The Daily Cardinal revived its annual Bar Guide this year, a tradition letting readers vote for their favorite campus-area bars across six categories: Best College Bar, Best Berry Water Lime, Best Bar Food, Best Atmosphere, Best Weeknight Special, and Best Hidden Gem. Winners are featured in this week's print issue, which is available now on campus-area newsstands.
Best college bar: State Street Brats
State Street Brats is the heartbeat of the University Wisconsin-Madison’s lively and raucous bar scene and night life. Born in the 1950s as “Brathaus,” the bar was originally a proprietary tavern known for its “Red Brat,” developed by a local butcher George Bishop. In 1989, its name was changed to “State Street Brats,” an homage to its location, and has since become an iconic gameday spot for students and alumni alike.
Best berry water lime: Double U
Known for its sweet raspberry vodka and low calories, the Berry Water Lime has quickly risen in popularity at campus bars in the past few years. Its status as a student-favorite has become clear. The question most debated among students is “Who has the best Berry Water Lime?” While the race was close between State Street Brats and the Double U, consensus picked the latter.
“My favorite drink is a Berry Water Lime because you get hydrated [while] also getting drunk,” Claudia said.
Best food: Vintage Spirits & Grill
Vintage is a dearly loved retro-hippy bar known for its soft lighting and homey ambiance. With a menu full of classic American-style bar food including wraps, hamburgers, sandwiches and salads, students are bound to find a meal that will satisfy any craving. After news that the location was set to be demolished in July 2023 to make space for luxury apartment buildings, the UW-Madison student body showed an overwhelming support of its continuation of operations, prompting local developers to pull out of operations. It can be argued that Vintage’s (near, anticipated) demise only increased the local morale and love around a staple Madison restaurant and bar. Located at the corner of University Avenue and N Francis Street, Vintage is the place to go if you want a delicious meal with your drink!
Editor’s Pick: Mango Chipotle Bowl
The combination of mango, cucumber and freshly seasoned grilled chicken creates an amazing burst of flavor that leaves you craving for more. Combined with their classic seasonal mule, and some good company, you’re likely to leave Vintage feeling full, satisfied and giddy.
Best atmosphere: Mondays
Known for its strong pours and gritty atmosphere, Mondays Bar is beloved for its lively and fun energy. Located on State street, this bar's wood paneling, year-round Christmas lights and space constraints make it a cozy hang in the heart of campus. Whatever the vibe of the evening is, Mondays has it.
“I’d probably say Mondays [is the best bar], they pour pretty nice there for the price,” Joe said.
Best weeknight special: State Street Brats
If you’ve ever walked past the intersection of State and Frances Street at 9 p.m. on a Thursday, you have most likely seen the incredibly (ridiculous) long line of people waiting to get a taste of “Brattomless” drinks at State Street Brat’s. From 9:00 p.m. to close, Brats hosts “cup night,” where for just $15, bar goers receive a “bottomless” red Brats plastic cup that has endless refills until close.
Hidden gem: Genna's Lounge
Looking for a more chill and chatty evening? Take a stroll around Capitol square and stop by Genna’s Lounge for some delicious drinks. Take a seat with your friends, bring a deck of cards or talk to someone new. Located at the corner of W Main Street and S Hamilton Street, Genna’s lounge lies somewhere in between the lively campus bar scene and the more laid-back lounge bars that occupy Willy Street. The downstairs bar resembles the layout of Wando’s Bar with its asymmetric and somewhat awkward layout; however — it works in its favor. The upstairs, adorned with vintage decor, ambient lighting and luscious couches is open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays, allowing for a more lively, social scene. During the warm months, (customers) can be seen congregating at the (many) circle tables on the patio that neighbors other Madison staples like Paradise Lounge and Gamma Ray Bar.
