I fresco, you fresco, we al fresco. Patio season is in full swing and there’s no shortage of outdoor dining in Madison.
What is a Streatery?
Madison has a robust Streatery scene, which allows restaurants and taverns to expand outdoor seating. Restaurants’ tables and chairs spill out onto the streets, sidewalks and parking lots, providing more outdoor seating than ever before. These unique areas—some squished between buildings, others adorned with art and fresh herbs—are scattered throughout the city. Popular Streatery spots include along State Street, down Pinckney, King and Main Streets off the Capitol Square, as well as on Atwood Avenue.
New patios and outdoor dining spaces are being added regularly. Keep up on the best places to eat in Madison with our full list of restaurants.
Jump to a region
Capitol Square/Downtown
Ancora Cafe + Bakery
If you're looking for a creative brunch menu, handcrafted beverages and a cozy environment, Ancora Cafe + Bakery is the place for you. With a rotating seasonal food and drink menu and a view of the State Capitol building from their outdoor patio, it can't get much better.
The Boathouse at The Edgewater
Waterfront outdoor dining is hard to turn down. The Boathouse at The Edgewater offers prime patio seating along Lake Mendota. Enjoy delicious food and drinks with stunning sunset views over the lake.
The Coopers Tavern
This European-neighborhood style tavern is right on the Capitol Square and offers over 20 beers on tap, 130+ variations of whiskeys, and a tasty food menu including burgers, sandwiches, salads and comforting shareables. Enjoy the beautiful Capitol building while sipping on a pint at The Coopers Tavern.
D'Vino
Italian cuisine right off the Capitol Square? Yes please! D'Vino is a neighborhood wine and cicchetti bar with a delectable menu full of comfort foods, wild mushrooms, braised meats, and rich sauces. Be sure to ask about their daily specials.
Eno Vino
Located on the ninth floor of the AC Hotel, Eno Vino is a tapas-style wine bar & bistro with one of the best views of the Capitol. With an abundance of wine options, craft cocktails and an exceptional food menu, we can guarantee a great time on their rooftop patio.
Good News Ice Cream
Sign us up for sweet treats and a sunny patio! Good News Ice Cream makes their ice cream in-house and features many unique flavors, including Mexican hot chocolate and fig and honey, along with old-school classics.
Great Dane Pub and Brewing Company
The award-winning Great Dane Pub and Brewing Company offers three bars and a beautiful outdoor dining area. It's hard to tell you're only a block away from the Capitol Square when you're enjoying food and drinks in the large, yet tucked away, beer garden full of greenery and vine-covered walls. And with an extensive food menu, everyone in your group, kids and all, will be satisfied.
Jalisco Cocina Mexicana
Bringing California flavors to Madison, Jalisco Cocina Mexicana offers an authentic menu with items like their popular queso tacos, birria tacos and grandma's mole sauce. You can't go wrong with their flavorful margaritas and a patio right off the Capitol Square.
Lake Vista Cafe
Located on the top of the Monona Terrace, Lake Vista Cafe offers local, seasonal specialties and is open from May through September, weather permitting. The panoramic views that this rooftop cafe offers of Lake Monona are unbeatable!
Lucille
Woodfire pizza, craft cocktails, gourmet shareable plates and a large outdoor patio with a view of the Capitol. What more could you ask for? Lucille is all about gathering, celebrating and treating ourselves and others.
Madison's Bar & Restaurant
Whether you're looking for a weekend brunch, dinner any night of the week, or somewhere to enjoy drinks and apps, it's always a good time at Madison's Bar & Restaurant. Check out their daily happy hours, Taco Tuesday and Fish Fry Friday deals and enjoy their sunny outdoor patio!
Marigold Kitchen
Just steps away from the State Capitol building, Marigold Kitchen's patio is the perfect spot to indulge in delicious brunch, any day of the week. This upbeat eatery features innovative breakfast items, soups, sandwiches, in-house baked goods and handcrafted beverages.
