Himal Chuli, the Nepali restaurant that operated on State Street for nearly 40 years, abruptly closed on Jan. 1. The Ohio Tavern on Madison’s east side also closed over the holidays, but will reopen in March under new management. The owner of Buraka, the longtime Ethiopian restaurant on Williamson Street, said last month that lagging business might force him to close, but said he’s been encouraged that diners have been showing up lately to show their support.
In today’s economy, it’s a real feat to keep a restaurant going for 20, 30, or even 40 years. Times change, tastes change, and foodies sometimes are so eager to chase the next big thing that they forget to support their longtime faves. (As somebody who writes a monthly “Best New Restaurants” column, I’m as guilty as anybody.)
So here’s a reminder to visit some of Madison’s most beloved long-running restaurants, who have stuck around for good reason. Make sure to support them before they’re just a fond memory.
Located on the same location on University Avenue since 1952 (and on State Street before that), this old-school Italian restaurant has updated its menu and its look over the decades, but still offers a taste of classic red-sauce Italian-American charm.
A family-owned supper club on Madison’s north side for nearly 80 years, this longtime favorite closed briefly after switching ownership last year. But the family has reclaimed ownership and intends to keep the tradition (and the prime rib specials) alive.
One of Madison’s oldest establishments opened during Prohibition in 1930, but it wasn’t until 1963 that the tavern off State Street invented its signature Plazaburger (with Plaza Sauce), which makes it a must-stop for UW-Madison alums returning to town.
Technically, the steak house on South Hamilton Street has only been open for 30 years. But because the building dates back to the late 1800s, and the new owners retained the decor of Crandall’s restaurant that had been there before, walking in feels like entering a vintage bar and grill from the 1940s.
This historic 1840s farmhouse and stable in Fitchburg was turned into a restaurant by 1979. While development has sprung up all around the former farm in recent years, Quivey’s Grove rustic charm remains intact.
Walk into this diner in the shadow of Camp Randall, and it’s like walking back in time to the 1950s (a menu on the wall even shows the original prices). While the menu may have updated and expanded, Mickies still has lines out the door for students and alumni looking for comfort food.
This Italian restaurant has been a favorite for romantic dinners on North Frances Street since 1968, but you might want to hurry if you want to enjoy a meal there – a proposed student apartment development would force it to close.
This acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant on Pinckney Street will celebrate its 50th birthday in 2026. Started by Odessa Piper and sold to Tory Miller in 2005, much of Madison’s fine-dining scene can be traced back to its kitchen.
Founded on Grand Canyon Drive by Jim Delaney in 1973, this elegant steak and seafood restaurant has been taken over by Delaney’s three sons, continuing its legacy of fine dining.
Just why is a restaurant known for its amazing hamburgers called a “Dowry”? Turns out it started out as a Des Moines gift shop before founder Jeff Stanley moved to Madison and pivoted to burgers. After jumping around town, it’s been in its current location on North Frances Street for over 20 years.
