Once known as Little Italy, Madison's Greenbush neighborhood has deep Sicilian roots. Today, you can get a taste of those roots at Greenbush Bar, a basement-based watering hole that serves up authentic Sicilian cuisine, including some of the best pizza in Wisconsin.
Take your taste buds on an international adventure with a visit to Greenbush Bar, which is in the basement of the Italian Workmen’s Club in Madison.
The building that houses the bar and workmen’s club is significant for a couple of reasons.
First, it dates back to 1922, making it one of the neighborhood’s last original buildings. Second, the Italian Workmen’s Club is one of the oldest active Italian clubs in the U.S.
Just like the Greenbush neighborhood, the Greenbush Bar has deep Sicilian roots.
At one time, the Greenbush neighborhood was made up mostly of Sicilian immigrants, earning it the nickname Little Italy. These days, the neighborhood’s Sicilian roots are more subtle, but can still be experienced at Greenbush Bar, which serves homemade Sicilian cuisine.
Surprisingly, the bar’s location in the basement of a historically significant building isn’t the only unique thing about its setting.
Greenbush Bar is adorned in colorful Christmas lights, making for an ambiance that is cozy and a bit quirky.
The casual setting makes Greenbush Bar a perfect choice for everything from a quick dinner out to a meal with the family.
Keep in mind, diners must be 21 years old or accompanied by a legal guardian.
Of course, the best thing about the Greenbush Bar is its Sicilian fare.
Genuine in every way, the food is made using generations-old family recipes. What’s more, many of the ingredients are imported straight from Italy.
Though comprised mainly of pizza, the menu isn’t lacking in variety.
In addition to several signature pizzas, the menu features a ton of topping options, so you can create the custom pie of your dreams.
Boasting a light, thin crust and embellished with tasty toppings, the Sicilian-style pies have garnered a lot of praise since Greenbush Bar opened in 1993.
According to several local publications, Greenbush Bar serves up some of the best pizza in Wisconsin.
In addition to pizza, the menu features antipasto and the classic Italian dessert, cannoli.
An impressive beverage selection is also part of the fare (it is a bar, after all).
Along with great food, Greenbush Bar serves a bevy of beers from local breweries and fine wines from all over the world. Grappa, port, and specialty cocktails are also available.
Doling out authentic Sicilian pizzas along with heaping helpings of history, Greenbush Bar is a culinary gem worth seeking out. For more information, call Greenbush Bar at (608) 257-2874. You can also visit the bar’s website or Facebook page.
So, did you know about Greenbush Bar? Ever visited? If so, what'd you think of the pizza? Do you think it's some of the best pizza in Wisconsin? Tell us!
This isn’t the only pizza place in Wisconsin that belongs on your bucket list. Read about others here.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!