Madison

Glass Nickel Pizza

On the corner of Whitney Way and University Ave. A large menu to choose from including: pizza, salads, pasta, and numerous appetizers. The fetalicious is a Madison favorite.

Greenbush Bakery

Excellent doughnuts, which just happen to be kosher. Must try the cream filled doughnuts, and the apple fritters are literally big enough to feed the whole family.

Greenbush Bar

In a town of many great pizza places, this is one of the best thin-crispy-crust pizzas you'll find. It's in the basement of the Italian Workman's Club building in what was Greenbush, Madison's long-gone Italian district.

Harvest Restaurant

M-Th 5:30PM-close, F Sa 5PM-close. Next door to L'Etoile, it is nearly as good and more likely to offer a reservation on the same day.

Harvey House

Dinner and cocktails in this remodeled train depot and train car surely will not disappoint. The menu is comprised of modern takes on Wisconsin supper clubs with a 1920s-1940s aesthetic throughout the restaurant. It is highly recommended to get reservations more than a couple weeks in advance as reservations fill up quickly.

Tue-Thu 5-9PM, Fri Sat 4:30-9:30PM

Himal Chuli

Excellent Nepalese food, cozy atmosphere. Some of the most delicious food in Madison and you always feel good after you have eaten here because it is healthy as well. Try the momochas or anything else.

Ian's Pizza

And 115 State St. Campus favorite with a gourmet twist. Excellent New York-sized pizza by the slice, featuring old standards like pepperoni and new variations like mac and cheese (don't knock it until you've tried it — it's the top seller!), Black Bean Feta Avocado and Steak 'n' Fries. Daily and monthly specials served by the most charming staff in town.

L'Etoile

Open M-Th at 6PM, F at 5:30PM, Sa at 5PM. Nationally-acclaimed restaurant focusing on locally grown ingredients, often found at the Farmer's Market. While pricey, it is worth it. Make reservations in advance.

Madison Sourdough Bread Company

Breakfast and lunch are served until 2:30PM daily. Excellent, fresh sourdough bread can be found here. Try their baguette - artisanal bread at its best. It can be found at some local grocery stores, including Willy Street Co-op.

Mon-Sat 6:30AM-5PM, Sun 8AM-5PM

Mediterranean Cafe

This narrow room is a Madison gem and a favorite with the university crowd. Great Middle Eastern food, such as shawerma (similar to gyros) and felafel (fried chickpeas). Almost always busy, but it moves fast.

Mickies Dairy Bar

A classic diner close to the University, and right across from the football stadium. It has among the best shakes in town. If you think you can eat a lot, try the scrambler. It is cash only and is always packed full of people on game day.

Nam's Noodles

Excellent Chinese food close to the university. Their "Nam's Fried Rice" is outstanding. Sit-down or take-out, no delivery.

Samba Brazilian Grill

Just off of State Street, Samba delivers table-side meat service, in the churrascaria fashion, and a massive gourmet salad bar. Rather pricey for Madison, but it is all-you-can eat. Pace yourself and practice self-control!

$40

The Green Owl Cafe

Vegetarian cuisine created by chef/proprietor Jennie Capellaro.

Mon-Thu 11AM-9PM, Fri Sat 11AM-10PM, Sun 11AM-3PM·$5-12

Tornado Club Steak House

American-style steak house that also serves excellent cocktails. Not cheap, but offers late-night dining.

Umami Ramen & Dumpling Bar

Umami

Authentic Japanese ramen and Chinese dumplings, including pork buns and other Asian comfort foods. Vegetarian friendly.

Mon-Thu 5PM-10PM, Fri Sat 5PM-11PM, Sun 5-9PM·$7-15

Paul's Pel'meni

Delicious traditional Russian dumplings just off of State Street, within walking distance of UW-Madison campus and the Capitol. Filled with beef, or potato, or get a mix. Try it with "The Works" (curry powder, chili sauce, butter, sour cream, cilantro) for a fun twist.