Madison Food Guide: The best burgers in Madison

Burgers are the ultimate comfort food. No matter the toppings, burgers are simple, yet delightful. When it comes to finding a great burger in Madison, there are plenty of options to choose from. Madison has no shortage of burger spots, but there are three reader-voted burger joints that stand as the best of the best. Here’s what our local readers came up with as the best places to grab a burger in Madison.

Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry

Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry has a unique story. What originally started out as an eclectic gift shop with a focus in jewelry eventually morphed into a hamburger joint. And by 2008, Dotty’s was known for its burgers and hot cheese. The restaurant serves up the tried and true classic burgers, but Dotty’s is also known for its best selling burger: the Melting Pot. Covered in cheddar, swiss, and provolone with smoked bacon and their signature English Garlic Sauce, this burger is a continuous fan favorite. No matter your burger preference, Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry is clearly one of the best burger spots in Madison.

Oakcrest Tavern

Oakcrest Tavern is the perfect hole-in-the-wall tavern serving up great burgers, cheese curds, and beer. While the restaurant has plenty of other local favorites—like their fish fry nights—their burgers still come highly recommended. If you like the old-school tavern feel coupled with a delicious burger, Oakcrest Tavern is the place to be.

Village Bar

Like Oakcrest Tavern, the Village Bar embodies the old-school tavern vibe. Village Bar is best known for its Brick Burger, affordable prices, and sports bra atmosphere. The Brick Burger is award-winning and has been featured on the Travel Channel. This little hole-in-the-wall is a well-known establishment on the westside with many longtime locals and regulars filling the booths.

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