Merchant
Merchant celebrates the American Craft Movement with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and an impressive cocktail bar. Their outdoor patio offers a classy yet urban feel, and is part of the popular Pinckney Street Streatery. Check out their Tuesday night date night special, daily happy hour deals and weekend brunch menu.
The Old Fashioned
This classic Wisconsin tavern features a wood-burning grill, local cheeses, nightly specials and an extensive bar selection. The Old Fashioned has options to satisfy any craving. Grab a spot on their patio and enjoy a classic, Wisconsin-style Brandy Old Fashioned right across the street from the Capitol.
Rare Steakhouse
Looking for a classic American steakhouse with a local twist? Try the spacious, semi-covered patio at Rare Steakhouse. With an unbeatable happy hour (half-priced bar menu), USDA Prime steaks aged in-house, and sommelier-guided wine selections, you’re sure to enjoy a premier dining experience.
RED
Madison's premier downtown sushi destination. From classic to innovative sushi rolls and more traditional Japanese cuisine, RED offers something for everybody. Their large patio on the west side of the Capitol Square offers a vibrant spot to enjoy delicious rolls and sip fresh cocktails in the summertime.
The Rigby
The Rigby patio is an ideal spot to relax with a pint and pub fare. As part of the E. Main Streatery, they’re tucked just off the Capitol Square, with plenty of people-watching opportunities. Try one of their 14 rotating taps, famous infusion cocktails and nightly food specials.
Settle Down Tavern
From quick, delicious burgers to gourmet craft cocktails, Settle Down Tavern offers a large patio right off the Capitol Square. Try their popular Good Idea Burger with fries or ask about their creative daily specials.
Young Blood Beer Company
The only thing that makes sitting on a warm, sunny patio in downtown Madison better is to be sippin' on a delicious brew. With more than a dozen of their own beers on tap and a classic brew pub food menu, Young Blood Beer Company is a great place to hang out.
State Street & Campus
Bassett Street Brunch Club
It's always brunch-o'clock at Bassett Street Brunch Club. Find your classic breakfasts, playful versions of comfort food and tasty cocktails or coffee drinks all in a fun, modern environment. With outdoor seating, you can enjoy all the tasty options the brunch club has to offer while basking in the warm sun. (Don't forget your sunscreen!)
Camp Trippalindee
Find all the nostalgic feels of going to camp as a kid at Camp Trippalindee. Located right off State Street on the top floor of the Graduate Madison Hotel, this 1980s camp-inspired restaurant combines a rural Wisconsin tavern with all the joy of being a kid. Serving burgers, beer brats and more, indulge in tasty comfort food on their rooftop patio. Fun fact: they serve cocktails that come in juice pouches!
Cento
Pizza, pasta and prosecco await you at Cento. Enjoy locally sourced, authentic Italian cuisine on their patio, just one block off the Capitol Square and State Street. Brunch more your speed? Try their boozy brunch on Sundays, which includes pastries, brunch cocktails, and coffee or tea.
Ian's Pizza on State
The home of the Mac ‘n Cheese pizza is also home to a spacious patio at the top of State Street. Ian’s Pizza serves pizza by the slice, showcasing upwards of two dozen different varieties. Did you know they also offer some of the best and most unique salads in town?
Memorial Union Terrace
Summertime in Madison isn’t the same without a trip to the Memorial Union Terrace, known for its iconic sunburst chairs and Instagram-worthy sunset views. Cool off lakeside with a scoop of Babcock Dairy ice cream or a pint of Spotted Cow.
Parthenon Gyros
Looking for authentic Greek cuisine with amazingly delicious gyros AND a rooftop garden patio? Look no further. Parthenon Gyros is on the 300 block of State Street and will not disappoint. Order at the counter and head upstairs to the beautiful rooftop patio to enjoy your meal.
State Street Brats
State Street Brats is a Wisconsin Badgers sports bar with brats, burgers, square-shaped fried cheese curds and more! Their large patio makes it easy to enjoy this classic Wisconsin meal outdoors. Look for the cow statue at the end of State Street and you'll know you're in the right place.
