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?
In June 2020, the City of Madison launched the Streatery program, 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 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
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.
BelAir Cantina
It’s always Taco Tuesday at BelAir Cantina. Their sunny patio is the perfect spot to enjoy BelAir’s Californian-style Mexican food— amazing tacos, burritos and a trio of salsas. Try their weekday happy hour, $2 tacos Tuesday and Thursday and extended weekend brunch menu.
The Coopers Tavern
This European neighborhood style tavern is right on the Capitol Square and offers over 20 beers on tap, over 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 9th floor of the AC Hotel, Eno Vino is a tapas style wine bar & bistro with, arguably, one of best views of the Capitol Building. 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
Sweet treats and a sunny patio - it doesn't get much better than this! Good News Ice Cream makes their ice cream in house and features many unique flavors including Mexican Hot Chocolate and Fig & 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 beer garden. It's hard to tell you're only a block away from Capitol Square when you're enjoying food and drinks in the tucked-away beer garden. 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.
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!
Marigold Kitchen
Indulge in brunch every day of the week at Marigold Kitchen. This upbeat eatery features innovative breakfast items, soups, sandwiches, in-house baked goods and handcrafted beverages. Grab a quick coffee on the go or get comfy and hang for a while.
Merchant
Merchant celebrates the American Craft Movement with fresh, local-sourced ingredients and an impressive cocktail bar. Check out their Tuesday night date night special and weekend brunch menu.
Nattspil
Nattspil is a hidden haunt with global small plates, cocktails and beer. Their outdoor space provides an intimate space to enjoy food or a few drinks with friends. From spicy cheese wontons, to specialty pizzas or three cup chicken, there are choices for everyone in your party.
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 a 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.
The Rigby Pub
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 and an incredible energy, 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 nostaglic feels of going to camp as a kid at Camp Trippalindee. Located right off of State Street on the top floor of the Graduate Hotel, this 1980's 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 outdoor patio (which overlooks the beautiful Lake Mendota). 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 that 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 up 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 firepits if it gets chilly. And for Sunday Fundays, it’s bingo, brunch cocktails and beer.
Mariner's Inn
On Lake Mendota’s north shore, Mariner’s Inn is known for its waterfront dining and superb steaks and seafood. Arrive by land or water to dine on their patio — the perfect place to watch boats roll in and the sun set. Stop by on Saturday evenings for their “Live on the Lawn” summer music series.
Northstreet
Bloom Bakeshop, Domestic Coffee and Youngblood 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 line up. 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
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 pull up on 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 dishes on their large dog-friendly patio. Don't want be to be outside for long? Pop inside to try out one of their golf simulators.
Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co., Atwood Avenue
Home more than 100 fun and unique flavors, the Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co. location 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!
Daisy Cafe & Cupcakery
An east side favorite, Daisy Cafe and Cupcakery serves breakfast, lunch and dinner (and of course, cupcakes!) all day. Their large parking lot has been replaced with patio tables, and plenty of space for all – including your favorite furry pal. Dogs on the patio get free bacon, so as you’re enjoying a fresh-baked cupcake, you don’t have to be the only one with the treat.
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 restaurant, Green Owl Cafe, is in the Atwood neighborhood and 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 it's 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.
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.
South
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 to sip on your hand crafted drink or munch 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 and a Brandy Old Fashioned.
Near West
Amara
Need a break while shopping at Hilldale? Just looking for a coastal Italian cuisine? Amara is the place to try! Serving delectable small plates, hand-crafted pastas and refreshing sprtizis, sangrias, and more, Amara is a wonderful spot to refuel during your shopping adventures.
Bartaco
Coastal vibes meet craft cocktails and tasty tacos at bartaco. No towel, cooler or umbrella needed to feel like you’re on a beach here — sunscreen still recommended. Located at Hilldale, bartaco’s patio is an ideal spot to relax and recharge for your next shopping spree.
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 their first floor and rooftop patios, and the open-air dining options available year-round.
Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co. - Monroe Street
Chocolate Shoppe's 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.
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 their 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, ale-battered cheese curds? Sign us up! Located in Middleton, WI, Craftsman Table & Tap is a neighborhood restaurant with a rustic pub vibe offering local craft beers that pair perfectly with their seasonal pub fare. Check out their weekend brunch and specials.
Otto's Restaurant & Bar
The “Cheers” of the west side. Otto’s Restaurant & Bar is in a historic brick farmhouse and their wooded deck is a popular warm-weather spot. Reserve your seat for dinner during their weeknight night live music series and graze on upscale Mediterranean fare while sipping a classic cocktail.
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 each month.
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 compliment their comfort-food-with-a-twist menu.
PAOLI SCHOOLHOUSE AMERICAN BISTRO
A schoolhouse built in 1864 built into a bistro in 2008. Located near the banks of the Sugar River, 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. 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 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 sit relax outside of the limestone building overlooking the rolling hillside vineyard. Try a wine or spirit that you love? Stop into the store and purchase a bottle!