In the shadow of the state Capitol you’ll find one of Wisconsin’s tiniest dining establishments. For decades, a little bakery called Teddywedgers has served a unique menu item that delivers some really big flavor. The shop is a Madison institution that specializes in the Cornish classic: the pasty. It’s kept scores of students, government workers, lawmakers, and tourists very well fed over the years! Go ahead and get in line: here’s what waiting for you inside the one and only Teddywedgers in Madison, Wisconsin.
Teddywedgers was founded by a cheerful pasty lover named Myles Allen more than 40 years ago. After Allen died, an employee took over the store who later sold it to its current owners, siblings Karima Berkani and Anthony Rineer.
The pasty (pronounced pass-tee) has a history much longer than this little shop. It’s a savory pastry (a hand pie) that’s been made for hundreds of years.
Because pasties are very portable and easy to eat, they are the perfect food for people on the go- they were a staple for miners long ago. Lead miners who came to Wisconsin in the 1800s from England and Wales brought the hearty culinary tradition to areas near Madison and it fueled their underground prospecting.
Teddywedgers serves up these delicious pies in a tiny triangle-shaped shop that’s located at the top of Madison’s bustling State Street. It’s far too small to have room for tables, so the pasties are a cool carry-out option.
The pasties served here are huge -- unless you’re hungry, a full one is enough for two people to share, so they let you buy a half pie.
Once you’ve picked up your pasty, there are a lot of great spots for a picnic nearby. Head up the steps of the state capitol to find benches that are ideal for an outdoor pasty meal!
Teddywedgers is open daily – service at this bakery is typically very fast, but for even faster service you can order online. Just be sure to bring an appetite! If you love classic Wisconsin dishes, here’s a list of foods that everyone here loves.
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