North
Banzo
Sometimes all you need are good friends and falafel. Make Banzo your next meet-up, where you can enjoy award-winning falafel and freshly made Mediterranean dishes on the spacious patio. Their brightly colored building is hard to miss!
The Lone Girl Brewing Co.
Enjoy a craft beer and delicious pub food on the expansive rooftop deck of The Lone Girl Brewing Co. in Waunakee. Friday nights during the summer mean live music, with fire pits if it gets chilly. And for Sunday Fundays, it’s bingo, brunch cocktails and beer.
Northstreet
Bloom Bakeshop, Cafe Domestique, and Young Blood Beer Company are all in one place at Northstreet in the Eken Park neighborhood. This collective offers baked goods, coffee and local brews in one location. It's a wonderful spot to enjoy working remotely, reading or hanging out with friends or family on their outdoor patio.
Tip Top Tavern
This cozy neighborhood tavern serves tasty comfort food, cocktails and has a solid beer lineup. Tip Top Tavern's patio is behind the restaurant and gives a comforting "backyard" feel. If you're stopping by on the weekends, be sure to try out their brunch menu and their fish fry special on Fridays!
East
Ático Lounge
On the top floor of Moxy Madison Downtown, you'll find one of Madison's newest rooftop restaurants. Ático Lounge serves Latin American-inspired cuisine, creatively crafted cocktails and the rooftop patio offers a one-of-a-kind birds-eye view of Breese Stevens Field, where you can catch a Madison Rally match or summer concerts.
The Biergarten at Olbrich Park
It’s hard to beat views of Lake Monona and downtown Madison, especially with a stein in hand at The Biergarten at Olbrich Park. Open daily, the Biergarten’s menu includes a list of craft beer, cider and seltzer, plus locally sourced snacks like a giant pretzel from Clasen’s European Bakery. Prost! Dog friendly. Bring a blanket or camping chair, or take a seat at a traditional long table.
Blind Shot Social Club
Have you ever seen a drink menu with an entire page dedicated to mocktails? You will if you visit Blind Shot Social Club! Enjoy their delicious mocktails, cocktails and food on their large dog-friendly patio. Don't want to be outside for long? Pop inside to try out one of their golf simulators.
Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co., Atwood Avenue
Home to more than 100 fun and unique flavors, the Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co., located on Atwood Avenue, offers a large and shady outdoor space—a perfect place to hang out and enjoy a sweet treat. From classic flavors like Blue Moon, mint chip, and vanilla bean to Chocolate Shoppe exclusives like Exhausted Parent® and This $&@! Just Got Serious®, you will want to keep coming back to try more!
Garver Feed Mill
Grab a spot on the Garver Feed Mill patio any time of day. Located behind Olbrich Botanical Gardens and along the Capital City Trail, Garver is home to local producers like Ian’s Pizza and Ledger Coffee Roasters. Make it a night with outdoor live music and a cocktail from the Garver Lounge.
Green Owl Cafe
One of Madison's fully vegetarian and vegan restaurants, Green Owl Cafe in the Atwood neighborhood, has plenty of outdoor seating. Plant-based folks and meat eaters alike will be impressed with these tasty menu selections.
Mint Mark
This eclectic, produce-forward restaurant showcases Madison's culinary culture through its small plates and airy atmosphere. Mint Mark is located on East Washington, offering a second-level patio with a beautiful view of the Capitol Building.
Monty's Blue Plate Diner
Breakfast all day, every day. If that’s your motto, Monty’s Blue Plate Diner is the place for you. The retro, repurposed gas station also serves up burgers, sandwiches, salads, vegetarian and vegan selections. Cool off on the patio with a sundae, shake or ice cream cocktail. Plus, their "drive-through" window offers full service where you can pull up and order by bike!
Sardine
Looking for a prime spot to dine with a beautiful view of Lake Monona? Try out Sardine. Their bistro-style dining features European and American cuisine, including oysters and other seafood hors d'oeuvres, as well as a variety of unique dishes.
