Explore the food and drink scene in Madison

Explore the food and drink scene in Madison

Madison, Wisconsin, is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, with an array of restaurants, bars, breweries, and distilleries to explore. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, here are some tips for experiencing the best of Madison’s food and drink scene.

Take a food tour

One of the best ways to explore the food scene in Madison is to take a food tour. Several local companies offer guided tours that take visitors to some of the city’s best restaurants, breweries, and markets. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the city and the local food culture.

Visit the farmers’ market

The Dane County Farmers’ Market is one of the largest and most popular farmers’ markets in the country, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in local food. The market is held on Saturdays from April through November, and on Wednesdays from May through October. Visitors can browse hundreds of vendors selling fresh produce, cheese, baked goods, and more.

Try the cheese curds

Wisconsin is known for its cheese, and Madison is no exception. One of the most iconic Wisconsin foods is cheese curds, which are bite-sized nuggets of fresh cheese. Many local restaurants serve up their own version of cheese curds, so be sure to try some during your visit.

Explore the breweries

Madison has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries that offer tours and tastings. Some of the most popular breweries include Ale Asylum, Karben4 Brewing, and Capital Brewery. Many of these breweries also have on-site restaurants, so visitors can enjoy a meal along with their beer.

Sample the spirits

In addition to beer, Madison is also home to several distilleries that produce a variety of spirits, including whiskey, gin, and vodka. Visitors can take tours of the distilleries and sample the products. Some of the most popular distilleries include Old Sugar Distillery and Yahara Bay Distillers.

Dine at a supper club

Supper clubs are a Wisconsin tradition, and Madison has several iconic supper clubs that offer classic Wisconsin cuisine, such as fried fish, prime rib, and brandy old-fashioneds. Some of the most popular supper clubs include The Old Fashioned and Toby’s Supper Club.

Check out the food halls

Madison is home to several food halls, which offer a variety of food and drink options in a single location. The most popular food halls include The Heights, which features several local vendors, and The Madison Public Market, which is set to open in 2021 and will showcase local food and drink vendors.

In conclusion, exploring the food and drink scene in Madison is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city. From cheese curds to craft beer to supper clubs, there’s something for everyone. Visitors can take a food tour, visit the farmers’ market, or simply explore the local restaurants and bars. With so much to see and taste, the food and drink scene in Madison is a destination that should not be missed.