The Memorial Union and Terrace, the ""heart and soul"" of the university, took Reader's Choice by storm, winning Best Place to People Watch, Best Place to See and be Seen and Best Underage Hangout. Established on the foundation that not all learning is restricted to the classroom, Memorial Union is a great place to meet people or even learn to rock climb. More than 1,000 of its yearly events are brought by fellow students. At the Terrace, located on the shore of Lake Mendota, students can watch a movie or see a concert. Even the lucky 21-year olds can buy a beer. So check out the Memorial Union Sunday to Wednesday, 7 a.m.-11 p.m. and Thursday to Saturday, 7 a.m.-2 a.m. Find extended summer hours at http://www.union.wisc.edu/hours.
""The 'dise,"" as it's known to regulars, serves as the anchor of the near-Capitol Main Street bars. Snuggled between The Shamrock Bar and The Rainbow Room, Paradise Lounge, 119 W. Main St., has what it takes to be Madison's Best Dive Bar. The knowledgeable bartenders have a knack for knowing what you need, be it a pitcher of the always cool Pabst Blue Ribbon or a whiskey and Coke, more whiskey than Coke. Prices are more than reasonable. Friday's special at ""the 'dise"" is beautiful. It is probably the only place to offer a $3 pitcher of Huber. For these reasons and other intangibles, such as stumbling home drunk while still having change in your pocket, the Paradise Lounge warrants Best Dive Bar.
For a romantic but low-key date, the Great Dane offers award-winning microbrews and great food. Check out the artichoke dip or go all out and order the big burger. While there's similar food and drink, don't confuse this with a run-of-the-mill campus bar. The Great Dane offers a wide variety of entertainment and music selections, along with a relaxed ambiance perfect for a first date. For a bit more of that romantic touch, ask to sit outside on the patio and enjoy the blooming flowers and the perfect amount of sunshine. So, check out the Great Dane, located at 123 E. Doty St.
Hey baby, can I get between your dryer sheets tonight? Laundry 101, located at 437 W. Gilman St., is the perfect place to inspire creative pick-up lines and put them to good use.
Since everyone has to do their laundry (eventually), there is never a shortage of members of the opposite sex at the laundromat. What better is there to do but make small talk while waiting for the last few minutes of your dryer to expire? For the shyer customer, a drink at the bar may help facilitate some friendly conversation. And if your mother forgot to tell you what temperature to wash your darks in, you can surely ask the cute guy sitting a few tables over.
Besides, you can't get much more intimate at a first encounter than getting a sneak peak at someone's undies.
Krispy Kreme can only dream of making doughnuts as delicious as Greenbush Bakery, 1305 Regent St., this year's Reader's Choice winner for best bakery here in Madison.
Specializing in pastries, they boast the most and best of what you look for in deep-fried breakfast fare. Whether it's early in the morning or late at night, you're sure to find that tasty treat your sweet tooth craves. Indulge yourself every day of the week--Tuesday through Sunday, Greenbush opens at 6 a.m., Monday through Thursday they're open until midnight, and Friday and Saturday they stay open until 3 a.m.
Whether it is the mac and cheese, the steak and fries, the chicken pot pie, the spicy chicken quesadilla or the saut??ed mushroom, everyone has their favorite type of pizza from Ian's, 319 N. Francis St. Although 25-year-old Ian Gurfield opened Ian's Pizza only a year and a half ago, it has already become a frequent and necessary stop for pizza lovers. In case you do not feel like waiting in the line that is often out the door, they deliver by the slice or whole pie, too!
You may hear things like, ""Loser buys the next pitcher!"" at this year's Reader's Choice winner for Best Bar Games, The Pub. No other place on State Street boasts as many games as they do. Located at 552 State St., The Pub is a popular spot for anyone who's a fan of shooting a few games of pool or darts while enjoying a nice cold beer on tap. You'll even find great foosball tables. And even if you don't enjoy games while you drink or socialize, The Pub always has a fun and lively atmosphere.
If you're looking for the Best Music Venue in Madison, this is the place to be. Luther's Blues, 1401 University Ave., consistently books talented local and national musical acts. No matter your taste in music, chances are you'll find something you like in its broad mix of performers. Their high-quality sound system makes for a great a listening experience, and the open layout of the club leaves no ""bad"" seats (or stools or places to dance). Ticket prices are generally $10-$14, with advance-purchase discounts. Most shows are 21 and over, but they do have several 18 and over performances each month.