Tex Tubb's Taco Palace
This Austin-style taco joint is a classic in the upbeat Atwood neighborhood. Tex Tubb's comfortable, yet lively outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy Tex-Mex favorites, including street tacos, chips and queso and refreshing, flavored margaritas.
Umami Ramen & Dumpling Bar
Umami Ramen & Dumpling Bar, a trendy cafe located on the popular Willy Street (officially named Williamson Street), has been serving authentic Japanese ramen noodles, Chinese dumplings and more for over 20 years. Their outdoor dining space is surrounded by greenery, offering a unique spot tucked within the energetic neighborhood.
South/Fitchburg
Bonfyre American Grille
Bonfyre American Grille is independently owned and offers your favorite comfort food in an upscale-casual environment. Along with their quality menu, they serve creative cocktails, local beers and an extensive wine list. Their outdoor patio space is perfectly cozy and comfortable.
Buck & Honey's Monona
Sit along the banks of the Yahara River and enjoy the upscale-casual atmosphere of Buck & Honey’s Monona. Accessible to bikers, boaters and everyone in between, their two spacious patios offer the idyllic spot for a craft cocktail and their famous firecracker shrimp.
Hop Haus Brewing Company
Located in Fitchburg, just 10 minutes outside of Madison, Hop Haus Brewing Company is a local brewery with an extensive food menu. Their outdoor dining space is the perfect place to gather with friends and family over a pint of beer and a tasty shareable snack.
Lakeside St. Coffee House
Lakeside St. Coffee House is a neighborhood coffee house with the coziest ambiance. Along with their indoor space, they offer a lovely outdoor seating area with a view of Lake Monona, perfect for sipping on your handcrafted drink or munching on breakfast (served until noon) or lunch dishes.
Off Broadway Drafthouse
With 24 craft beers on tap, it’s easy to find a cold brew to drink on a nice day at Off Broadway Drafthouse. The menu includes thoughtfully sourced food with traditional Friday Fish Fry and weekend breakfast. Their open-air patio offers a great view of one of the community’s colorful murals, the Monona Mural.
Quivey's Grove
Dine in the gardens next to two historic buildings at Quivey’s Grove. The Paddock tent is picture-perfect for an al fresco evening. Or choose to enjoy a glass of wine on the Stone House Patio. For dinner, we recommend their famous Friday Fish Fry and a Brandy Old Fashioned.
Near West
Bartaco
Shop through Hilldale Shopping Center and drop into bartaco to enjoy upscale street tacos and craft cocktails on their modern outdoor patio. No shopping day is complete without a stop for food and drinks.
Butterbird
Butterbird is a trendy chicken shop and bar on Madison's popular Regent Street. Their menu is centered around recreating nostalgic renditions of American roadside classics. Enjoy food and drinks out on their backyard patio, full of a variety of seating options and fun yard games!
Café Hollander
On Sundays, we brunch. Saturdays too, at Café Hollander located at Hilldale. Serving up amazing Bloody Marys alongside Belgian beers and an extensive food menu sure to satisfy any mid-morning craving. The European café culture extends to the first floor and rooftop patios. Plus, with their winter domes, you can enjoy outdoor dining year-round.
Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co., Monroe Street
Chocolate Shoppes are all around town! The Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co. on Monroe Street provides a large outdoor space that is great for stopping and enjoying a sweet treat. The popular, vibrant mural on Monroe Street is just next to the ice cream shop, making it a fun spot to stop and get those Insta-worthy pics!
Everly
Casual, comfortable and eclectic, Everly is located on Monroe Street and offers an inviting space with a delicious menu selection. Try out their craft cocktails from the indoor-outdoor bar and enjoy their large patio.
Far West/Middleton
Capital Brewery
Sip German-style brews at one of Wisconsin’s original craft breweries, Capital Brewery. Their outdoor Bier Garten, affectionately known as “Middleton’s Backyard,” welcomes guests (and even well-behaved pups) from April through October for live music, camaraderie and award-winning beers.
