Madison, Wisconsin, is a city that boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a diverse array of family-owned restaurants.
These eateries provide a welcoming atmosphere and serve up delicious dishes made with love and tradition.
Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Thai, or classic American fare, Madison’s family-owned establishments are sure to satisfy. Here are the five best family-owned restaurants in Madison that you absolutely must try.
Greenbush Bakery
Greenbush Bakery is a beloved gem in Madison, known for its delectable doughnuts and warm, friendly service.
Start your morning with their Old-Fashioned Doughnuts, crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside, available in a variety of flavors like plain, chocolate, and glazed.
They offer a superb selection of Custard-filled Long Johns, which are generously packed with rich, creamy custard and topped with chocolate icing.
Be sure to try their famous Maple Bacon Bar, a perfect blend of sweet maple icing and savory bacon bits that gives a new twist to your traditional doughnut experience.
Villa Dolce
Villa Dolce is a cozy Italian restaurant known for its delicious pizzas and authentic gelato.
Start with the Margherita Pizza, featuring a thin, crispy crust topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, straight out of their wood-fired oven.
Their Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a must-try entrée, with pillow-soft potato dumplings in a rich tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella and fresh basil.
Don’t leave without tasting their Homemade Gelato, available in an array of flavors like pistachio, stracciatella, and salted caramel.
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese and Thai cuisine with a modern twist.
Begin your meal with their iconic Spring Rolls, filled with fresh herbs, shrimp, and vermicelli noodles, served with a tangy peanut dipping sauce.
Their Pho, a fragrant beef noodle soup with rich broth, tender slices of beef, and fresh vegetables, is perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.
End with the Mango Sticky Rice, a traditional Thai dessert featuring sweet sticky rice paired with ripe mango slices and a drizzle of coconut milk.
Lombardino’s Restaurant
Lombardino’s Restaurant is a Madison favorite, renowned for its charming atmosphere and traditional Italian cuisine.
Start with their Risotto Balls, crispy on the outside and filled with creamy risotto and gooey mozzarella cheese, served with a rich marinara sauce.
Their Linguine allo Scoglio, featuring fresh seafood like shrimp, clams, and mussels in a white wine garlic sauce, is a standout entrée.
Finish with their Tiramisu, layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese, dusted with cocoa powder for a sweet end to your meal.
Lazy Jane’s Café
Lazy Jane’s Café is a beloved brunch spot in Madison, known for its cozy vibe and delicious, homemade pastries.
Start with the Scones, freshly baked and available in various flavors like cranberry-orange and blueberry, perfect with a cup of coffee.
Their Vegetarian Breakfast Burrito, stuffed with scrambled eggs, black beans, cheese, and fresh veggies, wrapped in a warm tortilla and served with salsa, is a hearty breakfast choice.
End with a slice of their famous Banana Cream Pie, creamy and sweet with a buttery crust and topped with whipped cream.
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