34 Best Cafes in Madison

“Marigold Kitchen is always on point. The customer service, quality of the food, and cleanliness of the interior is unmatched. Highly recommend!“

“One of my favorite foods is pastys, I was excited to learn about this place, otherwise you would find them normal in the u.p area of Wisconsin. All of the varieties are great! Had the chicken tikka masala one today, was awesome! I do like they wrap it in foil, because my 40min drive home it's still warm!“

“I love this place so much! It will definitely become a staple in my routine. The boba is amazing, you get huge portions, and the food is great. I love sitting and reading there!“

“Very friendly... great food... plus board games... perfect combination!!“

“Drinks were delicious first and foremost, worth stopping in to pick up even if you're not gonna partake. Very helpful staff. Nice space to hang out in & play the provided card & board games. Got some goodies to take home for later - haven't tried them yet because my drink was so strong!

Dietary restrictions: They have gluten free & vegan edibles“

“Amazing breakfast at an affordable cost! Our waitress was amazing and gave our 2 twins who accompanied us a small container of fruit loops to hold them over until their breakfast came. I thought that was the sweetest! super chill atmosphere and friendly staff! we will be back!“

“Donuts were fresh and tasy. fried chicken was the way fried chicken should be. very good.“

“My oat milk latte & cranberry pumpkin muffin was excellent! Such a unique and beautiful location. The service was great and having self serve sparkling water on tap was nice touch.

Dietary restrictions: Nice to have non dairy options such as oat milk.“

“This is a Mediterranean restaurant close to the zoo. The outdoor patio is spacious and well-equipped. Iros salad and panini with pesto were both delicious. The panini was especially good with the herb-studded bread. However, the strawberry smoothie was a bit disappointing. I was a little confused about its identity, as it sells African food and plays Cuban music inside, but it seems to make sense when you think of it as a zoo.“

“Delicious gluten free scones and breakfast sandwiches.“

“Awesome customer service.“

“I’ve been here about10x and have never been disappointed . Lots of yummy veganized options of classic meaty items“

“What a beautiful space that allows or deliciousness, teaching, and so much more around building local food relationships.“

“I come here for black coffee dark roast, that's it. No clue what they give me lol yet I keep coming back so...
Obvi apples to oranges, but first time in gave me a Weary Traveler feel; chill, cozy, comfy.
It's only like a block farther for me than Starbucks to further my coffee experience; no question I get them extra steps in every time.

Kid-friendliness: The best local spot for espresso shots for your kids before going to the Farmer's Market, capitol, or even the Children's Museum maybe.

Wheelchair accessibility: All good“

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

“First time Celiac visiting and oh my gosh.... best gf bakery I've had and there isn't a worry that I will get sick because it's a dedicated gf facility! Staff was super friendly and if it's your first visit, you even get a free sample of their fab chocolate. Will definitely be back!“

“Staff are super nice and friendly and the coffee is great.“

“They were happy to fill my own container from home with cold brew coffee, which was delicious. It was a cute space but my only real complaint was they seriously need to do some major dusting. A lot of the frames were caked in dust, and there were lots of cobwebs.“

“the beauty of the lake and the warm air. the food is amazing. never had a meal I didn't love. the service is wonderful and friendly. must try the sangria!“

“I've been a long time customer here (15+ years). Besides the beauty of mixing Gelato with espresso (order the Javalatto people), my favorite thing is the environment. I love seeing the long term staff, and the owner, who I've seen throughout my time as a customer. Most of all, I love that they ALWAYS make me happier, especially on days I'm having those rough mornings. I really try to go in on those days I know are gonna be long. Between my delicious caffeine boost, and their warm welcomes, they always start my morning off better. Thank-you to Renee and all of the Java Cat staff for the morning pick me ups.“

“Get the Bonfire Mocha seasonal latte iced. Delicious“

“I am here from out of town. I had a break between engagements and the weather required I go get a chai and just be still for a bit. The staff were so pleasant. My chai was perfect. I hung out in a comfy chair for a little over an hour and had to go back for another drink. I most definitely recommend. reasonable prices, great staff, and a lovely environment for studying, people watching out the window, or a grab and go.“

“We are dedicated Ancora fans. When we left the Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconsin area in 2020 we decided to continue our subscription via mail. We have yet to find a better cup anywhere!“

“Great spot - good wifi and nice atmosphere, great coffee drinks! Kid and family friendly, there were cute kids in there just playing a little while their parents chatted and enjoyed coffee. Good cafe to get some work done, that is why we were there, just wanted a not-too-quiet spot.“

“This is not the kind of place you go with a large group (we had 9 people). You order up at the counter and while our drinks came to the table quickly, our food came out one order at a time very slowly. It was like each of us had to eat one at a time which made for a really weird dining experience.

The food in general is very good and we are all leaving satisfied but yeah, not a great place for big groups if you are paying separately.“

“Poindexter Coffee is a great little spot for some Afternoon Joe. I came in to do some work and I was treated to a great Dirty Chai Latte. I was helped by Jake, who was extremely friendly and professional. I really enjoyed my experience and will be coming back regularly.“

“Great food but never opens on time, 6:30 if you're lucky“

“Love this place! Everything is so good. Bakery items, breakfast sandwiches, coffee etc are all amazing. Everything always comes out quick and hot. Great staff as well!“

“Jane's is a funky little cafe & bakery. Surrounded by art from local artists. Open only till 3 in the after noon it's mostly breakfast and lunch. Counter served multi-cuisine fare that's fresh and family friendly. Their signature scones and pasteries are to die for with flavors you won't see anywhere else. Also great for Vegans and Vegetarians.“

“Love Valentia!! Their coffee and avocado toast are my favorite!! ♥️“

“Absolutely delicious! Highly recommended.“