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October 23, 2025

The Story Behind Heritage Tavern’s Bankruptcy

City Cast Madison

The Story Behind Heritage Tavern’s Bankruptcy

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News that the downtown restaurant Heritage Tavern had filed for bankruptcy took much of Madison by surprise. After opening in 2013 to much fanfare, acclaimed chef and owner Dan Fox built a multi-faceted business that has become a beloved institution for many in town. But a lawsuit filed by a former server tells a different story — one of alleged wage theft and unfair labor practices. Host Bianca Martin digs into the details of the allegations with Cap Times Food and Culture Editor Lindsay Christians, who broke the story.  

Mentioned on the show

What Went Wrong at Robinia Courtyard? [🎧City Cast Madison]

Harassment on State: Botanist Social staff describe a disturbing pattern [Cap Times]
A destructive cocktail: At Merchant and Lucille, a pattern of tirades and rage [Cap Times]

🥕 Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers.

👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We’re also on Instagram! 

📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program!

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