The name is Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry, but patrons surely do not miss Dotty or dumplings here. The name of the place was inspired by a fictional, female character from one of Sir Arthur Conan's stories, and the cute, fat lady is now a mascot of this burger joint. Delighting patrons with their spread of creatively-made burgers and interesting sides, Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry is a haunt for locals and visitors alike. The must-have creations of Dotty are The Heart Throb, Toadstool, Gladiator and the Grand Daddy, and they surely taste as interesting as they sound. Dotty also serves other specials like the Deep Fried Sandwich, Chili Cheese Dog and the Bratwurst. The taps at Dotty, generously pour extensive varieties of craft beers and they wash down the burgers with ease.
L’Etoile is a fine-dining restaurant that has been operational since 1976. The menu has a list of local and seasonal offerings inspired by the artisans and small farmers of the Midwest. L’Etoile is one of the top 50 restaurants in America, getting national recognition for its impeccable food quality and service. The restaurant aims to support local farmers and artisans to create a healthier community. There are private and semi-private rooms available for business, personal, or celebratory dinners. These rooms are well-equipped with audio-visual fittings and also provide wheelchair accessibility.
Old Sugar Distillery produces high quality spirits ranging from brandies, whiskies, rums, vodkas, gins and many other neutral spirits. The menu also consists of well crafted cocktails made out of in house spirits. Visitors are welcome to take a tour at the distillery with a drink in hand. It is preferable to start the tour before 7.30 as later the place gets busy. Old Sugar Distillery believes in environmental friendly practices. Therefore, the distillery uses domestically manufactured glasses, solar panels on the roof and renewable energy resources.
Opened in 1995, Tornado Steak House is one of the most revered steakhouses of the city and a must visit for meat lovers who don't mind shelling out for exemplary cuts. Set in a 19th-century building, its dimly lit with soft lampshades and candles, casting a warm glow to its wooden decor. Taking pride in serving meat that are bred naturally, their menu features the standard cuts as well as lamb, rabbit, duck breast, venison and a bit of seafood. Succulent steaks with the perfect balance of flavor, you can enjoy their fare late at night at their lounge or bar space from 10p to 1a. Reservations are highly recommended.
A great spot to sample good burgers in a friendly atmosphere, the Weary Traveler Freehouse is an interesting eatery. The place's wood accentuated interior along with simple chairs and dim yellow lights bring out the restaurant's old-world charm. The ambiance here is always relaxed and encourages conversations while you delight your palate with interesting options like ob’s (Organic) Bad Breath Burger, Underground Meat's Cervalas, Grilled Walleye Sandwich and more. Created using locally grown ingredients, these dishes linger for moments on your palate but stay inked into memory for a long time. Wash your burgers down with some Potosi Cave Ale or the Lake Louie American Pale Ale. Bottled Beers and an impressive selection of wines are also available here.
The dream of owners and chefs, John Gadau & Phillip Hurley, Sardine is a delightful French bistro overlooking Lake Madison. Set in a former icehouse, their passion for sustainable and local produce is evident in their seasonal menu. The result is a fabulous rendition of the chefs' interpretation on French classics. Once can also unwind at the buzzing bar over oysters, French wines, draft beer and house cocktails.