Madison, WI + Add a trip

Italian

The best Italian food in the city: Osteria Papavero, two blocks from the Capitol. Chef is from Bologna, cures his own meat, nice guy.

Great Lao/Thai Food

Anytime I'm in Madison I try to go to the Vientienne Palace. One of my favorite dishes in the whole world is Pad Lao with tofu. It is SO good. In fact, just writing this is making me salivate. Another favorite is their "Curry Dishes" also with tofu. Beware though, when they say hot, they mean it. I usually get the Mild (one star). It's plenty hot for me, and I'm no wuss about spicy food.

The Great Dane!

THE BEST place in Madison is L'Etiole, hands down. Fresh, seasonal food. Naturally raised meat. Everything is awesome.

Lao Laan Xang on Williamson Street - with another location on Atwood Street (both on the east side) - is always top on my list. Consider yourself warned, I love spicy food and I order it "careful" here. Roman Candle Pizza, also on Williamson (aka Willly) St. is great pizza. Family friendly. Weary Traveler - again on Willy St. - has the best, high end bar food. I could go on and on. Madison has no shortage of good, local restaurants.

L'Etoile for spoiling yourself, Bradbury's for breakfast, Malt House for beer, Sala Thai, Taqueria Guadalajara, Pizza Brutta. Agree with Becky, could go on and on . . .

European atmosphere and Belgian/French food ... not too expensive.