Rooftop patios. Cheeseburger Pizzas. 100% vegan donuts. American classics meet Jamaican flavors. Italian x Indian cuisine crossover.
Madison’s freshman class of restaurants brings fresh flavor inspiration from across the world, while also tugging on our Midwest heart strings. Rarely does a set of restaurants appeal to ~literally~ everyone, but we think these newcomers offer a little but of everything from A(tico) to Z(afferano Ristorante). These nine spots are sure to make many people’s lists of best places to eat in Madison, WI.
Ático Lounge
Located on the top floor of the Moxy Hotel you'll find Madison's newest rooftop restaurant, Ático. The Pasqual's Cantina and former Taberna Tacos & Tequila owner has done it again with this one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Latin American inspired cuisine paired with creatively crafted cocktails and a beautiful view of two of Madison's largest lakes, Mendota and Monona, plus a rooftop patio ... it doesn't get much better than this.
Pro Tip: Being just steps away from Breese Stevens Field and The Sylvee, Ático is a perfect place to grab drinks and a bite to eat before a special event.
What we’re excited to try:
Street tacos and a specialty margarita, of course!
Explore the menu here.
Alimentari
Though Alimentari is not new to Madison, its storefront has moved to over to the near west side on Monroe Street. This Italian deli offers delicious sandwiches served on fresh baked bread from Madison Sourdough, homemade pastas and all the charcuterie you could ask for. Peruse their market for fresh deli meat from around the world, Italian condiments and fresh pasta to go.
Pro Tip: Stop in to grab a sandwich for a picnic at Wingra Park.
What we’re excited to try:
Hot Italian beef sandwich
Find sandwiches and more here.
Fya Syde Kitchen
Fya Syde Kitchen has moved into the old Taberna Tacos & Tequila space on Monroe Street. The founder of the Fya Syde Kitchen brand grew up in rural Jamaica and is passionate about bringing Jamaican flavors and traditional recipes straight to the plate. Originally from the Wisconsin Dells, the restaurant has made its way to Madison's near west side.
Serving American classics like burgers and sandwiches with a Jamaican twist and Caribbean dishes like jerk chicken and ox tails, these one-of-a-kind dishes will make you want to come back for more.
Pro tip: Treat yourself to a refreshing tropical drink off their Fya Bar menu or a sweet dessert like fried ice cream.
What we’re excited to try:
Barb-B-FryChicken and a Fya Syde Jerk-A-Rita
Discover your favorite menu items here.
Level 5 Donuts
Locally made? Check. Baked fresh daily? Check. 100% vegan? Check! You've likely seen Level 5 donuts sold at festivals, events or in coffee shops throughout the city. Beginning in May, the bakery will have its first storefront in a shared space with Fortune Favors on Atwood Avenue.
Level 5 Donuts offers a variety of unique flavors, catering, custom donut boxes and though it's not a 100% gluten free facility, they have select gluten free donuts.
Pro Tip: Donuts are baked fresh every morning and available until sold out, so get 'em while they're hot!
What we are excited to try:
The Boston Dream (with chocolate glaze and a pastry cream filling)
Taste all the flavors here.
Mishqui Peruvian Bistro
This beloved Peruvian restaurant is making it's way downtown. Mishqui Peruvian's third location opened in the former Little Palace space on King Street. If you're searching for authentic Peruvian cuisine, look no further!
In their new location, breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served seven days a week with more gluten free and plant-based options.
Pro Tip: Treat yourself to their $20 three-course lunch special including an appetizer, main course and dessert of your choosing.
What we’re excited to try:
Peruvian Empanadas and the Mishqui Cappuccino Tres Leches Cake (we're a sucker for a sweet treat!)
Check out the menus here.
Molten Monkey Pizza
This new pizza restaurant on East Johnson Street has our mouths watering. Molten Monkey serves classic thick-cut Detroit-style pizza, layering premium toppings and cheeses to make warm, comforting and delicious pies.
This cozy pizza lounge offers carry-out, delivery and a small area if you're looking to dine in. Choose from their specialty pizzas or build your own and don't forget to try one of their starters or salads as an appetizer.
Pro tip: Keep Molten Monkey Pizza on your radar for a late night snack as pizza by the slice is coming soon!
What we’re excited to try:
Molten Stix and the Cheeseburger Pizza topped with dill pickles and ranch
Explore all the specialty pizzas here.
Orchard
The owners of the former Cider Farm Tasting Room have opened a brand new gastropub in Verona. Orchard combines elements of their old tasting room experience, prioritizing locally sourced and organic ciders with farm-to-table food dishes.
Orchard's outdoor patio will be feature live music on selects dates. With summer just around the corner, you're going to want to be out on this patio with good company and a fresh cider in hand.
Pro tip: Orchard sells products from some of your favorite local distilleries and breweries like State Line Distillery and Giant Jones Brewing Co.
What we’re excited to try:
Cheese curds (of course), Apple Pizza and a cider flight (duh)
Get all the menu inspiration here.
Taco Madre
The visionary behind the beloved A La Brasa brings his delicious Mexican cuisine to Madison's east side. Taco Madre is located in the former Daisy Cafe & Cupcakery space on Atwood Avenue and serves up Baji California tacos and more fresh Mexican flavors.
From the vibrant ambiance to warm homemade tortillas, this new east side restaurant is a must on our bucket list!
Pro Tip: Be sure to ask about their tamale options of the day.
What we’re excited to try:
Faijtas with fresh tortillas and queso dip (we're big fans of chips and queso!)
Discover new and favorite flavors here.
Zafferano Ristorante
Your next date night location awaits. Zafferano Ristorante is located in the heart of Fitchburg combining classic Italian dishes with the bold and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for handcrafted pastas and wood-fire pizza or curry and biryani dishes, the choices are endless.
The one-of-a-kind dining experience at Zafferano's makes it a great restaurant for date nights, gathering with family or celebrating a special occasion.
Pro Tip: With specialty cocktails and a curated wine selection, ask your server what would pair best with your meal of choice.
What we’re excited to try:
Butter Chicken Pizza or Masala Chicken Parmesan
Plan your next date night here.
