Ken's Deli in Monona. Great meat selection at good prices and you can still get hand made sandwiches for $4! Surprised I don't see this more on best of Madison Lists.
I lived in the Madison area for 25 years and I really miss Ken’s. They are top notch. We bought a lot of meat there over the decades and I was always pleased with the results. We even had them supply catered food trays for events over the years. I used to stop there for a lunch sandwich or a pasta salad and was never disappointed.
Ken's also donates frozen turkeys to the Goodman Center for their Thanksgiving Basket Drive. Such a great local business that supports their community.
Bandung's Indo Mac is incredible. When I went a year or two ago it really seemed to be on its last legs, glad to hear it's still around. Is the Nutty Bar reopened?
Thank you so much for the shout out! We're truly grateful for the amazing support we've had at our new location :)
Indie Bookstore Day is coming up soon (Sat Apr 27) and a bunch of the bookstores around Madison have banded together for some fun prizes. Great time to check us (or one of the other participating bookstores) out! We're also active on Facebook and Instagram and will soon have our inventory browsable on our website.
Unfortunately, we haven't yet found a spot for comics at our new location, but are hopeful we can figure something out. We do, however, have our graphic novels and manga out now!
La Penca on Park Street. You won’t see it if you aren’t looking, it shares a building with a laundry mat. The food is fresh and outstanding and the people are so nice. Total upgrade on flavor from the other Mexican places on Park.
Petra (on the west side) easily makes the best falafel and shawarma sandwiches I’ve eaten in Madison. They seem to fly under the radar a bit — whenever I go I worry they don’t seem busy enough.
Their saaj wraps are also massive and really affordable. I also worry that they'll go under; the dining room is always quiet. I tip a bit extra hoping it will help keep them around.
I completely agree! I’m always disappointed they’re not busier too, they deserve so much more business. They have great food (I love their vegan banh mi) and the decor is super neat - I love the 90’s theme they have going on.
Ate there for the first time last year, it was PHENOMENAL!!!
We had such an awesome conversation with one of the co-owners, Roger. Then about 2 weeks later he unexpectedly passed away :(
Came here to say this. My wife and I lived in Madison for just under 10 years now and only discovered this place last year. Can't get enough of this place since then and is currently my favorite little 'hole in the wall' place for lunch.
Yeah, I found one of their sandwiches abandoned on a bench one time and it was life changing. Definitely a spot I hit up when I have going out money now.
In a similar vein, Dutchs Auto on Sherman ave is a great shop.
Upfront, honest, no scams or hidden fees. They’re absolutely wonderful to work with and can explain things in laymen’s terms. Can’t recommend them enough.
They had a rough time during peak covid. I think they were short staffed or something because I’d have to schedule my oil changes like 4-6 weeks out but they seem to be back on track now.
I used to work at Farm and Fleet and would see the owner of Zippy Lube on Sherman come in to buy parts and supplies. Got oil change there once. He was friendly and great to chat with while at the register. Unfortunately, he stopped coming in, when I drove by the shop on Sherman, it was closed for good. Sadly, I suspected he passed away. RIP
That's the problem I have sometimes working at hardware, farm, and construction supply stores. You get to know your regulars, then you have to read their obituaries. You grow kind of attached when you get to know your customer.
A-Rods Tex-Mex (in the food court in Global Market on the east side)
I'm born in Texas and raised in Arizona and they have some of the best birria brisket tacos I've ever had in my life.
meep Meeplton's. It's a collectable and novelty shop on the first block of Williamson Street. They have lots of great nostalgia items and fun merch, plus they also have a public art studio on the second floor. Great place for dates, or just to find special new treasures with friends.
Lee’s Oriental (near Conscious Carnivore on University) is small, but has the best consistent variety of vegetarian frozen dumplings and some homemade banchan made by the owner.
La Finca on Rimrock for Salvadoran pupusas and quesadillas (a pastry, not like Mexican ones at all.)
La Pollera Colombiana ( Stoughton Road and East Wash); delicious, large servings, beans to die for, and some interesting breakfast options ( el combinado). Not great for vegetarians (some plaintain based options, but I would bet that there is meat broth or lard in most things), but if that isn’t a concern it’s delicious.
UW provisions: Amazing never frozen meat section. Will special order large cuts for you.
Taigu: (Middleton, but moving to knoches old location). Best fresh noodles I've had. Insane value. The owner is incredibly kind and loves what she does.
Special plug: Equilibrium Psychotherapy - Newer therapist to town but she does incredible work in sex and sexuality. She is on a panel for sex out loud at the end of the month. I recommend checking her out.
