Want to know a secret? For Madison diners, there’s nothing like having the inside scoop on some secret menu, hidden restaurant, or other obscure gem that the other foodies don’t know about.
The new Veil & Vault speakeasy bar aims to capitalize on that love for the unknown. We know the bar will open this winter on East Wilson Street. But it will have no signage, no windows, and a password will be required to order a drink. On the City Cast Madison podcast today, host Bianca Martin talks to co-owner Courtney McCarty about her plans for Veil & Vault – at least, the plans that she’s willing to reveal.
Here’s a few other secrets – special menus, secret deals, and other hidden gems – you might not know about Madison’s dining scene. Do you have a restaurant secret you’re willing to share? Email me at madison@citycast.fm and spill the beans!
The pizza-dumpling-DJ bar on King Street is a longtime favorite of Madisonians in the know. But don’t call them up to ask what’s on the menu. They’ve never had a phone!
I hate to blow up my brunch spot, but instead of waiting for a table at Sardine or Marigold Kitchen, consider the “Boozy Brunch” at this Italian restaurant when planning your next weekend get-togethers. It’s the best brunch deal in town – $35 gets you an entree, two (!) breakfast cocktails, cannoli, and bottomless coffee.
This new app allows Madison diners to purchase baked goods, pizza slices, and other food nearing its sell-by date at a deep discount. It’s hit or miss, but once you’ve taken home three slices of Ian’s Pizza for under five bucks, you’ll be hooked.
Do you know about the coffee shop that serves Russian pel’meni dumplings? This charming Fitchburg spot is owned by Paul Schwoerer of Paul’s Pel’meni, and the menu includes the delicious little dumplings along with breakfast burritos and lattes. You can also find Paul's Pel'meni at the Rotunda Cafe on Atwood Avenue.
A good dive bar will let you bring some food in, but Chief’s Tavern on Cottage Grove Road goes one step further. The servers will let you order a pizza from Buck’s Pizza across the street, then they’ll run across the street to pick it up and deliver it to your table.
The Tornado Club (AKA Tornado Room) may be one of Madison’s most famous restaurants. But lesser known is the steakhouse’s late-night menu, which kicks in at 10 p.m. and offers more affordable ways to try the escargot or steak sandwich.
The South Asian restaurant on Willy Street takes weekday specials to the next level with its Lab Nights, in which for $40 per person diners can enjoy a menu of experimental courses that change daily.