Craftsman Table & Tap
Happy hours, bingo nights and ale-battered cheese curds? Sign us up! Located in Middleton, Craftsman Table & Tap is a neighborhood restaurant with a rustic pub vibe offering local craft beers, seasonal fare and outdoor seating both upstairs and downstairs. Check out their weekend brunch and specials.
Longtable Beer Cafe
Longtable Beer Cafe is a combination of a tasting room, bottle shop and perfect place to kick back and hang out with friends over drinks and delicious bites. Tucked within a popular area in downtown Middleton, the comfortable patio and garage-like doors that open fully offer a unique and energetic outdoor dining experience in the warmer months. You won't be short of options with 300+ bottled beers, 12 rotating taps and an extensive list of wine by the glass.
Nitty Gritty—Middleton
Known as the “Official Birthday Place and Home of the Famous Gritty Burger," the Nitty Gritty is a classic in the Madison area. The Middleton location includes a patio in the front of the restaurant where you can enjoy their full food and drink menu. If you're celebrating a birthday, be sure to let your server know and enjoy the full Nitty Gritty experience!
Yola’s Café
Try the best waffles in Wisconsin. Yola’s Café on Madison’s west side serves up breakfast all day and cozy patio seating for the whole family to enjoy. Their Waffle of the Month concoctions taste sweeter, knowing that a portion of the proceeds goes to local non-profit organizations.
Surrounding Communities
Bailey's Run Vineyard in New Glarus
Rolling hills. Wood-fired pizza. Wisconsin wine. What more could you need? Sit back and relax with a glass of vino on the expansive patio at Bailey’s Run Vineyard. Known as the place “Where Wine Goes to Have Fun,” this dog-friendly spot offers Neapolitan brick oven pizza every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Full Mile Beer Co. & Kitchen in Sun Prairie
Small batch brews in the heart of downtown Sun Prairie, Full Mile Beer Co. & Kitchen crafts beers to accent and complement their comfort-food-with-a-twist menu. Their welcoming outdoor patio surrounds the restaurant and is an excellent place to enjoy a refreshing beer and delicious wood-fired pizza on a nice summer day.
Grumpy Troll Brew Pub in Mount Horeb
Mount Horeb, the Troll Capital of the World, is home to an independent brewpub offering craft beers and local dishes. The Grumpy Troll Brew Pub is known for its award-winning ales and lagers and what better way to enjoy these locally crafted brews than outdoors on a patio? They've even included a new entryway seating option outdoors with high-top tables and fun games.
PAOLI SCHOOLHOUSE AMERICAN BISTRO
A schoolhouse built in 1864 was converted into a bistro in 2008. Located near the banks of the Sugar River, the Paoli Schoolhouse American Bistro serves tasty dishes using local ingredients. Their outdoor patio offers a peaceful ambiance that the whole family will enjoy. Ask about their kids' menu and daily specials (including weekend brunch).
Sugar River Pizza Company in Verona
With names like “Maple My Bacon” and “Ricotta Be Kiddin’ Me,” it’s hard not to be intrigued by Sugar River Pizza Company—Verona. Boasting more than 20 specialty pizzas— and a plethora of other menu items—you and your family can enjoy a slice or two next to a fire table on their covered patio.
Vintage Brewing Co. in Sauk Prairie
Best beer garden view? Vintage Brewing Co. in Sauk Prairie has it. Situated along the Wisconsin River, this brewpub features two outdoor areas—one for dining, the other for drinking. The Beer Garden is spacious for hanging out with friends and enjoying locally made craft beer. Bring your pup too; they’re allowed on a leash and can order from the “Dog Menu” if they get hungry.
Wollersheim Winery & Distillery
Do you want to feel like you're in Europe when you're actually just 40 minutes outside of Madison? Then you absolutely need to visit the beautiful Wollersheim Winery & Distillery located in Prairie Du Sac. Choose your beverage of choice along with food from the bistro and relax outside the limestone building overlooking the rolling hillside vineyard. Try a wine or spirit that you love? Stop into the store and purchase a bottle to take home!
