Sandwiched between lakes Mendota and Monona, Madison is a city Midwesterners love. The vibe is fun and youthful, the people are friendly and the food and drink scene blends local products with international influence. While Wisconsin natives have learned to love their winter “quiet season,” visitors will find summer to be the ideal time to take advantage of this treasured city. I recently took a trip curated by locals — here’s where to eat and drink this summer to make the most of Madison.
Dane County Farmers’ Market: The Old Capitol Square in downtown Madison lights up with the colors of welcoming vendor tents filled with fresh produce and local foods. On a summer Saturday morning, it seems everyone in town is meandering the market. Look for beehive-wearing Dale Marsden of Marsden’s Pure Honey — he’s sold his honey (including wildflower, clover and goldenrod varieties) at the market for 38 years. While downtown, stop into The Old Fashioned, “Where Wisconsin is King,” for the No. 40 Grilled Cheese Sandwich and a selection of Old Fashioned cocktails and Wisconsin draft beers.
Betty Lou Cruises: If you are in town on a Friday, look into the Friday Seafood Cruise. This yacht ride glides around Lake Monona with a narrated view of the sites including Monona Terrace, the State Capitol, downtown Madison skyline and the homes and green space surrounding the lake. The best part: a seafood buffet featuring local producer Wollersheim Winery.
Eno Vino Downtown: First, check out the view from the ladies room (if possible) — the downtown vista is stunning at night. But the real attraction is wine list at this Wine Spectator Award of Excellence establishment. Don’t miss Merienda Hour, the Spanish version of a happy hour with nibbles and wines by the glass or make a reservation for the Wine and Tapas Tasting on Wednesday evenings.
The Terrace at Memorial Union, University of Wisconsin-Madison: When I spotted the iconic terrace chairs artist-made in miniature for sale at the Farmers’ Market, I knew they must be special. These sunburst-design chairs emerge every spring to celebrate summer with live music, conversation, food, drink and beautiful lake and campus views. Symbolic of “Wisconsin’s agricultural roots and evoking summer and fall”, these colorful chairs are a welcoming site for new students and returning alums and their guests.
New Glarus Brewing: Their motto is Only in Wisconsin, but beer drinkers across the Midwest love Spotted Cow and other New Glarus brews. Founders Daniel and Deb Carey say their philosophy is one of “individuality, cooperation and the employment of 100% natural ingredients”, and visitors experience this positive atmosphere in action during a self-guided tour that permits views of the working brewery and staff. New Glarus is actually 30 miles from Madison but worth the drive. While you are there, try the cheese fondue at Glarner Stube, an old-world restaurant packed with Swiss charm and excellent service.
Fresco Rooftop Restaurant and Lounge: Fresco rests above the city on the roof of the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art on State Street, where you can enjoy the view and the sculpture garden with your meal or glass of wine. Make a reservation on Fridays during the MMOCA Rooftop Cinema to experience independent films curated by the museum.
Around Madison: Look for two constant beacons: Bucky Badger, the official mascot of the University of Wisconsin–Madison and cheese curds. Larger-than-life sculptures of Bucky on Parade are scattered about town during summer 2018, each uniquely decorated and totally Instagram-friendly. Cheese curds are on every menu, no matter how fancy. Try a platter at each spot to discover the variety of seasonings and sauces that make each one a signature dish.
