If you want to eat your way around Madison like a true Wisconsinite, there’s no better way to do so than by going on a cheese curd crawl. These morsels of deep-fried, cheesy deliciousness are a staple at many eateries around town.
Great Dane Pub & Brewing Company
Various locations
With four locations in the area, you're never far from Great Dane's Old Glory Cheese Curds. Hand-battered in American Pale Ale, these Ellsworth curds melt in your mouth and will certainly leave you wanting more.
Tipsy Cow
Locations in Madison and Sun Prairie
In addition to grilling up some killer burgers, Tipsy Cow's cheese curd game is strong. Battered in one of Wisconsin's finest craft beers, Spotted Cow, these curds often rank at the top of many locals' lists – and for good reason.
Graze
1 S Pinckney St #107, Madison
Known for its wide-ranging menu and use of locally-sourced ingredients, Graze serves up what some would consider "gourmet" cheese curds. Using fresh curds from Hook's Cheese in Mineral Point, Graze dusts the cheesy nuggets in a vodka batter before deep-frying them. These are some can't-miss curds.
The Old Fashioned
23 N Pinckney St #1, Madison
Located on the Capitol Square, The Old Fashioned's local favorite, house-made, beer-battered curds served with a side of paprika sauce certainly won't disappoint. They were even voted best cheese curds in America by USA Today.
Dotty Dumpling's Dowry
317 N Frances St, Madison
Established in 1969, Dotty Dumpling's Dowry has been serving award-winning burgers for decades. And when you order one of said burgers, you had better order a side of cheese curds to go with it. These breaded, deep-fried, white cheddar curds served with ranch and honey mustard are a must.
The Coopers Tavern
20 W Mifflin St, Madison
Coopers Curds are a local favorite bursting with Wisconsin icons and European flair. Battered with Pabst Blue Ribbon, these delicate bites bare the distinct style of Europe of the tavern itself.
Craftsman Table & Tap
6712 Frank Lloyd Wright Ave, Middleton
Nestle in for an homage to craft. Everything at Craftsman Table & Tap is an honor to those who take pride in craft. The Carr Valley curds embrace the artisan mentality. Delicious, local Carr Valley cheese – located in Middleton – is battered in Surly Helles Lager and served with house-made buttermilk dressing.