19 Best Dive Bars in Madison

“Our son just moved to Madison so we’re looking for local places to frequent, Slice’s is definitely on the list! Delicious food, friendly staff, good prices. Did the Friday fish fry and it was fantastic.“

“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!“

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

“Great Burgers“

“Really fun lil dive bar! Friendly bartender. Within walking distance of the Sylvee. ❤️“

“Service 5/5 solely for Gretchen.
Otherwise no stars.

Unfortunately this place has gone down hill bad after the change in ownership. No longer feels like a safe community bar. The people on a bar stool next to you are now judgmental and rude. Didn’t feel welcome.“

“I enjoy the overall square footage“

“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.“

“I was visiting friends someone was yelling there's a chili contest going on
The owner was so nice and helpful
There were like 12 outstanding chili's
What a great atmosphere 2 pool tables
Great crowd 2 large screen Tvs
Great job guy's. Ask for Brady“

“Came in a couple weekends ago with my son. The food was amazing. We both got the pull tab burgers and cheese curds, and would return to eat here again. Unfortunately, the service during our visit was poor. When we arrived, it was not full/busy, but it got busy shortly after we arrived. Despite sitting front and center at a hightop table, we received our sodas and then were ignored for about 20 mins. I asked twice, 2 different waitresses, in that time period to order. Both waitresses walked by us multiple times, and helped other/larger tables that arrived after us, first instead of us. I finally asked what looked like a manager if he could help me, and he didn't, but he got a 3rd waitress to help. My son and I intended to dine in, and also ordered 1 addtl order to-go. The kitchen brought all 3 orders out in stryofoam in a plastic bag, so my son and I ate from to-go containers at the table. Despite the fact that the service was annoying, I'd try again since the food was so good. Maybe it was an off day?“

“Neat little place. Under new owner ship as of this year 2026. It has gone through some revolutions. I'm looking forward to the space being collectively open to some staples and the community being open to some newness for the establishment. Today, Saturday, I tried the Nitro Espresso Martini- this batch is good. A bit like a drunken chocolate milk with coffee. Certainly not bad and totally a great combo , this batch just has a bit more chocolate notes. Tasty.
I tried the tacos, #42, Old boy, Natty ice. I'm not total spicy girl at the moment. The #42 was soooooo juicy it ran down my hands and the others were superb as well. They made it more cohesive and yummy. Ask for more napkins.
I tried the Classic Old Fashioned, it pre-bottled- a bit sweet for my taste. I needed some muddling of cherries and the option to make it less sweet, more lemon or club soda to make more sour. But i will just order it next time. No biggie.
I found this place about 8 yrs ago and I'm excited to support it's new evolution!“

“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“

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

“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“

“Best bar in madison!! :) cheaper food n drinks! And the air conditioner works! Plus right there“

“One of my Madison faves!!!“

“great food, great bar tenders, great atmosphere, great time every time I stop in! huge shout out to Kurt/Claire/Derrick/Linken/Marley for always knowing me by name and making every stop amazing!!!“

“Have been in here more than a time or two. First time having food here was tonight and it is something to write home about. Josh cooked us some well spiced chicken tenders and wings. House made garlic herb ranch is perfect for the fresh made pub chips!
Beer specials pretty much every night great pool table and occasionally there’s a golden retriever around! Definitely stop by and say “Hi” to Josh (bartender) and Legend (dog).“

“Cool divey little place. Went there after a concert at the Sylvee. Super friendly bartender. Whipped me up some late-night bar food. Kinda generic, but fresh and hot. Really hit the spot. Drinks were good. Hard to beat for a low key, late night spot like this. I'll be back next time.“