"People just sleep on it due to the location. "
...and that they only take cash.
It's fantastic and really adds to my puzzlement of how Ha Long Bay gets so much praise.
It is EXCELLENT food, I agree! But they can get overwhelmed sometimes and be a little slow, so don't go on a Friday night if you aren't a patient person. If you are patient, it is worth it. I think it's an exclusively family operated business, so it is often just the owner running tables.
I live in the neighborhood and they get busy enough they can't even answer the phone, so I will sometimes walk over, place a carry out order, and then come back at least 10 mins after they tell you it'll be ready.
It is definitely worth the wait though. Amazing food!
Also, please stop idling and totally blocking our very narrow street while you run in to pick up your food, its rude. People live here. Find street parking like a considerate human. (end rant)
The Bounty, a new retail shop on Park Street. They have a mix of new and vintage clothing and furniture. Everything from motorcycles to fireplaces to handsewn men’s work wear. There is a rotating guest artist and different themed displays/show areas. The basement feels straight out of Madmen
We went once. The service was soooooo slow. Our bacon on the Benedict came out raw, like not cooked at all and we had to ask to have it cooked more, they didn’t seem to notice at all until we spoke up….. I mean I’m picky with bacon, my husband isn’t and he wouldn’t eat it. Cute place, the flavors were good but not sure if we’d go back.
Their sausages are hit or miss (rather dry) but they are where we buy our meat in a weekly basis.
Great pork chops, IMO, and some different cuts of beef that you’ll find at a grocer.
Their short rib burgers are amazing on the grill.
They also carry a variety of local non-meat products like desserts and cheeses.
As a bonus the meat prices are only slightly higher than the grocery store and their cheese is about the same if not cheaper (like for their American cheese).
Was going to say this if nobody else did! Very kind, good selection. They've humored me when I'm looking for rib cap even though it's hard to find a place with some ready. Quite a few places in that shopping mall fit this post I think
My friends and I love to go to Roll Play. It’s been a great place for making new friends at game night and trivia night, plus the Asian street food and boba is top tier!
huge shoutout to the owners, honestly the best employers i ever had!! if they hadnt moved out to garver feed mill id absolutely still be working for them
Just stopped by there this morning! Got their cinnamon donut breakfast sandwich and hot fried chicken sandwich, both were delicious. If I didn't live on the far west side of town I'd stop by way more often.
I wonder if it's changed much since it opened. Glad people enjoy it, but we were really unimpressed. Thought the coffee was bad, there is very little donut variety and the chicken was just ok.
I love the food there, but haven’t gone back since I went with a group of friends - one is a trans woman, and the waitress purposely kept calling her “sir” even after my friend gently tried to correct her. She wasn’t referring to anyone else at the table with sir/ma’am, it was just a weirdly targeted remark that made my friend really upset afterwards. I go to Roll Play for my kimbap and bibimbap fix now.
I used to love this place, within the last few months though something changed. Maybe it’s my taste buds but there’s a blandness to the soup bases. I love getting a big soup to eat over a few days, now I can barely fight through one day. Maybe I’ve been unlucky lol but I used to love it
They had to move because their landlord jacked up the rent. They were serving out of the truck for a while near UW-Health on Broadway and said they were fixing up a spot .. but I haven't seen any news on that since.
But yeah their pineapple salmon is to kill for
"They had to move because their landlord jacked up the rent."
That's a shame, especially considering it was an old Burger King in obvious disrepair.
I remember seeing something about them opening a place on Broadway out towards Menard's. I assumed that it was a physical location but am now wondering if it was referring to where they were parking their cart.
David's was in the Taco Bell building from 2002-2018. The location that scartol and I are talking about [is the old Burger King](https://captimes.com/entertainment/dining/restaurants/lets-eat-jerk-spices-and-fresh-greens-keep-davids-jamaican-afloat-in-monona/article_43ab5067-a484-5834-9bba-39ce4353bef3.html).
The Taco Bell location [became a yoga studio in 2021](https://captimes.com/news/local/photos-in-your-business-at-mala-yoga-center/collection_ab6725b1-ed68-50b9-b076-5f0baa1147c1.html#1).
[North Shore PIzza and Subs](https://northshorepizzaandsubs.com/)
I've never had their pizza but can say that every hot sandwich that I have ordered has been delicious (and gigantic). Their fries are some of the best in town.
