Set aside your assumptions as you enter the dark, warm dining room. Unexpected revelations pour out of the kitchen at The Local Tavern, 102 King St., offering yet another unpretentious and affordable option for upscale student dining.
Despite its name, The Local is anything but classic Wisconsin. Owner Ethan Lund describes its menu as ""Southern American,"" a culinary genre largely absent here in Madison.
Lund succeeds with his southern classics, offering a rack of barbecue ribs that combine a dry Texas-style rub with an invigorating Kansas City-style sauce.
Crawfish potstickers are evidence of chef Alex Cays' interesting fusion. The Asian potstickers are tender, though never soggy, and accompanied by a familiar salty-sweet dipping sauce. Their filling brings us back to the south, combining juicy crawfish and spicy peppers that will truly arouse your appetite.
EntrAces bring out the upscale element. The Parmesan-Crusted Rainbow Trout has emerged as a crowd favorite—a perfect example of a simple dish elevated to a new level. The enormous piece of trout is adorned with a buttery crunch that makes you clamor for every last bite. Another surprise lurks beneath the trout: Cheesy risotto and fresh butternut squash round out the healthy portion.
Here is where the real bombshell hits. The Local has all the sophistication of its downtown neighbors, but maintains a casual affordability. While dinner may cost a bit more than frozen pizza, an entrAce is enough for two—and a downright challenge for one.
No longer will pretentious table etiquette and Trump-esque pricing keep upscale cuisine out of your reach. The sign at The Local Tavern says it all: ""Townies Welcome.""
