great food and bartenders but the bouncers! I would normally never consider what bar I’m going to based off of the bouncers. But Pitchers bouncers go above and beyond. The bouncer offering to walk me to my car at bar time. I was walking out alone and he walked out behind me and said let me walk you to your car. He didn’t come all the way to my car he stayed an appropriate distance for me to feel safe and waited till I was in my car to walk back into the bar. It’s not often you can leave a bar at bar time alone as a woman and feel safe.“

4.5 Superb71 Reviews
Up North Bar • $
150 S Blair St, Madison

“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.“

4.7 Superb27 Reviews
Muskellounge and Sporting Club Bar • $
4102 Monona Dr, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Soft Pretzel & Mustard
Lunch Box
Coleslaw
PB&J

“What do I recommend? EVERYTHING!“

4.5 Superb59 Reviews
Players Sports Bar & Grill Bar • $
2013 Winnebago St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Cheeseburger with Onion Rings
Pork Belly Burger of the Week
Cheeseburger with Fries
Fried Shrimp Basket
Blue Cheese Burger
Bacon Blue Burger
Big Daddy Burger
Chicken Wings
Cheese Curds
Baja Burger

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

4.5 Superb57 Reviews
The Coopers Tavern Bar • $$
20 W Mifflin St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Sliders and Cheese Curds
Pork Belly Mac and Cheese
Fig & Prosciutto Salad
Beer Cheese Pretzel
Fried Cheese Curds
Kimchi Smash Burger
Reuben Sandwich
Turkey Sandwich
Fish and Chips
Grilled Cheese

“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.“

4.4 Superb150 Reviews
Busse's Markway Tavern Inc Bar • $
2005 N Sherman Ave, Madison

“Great neighborhood bar and atmosphere!“

4.6 Superb30 Reviews
THE MALT HOUSE Bar • $
2609 E Washington Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Eagle Rare 10 Yr Single Barrel
Four Roses

“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!“

4.8 Superb17 Reviews
Bennett's Meadowood Country Club Bar • $
2009 Freeport Rd, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Biscuits Gravy & Hash Browns
Smut Muffin & Plate of Bacon
Biscuits & Gravy w Sausage
Side of Bacon or Sausage
Bacon and Swiss Burger
Bacon Cheeseburger
3 Egg Breakfast
Steak & Eggs
Patty Melt

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

4.6 Superb28 Reviews
The Biergarten at Olbrich Park Bar • $
3527 Atwood Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Chaos Pattern from 3 Sheep & Olbrich Oktoberfest from One Barrel Brewing
Large Pretzel with Beer Cheese Dip
Curd Girl Cheese Curds
Mini Brats
Craft Beer
Pretzels

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

4.5 Superb42 Reviews
MoMo BarNGrill Bar • $
6402 Millpond Rd, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza 12 Inch
House Special Burger with Fries
Southwest Chicken Eggrolls
Momo Dumplings Chicken 4pc
Chicken Wings with Fries
Grilled Chicken Wrap
Chicken Caesar Wrap
Chicken Quesadillas
Prime Rib Sandwich
Fried Green Beans

“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.“

4.4 Superb95 Reviews
Drackenbergs Cigar Bar Bar • $
605 N Sherman Ave, Madison

“Laid back, comfortable, welcoming.“

4.9 Superb12 Reviews
Dexter's Pub Bar • $
301 North St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Perch Fish Fry with Garlic Chili Fries
Stuffed Grilled Cheese
Garlic Chile Fries
Prime Rib Dinner
The Vegan Burger
Fried Cod Dinner
Fish and Chips
Caesar Salad
Hush Puppies
Waffle Fries

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

4.4 Superb88 Reviews
Come Back In Bar • $
508 E Wilson St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Crabcake and Spinach Benedict
Biscuits and Gravy
Huevos Rancheros
Parmesan Fries
Pretzels & Dips
Jumbo Pretzel
Cheese Curds
1 Tacos
Reuben
Cod

“Staff were super friendly. Food was very very good. Trivia night was fun. Enjoyed atmosphere. Owners are doing it right. Will be back next time in town.“

4.4 Superb72 Reviews
Ohio Tavern Bar • $
224 Ohio Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

House Made Salsas
House Street Corn
Tamale and a Taco
Street Tacos
Islander
Scorcher
Belmont
Ceviche
Bar

“A classic Madison watering hole with yummy tacos! Some of the standards but I always prefer their more interesting concoctions, like a recent curry chicken taco w/amazing mango chutney!
It's on a side street, so the sidewalk patio is relatively quiet & gets nice shade in the afternoon.
I don't actually drink booze, so cannot comment on that aspect. 😋“

4.4 Superb52 Reviews
Woody & Anne's Bar • $
2236 Winnebago St, Madison
4.7 Superb13 Reviews
The Plaza Tavern Bar • $
319 N Henry St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Plazaburger with Cheese Fries Brandy Old Fashioned Sweet
Plaza Burger and Cheddar Muchers
Deep Fried Mushrooms
Plaza Krabby Patty
Burgers and Fries
Peppermint Shots
Grilled Cheese
Chicken Salad
French Fries
Ham Sandwich

