Settle Down Tavern - Madison, Wisconsin

Settle Down Tavern: A Gem in Madison's Dining Scene

Nestled in the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, Settle Down Tavern has established itself as a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. Situated at 117 S Pinckney St, Madison, WI 53703, United States, this tavern offers a unique blend of American comfort food, an impressive drinks menu, and a welcoming atmosphere.

What Makes Settle Down Tavern Stand Out

Firstly, the tavern is renowned for its outstanding American cuisine, with a focus on hamburgers and comfort food. Their menu is extensive, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary requirements. Patrons rave about their cheese curds, which are often ranked among the best in the downtown area. Moreover, they offer vegan and vegetarian options to accommodate all diners.

The tavern's drinks menu is equally impressive. They boast a great beer selection, with a rotating selection of local, domestic, and imported beers. Their cocktails are also highly regarded, with patrons appreciating the creative and delicious concoctions. Additionally, they serve wine and spirits, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Atmosphere and Accessibility

Settle Down Tavern is known for its cosy and trendy atmosphere, with a casual vibe that makes it a great place for groups, families, and even solo diners. The tavern is LGBTQ+ friendly and has a transgender safe space, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity. It is also wheelchair-accessible, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilet.

The tavern offers outdoor seating for those who wish to enjoy their meal or drink al fresco. They also provide kerbside pickup and takeaway services for those who prefer to dine at home. For those who wish to stay connected, the tavern offers Wi-Fi.

Settle Down Tavern is open for lunch and dinner, with a happy-hour that is not to be missed. They offer late-night food options for those who find themselves hungry after a night out. The tavern accepts reservations and offers table service.

What People Are Saying

With 524 reviews on Google My Business, Settle Down Tavern maintains an impressive average rating of 4.5/5. Customers praise the tavern's great food, excellent service, and friendly atmosphere. One customer commented, 'Great spot The cheese curds are some of the better ones in the downtown area - at least in the top 3 Came here for happy hour and were very pleased with everything.'

Another customer noted, 'I've been coming to Settle Down Tavern for years, and it never disappoints. The burgers are always cooked to perfection, and the beer selection is fantastic. The staff is always friendly and attentive.'

In conclusion, Settle Down Tavern is more than just a tavern; it's a dining experience. With its delicious food, impressive drinks menu, and welcoming atmosphere, it's no wonder that it's a favorite among Madison residents and visitors alike.

👍 Reviews of Settle Down Tavern

Midwest R.

5/5

Great spot! The cheese curds are some of the better ones in the downtown area - at least in the top 3! Came here for happy hour and were very pleased with everything.

stacy L.

4/5

The staff was extremely friendly and we were seated without a wait. Food was good, but a little pricey. My 12 year old and I went and had a good time. I probably won't be back though as $60-70 for lunch is a bit much for me when we can get similar food at Culver's for much less. But if you're looking for something fun to do or a new restaurant to try, definitely check it out! Clean, kid friendly, nice outdoor seating, hamburgers and fried foods.

David R.

5/5

The Settle Down Tavern is a great little spot just off the square on Pinckney Street.
They offer food along with a big selection of drinks.
I went there for lunch on a Saturday and the first thing that caught my eye was the atrium. It's under a collection of skylights so you get a lot of natural light which is quite pleasant.
The service was great. We had to wait about 5 minutes for a table to open up, but it was easy enough to sit on the bench.
I had the "Good Idea" which is a smash burger with pickles, grilled onions, cheese, and Settle Down's own sauce. It was perfectly done. I got that nice crunch you look for in a smash burger.
The service was attentive without being overbearing.
The prices are quite reasonable.
If you're looking for a great smash burger, this place is a great choice.

Jon B.

5/5

Cool downtown dinning!! We had a blast outside. Food was good too! Devils birds n pickle puppies are great lil flavor bombs between bites of ur Chopped cheese or yummy fried chicken sand. The chili on the uf da fries is fer real!!!

Lindsey M.

5/5

This is a must try, the food and drinks were delicious. The atmosphere was quant and comfortable. The service was awesome. This is a must try stop on your travels through Madison Wisconsin.

Amy J.

5/5

I came here twice in a week moving my son to a downtown apartment. Had the grain bowl the first time and a smash burger with fries the second. Amazing food - grain bowl was enough for two meals, and it was the best burger and fries I think I've ever had. Fries are the right amount of crispy. Get the cookie too. Service was prompt and friendly, and there's three different atmospheres to choose from - outside, bar, or atrium. Highly recommend!!

Dennis H.

5/5

Very good burgers with interesting tasty sides. Some nice craft beers and cocktail specials. Cheese curds, deviled eggs and crispy fries are all recommended. A lively atmosphere, but not loud, so conversations can be had.

Joel B.

3/5

I wanted to like this place more than I actually did. The restaurant has a very neat atmosphere; it feels like 'old hotel meets hipster'. The staff were attentive and helpful. The menu here is surprisingly small; I think there are more drink options than food options. My small group tried several things, and our general consensus was that the food was fine, but nothing special, and felt maybe a bit overpriced (i.e. the burger cost a roughly normal amount until you realize it didn't come with any sort of side). The general agreement with my friends was that we are happy to have tried this place, but likely won't go back with any regularity.

K B.

3/5

Food is amazing! And only good prices on food. I would have given this place 5 stars, BUT it took forever to get drinks and their drink prices are double the price compared to anywhere else in Dane County.Sorry this is Wisconsin and I have never paid more than $8 for a Double Tall Captain & Coke. They charge $14 for this and someone in our ground got a None alcoholic drink in a tumbler & it was $9. Sorry, but that's crazy to price drinks that high. This isn't New York or California. I recommend only going there to eat food and only getting water or soda.

Jon B.

5/5

Cool downtown dinning!! We had a blast outside. Food was good too! Devils birds n pickle puppies are great lil flavor bombs between bites of ur Chopped cheese or yummy fried chicken sand. The chili on the uf da fries is fer real!!!

Midwest R.

5/5

Great spot! The cheese curds are some of the better ones in the downtown area - at least in the top 3! Came here for happy hour and were very pleased with everything.

stacy L.

4/5

The staff was extremely friendly and we were seated without a wait. Food was good, but a little pricey. My 12 year old and I went and had a good time. I probably won't be back though as $60-70 for lunch is a bit much for me when we can get similar food at Culver's for much less. But if you're looking for something fun to do or a new restaurant to try, definitely check it out! Clean, kid friendly, nice outdoor seating, hamburgers and fried foods.

David R.

5/5

The Settle Down Tavern is a great little spot just off the square on Pinckney Street.
They offer food along with a big selection of drinks.
I went there for lunch on a Saturday and the first thing that caught my eye was the atrium. It's under a collection of skylights so you get a lot of natural light which is quite pleasant.
The service was great. We had to wait about 5 minutes for a table to open up, but it was easy enough to sit on the bench.
I had the "Good Idea" which is a smash burger with pickles, grilled onions, cheese, and Settle Down's own sauce. It was perfectly done. I got that nice crunch you look for in a smash burger.
The service was attentive without being overbearing.
The prices are quite reasonable.
If you're looking for a great smash burger, this place is a great choice.