Madison Food: Surprisingly Diverse

When you visit Madison, be prepared to be surprised by the quality of the food in this mid-size Midwestern city. The variety and types of foods range widely, too. From high-end to typical supper club food, you can find just about any cuisine you desire.

In addition to boasting numerous James Beard award-winners, Madison (more broadly Wisconsin) is home to some unique culinary traditions, including:

Cheeses: Yes, you can get some of the best cheeses in the world here. At the 2018 World Cheese Awards, for example, Wisconsin captured 30 awards, more than any other state or country in the world. If you have a chance to try them, fried cheese curds are pretty special, too.

Sausages: You may have heard about Wisconsin bratwurst and, while it is tasty, other Wisconsin sausages are top-quality, too. European settlers—German, Italian, Polish, and others—brought their old-world recipes and link-making methods with them to Wisconsin.

Cranberries: Wisconsin is the #1 producer in the world of this tart fruit, best known as a side or condiment for the traditional holiday meal. Wisconsinites find creative ways to use cranberries, though—as craisins, in salsa, in orange-cranberry bread, and many other recipes.

Cornish Pasties: Wisconsin is one of the few states where you can commonly find these meat-filled, folded pocket pastries. They became a traditional Wisconsin offering back in the 1800s, when Cornish miners and their families settled in Mineral Point, about 50 miles southwest of Madison. 

Ice cream and frozen custard: Of course the dairy state offers the best ice cream and frozen custard in the world. Madison has its share of delicious frozen dessert shops. Save some room after your meal for your favorite flavor.



These are just a few examples of fun food experiences in Madison. While some of these items will be available during our group meals, you can find others as you explore the city during free times. You’ll be on your own for breakfast each day. Lunch will be included with your registration. We’ll also provide daily snacks to fuel your energy for garden tours. We’ll have a banquet on one of the evenings, but you’ll also have a chance to dine out on other nights.

Look for options at registration if you have special dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free. Make sure to bring your appetite with you to Madison!

Photos courtesy goodfreephotos.com.