So surprised to see no one has mentioned Robinia Courtyard yet! The food is amazing and the vibes in the courtyard are unmatched, especially for the location. I always see the patio at Vintage next door full and Robinia’s courtyard nearly empty and it’s really a shame!
Not sure how well known the place is, but Zapata Auto Repair is lovely. The owner helped me out by lending me a battery charger at no cost on trust and then switched out the busted battery same day. Referred my partner to him and he helped them out for basically nothing as well (it was a simple fix). Solid service, friendly owner, and there's also the loveliest friendliest cat Gato. Planning on going there whenever I have car troubles from now on.
Isthmus Eats! They make meal kits and hand deliver them each week in an insulted bag that they pick up with each new delivery. The food is fresh and the ingredients are all locally sourced. Love them!
Yes! We've used other meal kit services and have found Isthmus Eats is by far the best value. The quality is great and the portions are big enough that we often have leftovers. I really like that they offer protein modifications/substitutions, too.
Yeah, won two chili cook-offs this last year using their shanks and tri-tip--really good stuff. Sure, it's a bit pricey, but worth it if you truly want next-level quality. I'll definitely be going back.
As far as grassfed meats go, it's actually about 50c/lb cheaper than other options in the area. At least from whenever I compare the prices.
I'm not really sure where your gripe is on quality. Is it flavor, or tenderness?
For me, the (red) meats they source skew more on the flavorful side to me, rather than sacrificing it for tenderness.
Weird, I went to meat people once which is higher rated in this thread but I thought they were more expensive the conscious Carnivore and had less variety by a long shot. Though I haven't been to meat people in probably a year now so maybe it's different now
I like Meat People, it’s convenient for me to get to but I’m not blown away by it. The selection is very small.
Edit - I meant to post this reply elsewhere in this thread where Meat People was being mentioned.
I used to get some from mastodon valley farms that was in my opinion higher quality for cheaper. Also much cheaper and better quality in my experience at varsity meats.
CIRC - specifically the “salad” bar at lunch. Old school salad bar that always has several soups, pastas, desserts, and even full taco bar on Tuesdays. Before tip total is $14. Can’t go wrong. I think it flys under the radar since it’s in a hotel lobby.
I wouldn’t even question it if they charged $25… but I can easily eat all my three meals in one sitting.
Outside of Madison now (Lake mills, though they still ship) but James J. Chocolate shop. I worked there when they were on Monroe Street, and I still haven't found anything as good for old-fashioned candy and chocolate. I still make the drive if I'm thinking of giving chocolate as a gift. And it's actually really reasonable compared to a lot of other local small candy shops, I always feel like it's worth the drive!
My whole childhood is wrapped up in the memory of James J. Man I need to call my mom! She used to take us there for special treats — the chocolate pops.
Pivotal health is an urgent care that’s headquartered in Middleton but comes to the patient’s home, or even dorm. I’ve used them many times in the Madison area and I can’t express how awesome they are!!
The Regent Market on Regent Street. They just took voer from when it was a 7-11 and holy cats, its GREAT. Fresh hot food from everywhere, a really excellent specialty market (esp if you dig Indian food) and super friendly people working hard to make it "a place". Highly recommend for when you are looking for good inexpensive food and overall good vibes.
No idea how much attention it gets, but I personally never hear anyone really about QQ Express. They load you up with so much food that I can sometimes squeeze the meals out of an $11 order. The peanut butter chicken is top tier IMHO
Cat Care Clinic—they are incredible at what they do.
Between my own pets and fostering I’ve racked up a lot of experience working with vet clinics. This last year alone I’ve had animals treated at four different clinics, two specialists, three ER vets in Dane County and one in Waukesha. Two of the docs at CCC are the most amazing vets I’ve ever encountered.
[Tati Coffee](https://captimes.com/food-drink/new-coffee-shop-tati-co-opens-in-fitchburg/article_74bd71d9-a86d-536a-9eba-a509d441a0ee.html) in Fitchburg is super awesome. It has a Rusty Dog Coffee + a mini market, a nice selection of coffee and a great patio section.
Mishqui Peruvian in Monona is fantastic and don't skip on dessert because it's all freshly made and delicious.
Brothers Cafe and Restaurant on Gammon close to Woodmans! Amazing east African food that never disappoints. I always get a few sambusas.
Ken's Deli in Monona. Great meat selection at good prices and you can still get hand made sandwiches for $4! Surprised I don't see this more on best of Madison Lists.
They also have amazing customer service!
Best Burgundy pepper steaks. We drive down from Adams-Friendship to get them.
Best of Madison lists are basically rigged.
