On Madison’s Capitol Square, there’s a restaurant that celebrates all things Wisconsin. The Old Fashioned is named after the state’s favorite cocktail, and just like that signature drink, it’s something to savor. The Old Fashioned has some great food and cocktails, but if you order nothing else, get the cheese curds. They are gooey, savory, and delicious – some argue they are the best cheese curds in Wisconsin. It’s a bold claim: here’s why you should pay this restaurant a visit to try them for yourself!

The Old Fashioned is located in the shadow of the Wisconsin state Capitol in Madison– it’s right across the street, on the northeast side of the building.
Google / Bautista Martinez
While the restaurant has a casual downtown vibe, it strives to be a very good version of a classic Wisconsin tavern – the sort of place you would find in small towns across the state.
Facebook / The Old Fashioned Tavern & Restaurant
When you arrive at the restaurant, your first order of business should be a cocktail. In a place like this, you have to order an Old Fashioned – order it sweet or sour. Either way, it will be hand muddled. There’s also a great beer selection with more than 50 options, so you may want to order a chaser.
Facebook / The Old Fashioned Tavern & Restaurant

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Once you have your drink in hand, you’ll want to take a look at the rest of the menu. The Old Fashioned has some delicious Wisconsin themed offerings like Northwoods Nachos topped with Green Bay-style chili, a classic Wisconsin fish fry, and a Door County cherry salad.
Facebook / The Old Fashioned Tavern & Restaurant
But no matter what main course you choose, you’ll want to order some fried cheese curds. They are house-made fresh Wisconsin beer battered cheese curds and they have a very large fan club.
Facebook / The Old Fashioned Tavern & Restaurant
On warm Wisconsin days, you can grab one of the sidewalk tables and enjoy your order of cheese curds outside. Enjoy the view of the capitol and if you’re game, order a second basket of curds!
Facebook / The Old Fashioned Tavern & Restaurant

Learn more about this special restaurant and see a full menu on The Old Fashioned website. If you feel like sampling some more delicious cheese curds, you have a lot of other options. Here are 18 places that also serve some of the best curds in the state.

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Featured Addresses
The Old Fashioned, 23 N Pinckney St #1, Madison, WI 53703, USA