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

4.4 Superb51 Reviews
Oz by Oz Bar • $
113 King St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Honey Coffee

“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.“

4.4 Superb46 Reviews
Club Lamark Bar • $
1525 N Stoughton Rd, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Toast Scrambled Eggs Hashbrowns and Sausage Links
Bacon Lettuce & Tomato
Cream Cheese Poppers
Bacon Cheeseburger
Tater Tot Munchers
Breaded Mushrooms
Toast&Hashbrowns
Friday Fish Fry
Grilled Cheese
Pickle Burger

“Great bartenders & awesome food!!!“

4.4 Superb38 Reviews
The Dive Inn Bar • $
521 Cottage Grove Rd, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Summer Home Blonde Ale from Third Space
Modelo Negra
Frozen Pizza

“I enjoy the overall square footage“

4.5 Superb19 Reviews
Argus BarGrille Bar • $
123 E Main St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Cheese Curds

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

4.4 Superb29 Reviews
Take 5 Lounge Bar • $
7825 Big Sky Dr, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Wisconsin Cheese Curds
Deluxe Grilled Cheese
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
Funnel Cake Sticks
Mozzarella Sticks
Turkey Bacon Wrap
BBQ Bacon Smash
Boneless Wings
Fries

“Be cognizant of what you order. You can still get regular mixers and beers for a reasonable price (pshhh they even have deals sometimes). The food is actually very good, just pricey for what it is, but it's a frickin' movie theater what do you want?Treat it like you would any bar and tip well. These guys work hard. :)

Parking: Lots of.

Wheelchair accessibility: Yes.“

4.5 Superb13 Reviews
Licari's Bar & Grill Bar • $
1405 Emil St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Cheeseburger and Cheese Curds
Bacon Blue Cheeseburger with Fries
Fried Walleye with Onion Rings
Blue Bacon Cheeseburger
Pull Tab Popper Burger
BBQ Bacon Cheese Burger
lg Season Curly Fries
Mushroom Swiss Burger
Fish and Chips
Fried Mushrooms

“Great atmosphere, Amazing food, and John & Cindy & Family are breath of fresh air in a corporate world these days!! Highly Recommend!“

4.3 Superb67 Reviews
Bar Corallini Italian • $$
2004 Atwood Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Pepperoni and Pickled Pepper Pizza
Rigatoni Alla Bolognese
Pappardelle Bolognese
Grilled Eggplant Pizza
Soppressata Pizza
Eggplant Fritters
Mushroom Risotto
Margherita Pizza
Pizza Prosciutto
Chicken Piccata

“Always amazing here. Food , atmosphere, staff, and great cocktails to boot.“

4.8 Superb292 Reviews
Crystal Corner Bar Bar • $
1302 Williamson St, Madison

“One of my Madison faves!!!“

4.3 Superb56 Reviews
41

Gib's

Gib's Bar • $
1380 Williamson St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Bruschetta
Pizza

“Vibes was good and the bartender/owner(?) was super personable and knowledgeable!
I tried their Married with Children drink (a new drink) and it was very refreshing. There is also an upstairs that you can reserve for private events.
I can see myself hanging out here with my friends and having a fun chat! Definitely check this place out!“

4.3 Superb41 Reviews
Chief's Tavern Bar • $
300 Cottage Grove Rd, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Pilsner

“Was a great time will go back for sure“

4.3 Superb23 Reviews
The Icehouse Bar • $$$
1001 Wisconsin Ave, Madison

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

4 Good1 Reviews
Jerry's Place Bar • $
601 N Fair Oaks Ave, Madison

“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“

4.2 Good17 Reviews
45

Wando's

Wando's Bar • $$
602 University Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

White Cheese Curds

“The fish bowls here are awesome. It's literally a fishbowl filled with whatever beverage (booze) of your choice. Ideally, I would suggest you split it amongst a group of friends.

I came here twice, once for lunch where I got the fishbowl alongside a pretty tasty fried chicken sandwich. A second time later in the evening where it's more of a college bar. Both times I enjoyed my experience. 5 stars!“

4.2 Good22 Reviews
Paradise Lounge Bar • $
119 W Main St, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Paradise Burger and Cheese Curds
Mac\u0026 Cheese Bites
Chicken Strips
Wings & Fries
Onion Rings

“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“

4.2 Good32 Reviews
47

The HUB

The HUB Bar • $$
706 John Nolen Dr, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Ultimate Grilled Cheese
Beer Battered Curds
Fries

“It’s an amazing place to celebrate.“

4 Good5 Reviews
Turn Key Supper Club Bar • $$
1344 E Washington Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Party Time Relish Tray
Devils on Horseback
Breakfast Sandwich
Crispy Lake Trout
Turn Key Gnocchi
Charred Carrots
Cheese Curds
Smash Burger
Fettuccine
Fish Fry

“good place, good drinks, good food, great atmosphere!“

4.2 Good150 Reviews
Church Key Bar • $
626 University Ave, Madison

“Best place to work and enjoy the Madison music scene for a long time. Used to really enjoy the folks that I worked with and of course the occasional after hour parties all around Madison, you never knew who you’d bump into! Afternoons playing euchre at Bob and Genes then later bartending at one of the three levels of fun at the Church Key- What a life:)“

3.7 Good3 Reviews
Ideal Bar Bar • $
1968 Atwood Ave, Madison

Customers` Favorites

Fish and Chips
Caesar Salad

“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.“

4.1 Good21 Reviews

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