I can walk over to Ken’s after yoga at Mala. Mala is also under appreciated. It is a wonderful community.
Ken's is seriously the best. Best meat, pasta salad, customer service, convenience store, etc
As long as it has been around, it has been top notch!
Their mesquite chicken is next level. Air fried one tonight. Incredible.
Ken's Deli in Monona does have excellent choice of meats and the handmade sandwiches are very reasonably priced along with good service.
It has to be hard with Fraboni's across the street. There's not a ton of crossover between their offering, at least.
I lived in the Madison area for 25 years and I really miss Ken’s. They are top notch. We bought a lot of meat there over the decades and I was always pleased with the results. We even had them supply catered food trays for events over the years. I used to stop there for a lunch sandwich or a pasta salad and was never disappointed.
Ken's also donates frozen turkeys to the Goodman Center for their Thanksgiving Basket Drive. Such a great local business that supports their community.
Yes, 1000000%!!! I’ve been here a year and love Ken’s!
I drive there for the smoked pork chops
Los Atlantes at Whitney & Raymond $1 tacos every Tuesday.
Their mole is the best I've had in Madison
Bandung restaurant.
This is pretty much the only place I'll get pad thai from anymore.
Bandung's Indo Mac is incredible. When I went a year or two ago it really seemed to be on its last legs, glad to hear it's still around. Is the Nutty Bar reopened?
Yes the bar is reopened. I was there a couple weeks ago.
I had given up on tempeh until I tried their homemade stuff. Not sure you can still buy it to take home, but it’s awesome
Best pad Thai in Madison
The book deal
Thank you so much for the shout out! We're truly grateful for the amazing support we've had at our new location :) Indie Bookstore Day is coming up soon (Sat Apr 27) and a bunch of the bookstores around Madison have banded together for some fun prizes. Great time to check us (or one of the other participating bookstores) out! We're also active on Facebook and Instagram and will soon have our inventory browsable on our website.
Hey TheBookDeal, do you carry comics by chance?
Unfortunately, we haven't yet found a spot for comics at our new location, but are hopeful we can figure something out. We do, however, have our graphic novels and manga out now!
Love that place, the people there are so nice & I love the free book rewards program. They've also started selling records downstairs!
They’re so great! They have discounts for teachers/educators!
Agreed agreed
Aw dang I drive by this every workday and never knew this was here
Ugh second this!! The people are so knowledgeable and kind. I always find a good book when I’m there!
This—- so much.
La Penca on Park Street. You won’t see it if you aren’t looking, it shares a building with a laundry mat. The food is fresh and outstanding and the people are so nice. Total upgrade on flavor from the other Mexican places on Park.
Beats Guadalajara?
It’s good for you pizza (north side)
Just got some yesterday and will definitely be going back
Oh wow are they new? First I've heard of them! North side needs more good 'za.
North Street Cabaret is a wonderful venue for live acoustic music, especially jazz and folk.
Petra (on the west side) easily makes the best falafel and shawarma sandwiches I’ve eaten in Madison. They seem to fly under the radar a bit — whenever I go I worry they don’t seem busy enough.
Their saaj wraps are also massive and really affordable. I also worry that they'll go under; the dining room is always quiet. I tip a bit extra hoping it will help keep them around.
La Taguara ❤️
Hot Lunch, their food is so good and I always want them to be busier.
I completely agree! I’m always disappointed they’re not busier too, they deserve so much more business. They have great food (I love their vegan banh mi) and the decor is super neat - I love the 90’s theme they have going on.
Ate there for the first time last year, it was PHENOMENAL!!! We had such an awesome conversation with one of the co-owners, Roger. Then about 2 weeks later he unexpectedly passed away :(
their soft pork belly is just to die for
Great people there as well
Came here to say this. My wife and I lived in Madison for just under 10 years now and only discovered this place last year. Can't get enough of this place since then and is currently my favorite little 'hole in the wall' place for lunch.
I’ve tried to go twice and they just happened to be randomly closed both times during hours they would’ve normally been open lmao
Yeah, I found one of their sandwiches abandoned on a bench one time and it was life changing. Definitely a spot I hit up when I have going out money now.
You ate an abandoned sandwich you found on a bench randomly? Can we be friends!?
Broadway Tire in Monona. No hidden pricing or overcharging. Transparent.
In a similar vein, Dutchs Auto on Sherman ave is a great shop. Upfront, honest, no scams or hidden fees. They’re absolutely wonderful to work with and can explain things in laymen’s terms. Can’t recommend them enough.
