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🧀 The Best Cheese Curds in Madison

Posted on August 15, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Hayley Sperling

Hayley Sperling

Wikimedia Commons

Wikimedia Commons

In Madison — and Wisconsin, if we’re being honest — you’re never more than a stone's throw away from a basket of cheese curds. But which curds stand out from the crowd? Here’s what you had to say.

The Fan Favorite

When it comes to classic curds, The Old Fashioned is the place to go. What makes them so good? The batter and the sauce are what keep visitors and locals coming back for more.

The Ones with a Twist

Not all curds are created equally, and that’s a good thing! These options stand out from the pack because of their unique twists.

We’ve all had cheese curds made from cow’s milk but have you ever tried goat cheese curds? Check them out next time you’re at the Tipsy Cow for a fun and delicious spin on the classic.

Tavernakaya might be known for its array of Asian cuisine but their tempura-battered cheese curds are a must-try.

Settle Down Tavern doesn’t technically have cheese curds on its menu but it does have cheese puppies. These bad boys are the love child of hush puppies and cheese curds and yes, they’re delicious.

The Food Cart Favorite

The Curd Girl food cart lives up to its name by offering some of the gooiest curds in town. Even if curds and homemade sauces aren’t your thing, at least stop by the cart to say hello to the team mascot Teddi.

Bonus: The Best Squeaky Cheese Curds

If you’re looking for good-old fashioned squeaky cheese curds (AKA not fried) check out Carr Valley, Hook’s Cheese Co., and Decatur Dairy.

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