The Old Fashioned is a Wisconsin-themed tavern at 23 North Pinckney Street, facing the State Capitol on Madison’s Capitol Square. Since opening in 2005, it has built its identity around in-state food and drink, and it draws locals and visitors looking for the state’s supper club and tavern traditions in one room.
The namesake cocktail comes the Wisconsin way, made with brandy and offered sweet or sour. The beer list runs long and leans heavily on Wisconsin breweries, from small craft producers to longtime regional labels. Fried cheese curds are the default starter. The Lazy Susan, a nod to supper club relish trays, brings spreads, pickled vegetables and cheese to share. Burgers and brats fill out the menu, and the Friday fish fry follows another statewide ritual. The dark wood, vintage signage and tavern-style layout recall a mid-century Wisconsin bar. The restaurant holds a 4.5 rating and ranks among Madison’s top restaurants on [Tripadvisor](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60859-d636703-Reviews-The_Old_Fashioned-Madison_Wisconsin.html), where it has more than 2,300 reviews.
Visitor Highlights & Practical Info
Weekend evenings and Badger football Saturdays bring long waits. Saturday mornings get busy too when the Dane County Farmers’ Market rings the Square from spring through fall. For a quieter visit, arrive for a weekday lunch or a mid-afternoon meal. Check current reservation options on [OpenTable](https://www.opentable.com/r/the-old-fashioned-tavern-and-restaurant-madison) or call (608) 310-4545. After your meal, you can walk to the Capitol, State Street or the Overture Center. Street parking around the Square is limited, so nearby city ramps are usually easier.