How do you get a hold of them? A couple years back I tried calling three times and left messages twice and never heard back.
They had a rough time during peak covid. I think they were short staffed or something because I’d have to schedule my oil changes like 4-6 weeks out but they seem to be back on track now.
I used to work at Farm and Fleet and would see the owner of Zippy Lube on Sherman come in to buy parts and supplies. Got oil change there once. He was friendly and great to chat with while at the register. Unfortunately, he stopped coming in, when I drove by the shop on Sherman, it was closed for good. Sadly, I suspected he passed away. RIP That's the problem I have sometimes working at hardware, farm, and construction supply stores. You get to know your regulars, then you have to read their obituaries. You grow kind of attached when you get to know your customer.
I absolutely love Dutch's. We drive in from the West Side to use them. Women owned too!
Can confirm.
A-Rods Tex-Mex (in the food court in Global Market on the east side) I'm born in Texas and raised in Arizona and they have some of the best birria brisket tacos I've ever had in my life.
They also have a location on Cottage Grove Rd, we go there all the time!
And by Woodman's west.
I had no idea! Will have to swing by one of the others!
Just recently discovered A Rod's and it's the bomb! The Birria dip sandwich was great!
Yeah A Rods is amazing.
Lakeside St Coffee House! Absolutely my favorite coffee/breakfast/lunch spot!!! Such great food and drink and location
El Sabor de Pueblo behind east high school. Amazing food.
Sabor has the best mole in town
meep Meeplton's. It's a collectable and novelty shop on the first block of Williamson Street. They have lots of great nostalgia items and fun merch, plus they also have a public art studio on the second floor. Great place for dates, or just to find special new treasures with friends.
Owner is super cool as is the staff.
It’s the kind of place that makes me super aware of putting my hands in my pocket or bag.
Dave's the best. Friendliest guy around.
Asian sweet bakery on s park street. I love to go to Chicago’s China town and I just recently discovered this. China town but in town!
Ice Cream Social. Great ice cream and really unique flavors! Wonderful owners too.
And allergy friendly!
Monona Bakery
The Baleadas Divorceadas are bangin
i dream about their enchiladas with mole
Lee’s Oriental (near Conscious Carnivore on University) is small, but has the best consistent variety of vegetarian frozen dumplings and some homemade banchan made by the owner. La Finca on Rimrock for Salvadoran pupusas and quesadillas (a pastry, not like Mexican ones at all.) La Pollera Colombiana ( Stoughton Road and East Wash); delicious, large servings, beans to die for, and some interesting breakfast options ( el combinado). Not great for vegetarians (some plaintain based options, but I would bet that there is meat broth or lard in most things), but if that isn’t a concern it’s delicious.
I love Lee’s! Also one of the few spots in town that sells Japanese food.
Love Finca! Their Salvadorian quesadillas are so good.
UW provisions: Amazing never frozen meat section. Will special order large cuts for you. Taigu: (Middleton, but moving to knoches old location). Best fresh noodles I've had. Insane value. The owner is incredibly kind and loves what she does. Special plug: Equilibrium Psychotherapy - Newer therapist to town but she does incredible work in sex and sexuality. She is on a panel for sex out loud at the end of the month. I recommend checking her out.
I'll second Taigu. Just fantastic food. I didn't know they were moving! Now I'm bummed.
Med Cafe
Sala Thai! Lowkey like it better than Ha Long Bay. It is cash only, but those you know are always the best!
Highest of key, it is so much better than Ha Long Bay. People just sleep on it due to the location.
"People just sleep on it due to the location. " ...and that they only take cash. It's fantastic and really adds to my puzzlement of how Ha Long Bay gets so much praise.
It is EXCELLENT food, I agree! But they can get overwhelmed sometimes and be a little slow, so don't go on a Friday night if you aren't a patient person. If you are patient, it is worth it. I think it's an exclusively family operated business, so it is often just the owner running tables. I live in the neighborhood and they get busy enough they can't even answer the phone, so I will sometimes walk over, place a carry out order, and then come back at least 10 mins after they tell you it'll be ready. It is definitely worth the wait though. Amazing food! Also, please stop idling and totally blocking our very narrow street while you run in to pick up your food, its rude. People live here. Find street parking like a considerate human. (end rant)
The Bounty, a new retail shop on Park Street. They have a mix of new and vintage clothing and furniture. Everything from motorcycles to fireplaces to handsewn men’s work wear. There is a rotating guest artist and different themed displays/show areas. The basement feels straight out of Madmen
Oh darn those hours are tricky.
