9 Madison, WI restaurants you don’t want to miss

9 favorite new-ish restaurants to try now

Madison, Wisconsin keeps upping its food game! There are lots of new restaurants opening and the food offerings are diverse and delicious! I love to see what has emerged over the past year as local entrepreneurs continue to put Madison, WI on the map for food. Here are 9 new (and new-ish) restaurants you should try now, that have opened over the past few months. I hope you check them out!

Sultan

1054 Williamson St., Madison, WI 53703

This tipless restaurant showcases Punjabi and South Asian cuisine. Yes, tipless! What that means is that the menu prices reflect their commitment to fair wages and are comparable to a meal where you leave a tip. It was nice not to have to think about it. The food was delicious! Highlights for me were the murgh karahi– a flavorful stewed chicken and their naan. The beet and mango salad was light and refreshing. Great cocktails, too.  $15 lunch takeout options daily!

Lallande

1859 Monroe St,  Madison, WI 53711

Divine fine dining! Lallande’s website describes the cuisine as inspired by travels and family food traditions. To me it evoked France meets North Africa which is a combo I can live with! The menu is ‘vegetable forward ‘ and so fresh! We couldn’t get enough of the roasted eggplant punctuated with juicy pomegranate seeds or the braised carrots with pistachios and olives. The steak was tender and juicy and the fish was cooked in parchment, keeping it tender and full of flavor. Reservations recommended or grab a seat at the bar!

Jardin

829 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI 53703

Though Jardin has been around a while, Chef Juan just came on board a few months ago and the menu is divine! One hundred percent plant based menu inspired by global falvors. Vegan food that even non-vegans will like, and the most beautiful patio in Madison. Chef Juan cooks with seasonal ingredients, so the menu changes, however when I was there, the pasta with lobster mushrooms was superb as was teh coconut rice and fried tofu (paying homage to the chef’s Colombian roots. 

Willy Street Eats

1146 Williamson St., Madison, WI 53703

This comfort food restaurant in the spot that housed  Lao Laan Xang for years features the food from owner Cliff’s family recipes. Cliff moved here from Chicago in the 90’s to try to create opportunities for his family. He always loved the food his grandmother cooked and wanted to make her proud. The rib tips and jerk wings will do it! Absolutely delicious flavor and succulent texture. You can’t go wrong with a side of house made mac n cheese. The Friday fish fry is another winner and the dinner comes with three sides and corn bread. 

The Turn Key

1344 E Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53703

Another amazing opening in 2023! I love a space where the bar is as comfortable as the restaurant, and The Turn Key definitely offers that. With incredibly fresh food, delicious cocktails and fun menu presentation, this is a great spot for date night or any night. They even have a shuffleboard room! The charred carrots with macadamia chili butter alone make it worth it. Friday fish fry and Thursday date night specials will bring you back.

Seven Acre Dairy Co

6858 Paoli Rd, Belleville, WI 53508

An incredible farm to table experience or casual lunch awaits at this beautiful restored creamery in Paoli WI. This boutique hotel was recently opened in the stunning foundation of a historic creamery. The rooms are elegantly furnished with materials from the land. The food offerings are absolutely worth a visit alone and you don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy them. The Kitchen features the freshest seasonal ingredients and dishes that celebrate the region. Try the meatballs in a delicious broth or any of the fried fresh catch of the day. Stopping by in the morning? The fresh made biscuit sandwich with a fried egg and housemade sweet chili jam is a do not miss. Check their website for all the events happening!

Hotpot 608

2825 University Ave, Madison, WI 53705

Who doesn’t love hotpot? It’s a wonderful way to gather friends and family and cook your own meal – without the mess. Choose your broth, gather the ingredients and make a dipping sauce (the servers are happy to help with any questions and offer suggestions to make the dipping sauce). I love the spicy broth and the tender pieces of lamb, and the prawns with bok choy and mushrooms. It’s a fun and flavorful foodie experience.

The Deliciouser

731 E Main St #7, Madison, WI 53703

This event space opened in a historic factory building and offers classes, dinners and more! The Deliciouser team started making spice blends and now inspires you to use them by offering themed meals using their spices (that are open to the public). Sign up for a class or book out the venue for your event. The open concept kitchen is so fun, and Chef Patrick will make you feel right at home. Check out some upcoming events such as tomato themed dinners and a vegetarian brunch!

Jalisco

108 King St, Madison, WI 53703

Jalisco opened on King Street and has brought another level of Mexican cuisine to madison. Chef Gerardo hails from Guadalajara, Jalisco and cooks food from his family–in fact his mother makes the mole for the restaurant weekly! You’ll find dishes that aren’t on other Mexican restaurant menus such as Pibil and Queso fundido with chorizo as well as familiar staples such as carne asada tacos and chicken mole. Their cocktails are delicious, too or try the non-alcoholic agua fresca for delicious refreshment.

Want to learn more about the amazing food and history of Madison? Book a food tour with Madison Eats. Through diverse, neighborhood-focused food tours, you can connect with the Madison community and taste the best food the city has to offer.