A group of five men and women gather around a table to eat Laotian food at Ahan

Sharon Vanorny

Food that warms your soul

Food is a universal language. It gives us a reason to gather. A perfect dish can help you escape the short winter days with flavors that feel like sunshine.

Madison is where food scientists, producers, brewers, distillers, makers, and chefs intersect to create culinary masterpieces Our food scene is known for being fresh, flavorful and cultural. Our list of James Beard honors speaks for itself. But there's even more great food waiting to be discovered.

No matter how many times you've tried Madison's food, there's always something new, with rotating menus and specials that draw from what's in season. It's time to find your new favorite restaurant in Madison.

The Dane County Farmers' Market Late Winter Market is an all-in-one culinary event where you can buy fresh produce, taste locally-baked treats and stop at Garver Feed Mill's bar for a seasonal drink after you shop.

Where farm to table began

You never know who you will run into at the Dane County Farmers' Market. Many local chefs shop the farmers' market in the morning for ingredients featured on that evening’s menu. Enjoy the market all year long at the Holiday Market at Monona Terrace and Late Winter Market at Garver Feed Mill.

Food that's better, together

Food is often the centerpiece of our favorite memories: first dates, reunions, milestone celebrations and unforgettable getaways. Planning an entire trip around food is encouraged in Madison. Whether it's a romantic getaway you're seeking or a unique experience like dining in a dome, the food you eat in Madison is sure to help bring you and your loved ones closer together.

Cheers to our world-class craft beverage scene

Becoming one of the 5 Best Drinking Cities in the World doesn't happen overnight. Our craft beverage scene began with breweries but has expanded to include wineries, cideries and distilleries that create some of the best grain- or grape-to-glass drinks you've ever had. Beyond the makers, you'll find bars throughout the city that take handcrafted approaches to making innovative cocktails you can't find anywhere else.

Don't drink alcohol? This scene is still for you. There's no shortage of mocktail and NA beverages in Madison, helping make us #1 in 100 Best U.S. Cities for Living Sober.