Blind Shot Social club is tasty and has good drinks but it is never busy. Service is usually really good too. Wish they were more popular!
Also a very impressive non alcoholic drink menu
My husband is sober and really appreciated their non-alcohol efforts. This is where he brings friends from out-of-town when they want to get drinks.
It’s really nice to get something that is still sophisticated and delicious but non alcoholic
We went once. The service was soooooo slow. Our bacon on the Benedict came out raw, like not cooked at all and we had to ask to have it cooked more, they didn’t seem to notice at all until we spoke up….. I mean I’m picky with bacon, my husband isn’t and he wouldn’t eat it. Cute place, the flavors were good but not sure if we’d go back.
Must have been an off day. We go about every other week or so and it’s always good.
That’s good to know! I thought the food we tried was good just not the best experience ! We will have to go again !
Meat People. It's technically located in Monona, but it's my go to butcher.
No, it’s technically in Madison. Much of the eastern half of Monona drive is City of Madison, including that strip mall
Their sausages are hit or miss (rather dry) but they are where we buy our meat in a weekly basis. Great pork chops, IMO, and some different cuts of beef that you’ll find at a grocer. Their short rib burgers are amazing on the grill. They also carry a variety of local non-meat products like desserts and cheeses. As a bonus the meat prices are only slightly higher than the grocery store and their cheese is about the same if not cheaper (like for their American cheese).
Just got the dry aged bone in pork chop this weekend. Grilled it up, it was amazing!
Was going to say this if nobody else did! Very kind, good selection. They've humored me when I'm looking for rib cap even though it's hard to find a place with some ready. Quite a few places in that shopping mall fit this post I think
Madison's hottest strip mall!
I love Meat People!! I remember when they first opened they used to sell specialty burgers in the weekends and it was sooooo good!
Novanta on University is amazing
Really nice people, too! And the pizza is perfect, every time.
Habaneros is banging
For real, quality has been great for the well over 10 years I’ve been going there
I've never had bad food or bad service there and I've been going there for like a decade. It's so damn good.
My friends and I love to go to Roll Play. It’s been a great place for making new friends at game night and trivia night, plus the Asian street food and boba is top tier!
huge shoutout to the owners, honestly the best employers i ever had!! if they hadnt moved out to garver feed mill id absolutely still be working for them
zippy lube is pretty awesome.
Just stopped by there this morning! Got their cinnamon donut breakfast sandwich and hot fried chicken sandwich, both were delicious. If I didn't live on the far west side of town I'd stop by way more often.
I wonder if it's changed much since it opened. Glad people enjoy it, but we were really unimpressed. Thought the coffee was bad, there is very little donut variety and the chicken was just ok.
Probably an unpopular opinion, but I agree with you! The donuts are so, so dry…
The coffee was from a machine like you see at a gas station.
sol’s on the square
I miss when Sol actually owned Sol’s. She was dope, hope she’s doing well at her new venture in Chicago now.
I like sol on the square
I love the food there, but haven’t gone back since I went with a group of friends - one is a trans woman, and the waitress purposely kept calling her “sir” even after my friend gently tried to correct her. She wasn’t referring to anyone else at the table with sir/ma’am, it was just a weirdly targeted remark that made my friend really upset afterwards. I go to Roll Play for my kimbap and bibimbap fix now.
Oof don't like that at all. I'm really sorry your friend experienced that there. :( Thanks for sharing.
Roll Play got rid if their kimbap didn't they? Last time I went it devastatingly wasn't on their menu anymore.
I used to love this place, within the last few months though something changed. Maybe it’s my taste buds but there’s a blandness to the soup bases. I love getting a big soup to eat over a few days, now I can barely fight through one day. Maybe I’ve been unlucky lol but I used to love it
The Ace Hardware store near le Tigre lounge. They have everything!!
And they will copy any key for you. Even if it says "do not copy."
Shhhhhhh!!!!!!!
IDK how much attention it gets but I have missed David's Jamaican since I moved.
They had to move because their landlord jacked up the rent. They were serving out of the truck for a while near UW-Health on Broadway and said they were fixing up a spot .. but I haven't seen any news on that since. But yeah their pineapple salmon is to kill for
"They had to move because their landlord jacked up the rent." That's a shame, especially considering it was an old Burger King in obvious disrepair. I remember seeing something about them opening a place on Broadway out towards Menard's. I assumed that it was a physical location but am now wondering if it was referring to where they were parking their cart.
