Not much beats finding a rooftop to soak up some sun or take in awe-inspiring views. Here are some of our favorite Madison foodie spots where the food is just as refreshing as the views.
Jump around to discover rooftop restaurants
Hotel Lounges
Eno Vino
Eno Vino, atop the AC Hotel in Downtown Madison, pairs delicious tapas and small plates with gorgeous Capitol views. Choose from either the ninth floor outdoor lounge or the tenth-floor indoor restaurant—both overlook the Capitol and provide views of our beautiful lakes. And psst, ladies, be sure to check out the view from the women’s bathroom!
Atico Lounge
The Moxy Madison Downtown hotel is already stylish enough, but when you add its rooftop lounge Atico, it becomes quite the hot spot. With pink interiors that feel oh-so chic (and Instagram-ready), the lounge and open-air terrace showcase sweeping Madison views. With a flair for Latin American cuisine, the tacos, entrées and cocktails only add to the ambiance.
The Statehouse at The Edgewater
The Edgewater Hotel is well-known for its Lake Mendota views, but for an even better perspective, head to The Statehouse. It features an idyllic outdoor patio that rises above the lake, and the accompanying Augie’s Tavern has plenty of windows, making it a place where you can enjoy a steak as you take in the scenery.
Hidden Gems
Parthenon Gyros
One of the few spots to nosh on Greek food in the area, Parthenon has tasty gyros (made in all kinds of ways) served up with fast-casual realness. Don't forget to head upstairs for the second-story rooftop patio and transport to a Greek getaway for your lunch or dinner. Try the Greek Fries—crispy golden brown fries dusted in Greek spices and loaded with feta cheese!
Smitty's Study Pub
One of Madison's best-kept secrets is Smitty's Study Pub, found atop UW-Madison's Fluno Center. Stop in for a burger or curds before a Badger game, or grab happy hour drinks as you watch the bustling action on University Avenue below.
Camp Trippalindee
Inspired by 1980’s camp movies, rural Wisconsin taverns and the joy of being a kid, Camp Trippalindee offers a fun spot to relax in Downtown Madison located at the Graduate Hotel. The kitschy rooftop restaurant serves camp favorites like burgers and sandwiches, and for drinks, beer in koozies and rum-based bug juice. Don’t skip dessert! Grab a s’mores kit for your group to enjoy around the campfire.
Madison Children's Museum
During the day, the rooftop at Madison Children’s Museum is a source of delight for children of all ages. The lush rooftop garden is filled with bright sunflowers and vegetables, and is also home to a chicken coop and homing pigeons. Every so often, the museum lets adults take over the space for their 21-and-up Adult Swim events—an opportunity to explore the museum while enjoying craft beer as the sun sets.
Lake Vista Café
While the iconic Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center is hard to miss, the rooftop Lake Vista Café is a lesser-known gem in Madison. The café offers a variety of sandwiches and salads—not to mention sprawling views of Lake Monona and Madison's cityscape. Try the rooftop summer salad or one of their signature sandwiches.
Lake Vista season starts mid-to late May, weather depending.
Out and About
The Perch at Mint Mark
Located on East Washington Avenue, Mint Mark has been a longtime Madison favorite with its on-trend geometric touches and palm-leaf wallpaper, and now, it’s added an equally sophisticated lounge option, too. Called The Perch, it’s found on the sixth floor and is open Wednesday-Thursday from 3 p.m. to midnight and Friday-Sunday 2 p.m. to midnight. It’s a feast for the eyes with its 1970s-inspired decor touches, where you’ll sit in rust-hued chairs and sip delicious cocktails.
Lone Girl Brewing Company
With romantic patio lights, plenty of tables and Adirondack chairs centered around a firepit, Waunakee’s Lone Girl Brewing Company offers an outdoor oasis where visitors can enjoy over a dozen beers, brewed on-site. Their Friday-night fish fry is one not to miss!
Cafe Hollander
Originally based in Milwaukee, Cafe Hollander has made a name for itself at Hilldale on the near westside of Madison. Tap into this trendy stop for a gourmet burger and frite cones with house-made aioli. With ample patio space (on the second floor and ground level), you can relax outdoors. Be sure to make a reservation if/when you go for brunch. (And, trust us, you'll wanna go for the brunch!!)
More, more, more
Can't get enough of Madison's outdoor dining? Check out our Streatery & Patio Guide.
