Madison after dark: 6 great late-night restaurants

Ditch the chain restaurants and hit one of these spots for late-night food in Madison

Are you a night owl looking for delicious dining options in Madison after dark? Look no further! Madison is a bustling city with a thriving food scene, even late at night. Whether you’re craving a slice of pizza, tapas and cocktails, classic American diner fare, or international flavors, there’s something for everyone. Join us as we explore the top late-night restaurants in Madison, where you can satisfy your late-night cravings and discover new culinary delights. Let’s dive in and uncover the hidden gems of Madison’s late-night dining scene.

Ian’s Pizza on State

100 State St

When the moon takes its place high in the Madison sky, the city’s late-night pizzeria comes alive, offering a haven for those with a penchant for dough, cheese, and a myriad of toppings that sing to the soul. Ian’s Pizza on State is renowned for its unique pizza toppings and late night hours. Ian’s serves pizza until 2:30 a.m. during the weekends and 2 a.m. on Wednesdays and Thursday. Some of the most popular items are the mac n’ cheese pizza and the smoked brisket and tots pizza.

Tipsy Cow

102 King St

The Tipsy Cow is a versatile bar and burger joint. With unique burger options like the Tipsy Burger or the Local Lamb Burger, the Tipsy Cow is the perfect place for a casual night out as bar service lasts until 2:30 am on Friday and Saturday night. 

Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co.

123 E Doty St

This local favorite is a brewpub offering a wide range of beers brewed on-site, alongside pub fare like burgers, fish and chips, and pretzels. It’s an excellent choice for a late-night drink and meal. Be sure to try the cheese curds and brat burger at Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. And of course, UpNorthNews readers voted Great Dane the best brewery in Madison as part of the Madison Food Guide.

Paul’s Pel’meni

414 W Gilman St

For something a bit different, Paul’s Pel’meni offers Russian dumplings that are perfect for a late-night snack. This unique eatery is open until 2 a.m. on weekends where it serves up delicious meat or potato-filled dumplings topped with butter, curry powder, cilantro, and hot sauce. 

Bassett Street Brunch Club

444 W Johnson St

While primarily known for brunch, this spot also serves late-night dines with a menu that includes comfort foods like breakfast burritos and doughnuts. It’s a cozy place to grab a bite—especially if you need a boost late into the night. Bassett Street Brunch Club is open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Plaza Tavern & Grill

319 N Henry St

If you’re looking for a classic dive bar experience with great late-night eats, Plaza Tavern & Grill is a must-visit. Open until 2:30 a.m on weekends and 2 a.m. on Thursdays, this local favorite serves up its famous Plazaburger, a burger topped with a special house-made sauce, along with other tasty bar fare. The laid-back vibe and friendly service make it a perfect late-night hangout. 

READ MORE: The 3 best restaurants in Madison, according to readers

This story was generated in part by AI and edited by UpNorthNews staff.