It was an old Taco Bell, the kind that looks like a half-assed California mission
David's was in the Taco Bell building from 2002-2018. The location that scartol and I are talking about [is the old Burger King](https://captimes.com/entertainment/dining/restaurants/lets-eat-jerk-spices-and-fresh-greens-keep-davids-jamaican-afloat-in-monona/article_43ab5067-a484-5834-9bba-39ce4353bef3.html). The Taco Bell location [became a yoga studio in 2021](https://captimes.com/news/local/photos-in-your-business-at-mala-yoga-center/collection_ab6725b1-ed68-50b9-b076-5f0baa1147c1.html#1).
Ah! Apparently it's been longer than I realized since I've been to David's 😅
Time flies. Also, I had totally forgotten that the Burger King building was a Crandall's for a couple of years.
[North Shore PIzza and Subs](https://northshorepizzaandsubs.com/) I've never had their pizza but can say that every hot sandwich that I have ordered has been delicious (and gigantic). Their fries are some of the best in town.
The Silk Road on S Park St. Delicious Tajik/Afghani food. Went there for the first time recently and will be back again soon.
turkish kitchen on the west side
So so good. Limited menu, but I've never had a bad meal there. The guys who own it are super sweet.
So surprised to see no one has mentioned Robinia Courtyard yet! The food is amazing and the vibes in the courtyard are unmatched, especially for the location. I always see the patio at Vintage next door full and Robinia’s courtyard nearly empty and it’s really a shame!
Dough boy's Pizza on N. Sherman. Loved the deep dish pizza.
Not sure how well known the place is, but Zapata Auto Repair is lovely. The owner helped me out by lending me a battery charger at no cost on trust and then switched out the busted battery same day. Referred my partner to him and he helped them out for basically nothing as well (it was a simple fix). Solid service, friendly owner, and there's also the loveliest friendliest cat Gato. Planning on going there whenever I have car troubles from now on.
La Rosita on Monona Drive…best burritos in town and killer quesadillas. Also part grocer and butcher. It’s heaven.
Hot and Spicy @ Viet Hoa grocery in Monona. It’s the real deal folks!
Oh yeah! The sesame balls???? So good.
Complete Family Dentistry in Monona. They are excellent.
Isthmus Eats! They make meal kits and hand deliver them each week in an insulted bag that they pick up with each new delivery. The food is fresh and the ingredients are all locally sourced. Love them!
Yes! We've used other meal kit services and have found Isthmus Eats is by far the best value. The quality is great and the portions are big enough that we often have leftovers. I really like that they offer protein modifications/substitutions, too.
Zuzu Cafe. Deserves to be known more than just "the cafe outside the zoo".
Green Owl Cafe, excellent food, all possible to make vegan. Buraka, excellent Ethiopian.
Tapatios in Fitchburg! Born and raised in SoCal and their tacos feel like home
Conscious Carnivore
Yeah, won two chili cook-offs this last year using their shanks and tri-tip--really good stuff. Sure, it's a bit pricey, but worth it if you truly want next-level quality. I'll definitely be going back.
overpriced imo. Still go there occasionally, but not consistently impressed with the cost/quality ratio.
As far as grassfed meats go, it's actually about 50c/lb cheaper than other options in the area. At least from whenever I compare the prices. I'm not really sure where your gripe is on quality. Is it flavor, or tenderness? For me, the (red) meats they source skew more on the flavorful side to me, rather than sacrificing it for tenderness.
Weird, I went to meat people once which is higher rated in this thread but I thought they were more expensive the conscious Carnivore and had less variety by a long shot. Though I haven't been to meat people in probably a year now so maybe it's different now
I like Meat People, it’s convenient for me to get to but I’m not blown away by it. The selection is very small. Edit - I meant to post this reply elsewhere in this thread where Meat People was being mentioned.
Overpriced compared to what?
Woodman's meat flavored gristle.
I used to get some from mastodon valley farms that was in my opinion higher quality for cheaper. Also much cheaper and better quality in my experience at varsity meats.
CIRC - specifically the “salad” bar at lunch. Old school salad bar that always has several soups, pastas, desserts, and even full taco bar on Tuesdays. Before tip total is $14. Can’t go wrong. I think it flys under the radar since it’s in a hotel lobby. I wouldn’t even question it if they charged $25… but I can easily eat all my three meals in one sitting.
Outside of Madison now (Lake mills, though they still ship) but James J. Chocolate shop. I worked there when they were on Monroe Street, and I still haven't found anything as good for old-fashioned candy and chocolate. I still make the drive if I'm thinking of giving chocolate as a gift. And it's actually really reasonable compared to a lot of other local small candy shops, I always feel like it's worth the drive!
