20 Best Dive Bars near Monona

“A must stop location in Ingram, some of the best food and prices around! Great atmosphere with a great group of bartenders!“

“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!“

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

“I enjoy the overall square footage“

“Great Burgers“

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

“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.“

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

“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?“

“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“

“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“

“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.“

“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).“

“One of my Madison faves!!!“

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

“I love this bar! Unpretentious and occasionally uproarious, this is where you meet the real Waunakee. It may not be to everyone's taste but if you love a good Wisconsin tavern you have got to visit Ripp's! "Ripp's Bar, where the winners are!"“

“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!!!“

“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.“