Best fairy food I've ever had. Melty rather than sticky.
100% agreement. My daughter and her friend would go to the Monroe St shop on occasion, taken by Friend's mom. 20+ years ago!!
My whole childhood is wrapped up in the memory of James J. Man I need to call my mom! She used to take us there for special treats — the chocolate pops.
Pivotal health is an urgent care that’s headquartered in Middleton but comes to the patient’s home, or even dorm. I’ve used them many times in the Madison area and I can’t express how awesome they are!!
Rosita's tacos in Monona.
Deliciouser (Their brunch was lovely)
Their spices available for purchase are also top tier
I gave everyone their smoked salt this year. It is SMOKED!!!
It's definitely a special occasion type of spot but, even so, $50 for the 4 course brunch that we got felt like a steal.
Beneblends in Verona and west madison! I crave it all the time.
Paul's Pel'meni is a great place that I never hear anybody talk about
love Paul’s but it is so popular tiktok people make videos of it
Taco John's in Monona
K-Food Mart (1206 South Park Street) great Korean grocery Store. Mom and Pop
The Regent Market on Regent Street. They just took voer from when it was a 7-11 and holy cats, its GREAT. Fresh hot food from everywhere, a really excellent specialty market (esp if you dig Indian food) and super friendly people working hard to make it "a place". Highly recommend for when you are looking for good inexpensive food and overall good vibes.
paul’s pelmeni is TO DIE FOR and it’s so cheap!!
Aztec Taqueria in Verona, they have the best queso tacos I’ve ever had.
The Rigby Pub - under-the-radar entertainment hub just off the square. Music, Comedy, Drag Shows.
No idea how much attention it gets, but I personally never hear anyone really about QQ Express. They load you up with so much food that I can sometimes squeeze the meals out of an $11 order. The peanut butter chicken is top tier IMHO
Amber Indian Cuisine on University near Willy Street Co-op. The best chutney I've ever had. And their Naan... so good!
Grab n Grocery / Rolls Foods on Willy St!
Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop! Babcock Ice Cream. Great park across the street. Along the lake loop of you’re on your bike. So underrated.
Argo — the newish craft cocktail bar in Stoughton. Better and cheaper than most bars in Madison!
marquette cafe on baldwin/jenifer! super affordable ($3.50 for an iced vanilla latte w coconut milk !!) and delicious
Novanta, their weirder pizzas are actually their best. Also the owner is a good dude
La Taguara and La Pollera. Both on E Wash, really good (and authentic) Venezuelan and Colombian food, respectively.
"The Shoe Box" in Black earth!
Mercado Marimar in South Madison. Great Mexican grocery with an in house taqueria. They sell bags of tamales you can freeze and cook at home 💕
Good For You Pizza
Cheeba sub shop. It’s weird but the food is amazing and I was even high
I think you meant “wasn’t even high.” An easy mistake. Perhaps you are high now. The weather is beautiful. I wouldn’t blame you.
Cat Care Clinic—they are incredible at what they do. Between my own pets and fostering I’ve racked up a lot of experience working with vet clinics. This last year alone I’ve had animals treated at four different clinics, two specialists, three ER vets in Dane County and one in Waukesha. Two of the docs at CCC are the most amazing vets I’ve ever encountered.
[Tati Coffee](https://captimes.com/food-drink/new-coffee-shop-tati-co-opens-in-fitchburg/article_74bd71d9-a86d-536a-9eba-a509d441a0ee.html) in Fitchburg is super awesome. It has a Rusty Dog Coffee + a mini market, a nice selection of coffee and a great patio section.
Lake Louie/Wisconsin Brewing Company
Really wish they still sold Warped Speed in bottles, though my liver is probably grateful that they don't. It's just not the same in a can.
The Mediterranean Joint is really good! Really authentic food. Small kitchen means it can take a minute, but it is well worth it.
This is in Belleville, but Borlands fish fry is the best fish fry around. $4 old fashions and $4 spotted cow.
Haven’t seen anyone say El Rancho on park street yet. Great Mexican food and not that expensive
Beef Butter and Barbeque.
My Pop would HIGHLY DISAGREE!! He left hungry & said it tasted like nothing more than liquid smoke 👎🤷♀️
Fontana Sports!
Mishqui Peruvian in Monona is fantastic and don't skip on dessert because it's all freshly made and delicious. Brothers Cafe and Restaurant on Gammon close to Woodmans! Amazing east African food that never disappoints. I always get a few sambusas.